Somebody’s been working out…
By Thom Blackett
|
December 8, 2005
Introduction
There once was a time when cars and trucks were plain and simple, cut and dried. station wagons were just that, not five-door hatchbacks or crossovers; trucks for the family were Chevy Suburbans, Ford Broncos, and International-Harvester Travelalls; and pickup trucks were big and American made or small and imported.Today, there are countless automotive market segments, and the few that sound familiar are no longer what they once were. Take trucks, for example. Import brands now sell popular full-size trucks, one being the only offering with a standard V8 engine across the board. That would be the Nissan Titan, from the same company that offers the completely redesigned 2005 Nissan Frontier.
No longer a compact truck, the midsize 2005 Frontier has grown in size, power, and attitude. Underneath is a modified Titan platform, inside are comfortable accommodations for up to five passengers, and under the hood are up to 265 horses. That’s more power than any other V6 in its class, and is actually more than many V8s.
For years, the Frontier played second fiddle to the popular Toyota Tacoma, and couldn’t compete with the larger and more powerful Dodge Dakota. This new truck is Nissan’s best effort in shaking up that hierarchy. The competition should consider itself warned.
Overview
Overview The 2005 Nissan Frontier is available in King Cab and Crew Cab configurations, powered by either a 154-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a 265-horsepower V6. The base XE model is light on features, but high-end models like the LE and NISMO come very well equipped.
Nissan offers the 2005 Frontier in two body styles – the King Cab and the Crew Cab. Four-passenger King Cab models feature small rear doors for access to the fold-down jump seats. Exclusive to this Frontier is a two-wheel-drive XE model with a 2.5-liter, 16-valve, dual overhead cam four-cylinder engine pushing 154 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 173 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. Move up the lineup to find SE, LE, and NISMO models, all of which are available with either two- or four-wheel drive and are motivated by a 4.0-liter, 24-valve, dual overhead cam V6 offering 265 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 284 lb.-ft. of twist at 4,000 rpm. Every 2005 Nissan Frontier rides on an independent front suspension with a stabilizer bar while a live suspension with leaf springs is bolted to the rear.
Starting with the base XE, standard equipment includes four-wheel, vented disc, antilock brakes; a five-speed manual transmission; 15-inch steel wheels and 235/75 all-season tires; a tire pressure monitor; front active headrests; and a chrome rear step bumper. If that seems like a lean standard features list, that’s because all of the good stuff has been reserved for the options list. Among them is a five-speed automatic transmission; a Preferred Package that includes air conditioning, a radio with a CD player, tilt steering, and a sliding rear window; cruise control; and side-impact and side-curtain airbags. Pricing for the bare-bones 2005 Nissan Frontier XE starts at $16,180 including a $580 destination charge.
With a base price between $18,500 (two-wheel-drive King Cab) and $23,350 (four-wheel-drive Crew Cab), SE models add the XE’s Preferred Package, a six-speed manual transmission, larger brakes, and 16-inch steel wheels with 265/70 tires. There’s also a broader array of options including 16-inch alloy wheels, convenient power features, traction control, and a power sunroof for Crew Cabs.
One notch above the SE is the LE, priced from $22,300 to $26,650. Look here for standard items such as 17-inch alloy wheels and 265/65 tires, tubular running boards, Nissan’s Utili-Track cargo system, and a sprayed-in bedliner. Crew Cab LE models also get a roof rack with a 125-lb. carrying capacity. Buyers looking for more content can add an audio package with an MP3 player and six-disc CD changer; four-wheel-drive models can be fitted with Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Control, and stability control; and Crew Cab LE Frontiers can be fitted with power, heated leather seats and a 300-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system.
Finally, at the top of the heap is the 2005 Nissan Frontier NISMO, a truck dedicated to true off-road enthusiasts. Added here are Bilstein shocks, unique 16-inch alloy wheels and 265/75 off-road tires, skid plates, and a locking rear differential.
In order to evaluate this redesigned truck, we spent a week in a four-wheel-drive 2005 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab with a $30,130 sticker price. That significant chunk of currency included the addition of side-impact and side-curtain airbags, the Rockford Fosgate sound system, the power sunroof, Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Control, and stability control. Paying more than 30 grand for a pickup truck, especially a midsize, may seem questionable, but actually the Frontier can be viewed as a relative value. In comparison, a comparable Chevrolet Colorado with an underpowered five-cylinder engine has a higher base price and a Ford Ranger SuperCab (Ford doesn’t offer a crew cab) has the same base price. Of course, that doesn’t take into consideration deep rebates on the Chevy and Ford, discounts that ultimately lessen resale value. More importantly, the Frontier plays on equal ground with the Toyota Tacoma in terms of price, equipment, and power.
Road Test
Road Test On or off the road, the powerful V6 engine takes care of business with ease, though returns only 15.1 mpg in the process. The highway ride is comfortable but a bit choppy, while off-roaders may find their 2005 Nissan Frontier bottoming out more than expected.
What a difference a model year can make, especially one that ushers in a completely new platform, fresh styling, and a bigger engine with up to 80-odd additional horsepower and lb.-ft. of torque. All of it is evident and appreciated when seated behind the wheel of a 2005 Nissan Frontier.
The jewel of this truck is the 265-horsepower V6, an engine characterized by strong acceleration that’s leaps and bounds ahead of the old 180-horsepower 3.3-liter (up to 210 horsepower on supercharged models). Whether it’s on the road or off, slugging through traffic or throwing down the hammer for a quick highway pass, a V6-equipped 2005 Frontier will impressively perform without hesitation. Plus, the smooth-shifting five-speed automatic transmission keeps things moving nicely. There are a few downsides to this powertrain. At full revs, the 4.0-liter is a true workhouse, albeit one you can hear breathing heavily. And then there’s the dismal fuel economy. The EPA rates a four-wheel-drive 2005 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab with an automatic transmission at 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway; we achieved 15.1 mpg in mixed driving. Sometimes, power comes at a price.
Other aspects of the drive are OK, but not as impressive as the potent V6 engine. Brakes, for example, are easy to modulate but they’re also a bit soft, requiring significant travel before becoming fully effective. Handling is typical of most trucks, meaning that there’s a decent amount of body roll, the ride is choppy on uneven pavement, and the steering requires constant corrections on the highway to keep on track. Off-road, however, the Frontier does quite well overall, with our tester benefiting from Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Control. These systems help the driver to descend steep hills at slow speeds without the use of the brakes, and start on a sharp incline without rolling back and having to punch the throttle. As expected, 284 lb.-ft. of torque does an excellent job of pulling the Frontier through deep ruts and over most obstacles. Unfortunately, the 10.1 inches of ground clearance aren’t enough to prevent this Nissan from bottoming out more than expected off-road, and the huge steering diameter requires multi-point turns. When narrow trail intersections are set at 90 degrees, as they often are, a tighter turning circle is preferred.
Convenience
Convenience In Crew Cab form, all 2005 Nissan Frontier passengers are granted comfortable seats, though the rear seats are lacking in legroom. The interior includes too much hard plastic, but padding is added to the appropriate places and storage is plentiful.
In developing the redesigned 2005 Frontier, Nissan has created an aggressive, powerful, and more accommodating truck. That’s most evident inside where the driver and front passenger will find wide seats with decent bolsters and ample headrests. Those buckets are a little soft, but they’re comfortable over the long haul, and upper level models get a tilting seat bottom. SE, LE and NISMO Frontiers also get a tilt steering wheel, allowing the driver to easily slide in and out. Between the front seats is a padded armrest with plenty of storage, though shorter drivers might find it placed too far back to be 100 percent useful. Door armrests are padded and comfortable, but window sills are hard plastic and not elbow-friendly.
Rear seat passengers are afforded a split bench seat with ample cushioning, soft front seatbacks that are easy on the knees, adjustable headrests, and a padded fold-down center armrest. As is typical with small and midsize crew cab trucks, the seatback is too upright and legroom is limited, though there’s plenty of headroom. The rear doors are smaller than the front and the hip point is a little high, so getting in and out is an issue, something addressed by grab handles mounted overhead and on the B-pillars.
Inside, amidst an abundance of hard but durable plastics, are a number of handy storage provisions. Each door features an integrated pocket and a cupholder, with four additional beverage holders throughout the cabin. The driver’s seat features a rear pocket, a cargo tray is placed under the rear seat, and small cubbies have been incorporated into the dash. Outside, our NISMO tester featured a locking tailgate, Nissan’s UtiliTrack system, and a standard spray-in bedliner. Interestingly, Nissan was the first company to introduce a compact crew cab truck with an optional full-length bed; however, the 2005 Frontier Crew Cab comes with one bed measuring 59.5 inches whereas the redesigned Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab can be fitted with either a 60.3-inch or 73.5-inch box. Nissan likely dropped this option due to poor sales; regardless, buyers looking for a midsize crew cab truck with a long bed will need to forego the Frontier and head directly to their Toyota dealer.
FAQs
FAQs The 2005 Nissan Frontier scored well in crash tests, and stacks up well against the competition in terms of power and capability. Choosing between the Frontier and its main competitor, the Toyota Tacoma, will be based on style and brand.
Why buy a 2005 Nissan Frontier rather than a 2005 Toyota Tacoma? The Nissan offers a more aggressive, edgy look when compared to the bulbous Toyota, and the Frontier’s V6 provides an additional 20 horses and two lb.-ft. of torque. Base prices are roughly equivalent and warranties are identical. These trucks are about as evenly matched as they can be, so the buying decision largely comes down to brand and style preference.
How does the 2005 Nissan Frontier stack up against other competitors? GM offers the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon (Isuzu’s version is the i-Series), a decent truck with an underpowered five-cylinder engine and an uncompetitive warranty. Dodge and partner Mitsubishi offer the Dakota and Raider. A Mitsu commercial displays a V8-powered Raider scaring a Frontier so much that it “wets” itself. Interesting, especially considering that the Nissan’s V6 offers 35 additional horsepower and is only two lb.-ft. shy of the Dodge/Mitsubishi V8’s torque ratings. The Ford Ranger (and twin Mazda B-Series) lack a crew cab option and ride on an ancient platform. That leaves newcomer Honda and its Ridgeline, a fine car-based truck that lacks the ruggedness of the 2005 Nissan Frontier.
How safe is the 2005 Nissan Frontier? The 2005 Nissan Frontier comes standard with dual front airbags, front active headrests, and antilock brakes. Upper level trims add traction control and a first aid kit. Front side-impact and side-curtain airbags are optional. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2005 Nissan Crew Cab four out of five stars for frontal crashworthiness and five stars for side impacts. NHTSA didn’t test a King Cab model. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tested only the Frontier King Cab, with the Nissan achieving an overall Good rating, the highest available from the IIHS.
Specifications
Specifications Competitors include the Chevrolet Colorado, Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Isuzu i-350, Mazda B-Series, Mitsubishi Raider, and the Toyota Tacoma.
Test Vehicle: 2005 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab NISMO 4X4
Price of Test Vehicle: $30,130 (including a $580 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: 4.0-liter V6
Engine Horsepower: 265 at 5,600 rpm
Engine Torque: 284 at 4,000 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed automatic
Curb Weight, lbs.: 4,502
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 15/20 mpg
Observed Fuel Economy: 15.1 mpg
Length: 205.5 inches
Width: 72.8 inches
Wheelbase: 125.9 inches
Height: 70.1 inches
Legroom (front/rear): 42.4/33.6 inches
Headroom (front/rear): 40.0/38.7 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: 5
Max. Payload: 1,098 lbs.
Max. Towing Capacity: 6,100 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 10.1 inches
Competitors: Chevrolet Colorado, Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Isuzu i-350, Mazda B-Series, Mitsubishi Raider, Toyota Tacoma
2nd Opinion -- Wardlaw
2nd Opinion -- Wardlaw The 2005 Frontier is another home run for Nissan, a company that has proven, time after time, that product is king when it comes to sales success.
Gotta tell ya, if I needed a compact pickup, this new Frontier would be it. Like any red-blooded American, how my personal transportation looks is just as, if not more, important as how it works, and this Nissan looks like it’s chewing up rocks while standing still. This truck is tough, chiseled, with a balanced look that totally escapes the oversized and oddly proportioned Toyota Tacoma.
But looks will only get a pickup so far – just ask Chevrolet how the Colorado was selling before the employee discount fire sale. No worries – the Nissan Frontier has the goods to work as a real truck, with a stout V6 underhood and a slick utility track system in the bed. Our test truck even had a spray-on bedliner to protect from scratches. And though I didn’t take it four-wheeling, if my experience in the Frontier’s platform-mate, the Xterra SUV, is any indication, this truck oughta rock off-road.
For its looks and performance, you don’t suffer inside the cab. The seats feature height and tilt adjustment, and provide decent support. The rear seat is a little tight when four tall adults are on board, but for short rides it’s just fine. And there are splashes of brightwork to help lessen what could otherwise be a pretty plain place to spend time. The seat fabric appears to be durable and water resistant, and the Rockford Fosgate audio system is terrific for a truck. If you wear polarized sunglasses, however, you can’t read the LCD display for the stereo.
Before this test drive, the Toyota Tacoma was the truck I recommended to anyone looking for a durable and capable pickup. But now, I’ll be sure to tell truck buyers to try the Nissan dealer, too. The 2005 Frontier is another home run for Nissan, a company that has proven, time after time, that product is king when it comes to sales success. – Christian J. Wardlaw
Overview The 2005 Nissan Frontier is available in King Cab and Crew Cab configurations, powered by either a 154-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a 265-horsepower V6. The base XE model is light on features, but high-end models like the LE and NISMO come very well equipped.
Nissan offers the 2005 Frontier in two body styles – the King Cab and the Crew Cab. Four-passenger King Cab models feature small rear doors for access to the fold-down jump seats. Exclusive to this Frontier is a two-wheel-drive XE model with a 2.5-liter, 16-valve, dual overhead cam four-cylinder engine pushing 154 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 173 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. Move up the lineup to find SE, LE, and NISMO models, all of which are available with either two- or four-wheel drive and are motivated by a 4.0-liter, 24-valve, dual overhead cam V6 offering 265 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 284 lb.-ft. of twist at 4,000 rpm. Every 2005 Nissan Frontier rides on an independent front suspension with a stabilizer bar while a live suspension with leaf springs is bolted to the rear.
Starting with the base XE, standard equipment includes four-wheel, vented disc, antilock brakes; a five-speed manual transmission; 15-inch steel wheels and 235/75 all-season tires; a tire pressure monitor; front active headrests; and a chrome rear step bumper. If that seems like a lean standard features list, that’s because all of the good stuff has been reserved for the options list. Among them is a five-speed automatic transmission; a Preferred Package that includes air conditioning, a radio with a CD player, tilt steering, and a sliding rear window; cruise control; and side-impact and side-curtain airbags. Pricing for the bare-bones 2005 Nissan Frontier XE starts at $16,180 including a $580 destination charge.
With a base price between $18,500 (two-wheel-drive King Cab) and $23,350 (four-wheel-drive Crew Cab), SE models add the XE’s Preferred Package, a six-speed manual transmission, larger brakes, and 16-inch steel wheels with 265/70 tires. There’s also a broader array of options including 16-inch alloy wheels, convenient power features, traction control, and a power sunroof for Crew Cabs.
One notch above the SE is the LE, priced from $22,300 to $26,650. Look here for standard items such as 17-inch alloy wheels and 265/65 tires, tubular running boards, Nissan’s Utili-Track cargo system, and a sprayed-in bedliner. Crew Cab LE models also get a roof rack with a 125-lb. carrying capacity. Buyers looking for more content can add an audio package with an MP3 player and six-disc CD changer; four-wheel-drive models can be fitted with Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Control, and stability control; and Crew Cab LE Frontiers can be fitted with power, heated leather seats and a 300-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system.
Finally, at the top of the heap is the 2005 Nissan Frontier NISMO, a truck dedicated to true off-road enthusiasts. Added here are Bilstein shocks, unique 16-inch alloy wheels and 265/75 off-road tires, skid plates, and a locking rear differential.
In order to evaluate this redesigned truck, we spent a week in a four-wheel-drive 2005 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab with a $30,130 sticker price. That significant chunk of currency included the addition of side-impact and side-curtain airbags, the Rockford Fosgate sound system, the power sunroof, Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Control, and stability control. Paying more than 30 grand for a pickup truck, especially a midsize, may seem questionable, but actually the Frontier can be viewed as a relative value. In comparison, a comparable Chevrolet Colorado with an underpowered five-cylinder engine has a higher base price and a Ford Ranger SuperCab (Ford doesn’t offer a crew cab) has the same base price. Of course, that doesn’t take into consideration deep rebates on the Chevy and Ford, discounts that ultimately lessen resale value. More importantly, the Frontier plays on equal ground with the Toyota Tacoma in terms of price, equipment, and power.
Road Test
Road Test On or off the road, the powerful V6 engine takes care of business with ease, though returns only 15.1 mpg in the process. The highway ride is comfortable but a bit choppy, while off-roaders may find their 2005 Nissan Frontier bottoming out more than expected.
What a difference a model year can make, especially one that ushers in a completely new platform, fresh styling, and a bigger engine with up to 80-odd additional horsepower and lb.-ft. of torque. All of it is evident and appreciated when seated behind the wheel of a 2005 Nissan Frontier.
The jewel of this truck is the 265-horsepower V6, an engine characterized by strong acceleration that’s leaps and bounds ahead of the old 180-horsepower 3.3-liter (up to 210 horsepower on supercharged models). Whether it’s on the road or off, slugging through traffic or throwing down the hammer for a quick highway pass, a V6-equipped 2005 Frontier will impressively perform without hesitation. Plus, the smooth-shifting five-speed automatic transmission keeps things moving nicely. There are a few downsides to this powertrain. At full revs, the 4.0-liter is a true workhouse, albeit one you can hear breathing heavily. And then there’s the dismal fuel economy. The EPA rates a four-wheel-drive 2005 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab with an automatic transmission at 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway; we achieved 15.1 mpg in mixed driving. Sometimes, power comes at a price.
Other aspects of the drive are OK, but not as impressive as the potent V6 engine. Brakes, for example, are easy to modulate but they’re also a bit soft, requiring significant travel before becoming fully effective. Handling is typical of most trucks, meaning that there’s a decent amount of body roll, the ride is choppy on uneven pavement, and the steering requires constant corrections on the highway to keep on track. Off-road, however, the Frontier does quite well overall, with our tester benefiting from Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Control. These systems help the driver to descend steep hills at slow speeds without the use of the brakes, and start on a sharp incline without rolling back and having to punch the throttle. As expected, 284 lb.-ft. of torque does an excellent job of pulling the Frontier through deep ruts and over most obstacles. Unfortunately, the 10.1 inches of ground clearance aren’t enough to prevent this Nissan from bottoming out more than expected off-road, and the huge steering diameter requires multi-point turns. When narrow trail intersections are set at 90 degrees, as they often are, a tighter turning circle is preferred.
Convenience
Convenience In Crew Cab form, all 2005 Nissan Frontier passengers are granted comfortable seats, though the rear seats are lacking in legroom. The interior includes too much hard plastic, but padding is added to the appropriate places and storage is plentiful.
In developing the redesigned 2005 Frontier, Nissan has created an aggressive, powerful, and more accommodating truck. That’s most evident inside where the driver and front passenger will find wide seats with decent bolsters and ample headrests. Those buckets are a little soft, but they’re comfortable over the long haul, and upper level models get a tilting seat bottom. SE, LE and NISMO Frontiers also get a tilt steering wheel, allowing the driver to easily slide in and out. Between the front seats is a padded armrest with plenty of storage, though shorter drivers might find it placed too far back to be 100 percent useful. Door armrests are padded and comfortable, but window sills are hard plastic and not elbow-friendly.
Rear seat passengers are afforded a split bench seat with ample cushioning, soft front seatbacks that are easy on the knees, adjustable headrests, and a padded fold-down center armrest. As is typical with small and midsize crew cab trucks, the seatback is too upright and legroom is limited, though there’s plenty of headroom. The rear doors are smaller than the front and the hip point is a little high, so getting in and out is an issue, something addressed by grab handles mounted overhead and on the B-pillars.
Inside, amidst an abundance of hard but durable plastics, are a number of handy storage provisions. Each door features an integrated pocket and a cupholder, with four additional beverage holders throughout the cabin. The driver’s seat features a rear pocket, a cargo tray is placed under the rear seat, and small cubbies have been incorporated into the dash. Outside, our NISMO tester featured a locking tailgate, Nissan’s UtiliTrack system, and a standard spray-in bedliner. Interestingly, Nissan was the first company to introduce a compact crew cab truck with an optional full-length bed; however, the 2005 Frontier Crew Cab comes with one bed measuring 59.5 inches whereas the redesigned Toyota Tacoma Crew Cab can be fitted with either a 60.3-inch or 73.5-inch box. Nissan likely dropped this option due to poor sales; regardless, buyers looking for a midsize crew cab truck with a long bed will need to forego the Frontier and head directly to their Toyota dealer.
FAQs
FAQs The 2005 Nissan Frontier scored well in crash tests, and stacks up well against the competition in terms of power and capability. Choosing between the Frontier and its main competitor, the Toyota Tacoma, will be based on style and brand.
Why buy a 2005 Nissan Frontier rather than a 2005 Toyota Tacoma? The Nissan offers a more aggressive, edgy look when compared to the bulbous Toyota, and the Frontier’s V6 provides an additional 20 horses and two lb.-ft. of torque. Base prices are roughly equivalent and warranties are identical. These trucks are about as evenly matched as they can be, so the buying decision largely comes down to brand and style preference.
How does the 2005 Nissan Frontier stack up against other competitors? GM offers the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon (Isuzu’s version is the i-Series), a decent truck with an underpowered five-cylinder engine and an uncompetitive warranty. Dodge and partner Mitsubishi offer the Dakota and Raider. A Mitsu commercial displays a V8-powered Raider scaring a Frontier so much that it “wets” itself. Interesting, especially considering that the Nissan’s V6 offers 35 additional horsepower and is only two lb.-ft. shy of the Dodge/Mitsubishi V8’s torque ratings. The Ford Ranger (and twin Mazda B-Series) lack a crew cab option and ride on an ancient platform. That leaves newcomer Honda and its Ridgeline, a fine car-based truck that lacks the ruggedness of the 2005 Nissan Frontier.
How safe is the 2005 Nissan Frontier? The 2005 Nissan Frontier comes standard with dual front airbags, front active headrests, and antilock brakes. Upper level trims add traction control and a first aid kit. Front side-impact and side-curtain airbags are optional. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2005 Nissan Crew Cab four out of five stars for frontal crashworthiness and five stars for side impacts. NHTSA didn’t test a King Cab model. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tested only the Frontier King Cab, with the Nissan achieving an overall Good rating, the highest available from the IIHS.
Specifications
Specifications Competitors include the Chevrolet Colorado, Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Isuzu i-350, Mazda B-Series, Mitsubishi Raider, and the Toyota Tacoma.
Test Vehicle: 2005 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab NISMO 4X4
Price of Test Vehicle: $30,130 (including a $580 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: 4.0-liter V6
Engine Horsepower: 265 at 5,600 rpm
Engine Torque: 284 at 4,000 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed automatic
Curb Weight, lbs.: 4,502
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 15/20 mpg
Observed Fuel Economy: 15.1 mpg
Length: 205.5 inches
Width: 72.8 inches
Wheelbase: 125.9 inches
Height: 70.1 inches
Legroom (front/rear): 42.4/33.6 inches
Headroom (front/rear): 40.0/38.7 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: 5
Max. Payload: 1,098 lbs.
Max. Towing Capacity: 6,100 lbs.
Ground Clearance: 10.1 inches
Competitors: Chevrolet Colorado, Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Isuzu i-350, Mazda B-Series, Mitsubishi Raider, Toyota Tacoma
2nd Opinion -- Wardlaw
2nd Opinion -- Wardlaw The 2005 Frontier is another home run for Nissan, a company that has proven, time after time, that product is king when it comes to sales success.
Gotta tell ya, if I needed a compact pickup, this new Frontier would be it. Like any red-blooded American, how my personal transportation looks is just as, if not more, important as how it works, and this Nissan looks like it’s chewing up rocks while standing still. This truck is tough, chiseled, with a balanced look that totally escapes the oversized and oddly proportioned Toyota Tacoma.
But looks will only get a pickup so far – just ask Chevrolet how the Colorado was selling before the employee discount fire sale. No worries – the Nissan Frontier has the goods to work as a real truck, with a stout V6 underhood and a slick utility track system in the bed. Our test truck even had a spray-on bedliner to protect from scratches. And though I didn’t take it four-wheeling, if my experience in the Frontier’s platform-mate, the Xterra SUV, is any indication, this truck oughta rock off-road.
For its looks and performance, you don’t suffer inside the cab. The seats feature height and tilt adjustment, and provide decent support. The rear seat is a little tight when four tall adults are on board, but for short rides it’s just fine. And there are splashes of brightwork to help lessen what could otherwise be a pretty plain place to spend time. The seat fabric appears to be durable and water resistant, and the Rockford Fosgate audio system is terrific for a truck. If you wear polarized sunglasses, however, you can’t read the LCD display for the stereo.
Before this test drive, the Toyota Tacoma was the truck I recommended to anyone looking for a durable and capable pickup. But now, I’ll be sure to tell truck buyers to try the Nissan dealer, too. The 2005 Frontier is another home run for Nissan, a company that has proven, time after time, that product is king when it comes to sales success. – Christian J. Wardlaw
Photos courtesy of Ron Perry