New 2010 Nissan Frontier Outperforms in Most Areas, Including MPGs
The new 2010 Nissan Frontier offers an excellent balance of interior comfort, workhorse power and overall quality. Add in an affordable price and fuel numbers that are some of the best in its class, and the Nissan Frontier should be on the radar of anyone shopping for a compact truck. Compare the 2010 Nissan Frontier to other new trucks and review specs, features and mpgs.New 2010 Nissan Frontier Styling
The Nissan Frontier boasts a polished, rugged exterior design that most truck shoppers will find more than appealing. As with most compact trucks, the Frontier comes in a variety of body styles and configurations that allow you to customize your Nissan to your needs. Whether you desire a truck that offers maximum passenger space, off-road capabilities or luxury features, the Frontier comes be had in a package that exceeds your expectations.
Inside, you'll find a simple layout that gets the job done without overcomplicating things. While some interior materials are a little lackluster, the overall level of comfort is good. Front seats on all Frontier models get great reviews, and offer solid support and good ride height. Rear seats are fairly cramped on King Cab models. If this is a concern for you, then the added real estate afforded by the Crew Cab is likely a better choice.
As with most compact trucks for the year, the base Frontier comes with minimal standard features (a stereo and air conditioning are both optional). However, upper-level trims boast a wide array of comfort and convenience features. For a little more, you can enjoy such benefits as full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control, Bluetooth, satellite radio and leather upholstery. The PRO-4X off-road package adds off-road tires, locking rear differential, off-road shocks and more.
Interior cabin space is nearly non-existent. However, fold-down flat seats do offer some room for cargo. King cab models come with a 6-foot cargo bed, while Crew Cabs come standard with a 5-foot bed (a 6-foot Crew Cab is optional).
New 2010 Nissan Frontier Performance
The base engine for the Frontier is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft. of torque. Power and comfort is good for around-town driving, but the lack of four-wheel drive may have you considering an upgrade for true truck performance. To achieve that performance, you'll need to opt for the 4.0-liter V-6 that delivers 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft. of torque.
One major advantage of the four-cylinder engine is fuel efficiency. At an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway (21 mpg combined), this is one of the most fuel-efficient trucks on the road. For the power, the V-6 also offers competitive mileage (16 mpg city/20 mpg highway).
If you're looking for a truck that maximizes gas mileage, then you may want to look at the class-leading Ford Ranger. Larger, more expensive hybrid models such as the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid may also be worth a look.
New 2010 Nissan Frontier Safety
The Nissan Frontier comes well-equipped with safety features. Base models come complete with anti-lock disc brakes, six airbags and stability control. Upgrade features include individual wheel traction control, hill descent and hill assist. In crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2010 Frontier receives an overall best-possible rating of "Good."
New 2010 Nissan Frontier Pricing
The new 2010 Nissan Frontier comes with a base MSRP of $17,540. Given the barebones features of this base model, most shoppers will opt for an upgrade. V6 models start around $20,000. If you're looking for a bargain, the Toyota Tacoma is the most affordable compact truck for the year. You might also cross-shop the Frontier with the mechanically identical Suzuki Equator. The Equator is by and large the same truck, but offers different styling and a longer warranty package. Other top models worth test-driving include the GMC Canyon and feature-laden Dodge Dakota.