2014 Nissan Frontier
Changes for the 2014 Nissan Frontier:
Most Frontiers add standard equipment for 2014, and new aluminum wheel designs debut. All Frontier S models with an automatic transmission get Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, an upgraded audio system, and cruise control. Most Frontier Crew Cab models have a sliding rear window for 2014, while heated front seats are added for the PRO-4X model and as part of the SV Value Truck Package. The optional NissanConnect technology is upgraded this year.
Model Lineup:
Nissan sells the 2014 Frontier in King Cab and Crew Cab styles, with a standard or long cargo box, equipped with a 4-cylinder or a V-6 engine, 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive, and a manual or automatic transmission. Trim levels include S, SV, Desert Runner, PRO-4X, and SL models. The Frontier S is the basic work truck, the Frontier SV is the popular model, and the Frontier SL is the luxury-themed version. Desert Runners have 2WD, while PRO-4X models are off-road ready.
Engines and Transmissions:
The Frontier King Cab model comes standard with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 152 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque. A 5-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a 5-speed automatic transmission optional.
The King Cab can be optioned with a 4.0-liter V-6 engine generating 261 horsepower and 281 lb.-ft. of torque. It comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, with a 5-speed automatic available as an option. Desert Runner variants include the automatic transmission as standard equipment.
Crew Cab models have the V-6 engine as standard equipment. The automatic transmission is included for the Desert Runner and SL versions. All but the Desert Runner can be optioned with 4WD, which is standard for the PRO-4X model.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
With the 4-cylinder engine, the Frontier King Cab gets 21 mpg in combined driving with the manual transmission, and 19 mpg in combined driving with the optional automatic. Add the V-6 engine, and mileage ranges from 17 mpg with the automatic transmission and 4WD, to 19 mpg with the manual gearbox and 2WD.
Safety Ratings:
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had not performed crash tests on the 2014 Frontier as this summary was written. Rollover resistance ratings are available, with 2WD models receiving a 4-star rating and 4WD models receiving a 3-star rating.
In crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Frontier receives the highest rating of “Good” for the moderate overlap frontal-impact, side-impact, and roof crush strength assessments. In terms of rear-impact injury prevention, the Frontier rates “Acceptable.” The truck has not been tested in the new small overlap frontal-impact test as this summary is written.
Technology Highlights:
A reversing camera and rear parking assist sensors are available for the 2014 Frontier, along with NissanConnect technology. For 2014, Frontier owners can pair a smartphone to the vehicle’s infotainment system, and through voice commands or the 4.3-inch touchscreen display in the dashboard they can stream music, make and receive calls, access social media platforms, use a hands-free text-messaging assistant, and more.
