2016 Nissan Frontier Review

Only minor changes are in store for the 2016 Nissan Frontier. They involve three new exterior colors and the accessibility of a moonroof on crew cab SV models. Providing one of the most relaxed driver's seats and seating positions among midsize trucks, the 2016 Nissan Frontier also offers serious off road chops, ruggedly attractive good looks, and the ability to tow up to 6,500 pounds.

Driving Impressions

Most midsize truck buyers like the smaller dimensions and simpler driving manners of such cars compared to their full size brethren. On this front, the 2016 Nissan Frontier is still very qualified despite its age. In our newest test of a Crew Cab PRO-4X model, we found the Frontier easy to move and more agile and relaxed than we'd expected for the daily commute. On rough pavement, though, Nissan's midsize truck experienced notably harsher. We were also still satisfied with the power from the 4.0 liter V6 engine, but not the resulting fuel economy. We averaged 15 mpg around city, which is outmatched by full size trucks these days. The 2016 Nissan Frontier interior is comfortable, and the dash design is clean and simple, though dated. At speed, there's prominent wind disturbance from the large outside mirrors, and engine and highway noise intrude as well. For those into off roading, the PRO-4X brings additional skid plating and a locking center differential.

Interior

While dated and on the very basic side, the 2016 Nissan Frontier provides a comfortable and flexible interior. Open the rear hinged doors of the King Cab model and you will find a pair of crowded seats; if you plan on carrying passengers regularly, it's best to opt for the Crew Cab model with its conventional doors and adult-sized 3 passenger bench. The rear seats on all 2016 Nissan Frontier designs flip up for more space, and the front side passenger seat can fold flat, developing an impromptu workstation. Leather replaces cloth on higher trim levels, but a telescoping steering wheel isn't accessible on the Frontier.

 

Exterior

We find the 2016 Nissan Frontier's looks more conventional than those of its competitors, and we don't particularly mind. So while you won't see a hulking grille or mean looking face, Nissan's pickup maintains its handsome, get the job done overall look. The Frontier is also flexible, with a long bed available on 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab models, presenting it the same bed length as the smaller cabin King Cab. Off road devices like skid plates adorns the PRO-4X models, which are also offered with roof racks and crossbars.

Under the Hood

Regular on the 2016 Nissan Frontier King Cab types is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 152 hp. It comes with either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. Accessible in King Cab and standard in Crew Cab types or any 4WD Frontier is a 4.0 liter V6, with a far more robust 261 hp. Here, a six-speed manual is regular, with a five-speed automatic available. The four-cylinder model is no slouch, providing a respectable tow rating of 3,500 pounds, and 2WD V6 versions can tow up to 6,500 pounds. All 2016 Nissan Frontiers run on regular unleaded gasoline. However, fuel economy trails far behind the new GM mid-size trucks, with just 23 mpg highway for four-cylinder models or 21/22 mpg for V6 versions.

 

 

2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab and King Cab

The stripped-down 2016 Nissan Frontier King Cab S with a manual transmission has a tempting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of just over $19,000, but instead check out the mid level SV trim on either King Cab or 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab models. They begin around $23,000 for King Cab four-cylinder models, or about $25,000 if you want a V6 operated King Cab. The longbed Frontier SL with 4WD begins at more than $37,000. While its beginning price undercuts competitors, the Nissan's pricing becomes more in line with them as you climb trims, although it's continue to below that of a loaded Tacoma or diesel powered Colorado or Canyon. thecarspecs.com/2016-nissan-frontier-review/

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