The Nissan Frontier’s Interesting Past and Why it Has a Strong Brand Following Now

The Nissan Frontier is a pickup with a strong and loyal following, and it comes from its interesting past. Even though it’s getting long-in-the-tooth and in need of a remodel, its followers are loyal and aren’t switching brands. Here’s a brief rundown and history of the Frontier and what made it so popular with small-to mid-size truck fans in the US. In other global markets the Frontier is known as the Navara.

1997-2004

Nissan Frontier started out as a small pickup truck that replaced the Nissan D21 Hardbody truck. In 1999, Nissan introduced the Frontier Crew Cab, the first compact truck with four full-sized doors. A complete redesign in 2004 pushed the pickup into the mid-size truck segment and it’s when it began getting popular in the US.

2005-2009

In 2005, the all-new Frontier was launched with the most powerful V6 engine in its class. Minor changes to the trim levels were the only updates in store for 2006. In 2007, things changed and Nissan added a new Crew Cab Long Bed trim that measured six feet. V6 models saw reduced emissions and a seatbelt reminder for passengers was made standard. 2008 was the year technology upgrades were added to the Frontier. A new fascia up front along with new headlights and a gauge cluster were key features of the 2009 Frontier.

2010-2013

2010 saw standard stability control system, front side impact airbags and side curtain airbags added for improved safety. The Frontier would see only minor changes though 2012. In 2013, the engine was updated to improve fuel economy and create a smoother-shifting drive. Optional climate control and backup camera as well as new GPS debuted during the 2013 model year as well.

Why it’s a fan favorite today

Frontier’s multiple honors including Edmunds 2011 TopRecommended Compact Truck and J.D. Power and Associates’ Highest Ranked Midsize Pickup in Initial Quality in 2010 have helped in its popularity. The safety of the Frontier has also received recognition, with the Frontier winning multiple safety awards, such as theNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s 5-Star rating in side-impact tests and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick designation. But it’s the trucks reliability, power, towing capacity and comfort that keep Frontier fans coming back.

The current generation Frontier sits under the brand’s full-size Nissan Titan and competes against Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. The 2017 Nissan Frontier is offered in either King Cab or Crew Cab sizes and has five different trim levels to choose from; S, SV, Desert Runner, Pro-4X, and SL. The Nissan Frontier is due for a complete redesign and the new-generation model should be introduced later next year. Stay tuned.

Image credit: Nissan