2010 Nissan Frontier LE Crew Cab 4×4 from Chris Reed on Vimeo.

By CHRIS REED, UPP Editor—
Published 06/09/10

Inspecting a row of new Nissan pickups, one in particular caught my eye—a 2010 Avalanche (white) Frontier Crew Cab LE 4×4, endowed with the sound-system enhancing Value Truck Package. Acknowledging the popularity of Nissan’s Frontier pickups and my desire to experience the upgraded stereo, I decided this particular Frontier would be the subject of my next evaluation. Not thirty minutes later I was beginning to understand why the Frontier has enticed so many buyers.

Ken Garff Nissan of Orem graciously provided the truck for the purpose of evaluation.

Value Truck Package = Killer Sound System

When I was in high school car stereos were all the rage and bragging rights mattered. A Rockford Fosgate stereo yielded immediate peer approval and gratifying tunes that you—and your neighbors—both felt and heard. Consequently, I am delighted that the Value Truck Package adds a Rockford Fosgate 10-speaker stereo enhanced by subwoofers. I loaded one of my favorite CDs into the in-dash 6-CD changer, adjusted the equalizer and volume, and then relaxed while the amplified music took me back in time. The Value Truck Package also includes steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, Bluetooth, XM satellite radio, and an auxiliary input jack. Kudos to Nissan for arranging this fantastic sound system.

Comfort

Despite its macho, rugged styling this Frontier is loaded with all the goodies you’d expect right down to the heated seats; it is very comfortable. The dead pedal is perfect and my left foot is happy to stay there all day. Vehicle controls are easily within reach and intuitive. The front seats are wonderful, especially in leather – another Value Truck Package plus. My only complaint regarding driver comfort is the location of the center console. It is positioned so far to the rear that when I adjust the seat forward for proper pedal reach – I’m 5’7” – it no longer serves as an arm rest, and it’s difficult to access or use because it’s behind me. Tall drivers may not have this problem.

Everything about this truck feels high-quality and solid. Everything, that is, except the gear selector’s loud and clunky movements which make it seem out of place. The A, B, and C pillars are extra wide, but don’t inhibit visibility as much as I had anticipated. The door panels are concaved, adding knee room. There are grab handles everywhere—I count seven—and they are helpful when entering and exiting. The step rails are convenient.

Rear seating is also comfortable, with better arm rests than those up front and excellent head rests. I have one complaint regarding rear seat comfort: there’s a seam in the leather seat cushion that was ever-present to my backside, no matter how I repositioned myself, and I think it would grow tiresome during extended driving periods.

Impressive power, OK fuel Economy

The 4.0-liter DOHC V6 is a gem, and it produces a confidence-inspiring 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The engine/transmission combination is smooth and energetic. Short, uphill freeway onramps are no cause for concern, in that there’s enough power to easily match freeway speed and merge. As-tested the Frontier can tow up to 6,100 lbs. This muscle comes at a price: 14 mpg city/19mpg highway —not very impressive. By comparison, a Hemi-powered full-size Dodge Ram pickup achieves 13 mpg city/18mpg highway.

Safety

Government safety ratings for Frontier are the following: four stars for both driver and passenger in frontal crash tests, five stars for side impact, and four stars for rollover safety.

Price

The loaded Frontier that I evaluated carries a sticker price of $31,775.

Driving Impressions and final thoughts

I think Nissan designers are anxious to give today’s consumers what they want. The roof rack is sturdy enough for heavy-duty use. The bed rail system is multi-functional for those who spend time outdoors, and factory spray-in bedliner is a nice touch. There’s a Nissan first aide kit sitting on the back seat. The exhaust tip looks like a popular aftermarket add-on. Chrome accents are everywhere and the 18” aluminum wheels are handsome. There are so many thoughtful details and features that they can’t all be recognized in this short review.

The Frontier is pleasant to drive around town and on the highway. Twenty minutes behind the wheel and I was thinking this Frontier was just right for me—the right size, luxurious, solid, quick, capable, and I love the stereo. If only my salary were a little higher…and gas prices were a little lower.