Nissan Drops a Mid-Cycle Update for the 2025 Frontier, with Improved Looks and Functionality
The midsize truck segment is a tough, crowded space, with the Chevy Colorado, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma all vying for a piece of the action.
To that end, Nissan has announced several minor mid-cycle updates for its 2025 Frontier lineup, all of which are powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 producing 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque, which runs through a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Available later this summer, the 2025 Frontier will include a revised front end that better incorporates the bumper, grille, and fascia through the use of dark plastic. Other exterior enhancements include new 17-inch alloy wheels and new tailgate trim on two-wheel-drive PRO-X and four-wheel-drive PRO-4X trims. Afterburn Orange joins the paint palette, and a sliding rear window is now standard across the lineup.
Inside, the dash trim has been restyled and a telescoping steering wheel is now standard, while PRO-X, PRO-4X and SL trims now have a standard powered passenger seat. SL trims get wireless phone charging and Nissan’s 360-degree Intelligent Around View Monitor for added driver security when it comes to knowing who or what is directly around the vehicle. That system on PRO-4X models can now be used at speeds up to 12 mph, which helps drivers spot and avoid obstacles in tricky technical situations. On SV trims and higher, the Frontier will now include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a big step up from the outgoing nine-inch unit, and it now incorporates Android Auto in addition to Apple CarPlay.
Previously, configuring a Frontier with the Crew Cab and the long-wheelbase of the six-foot bed was limited only to SV trims, but for 2025, customers can also spec that combination on PRO-4X and SL trucks. In addition to that added functionality, all Frontiers have extra towing capacity, up 500 pounds from 2024 models to 7150 pounds.
Finally, all trims, from S to SL, now feature standard driver assistance technology, including Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Parking Sensors, and Intelligent Cruise Control. The Frontier SL also adds Traffic Sign Recognition.
Nissan introduced the Frontier in 1997, and the model’s fifth generation hit the road in 2022, when more than 76,000 units sold. Sales fell off to 58,134 in 2023, but through June 2024, Nissan has sold 39,964 Frontiers, putting the truck on pace for its best sales year since 2016.
Pricing for the 2025 Frontier has not yet been announced.
Frontiers are great little trucks. I’ve owned two over the last 21 years, and they’ve both been remarkably capable and reliable.
Changes look good, my only concern is the longevity of their 9 speed auto. Ive seen a few people complain about the transmission. Beyond that this should be a good alternative to the Tacoma, etc.