The release of the 2025 Nissan Frontier is just a few weeks away, set to arrive in dealerships before the end of summer. This new model year introduces subtle updates and equipment upgrades rather than a complete overhaul, but it still offers noteworthy enhancements.
In the current market, it’s easy to overlook the Frontier amidst the excitement surrounding new or refreshed small and midsize trucks. Ford’s Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz have redefined the small truck segment, while the midsize class has seen significant redesigns with the Chevrolet Colorado (2024 Truck of the Year), GMC Canyon, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma. The Frontier, which last saw a major update in 2022, has struggled to maintain visibility. Additionally, Nissan is poised to phase out its full-size truck, the Titan.
Our experiences with the 2024 Nissan Frontier have highlighted its rugged design and strong towing capabilities, though we’ve been less impressed with its mediocre fuel economy, lack of standard driving assist features, and old-school driving experience. The question remains: Can the 2025 Nissan Frontier make significant improvements? Let’s examine its updated features.
READ MORE: Kia EV6 and Telluride SUV Win 2024 Winter Vehicle Awards from NEMPA
2025 Nissan Frontier: New Styling and Features
Exterior Enhancements
The 2025 Frontier introduces subtle changes to its exterior design. The front fascia has a more squared-off look, and the Pro-X and Pro-4X trims feature a new tailgate finisher. All trims now come with a standard sliding rear window. A new 17-inch wheel design is standard on trims starting with the SV, and the standout new “Afterburner Orange” paint option adds a bold visual flair.
Interior Upgrades
The interior of the 2025 Frontier sees several functional improvements based on customer feedback. A telescopic-adjustable steering column is now standard on all trims. The Pro-X, Pro-4X, and SL trims include a four-way power adjustable front passenger seat, while SV trims and higher also feature a power driver seat with two-way power lumbar support. Additionally, SV trims and above come with a new 12.3-inch touchscreen display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. SL grades include a wireless smartphone charger and Nissan’s “Intelligent View” 360-degree parking monitor.
Increased Flexibility and Off-Road Capabilities
Responding to customer demand, the 2025 Frontier offers more flexibility across its trim lines. The Crew-Cab long wheelbase with a 6-foot bed configuration is now available on SV, Pro-X, Pro-4X, and SL trims. For off-road enthusiasts, the Pro-4X now features an “Off-Road Mode” for the Nissan Intelligent Around Monitor, allowing drivers to spot obstacles at speeds up to 12 mph.
Enhanced Safety Features
One of the major criticisms of the current Frontier is its lack of standard driver assist features. The 2025 model addresses this with standard lane departure warning, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, rear parking sensors, high beam assist, and intelligent cruise control across all trims. The SL trim also includes traffic sign recognition, marking a significant improvement in safety features.
Mechanical Status Quo
Despite these upgrades, the 2025 Frontier does not introduce any mechanical changes. Previous issues with the transmission, fuel economy, noisy V-6 engine, heavy steering, and clumsy handling remain unaddressed on paper. However, there is always the possibility that some of these problems have been quietly improved.
Pricing for the 2025 Frontier has yet to be announced, which will be crucial in assessing the value of these updates. Stay tuned for pricing details and our first drive impressions of the new Nissan Frontier.
READ MORE: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Tops Midsize SUV Segment in J.D. Power APEAL Study
Subscribe today for the freshest car news delivered to your inbox
