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Updated on Jan 20, 2025
The midsize truck market has long been dominated by a few names, including the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, and the nearly identical Chevy Colorado.
However, another name sits just off in the distance, evoking thoughts of dividing lines with something new, bold, and innovative just on the other side. Though failing to outsell its competitors, the Nissan Frontier is worth mentioning when shopping in the midsize truck segment.
The Frontier is an often underappreciated contender, packing a beefy 3.8L naturally-aspirated V6 under the hood, aggressive angular styling, and nearly three decades of uninterrupted production under its belt. If you’re considering purchasing a Frontier as your next pickup, follow along as we outline the features and differences between the midsize truck’s available trim levels.
Modern vehicles come with countless features, ranging from innovative infotainment systems and premium interior fabrics to various engine and transmission configurations. To avoid a massive assortment of uniquely spec’d trucks, auto manufacturers, including Nissan, combine options and features into pre-selected groups.
Nissan carefully compiles options into unique submodels that suit different consumer bases, ranging from budget-minded trades workers to luxury fanatics. These option groups, which vary in comfort, features, styling, and pricing, are known as trim levels.
Nissan offers the 2025 Frontier in five unique trim levels, including the:
S
SV
Pro-X
Pro-4X
SL
In this section, we’re outlining the base price, characteristics, and standard features of each trim level.
Pricing starts at $33,560.
The Frontier S is Nissan’s base-level pickup offering, sporting simplistic styling at an affordable price. The Frontier S is the perfect choice for budget-minded consumers looking for reliability and basic creature comforts. The Frontier S offers such standard features as:
Standard 3.8L V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission
Digital rearview Monitor
Standard sliding rear window
Nissan Connect 12.3-in. infotainment system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
Four-speaker audio system
6-way manual-adjustable driver’s seat
Telescoping steering wheel
Intelligent forward collision warning
Intelligent driver alertness
Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection
7-in. Advanced Drive-Assist™ display
Remote keyless entry with push-button ignition
16-in. steel wheels
Pricing starts at $35,900.
The SV trim is one step up from the S in terms of luxury. While not the most feature-packed of Frontier trims, the SV tacks on several amenities and standard options, including:
Optional crew cab long bed configuration
16-in. or 17-in. aluminum-alloy wheels
Body-color door handles, outside mirrors, and trim
Power adjustable side mirrors
8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with 2-way power lumbar adjustment
Premium cloth upholstery for front seats
Six-speaker audio system
Class IV tow hitch receiver with 7-pin wiring harness (crew cab long bed)
120V AC power outlet located in the bed (crew cab long bed)
Optional Utili-Track™ System with 2 adjustable tie-down cleats
Pricing starts at $39,980.
The Pro-X is an off-road-oriented rear-wheel-drive trim, similar to the Tacoma Prerunner. Though only directing power to the rear wheels, the Pro-X offers several appearance and performance features that provide off-road-inspired looks and superior performance in the dirt. In addition to the standard two-wheel-drive features, the Pro-X adds:
Underbody skid plates for superior chassis protection
Electronic locking rear differential for superior off-road traction
All-terrain tires
Intelligent Key
Pro-X embroidered upholstery
4-way power passenger seat
Bilstein off-road suspension components
Model-specific tailgate finisher and Lava Red tow hooks
Intelligent around view monitor with off-road mode
Pricing starts at $43,280.
The Pro-4X is nearly identical to the Pro-X—however, it ditches the two-wheel-drive architecture for a traditional four-wheel-drive system. The Pro-4X is the ultimate Frontier for off-road enthusiasts. This trim offers all the same features of the Pro-X, as well as:
Standard 4x4
Optional crew cab long bed configuration
Pricing starts at $43,320.
Lastly, the Frontier SL is a luxury trim package designed for maximum comfort. The Frontier SL offers all the features of the SV, as well as:
Fender® premium 10-speaker audio system
Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
Leather-appointed front and rear upholstery
4-way power-adjustable passenger seat
Wireless charging pad
LED exterior lighting
Traffic sign recognition system
Optional crew cab long bed configuration
With the key features of each trim level laid out, it’s time to ask the question of which trim level best suits your needs. To determine the answer, we’ll need to consider a few factors.
First, let’s consider the consumer’s budget. While all Frontier trims are relatively affordable by today’s standards, pricing varies significantly from the entry-level S to the luxurious SL or feature-packed Pro-4X.
Next, let’s consider must-have features—what are your non-negotiables? If you answered “leather seats,” you’ll be stuck with pricier trims. However, any trim level will suffice if your only qualifiers are the 3.8L V6 engine, power windows and locks, and a 12.3-in. infotainment display.
Lastly, reflect on your planned usage of your new truck. The base S is a solid contender if you’re in the market for a work truck. However, if you’re planning to build a capable overlander, consider splurging for the Pro-4X’s underbody skids, Bilstein suspension, and standard four-wheel-drive system.
And remember, if you can't find the exact options you’re looking for on dealer lots, you don’t have to settle. You can always special order a new pickup or upgrade your new Frontier with products and accessories from RealTruck.
RealTruck is your home for the best products to outfit your build for unforgettable adventures.
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