I own a 2006 that I bought new. 180K miles and still going strong. I’m 6’1” and didn’t fit into the Tacoma, the Colorado/Canyon was gutless and had a real cheesy interior, test drove the Frontier and made the deal. It’s hauled its maximum load up a logging road with no problem. Made several highway trips with a full load and other than smoothing out the ride, it almost felt like it was empty. Snow, Ice and even a hurricane haven’t stopped it.
I agree. I love my 2019 Pro-4X. It's not the premium version but I didn't want leather. I love the 4.0 liter engine and 5 speed transmission. It's a great dependable combination. The longevity of the direct engine kind of scares me about the new 3.8. I had a Focus ST with a direct injection engine. They were having problems with making it to 100k miles. Not sure about Nissans reliability with direct injection but since this is what they're going too I guess we'll see. Wish the would've updated the stereo system though. It really could use a bigger screen LOL
Everyone who is wanting to post a 4WD demonstration video should watch this first to see how it’s done. Absolutely amazing demonstration. Well done man.
I really appreciate the support! Been trying to use this same format for years now, it's fun for me to do, and I believe very useful for owners or prospective buyers.
That is the best 4X4 review that I've seen hands down. Most people are climbing rocks. I like the mud and hills much better. I don't climb rocks, I go through mud and hills.
my 2005 cc Le was a beast in the mountains going up and down was amazing, I didn't have a rear locker or trackion control, just brake distribution button
Me too, I just bought a 2019 sl, awesome truck. My grandad ran the same 2005 since the day he bought it new till the day he passed away, never failed him
Just a flat out, dependable, plain old get it done truck. It gets the job done and it’s history has been, it’s incredibly reliable. Superb value as well!
I currently have a 2019 Frontier and this truck really surprised the heck out of me. I been a Taco guy for a very long time and recently went with a nissan. This truck is well worth the money in ways its better than the Tacos.
I was always wanted to have Taco but this video change my mind to Nissan and I'm sure not the all the bells and whistles like a Taco but the video is clearly showing good off-road capability and also price wise better than Taco.
I think this is one of the best trucks on the market. I know the new model was just revealed but it is still on the same old 17-year chassis design and likely even better. Honestly, I would have no issues buying a used Pro 4x in the near future. I've seen these sell for great deals.
Impressive low-range traction system, really brakes the spinning wheel quickly. High range system seems to give you a bit more wheel spin to allow you to clean the treads out in the mud and sand. Great footage! Glad you go up the diagonal hill in all the modes to show the differences.
Thanks! A lot of times I wonder if it will actually be useful, and then every once in a while a vehicle will surprise me and be very different in one mode vs another.
@@EngineAdventures I also really appreciated this and the hill climb portion. I have a 2018 and it’s good to see what these trucks are capable of in stock form.
Thats the thing about the different modes, they're designed for different things. 4x4 high is for driving in snow and generally high speed situations, 4x4 low is what you use when you're stuck and or on a cross camber obstacle at slow speed.
Last Saturday brought in my 2016 SV / Manual to the dealership for last maintenance oil change under extended warranty w/ 64k miles. I paid $28k for the truck. I inquired extedning the warranty which would have been $3500.00 .....Finance manager came out and offered a gun metal grey 2020 Frontier Pro 4x ( Leather seats ) w/ trade in value of $23k for the 2016 $1500.00 rebate .09% financing.....threw on the Tow & Hitch / 7 year 100k miles Bumber to Bumper & paid off remaing balance of $4800.00 for the 2016. Ummm yeah to good of a deal to pass up. Yes I am missing out on the new 2022 aesthetics but who cares ....have the same engine & I don't need it to look like the Jetson's inside my truck. Good Stuff.
just bought a mint 2011, it was a police officer's personal vehicule, the good thing about this model is that they all look the same! inside and out minus very small differences. So don't have to spend $$$ to look good. Great tutorial by the way, thanks its was very detailed. cheers!
It will certainly be a welcome change for some. Yet, I believe even if it is "better" it will not beat nor effect Tacoma sales. If anything it will drive more interest in the segment and a small change here and there and Tacoma will sell well. Ex added power seats, added car play/ andriod auto, led headlights/ foglights. Now can equip a factory lift kit etc. These small changes create a stir unlike what other manufacturers can as Toyota is slow to adopt and frankly many people actually like and welcome it as they are not overwhelmed with features. If you give them everything what else can you add?
I bought a brand new 2015 SV packages and the only things that i dont have is the roof rack and lock differential. I've gone some offroading and this truck is AMAZING!
Also you missed the power seats leather and sunroof. Also does not have the Rockford Fosgate 10 speaker system with sub which has a 380 W amplifier and it is exponentially better sounding then what is put into the other trims.
Ur right i forgot abt that.. I WISH I DO HAVE THE SUNROOF! M glad i did not get the PRO4X cuz i dont like the power seat, and those leathers plus why would i need 10 speakers since m deaf :D
FYI on the E-Locker: There is a guy on the Xterra forum that was making a wire harness that plugs in between the locker controller and the truck wiring harness that bypasses the controller and will let it lock in all drive modes. It's a simple plug and play installation and removal. It's under the drivers side of the dash, easy to reach. I have one on my Xterra, it works on the 2ng Gen frontiers also, not sure about the Gen 3 trucks. It's pretty great to not be restricted to 4lo only to use the locker. I agree with your comment on the visibility in this truck. I like my 2019 SV 4x4, basically the same truck minus the roof rack, locker, skids & bilsteins & with the older power train. I test drove a 2022 and noticed immediately that the front view is much more obstructed by the hood. I found it very annoying.
Really appreciate the video. Been looking for reliable and cost friendly pickups since I've gotten back into motocross and I see a ton of these trucks for very reasonable prices. This definitely swayed me towards the frontier lol.
Honestly, I am not aware Frontier is so capable until I watch your video. Surely Nissan lack of advertising or not very good at marketing. Impressive capabilities. Looking forward to the 2022 Nissan Frontier.
It was interesting to see how the rain changes the course conditions. When the video started I told my wife that I bet this will make the course much more challenging. However, it appeared as if the course wasn’t quite as challenging? Lack of loose rock and dirt was packed and hard perhaps? Nevertheless, great video. My only gripe to nissan is make the locking rear diff available at all times all drive modes
In this case it was just the right amount of rain to make the traction really good. Instead of having a dusty top layer it was quite a bit more grippy. Yes there was a little bit of mud, but nothing that clogged up the tread on the tires. I agree with the locking differential! Toyota is the same way. Thanks for the support!
I've got a 2016 Pro 4X and it's been a good little truck. It performed better than expected in snow on the Mogollon Rim in Northern Arizona. My only complaint is that it had some oil vapor seepage out of the rear differential cover, and Nissan will not cover it under warranty unless it actually leaks liquid differential oil.
There will probably be a few updates and changes from the early production runs, but my guess is they will be minimal. Nissan has a lot of experience with quality V6 engines, and the 9-speed is a smaller version of what's been in the Titan for a year or so. I'm sure there will be growing pains, but nothing that would stop me from buying one if I were in the market for a small truck.
@@pronghornobsession I would think it would do great in the mountains. I test drove one of them and, unfortunately, they are just too difficult for me to climb into (I have physical limitations) but congratulations on your new truck!
@@CommanderCronus sorry to hear of the difficulty in and out of truck. It has been an awesome truck so far 6 weeks ownership and 4200 miles in its gotten 25mph on a few of our long roadtrips
At 8:13 yes, the ABLS still works in the front even with the rear differential locked, that's what's nice about the Nissan Frontier 4X4 system. I don't know about the new Tacoma but the old Tacoma when the rear differential is locked the ATRAC is shut off completely.
So, do you recommend just turning traction control off whenever 4 wheeling? I mean the slow speed stuff? On another note, how fast were you going when the camera was in cab and you were driving the trail, talking about the ram and the noise in the background being your equipment?
Awesome, thanks for watching and for the support! You may enjoy an upcoming series I will be doing on building a daily driver/off-roader. It's probably still a couple months out before I start posting videos on it because I want to have most of the work done before I start the series.
Very nice review, I just subscribed to your channel. I like that you pointed out that the rear locker can only be activated in 4L. Doesn't sound like a big deal but I really don't like that limitation. My 2013 F150 XLT 4X4 is capable of locking the rear diff in 2WD and 4WD high. That feature came in handy on many occasions and I hope Nissan considers going that route in the future because I really like this truck and may buy a 2022 model which is scheduled for reveal in Feb. You do a great job, very informative and touch on the points that are important to real off roaders. Thank you.
I'm sure there is a way to trick it so that you can lock the rear diff when you want, but it is a pain. I agree, I like how Ford's can be engaged at any time.
Supposedly the new V6 gets better has mileage than the old 4 cylinder. I have seen some tests where the results weren't as good as expected. I didn't do a real fuel mileage run.
Great real world review!! I think u sold me. Only reason to wait was for the new design but heck, may be able to get a better deal on the outgoing one. Thx
I have a 2016 Pro 4X. Love this truck! 2" Alldogs Off-road suspension lift and Atturo Trail Blade M/T 32" tires. Extremely capable off road and overlanding truck. Goes over and trough obstacles that many Tacos have turned away from. I am extremely interested in New drive line and body styling. It will need to be outstanding for me to be any more pleased than I am with the 4.0 V6 and 5 speed trans. 4 Lo and differential lock will crawl my truck over just about anything. Great job Nissan and great review of new driveline!! Most underrated and overlooked 4x4 truck on the market!!!
I HAVE A QUESTION IF YOU ARE using 4X2 CAN ACTIVATE THE BACK DIFFERENTIAL LOCK? great video i like especially when you show us the buttons and controls most people don't show us
I have a king cab 2013 frontier. 4.0 4x4 6 speed manual. Needs a rear axle rebuild, so while I’m waiting, I’m watching all the fun videos. I know mine isn’t pro-4x so I don’t get a locker haha
Quality content. Great commentary and demonstrations. I always liked these trucks. There aren't a lot of affordable trucks out there with a factory locker. I could do without all the electronics though. That's probably the reason I never bought one even though I've come across a couple of these. Having to turn off traction control every time you drive is lame. Also, engaging 4wd and low range with a heater dial is lame. I wish they kept everything manual like on the 1st gens with no computer interference at all. That plus a rear locker would be a dream.
I have similar sentiments, but I'm fine with leaving traction control on in most vehicles, for most situations. Modern traction control is better across the board, but there are still some companies that have overly aggressive systems.
Thank you for the video. I have learnt alot . It's quite capable I wasnt sure if it's as capable as the competitor ranger and hilux etc. But it's well suited
You kinda blew my mind when you you said the transmission didn’t give much torque in first gear and it must have a pretty low first gear. If it has a low first gear, it should give you good torque - the lower, the better.
I kind of stuttered at that spot in the video @2:25, but what I was trying to say is that it gives you a lot of torque in first gear. It also has one of the best crawl ratios in the midsize truck segment.
@@EngineAdventures - Yes, that is correct. But as you said, you stumbled a bit there. I’m surprised no one else questioned you on it. The Nissan is a good truck, but it seems to be a bit ignored in the US. It is a shame that they don’t offer a diesel (in the US).
I believe I talk about that in my other video of the Frontier, but ultimately I think it's one of the best, if not the best, transmissions in the midsize pickup truck market.
that last part up the hill seemed like it wasn't that challenging that 4H with trac off, to not have been just fine without having to go to 4L. I guess as long as it can do it with one of the cars options, is fine. My 2011 Santa fe with locking center diff, trac. control off, I believe it would have made that without having 4L. I'm considering getting a 2012-2014 for part time duty and .. hoping to see more videos of how it does when one side has no traction and one side does, for how it handles that.
Hey whatever works for you! My daily driver for the past decade has been a 2000 Toyota Echo, gets me to work and back on time every time. Might be upgrading soon though.
You have any clips if this truck towing? Silly as it may sound looking to do some overland trips with light trailer. Curious what that would look like. Good video
While that is true for many, it saves money for fleet managers and such who don't need one. They can also be added on easily and without too much cost later if someone wants. This truck was a preproduction model as it didn't include a monroney, so that may have been why it didn't have the hitch either.
I've probably taken close to 70 vehicles to this same spot. Search my channel for any particular vehicles you're interested in. For midsize trucks the Tacoma TRD Pro and Chevy ZR2 are much better at higher speeds, other than that most of the off-road trim levels perform great on this course. It's not hard enough to really push anything that has a locking rear differential, much less front and rear lockers.
@@pwetmalurider1537 it was in auto mode for 4wd high and manual in 4wd low. The reason for manual in 4wd low was because it often starts out in 2nd gear instead of first, so I locked it down into 1st.
Do you think it would have done well with RWD diff locked or not? I’ve owned nothing but sports cars, all of em turbo or supercharged. But I’ve matured and want a truck for my dog and myself to go surf and off road more. The Frontier seems to come with the most options for the money. 4x4, sunroof, leather, roof rack, bed track system, bed liner, and a opening rear window. Tacomas just don’t have many features. Crawl control is perhaps the only reason I’d buy one but that’s it. Also, on Oahu, Toyota will always sell for waaaaay too much money over anything else. Frontier wins in my book. Hoping to snag one soon.
Thanks for watching and commenting. No 2wd won't make the climb, even with a locked rear diff. I've tried in a few vehicles that can lock the rear diff in 2wd and none of them can make it past the bottom of the steep hill, much less up to the top.
Can't lock the rear diff in 2wd on this truck, must be in 4wd low. The hill is steeper than it looks on camera, I have tried a few other vehicles which can lock the rear diff in 2wd and none of them have been able to move up the hill.
I had an Xterra, same truck. Very capable for the money, the biggest weakness was the brake-traction control system - not aggressive enough or intelligent enough. Even with turning traction control off, it wouldn't transfer enough power when going uphill in the snow; I'd just get spinning diagonal wheels. Maybe I should have experimented more using 4-low, but not sure if would make enough of a difference vis-a-vis brake-traction control intervention when on steep incline with low traction. If this truck/xterra had something like A-TRAC (and disconnecting sway bars would have been nice too) it would have been untouchable at that price point for stock capability. Overall was great when empty, but when loaded up/towing I also felt it could use more all around - rear suspension, brakes, and power. And locking rear-diff could be finicky; didn't always engage when you wanted it to.
@@EngineAdventures Maybe it was different on my Xterra, since it was a 2010 (though I don't think they ever changed it) and it wasn't the Pro4X (though I've also driven the Frontier Pro4X), but my recollection is that it had no traction control in 4 low, because 4 low disabled VDC (vehicle dynamic control), which you could also do with a big button on the dash. In that vehicle I think the VDC was tantamount to the brake traction control system, i.e. when you turned it off in 4 high wheels would spin with no intervention.
@@nateallen2709 Interesting. I wish I had still had mine to compare. I have distinct memories of diagonal wheels spinning in snow with ABLS feebly trying to transfer power but only able to momentarily stop a spinning wheel, and I think only one at a time, and the opposite wheels that might have had traction barely moving, if at all. For me, the system gave a small amount of benefit but never was make or break if you truly got stuck. It could help keep momentum and prevent you from getting stuck or help get you out of situations that were not challenging, but when there was very low or zero traction on diagonal wheels it was pretty useless. It never totally clamped down on spinning wheels to truly move power to opposite wheels long enough for car to get going (like a mercedes, VW, audi, toyota, land rover, subaru, or jeep), all it would do is pulse the brakes, slow or stop the wheel for a moment, and then release and let it spin again. The car would just start jerking and rocking and wheels would speed up and slow down but it could never extricate itself. I would try with low throttle or high throttle, with VDC on or off, and it didn't seem to make much difference (except VDC off disabled the system). Was your experience different? Could you, for example, have put diagonal wheels on rollers and the car would have been able to drive off?
@@nateallen2709 Thanks. I just watched your videos. Yours does appear to be doing well. Trying to see if I can find any info online about if they ever updated that system. Hard to tell though without a more definitive test. If you can get two wheels in the air, get some rollers, or find/make some ice, that would be informative. Ideally I would test all situations (including each of the four wheels as the only wheel with traction), but the most common and significant test is the off-camber test (diagonal wheels).
I have yet to drive one of the new rangers, but comparing Colorado, Tacoma, and the Frontier I’d buy the Frontier any day of the week over the other two. Colorado drives nice gets good mpg, but front seats are horrible. Tacomas, ignoring the fan base, just don’t drive that well and to me are fundamentally flawed with an underpowered drivetrain. Frontiers are just a good, albeit basic, truck at it’s core. Plus comparing this video to the Tacoma video you did, the Frontier actually seemed to do better off road.
The conditions for the Frontier were just about perfect. It was a little dry and dusty for the Tacoma, but still they are pretty comparable off-road with the Tacoma having lots of driver aids and the Frontier having very few. I prefer less computer intervention because computers are unpredictable. Both are great trucks!
I like it too bad that didn't use them more aggressive settings in high range like to do in low range. I also feel the locking rear differential, should be lockable in any mode, meaning 2 wheel drive and 4-wheel high range
I can't decide if it's a good thing to have less braking in 4wd high or not, being able to spin the tires in mud and sand is a good thing. I agree on the rear diff lock! Having it lock in all modes, or at the very minimum 4wd high and 4wd low, would mean that the truck wouldn't have to rely on the brake system nearly as much.
@@williamkennedy2069 You change the wiring a little bit and I think it will engage the rear diff lock in any mode. It's something you have to look up to do.
Nope, I used to test the steep hill climb in 2wd. Even vehicles with a locker that can be engaged in 2wd weren't able to move up the steep hill at all. The G80 is good at what it's meant for. For off-roading I much prefer a selectable locker.
I have a new "22 Ranger with a 10sp auto trans that is CONSTANTLY shifting gears and shifting to too high of a gear. My concern about this 9spd trans is that it does the same. Can someone explain if it does or doesnt do that?
In my experience, it is much better than the 10 speed. Sometimes it has a longer delay when it has to downshift 2-3 gears instead of 1-2, but other than that it really does just fine.
You would have to be loyal to Nissan to buy this old tech truck. Love the new 2022 coming soon. The 2022 is really nice in/out and seems like a good powertrain. Nissan guys: Is the 2022 powertrain reliable?
They have gone up by about $4k. I believe the 2019 was $33k+ and the 2020 is $37k+. The automatic is standard now, as are a few other features, which helped increase the price.
@@EngineAdventures Incorrect. I think mine was about a $34K MSRP but lacks the leather and sunroof. To get the leather and sunroof then it was about 37K. You're comparing the price of 2 different trim levels in the Pro-4X line. It seems Nissan may have sadly done away with the lower Pro-4X trim level this year though. I don't like leather in my vehicles.
It appears that your local ARB dealer should be able to get you an ARB air locker for both the front and rear diffs. I've heard the aluminum front differential cases don't handle the load from a locker very well, but I have no real world experience with this. Best of luck!
If you haven't seen the Trailcraft videos with Wyatt from Team O'neill Rally School he talks about this, as does Matt from Matt's Offroad Recovery. Basically use whatever you can that is strong enough to get the job done.
The new 2022 Frontier is looking very nice, arguably it’s even looking better than the Tacoma. Also looks like the seats are more comfortable than the Tacoma and a lot more room in the rear seat.
Finally a video that really shows the Frontier's 4WD functions and capabilities
Thanks for the support!
Most underrated midsize truck. Ole reliable 4.0L was a beast.
I have a 2019 :-)
I agree, the Frontier doesn't get much love, but it's a great little truck.
Have a ‘19 as well and love it so much
Really a great, rugged little truck
You beat me to it. Massively underrated tough little truck.
I own a 2006 that I bought new. 180K miles and still going strong. I’m 6’1” and didn’t fit into the Tacoma, the Colorado/Canyon was gutless and had a real cheesy interior, test drove the Frontier and made the deal. It’s hauled its maximum load up a logging road with no problem. Made several highway trips with a full load and other than smoothing out the ride, it almost felt like it was empty. Snow, Ice and even a hurricane haven’t stopped it.
I agree. I love my 2019 Pro-4X. It's not the premium version but I didn't want leather. I love the 4.0 liter engine and 5 speed transmission. It's a great dependable combination. The longevity of the direct engine kind of scares me about the new 3.8. I had a Focus ST with a direct injection engine. They were having problems with making it to 100k miles. Not sure about Nissans reliability with direct injection but since this is what they're going too I guess we'll see. Wish the would've updated the stereo system though. It really could use a bigger screen LOL
Everyone who is wanting to post a 4WD demonstration video should watch this first to see how it’s done. Absolutely amazing demonstration. Well done man.
I really appreciate the support! Been trying to use this same format for years now, it's fun for me to do, and I believe very useful for owners or prospective buyers.
That is the best 4X4 review that I've seen hands down. Most people are climbing rocks. I like the mud and hills much better. I don't climb rocks, I go through mud and hills.
Thanks for the support!
my 2005 cc Le was a beast in the mountains going up and down was amazing, I didn't have a rear locker or trackion control, just brake distribution button
Me too, I just bought a 2019 sl, awesome truck. My grandad ran the same 2005 since the day he bought it new till the day he passed away, never failed him
Just a flat out, dependable, plain old get it done truck. It gets the job done and it’s history has been, it’s incredibly reliable. Superb value as well!
Well said!
Awesome video. I think this is the best demonstration of the 4WD traction systems that I have seen.
Thanks for watching!
I currently have a 2019 Frontier and this truck really surprised the heck out of me. I been a Taco guy for a very long time and recently went with a nissan. This truck is well worth the money in ways its better than the Tacos.
Yeah, it was so basic that I loved it. I'm curious what the redesign will be for next year.
What did you find better than the Tacoma?
@@SimplyCarReviews the price & engine.
I was always wanted to have Taco but this video change my mind to Nissan and I'm sure not the all the bells and whistles like a Taco but the video is clearly showing good off-road capability and also price wise better than Taco.
They the same thing. But welcome to the dark side.
I bought my 21 because of this review. I still absolutely love my truck.
Thanks for sharing, I'm glad this video helped. People sleep on the Frontier, when it really is top tier for the Midsize truck class!
I've got a 2010, that I bought brand new and it's still going strong. 4.0 engine
How many miles
@@DesignLead
Only have a 127, 000
I have a 2019 frontier pro 4x and it's my first truck and I love it. 4.0L engine is great
I think this is one of the best trucks on the market. I know the new model was just revealed but it is still on the same old 17-year chassis design and likely even better. Honestly, I would have no issues buying a used Pro 4x in the near future. I've seen these sell for great deals.
The best bang for the buck!! The Pro4X is an underated off road beast.
I agree, it's an excellent vehicle!
Just picked me up a 2019 with just over 7k miles, love it so far!
Congrats on your purchase, it's a great truck!
Now at about 21k miles on the truck now, still love it
Thanks for the update! Experience from those who actually own and put miles on the vehicles is very helpful
@@EngineAdventures Np!
I totally love your reviews! IMHO your reviews are the best shorts on RUclips. Rev
Thanks for the continued support!
I got a 19 p4x and its my first truck. So proud to own one!
I hope it treats you well!
Nice videos, most just talk how they drive but this is what I really wanna see
Impressive low-range traction system, really brakes the spinning wheel quickly. High range system seems to give you a bit more wheel spin to allow you to clean the treads out in the mud and sand.
Great footage! Glad you go up the diagonal hill in all the modes to show the differences.
Thanks! A lot of times I wonder if it will actually be useful, and then every once in a while a vehicle will surprise me and be very different in one mode vs another.
@@EngineAdventures I also really appreciated this and the hill climb portion. I have a 2018 and it’s good to see what these trucks are capable of in stock form.
Thats the thing about the different modes, they're designed for different things. 4x4 high is for driving in snow and generally high speed situations, 4x4 low is what you use when you're stuck and or on a cross camber obstacle at slow speed.
Last Saturday brought in my 2016 SV / Manual to the dealership for last maintenance oil change under extended warranty w/ 64k miles. I paid $28k for the truck. I inquired extedning the warranty which would have been $3500.00 .....Finance manager came out and offered a gun metal grey 2020 Frontier Pro 4x ( Leather seats ) w/ trade in value of $23k for the 2016 $1500.00 rebate .09% financing.....threw on the Tow & Hitch / 7 year 100k miles Bumber to Bumper & paid off remaing balance of $4800.00 for the 2016. Ummm yeah to good of a deal to pass up. Yes I am missing out on the new 2022 aesthetics but who cares ....have the same engine & I don't need it to look like the Jetson's inside my truck. Good Stuff.
Sounds like everything worked out in your favor!
@@EngineAdventures Yes sir and a great video you did here. Very thorough and commentary was great
Thanks for the support!
just bought a mint 2011, it was a police officer's personal vehicule, the good thing about this model is that they all look the same! inside and out minus very small differences. So don't have to spend $$$ to look good.
Great tutorial by the way, thanks its was very detailed. cheers!
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!
Great video, very informative. A lot of car videos these days are just filler, but this one got straight to the good stuff. Keep up the great work.
Thanks for the support!
with 281 ft/pounds of torque down low in the rev range the old 4.0 remains a great engine for off road
This is a good point being that the new 3.8 does not develop the 280 lb until 4400 RPM whereas the vq40 hit that at 4000 RPM.
@@HiPlains1 Thanks, indeed the low end torque requires a delicate foot on the throttle to avoid spinning wheels on soft terrain.
did they burn oil like the vq35?
@@SupramanTRD no
Lets see if the 2021 will give the tacas a run for the money.
It will certainly be a welcome change for some. Yet, I believe even if it is "better" it will not beat nor effect Tacoma sales. If anything it will drive more interest in the segment and a small change here and there and Tacoma will sell well. Ex added power seats, added car play/ andriod auto, led headlights/ foglights. Now can equip a factory lift kit etc. These small changes create a stir unlike what other manufacturers can as Toyota is slow to adopt and frankly many people actually like and welcome it as they are not overwhelmed with features. If you give them everything what else can you add?
Just bought a 2018 Pro4X for 21k with 71k miles. Super happy with it so far!
Sounds like a fun truck!
Nice to listen to someone who knows their stuff. Nice job.
Thanks for the support!
Best comparison of 4wd high vs low I have seen
Thanks!
100% agreed
This was an excellent comprehensive 4wd breakdown, awesome vid
Thanks for the support!
I bought a brand new 2015 SV packages and the only things that i dont have is the roof rack and lock differential. I've gone some offroading and this truck is AMAZING!
It's definitely an under rated truck!
Also you missed the power seats leather and sunroof. Also does not have the Rockford Fosgate 10 speaker system with sub which has a 380 W amplifier and it is exponentially better sounding then what is put into the other trims.
Ur right i forgot abt that.. I WISH I DO HAVE THE SUNROOF! M glad i did not get the PRO4X cuz i dont like the power seat, and those leathers plus why would i need 10 speakers since m deaf :D
Got my 2020 pro 4x. So far I’m loving i
Congrats on your purchase!
Dont need recover points when you have a pro4x ;)
FYI on the E-Locker: There is a guy on the Xterra forum that was making a wire harness that plugs in between the locker controller and the truck wiring harness that bypasses the controller and will let it lock in all drive modes. It's a simple plug and play installation and removal. It's under the drivers side of the dash, easy to reach. I have one on my Xterra, it works on the 2ng Gen frontiers also, not sure about the Gen 3 trucks. It's pretty great to not be restricted to 4lo only to use the locker.
I agree with your comment on the visibility in this truck. I like my 2019 SV 4x4, basically the same truck minus the roof rack, locker, skids & bilsteins & with the older power train. I test drove a 2022 and noticed immediately that the front view is much more obstructed by the hood. I found it very annoying.
Thanks for sharing! End user experience is very important as I only get them for a week, while the actual owners use them for years.
An actual off road review. Love it!! Just sending it down a road like I would and not babying the thing.
Thanks for watching!
I love my 2018 nissan frontier pro4x
Love my 2019 Pro4x! :) Awesome trucks!
For sure!
Really appreciate the video. Been looking for reliable and cost friendly pickups since I've gotten back into motocross and I see a ton of these trucks for very reasonable prices. This definitely swayed me towards the frontier lol.
Thanks for watching!
I came back to view this vid again. Awesome, it was as fun as the last time! I especially liked at the end when you were just......showing off!!!!!!!
Haha thanks for the continued support! Sometimes you just gotta have some fun!
Nice overview! I'm picking up a 2021 P4X next week, and your video helped smooth my concerns of this being a solid 4WD performer pre-mods. Well done!
Thanks for the support! Glad it was helpful to you!
Finally a guy who knows what he is talkin about.Thank u
Thanks for the support!!
Honestly, I am not aware Frontier is so capable until I watch your video. Surely Nissan lack of advertising or not very good at marketing. Impressive capabilities. Looking forward to the 2022 Nissan Frontier.
I think it is often overlooked, but a great little truck!
There is a Jumper Harness made for these by a guy on the Xterra forum. It allows the rear locker to engage in any drive mode.
Thanks for the info!
I have the exact same truck color year and trim. I don't know how many times I've seen this video lol i always come back to watch 🤣
Haha thanks for the views!
It was interesting to see how the rain changes the course conditions. When the video started I told my wife that I bet this will make the course much more challenging. However, it appeared as if the course wasn’t quite as challenging? Lack of loose rock and dirt was packed and hard perhaps? Nevertheless, great video. My only gripe to nissan is make the locking rear diff available at all times all drive modes
In this case it was just the right amount of rain to make the traction really good. Instead of having a dusty top layer it was quite a bit more grippy. Yes there was a little bit of mud, but nothing that clogged up the tread on the tires. I agree with the locking differential! Toyota is the same way. Thanks for the support!
My 2007 SE 4x4 kicks ass even without the locking diff!
The ABLS system works quite well on these trucks!
Good review of the 2020 Frontier. Anxious to see the 2022( Ridgeline owner ).
Thanks! Me too!
Thanks for the video, I've always wanted to do those tests with my truck but I don't have terrains like that where I live.
Thanks for the support!
I've got a 2016 Pro 4X and it's been a good little truck. It performed better than expected in snow on the Mogollon Rim in Northern Arizona. My only complaint is that it had some oil vapor seepage out of the rear differential cover, and Nissan will not cover it under warranty unless it actually leaks liquid differential oil.
My experience with Nissan trucks has been really good, and despite it's age I really enjoyed the 2020 Frontier
Important question- given that this is an entirely new engine and new transmission, how confident would you feel about buying one?
There will probably be a few updates and changes from the early production runs, but my guess is they will be minimal. Nissan has a lot of experience with quality V6 engines, and the 9-speed is a smaller version of what's been in the Titan for a year or so. I'm sure there will be growing pains, but nothing that would stop me from buying one if I were in the market for a small truck.
Engine Adventures Great info.
We bought this exact truck with tow package and bed extender. Love the truck. Put an All Dogs 2" lift on it. We are in the Mtns with it all the time
@@pronghornobsession I would think it would do great in the mountains. I test drove one of them and, unfortunately, they are just too difficult for me to climb into (I have physical limitations) but congratulations on your new truck!
@@CommanderCronus sorry to hear of the difficulty in and out of truck. It has been an awesome truck so far 6 weeks ownership and 4200 miles in its gotten 25mph on a few of our long roadtrips
At 8:13 yes, the ABLS still works in the front even with the rear differential locked, that's what's nice about the Nissan Frontier 4X4 system. I don't know about the new Tacoma but the old Tacoma when the rear differential is locked the ATRAC is shut off completely.
Thanks for the input!
I have a 2016 Pro4X. I love this truck. Thank you for posting this!!
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Great Review...just bought a '17 Pro4X and little that you know it seems i made the Right purchase.
Love my 2010 pro4x. Great video!
Thanks for watching!
So, do you recommend just turning traction control off whenever 4 wheeling? I mean the slow speed stuff? On another note, how fast were you going when the camera was in cab and you were driving the trail, talking about the ram and the noise in the background being your equipment?
In most cases turning off traction control is best. Can't believe I didn't mention the speed! If I remember correctly it was between 20 and 25 mph
Absolutely dig mine. 2019 4.0L. Great truck
Your the best channel doing this planning get my first off road vehicle and you have helped a lot of my choosing so far bruh.
Awesome, thanks for watching and for the support! You may enjoy an upcoming series I will be doing on building a daily driver/off-roader. It's probably still a couple months out before I start posting videos on it because I want to have most of the work done before I start the series.
Very nice review, I just subscribed to your channel. I like that you pointed out that the rear locker can only be activated in 4L. Doesn't sound like a big deal but I really don't like that limitation. My 2013 F150 XLT 4X4 is capable of locking the rear diff in 2WD and 4WD high. That feature came in handy on many occasions and I hope Nissan considers going that route in the future because I really like this truck and may buy a 2022 model which is scheduled for reveal in Feb. You do a great job, very informative and touch on the points that are important to real off roaders. Thank you.
I'm sure there is a way to trick it so that you can lock the rear diff when you want, but it is a pain. I agree, I like how Ford's can be engaged at any time.
Is there a big difference in MPG with the newer power train or not really?
Supposedly the new V6 gets better has mileage than the old 4 cylinder. I have seen some tests where the results weren't as good as expected. I didn't do a real fuel mileage run.
Great real world review!! I think u sold me. Only reason to wait was for the new design but heck, may be able to get a better deal on the outgoing one. Thx
Thanks! They are great little trucks, especially if you like simplicity.
Excellent review! Thanks for this video, you did a great job in showing what the 2020 Pro-4x can do in these situations.
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Traded in my 16 2wd for a 20 pro 4x with the 3.8..if the 4.0 was still available I would go for that but I love it so far!!
I hope it treats you well!
I have a 2016 Pro 4X. Love this truck! 2" Alldogs Off-road suspension lift and Atturo Trail Blade M/T 32" tires. Extremely capable off road and overlanding truck. Goes over and trough obstacles that many Tacos have turned away from. I am extremely interested in New drive line and body styling. It will need to be outstanding for me to be any more pleased than I am with the 4.0 V6 and 5 speed trans. 4 Lo and differential lock will crawl my truck over just about anything. Great job Nissan and great review of new driveline!! Most underrated and overlooked 4x4 truck on the market!!!
Did you have to do any trimming to fit those tires? 32 in probably not I would like to see a picture of that
@@HiPlains1 no trimming. Fit great. Originals were 31.5". Now I have Atturo Trail Blade M/T. I don't know how to attach a pic!
Frontiers are the shet. I bought. 17 cclb 4x4 new and its great even without a locker.
Nissan's ABLS is a very capable system!
Great review thank you. A lot of work went into this review 🤙🏻
Thanks for watching and commenting! A lot of work and fun!
Great review man! Earned a sub!
Thanks for the support!
I HAVE A QUESTION IF YOU ARE using 4X2
CAN ACTIVATE THE BACK DIFFERENTIAL LOCK? great video i like especially when you show us the buttons and controls most people don't show us
oooh i see now, never mind my question, nice video
they are the front differential lock available?
@@elTripaSeca not on the Frontier in the U.S. Other countries may have the option for a front differential locker. Thanks for watching!
I have a king cab 2013 frontier. 4.0 4x4 6 speed manual. Needs a rear axle rebuild, so while I’m waiting, I’m watching all the fun videos. I know mine isn’t pro-4x so I don’t get a locker haha
Have them put a locker in when they rebuild it!
@@EngineAdventures no, I’m just going to resell it. I want to drive for a little while but it needs to go. Too many cars’
Quality content. Great commentary and demonstrations. I always liked these trucks. There aren't a lot of affordable trucks out there with a factory locker. I could do without all the electronics though. That's probably the reason I never bought one even though I've come across a couple of these. Having to turn off traction control every time you drive is lame. Also, engaging 4wd and low range with a heater dial is lame. I wish they kept everything manual like on the 1st gens with no computer interference at all. That plus a rear locker would be a dream.
I have similar sentiments, but I'm fine with leaving traction control on in most vehicles, for most situations. Modern traction control is better across the board, but there are still some companies that have overly aggressive systems.
Thank you for the video. I have learnt alot . It's quite capable I wasnt sure if it's as capable as the competitor ranger and hilux etc. But it's well suited
Glad it was helpful and Thanks for the support!
I been debating a Toyota Tacoma or a frontier and this video just won me over to purchase the frontier 🗣
Either is a good choice, but I greatly prefer the drivetrain of the frontier.
@@EngineAdventures this was a great video , learned a lot about the truck
@@roby2532 thanks for watching! Have you watched my Tacoma videos? They may be helpful if you liked this one.
You kinda blew my mind when you you said the transmission didn’t give much torque in first gear and it must have a pretty low first gear. If it has a low first gear, it should give you good torque - the lower, the better.
I kind of stuttered at that spot in the video @2:25, but what I was trying to say is that it gives you a lot of torque in first gear. It also has one of the best crawl ratios in the midsize truck segment.
@@EngineAdventures - Yes, that is correct. But as you said, you stumbled a bit there. I’m surprised no one else questioned you on it.
The Nissan is a good truck, but it seems to be a bit ignored in the US.
It is a shame that they don’t offer a diesel (in the US).
Excellent review. I'd like to hear how you like the transmission on the open road as well. Thanks
I believe I talk about that in my other video of the Frontier, but ultimately I think it's one of the best, if not the best, transmissions in the midsize pickup truck market.
that last part up the hill seemed like it wasn't that challenging that 4H with trac off, to not have been just fine without having to go to 4L. I guess as long as it can do it with one of the cars options, is fine. My 2011 Santa fe with locking center diff, trac. control off, I believe it would have made that without having 4L. I'm considering getting a 2012-2014 for part time duty and .. hoping to see more videos of how it does when one side has no traction and one side does, for how it handles that.
Haven't tested an older Hyundai, but this hill is very tough for crossovers, with only a few being able to make the climb.
I like this little truck!
It's a great one!
Well, i have de 2WD 4 cylinders 2.5.. but im here representing😂
Hey whatever works for you! My daily driver for the past decade has been a 2000 Toyota Echo, gets me to work and back on time every time. Might be upgrading soon though.
@@EngineAdventures yeah, im happy with my Frontier, is the 2wd, 2.5 4 cylinders, but works really nice... by the way, amazing video.
@@irakmarin4911 thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
Easy bypass plugin wire that lets you lock in any drive. 2 minutes to plug in. Totally worth it
I figured there was something like that out there, thanks for sharing!
Very thorough review!
Thanks Paul, I appreciate your take!
You have any clips if this truck towing? Silly as it may sound looking to do some overland trips with light trailer. Curious what that would look like. Good video
I wish, this one didn't come with a receiver so I couldn't tow with it.
@@EngineAdventures MIssing a receiver hitch is a big negative for a new flagship truck. Tacoma's come with hitch. Plugs.
While that is true for many, it saves money for fleet managers and such who don't need one. They can also be added on easily and without too much cost later if someone wants. This truck was a preproduction model as it didn't include a monroney, so that may have been why it didn't have the hitch either.
It sounds like you have taken other vehicles in this route. How did they compare?
I've probably taken close to 70 vehicles to this same spot. Search my channel for any particular vehicles you're interested in. For midsize trucks the Tacoma TRD Pro and Chevy ZR2 are much better at higher speeds, other than that most of the off-road trim levels perform great on this course. It's not hard enough to really push anything that has a locking rear differential, much less front and rear lockers.
Is the break lock function included in the sv 4x4 or just the pro 4x? Great video 👍
I believe ABLS is on all trim levels with 4wd. Thanks for the support!
Yes any of the 4wd since 2005
Got one and Love It !!
Excellent vehicle!
Great video, can you do the Titan Pro 4X? Thanks
Already did: ruclips.net/video/dVzo90QDsrw/видео.html
I have filmed the 2021 as well, but it's the same
Did you put it in manual or automatic gear at 4:58 to 6:00? I just bought a 2002 pro4x and I am still learning it’s control/ function. Thanks!
I mean 2020 pro4x
@@pwetmalurider1537 it was in auto mode for 4wd high and manual in 4wd low. The reason for manual in 4wd low was because it often starts out in 2nd gear instead of first, so I locked it down into 1st.
Thank you sir! Yes I noticed that the gear quickly shift to 2nd once the vehicle moves a bit. Merry Christmas And a happy new year!
@@pwetmalurider1537 thank you and to you too!
Do you think it would have done well with RWD diff locked or not?
I’ve owned nothing but sports cars, all of em turbo or supercharged. But I’ve matured and want a truck for my dog and myself to go surf and off road more.
The Frontier seems to come with the most options for the money. 4x4, sunroof, leather, roof rack, bed track system, bed liner, and a opening rear window.
Tacomas just don’t have many features. Crawl control is perhaps the only reason I’d buy one but that’s it. Also, on Oahu, Toyota will always sell for waaaaay too much money over anything else.
Frontier wins in my book. Hoping to snag one soon.
Thanks for watching and commenting. No 2wd won't make the climb, even with a locked rear diff. I've tried in a few vehicles that can lock the rear diff in 2wd and none of them can make it past the bottom of the steep hill, much less up to the top.
at 6:45, did you try 2wd, but with the diff locked? I bet it would have made it.
Can't lock the rear diff in 2wd on this truck, must be in 4wd low. The hill is steeper than it looks on camera, I have tried a few other vehicles which can lock the rear diff in 2wd and none of them have been able to move up the hill.
Good mud review in 4X4
Thanks!
I had an Xterra, same truck. Very capable for the money, the biggest weakness was the brake-traction control system - not aggressive enough or intelligent enough. Even with turning traction control off, it wouldn't transfer enough power when going uphill in the snow; I'd just get spinning diagonal wheels. Maybe I should have experimented more using 4-low, but not sure if would make enough of a difference vis-a-vis brake-traction control intervention when on steep incline with low traction. If this truck/xterra had something like A-TRAC (and disconnecting sway bars would have been nice too) it would have been untouchable at that price point for stock capability. Overall was great when empty, but when loaded up/towing I also felt it could use more all around - rear suspension, brakes, and power. And locking rear-diff could be finicky; didn't always engage when you wanted it to.
In 4wd low the brake system is definitely on par with ATRAC, but you're right in high range it doesn't transfer much power side to side.
@@EngineAdventures Maybe it was different on my Xterra, since it was a 2010 (though I don't think they ever changed it) and it wasn't the Pro4X (though I've also driven the Frontier Pro4X), but my recollection is that it had no traction control in 4 low, because 4 low disabled VDC (vehicle dynamic control), which you could also do with a big button on the dash. In that vehicle I think the VDC was tantamount to the brake traction control system, i.e. when you turned it off in 4 high wheels would spin with no intervention.
@@Abbbb225 Interesting. In the 2020, 4wd low turns off vdc and traction control, but the ABLS (active brake limited slip) was still active.
@@nateallen2709 Interesting. I wish I had still had mine to compare. I have distinct memories of diagonal wheels spinning in snow with ABLS feebly trying to transfer power but only able to momentarily stop a spinning wheel, and I think only one at a time, and the opposite wheels that might have had traction barely moving, if at all. For me, the system gave a small amount of benefit but never was make or break if you truly got stuck. It could help keep momentum and prevent you from getting stuck or help get you out of situations that were not challenging, but when there was very low or zero traction on diagonal wheels it was pretty useless. It never totally clamped down on spinning wheels to truly move power to opposite wheels long enough for car to get going (like a mercedes, VW, audi, toyota, land rover, subaru, or jeep), all it would do is pulse the brakes, slow or stop the wheel for a moment, and then release and let it spin again. The car would just start jerking and rocking and wheels would speed up and slow down but it could never extricate itself. I would try with low throttle or high throttle, with VDC on or off, and it didn't seem to make much difference (except VDC off disabled the system). Was your experience different? Could you, for example, have put diagonal wheels on rollers and the car would have been able to drive off?
@@nateallen2709 Thanks. I just watched your videos. Yours does appear to be doing well. Trying to see if I can find any info online about if they ever updated that system. Hard to tell though without a more definitive test. If you can get two wheels in the air, get some rollers, or find/make some ice, that would be informative. Ideally I would test all situations (including each of the four wheels as the only wheel with traction), but the most common and significant test is the off-camber test (diagonal wheels).
I have yet to drive one of the new rangers, but comparing Colorado, Tacoma, and the Frontier I’d buy the Frontier any day of the week over the other two. Colorado drives nice gets good mpg, but front seats are horrible. Tacomas, ignoring the fan base, just don’t drive that well and to me are fundamentally flawed with an underpowered drivetrain. Frontiers are just a good, albeit basic, truck at it’s core. Plus comparing this video to the Tacoma video you did, the Frontier actually seemed to do better off road.
The conditions for the Frontier were just about perfect. It was a little dry and dusty for the Tacoma, but still they are pretty comparable off-road with the Tacoma having lots of driver aids and the Frontier having very few. I prefer less computer intervention because computers are unpredictable. Both are great trucks!
This truck looks good stock too
I agree!
2018 Pro-4X. Did you know that it has Dana 44 suspension at the rear for king cab? I don't know what it has for the crew cab.
I didn't know that, looks like all the Pro 4X models do though! Not sure what the updated Frontier will use.
I like it too bad that didn't use them more aggressive settings in high range like to do in low range. I also feel the locking rear differential, should be lockable in any mode, meaning 2 wheel drive and 4-wheel high range
I can't decide if it's a good thing to have less braking in 4wd high or not, being able to spin the tires in mud and sand is a good thing. I agree on the rear diff lock! Having it lock in all modes, or at the very minimum 4wd high and 4wd low, would mean that the truck wouldn't have to rely on the brake system nearly as much.
There's a fairly easy work around to give you exactly what you want and "more" that can be found on clubfrontier or thenewx ; )
@@pangyang9989 so tell us about it here!
@@williamkennedy2069 You change the wiring a little bit and I think it will engage the rear diff lock in any mode. It's something you have to look up to do.
hey now I own colorado z71 4x4 with g80 diff lock so I think I can do every test just using 4x2 logged in
Nope, I used to test the steep hill climb in 2wd. Even vehicles with a locker that can be engaged in 2wd weren't able to move up the steep hill at all. The G80 is good at what it's meant for. For off-roading I much prefer a selectable locker.
I have a new "22 Ranger with a 10sp auto trans that is CONSTANTLY shifting gears and shifting to too high of a gear. My concern about this 9spd trans is that it does the same. Can someone explain if it does or doesnt do that?
In my experience, it is much better than the 10 speed. Sometimes it has a longer delay when it has to downshift 2-3 gears instead of 1-2, but other than that it really does just fine.
You would have to be loyal to Nissan to buy this old tech truck. Love the new 2022 coming soon. The 2022 is really nice in/out and seems like a good powertrain.
Nissan guys: Is the 2022 powertrain reliable?
There is something about the old school that makes this truck appealing. Simplicity is something lacking today!
Just curious to how much more this new 2020 pro4x cost compared to the 2019 pro4x,,, Great video!
They have gone up by about $4k. I believe the 2019 was $33k+ and the 2020 is $37k+. The automatic is standard now, as are a few other features, which helped increase the price.
@@EngineAdventures Ok Thanks!
@@EngineAdventures Incorrect. I think mine was about a $34K MSRP but lacks the leather and sunroof. To get the leather and sunroof then it was about 37K. You're comparing the price of 2 different trim levels in the Pro-4X line. It seems Nissan may have sadly done away with the lower Pro-4X trim level this year though. I don't like leather in my vehicles.
Where's a good place to get front and rear diff lockers, preferably air locker. 2012 Nissan Frontier SV 4×4
It appears that your local ARB dealer should be able to get you an ARB air locker for both the front and rear diffs. I've heard the aluminum front differential cases don't handle the load from a locker very well, but I have no real world experience with this. Best of luck!
I haven't seen a Nissan truck in years. And I live in So Cal. See alot of Toyota Tacomas and Tundras.
a tow truck driver told me that was a tie down hook not a tow hook. i.d check the manual on that before I did any hookups on that front hook.
I believe you are correct, but this is a very strong tie down point and could be used for all but the most extreme of recoveries.
i got pulled out of mud by a taco from that hook sooo
If you haven't seen the Trailcraft videos with Wyatt from Team O'neill Rally School he talks about this, as does Matt from Matt's Offroad Recovery. Basically use whatever you can that is strong enough to get the job done.
The new 2022 Frontier is looking very nice, arguably it’s even looking better than the Tacoma. Also looks like the seats are more comfortable than the Tacoma and a lot more room in the rear seat.
Great video.
Thanks!
Good brother video
Thanks for watching and for the support!
are the tires good on snow and ice?
Don't know, only had the truck to review for a week.