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As brand new trucks face limited production, you can choose the used option. The 2020 Nissan Frontier could be a practical choice. However, is this used Nissan Frontier model a reliable option? Is the 2021 or 2022 model better? 

Is the 2020 Nissan Frontier reliable? 

The 2017 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X in the woods
2017 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X | Nissan

Yes, the 2020 Nissan Frontier is a reliable truck to buy. It has a predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 from J.D. Power. Generally, a Nissan Frontier will last over 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. 

Some Nissan Frontier owners have reported that their trucks lasted over 250,000 and 300,000 miles. So be sure to look at the vehicle history before buying a used Frontier model. Options from 2020 could still have low mileage. 

The 2020 Frontier gained a new 3.8-liter V6 engine with 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque. So, we would like to see how well it performs after being put through long-term tests. On the CarComplaints forum, there aren’t any issues reported for the 2020 model so far. 

Is the 2020 Frontier worth buying? 

Yes, while newer Frontier models have a fresh look and updated tech, the 2020 Nissan Frontier got a more powerful engine. The 2022 model is still using this engine, so you might save with a stout used option. 

The 2022 Frontier has an MSRP of $27,840. This is before the destination fee, and dealership markups have been added. Based on local searches, you can find used 2020 models for about $28,000 to 32,000, depending on the trim level and condition. 

Those prices seem a little high, but due to the global semiconductor shortage less new models are available, causing shoppers to consider used options instead. But at least the Frontier has a good depreciation value. 

The Frontier ranks in the top 10 vehicles with the lowest depreciation rates. It’s up there with the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Tacoma. After five years, the Frontier is expected to depreciate by about 43.5 percent. The average depreciation rate is 49.1 percent. 

This means that the 2020 Nissan Frontier could be a solid investment. If you want to sell it in a few years, you might not be stuck upside down with your payment. It could be easy to flip without hurting your wallet. 

What are the pros and cons of the 2020 Frontier? 

A mud-colored 2022 Nissan Frontier traveling on a dirt road up a hill
2022 Nissan Frontier | Nissan Motor Corporation

The 2020 Nissan Frontier can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds, which is average. The accelerate is quick and smooth, but the brakes are soft. The ride is a little bumpy, and the Pro-4X trim is well equipped for off-roading with a locked rear differential and skid plates. 

When properly equipped, the Frontier can tow up to 6,720 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,460 lbs. Rivals like the Ford Ranger can tow up to 7,500 lbs. It’s also smaller than the Chevy Colorado and Jeep Gladiator. 

The interior is fairly quiet and spacious. But the tech feels outdated. The new engine raised the price, but the interior and power equipment are behind the competition. Look for a really good deal before pulling the trigger.

RELATED: Is 2020 the Year When People Stop Buying the Nissan Frontier?

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.