For iPhone users, Apple Carplay has quickly become a must-have option. The system allows drivers to seamlessly and safely connect with their phones while driving. Drivers can take phone calls, send voice-to-text messages, and use third-party navigation apps.

Users like that CarPlay mirrors the look and feel of their iPhones. CarPlay currently is available in 500 different vehicle models and counting. Did Nissan opt to include the infotainment system in its Frontier trucks? 

Does the Nissan Frontier have Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay is currently available on 12 different Nissan models, but the Frontier isn’t one of them. And it’s not because Nissan is catering to Android users. The Nissan Frontier doesn’t have Android Auto, either.  Compared to many other midsize trucks on the road today, the Frontier is sparse on available tech options.

Available tech options on the Nissan Frontier

The Frontier isn’t completely tech-less. NissanConnect does come standard on all 2019 Frontier models. Nissan’s own infotainment system is barebones and has a relatively small touch screen.

Nissan does seem to be catering more to Apple users, though, as Siri Eyes Free lets iPhone users make calls via a button on the steering wheel. It’s a bit of a mystery why Nissan doesn’t make CarPlay at least an option on their new models.

Other tech options on the Nissan Frontier are sparse. Included in the standard package are a rearview monitor and dual climate control.

Why is the low-tech Frontier still so popular?

Most other mid-size trucks, like the Ford F-150, are loaded with tech. However, the Frontier might be popular not in spite of its low-tech options, but because of them. Some drivers out there just want a solid, reliable truck. They don’t want to fuss with driver assistance options.  Frontier owners don’t want to pay extra for the technology they don’t want and aren’t going to use. 

A lack of tech options is why the Frontier remains so affordable. The 2019 base model will set you back just $19,000, making it one of the most affordable midsize trucks on the market today.

The Frontier is, however, known for its dependability and longevity. The last several years have seen the Frontier ranked highly by JD Powers in the midsize truck category. And it’s not unheard of for drivers to report that their Frontier hit 200,000 miles.

At the end of the day, the Frontier is a solid workhorse.

For the Frontier, Nissan has been slow on jumping on the tech bandwagon. Nissan knows who their buyers and see that while car tech is booming, not everyone wants it. For drivers who are more concerned about towing capacity than music apps, the Frontier is still a solid choice. The Frontier delivers when it comes to towing capacity and off-road capabilities.

Nissan lists that a properly equipped Frontier has a maximum towing capacity of 6,720 pounds. That’s enough to haul boats, ATVs, and other toys. With a high clearance, hill start assist, and hill descent control, it’d be a shame to not take the Frontier off-road.

Believe it or not, manual transmissions are still a desired option for some drivers. Some drivers appreciate the feel and control of a stick shift. Nissan is listening to those drivers, and a manual transmission is still an available option on the Frontier

The Future of Nissan’s Frontier

Nissan has promised an update for the Frontier sometime in 2020, but the company hasn’t released any details yet. It remains to be seen if CarPlay or Android Auto are offered at least as options, or if Frontier stays true to its simplicity.