The 2024 Nissan Frontier is an appealing blend of rugged style and solid capability. From its trophy truck looks to its body-on-frame construction, this pickup has the tools for almost any task. But it isn’t perfect.

Revised for the 2022 model year, the third-generation Frontier received valuable updates but stopped short of a full redesign. For that reason, it lags behind competitors with more substantial upgrades. On the other hand, the Nissan is an excellent value. Let’s take a closer look at what the latest Frontier gets wrong and right.

2024 Nissan Frontier: features, specs, pricing

The Frontier is the cheapest truck in the Nissan lineup. Starting at $29,770 (plus destination fee) this midsize pickup comes packed with standard features. Here are the details.

Nissan has a history of producing excellent V6 engines. And the Frontier continues that tradition with a 3.8-liter version with 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque. Routed through a 9-speed auto and either 2WD or 4WD, the smooth powerplant has plenty of grunt.

Body-on-frame construction gives the Frontier the toughness required by demanding drivers. Up front, the independent double-wishbone suspension soaks up bumps, while in the rear, a live axle with leaf springs provides sturdy performance. Front and rear ABS disc brakes provide reassuring stops, and the Nissan Advanced Airbag System brings peace of mind.

Cab options include a 2-door King Cab with behind-the-seat storage or a spacious 4-door Crew Cab. Buyers can also pick from short-bed or long-bed configurations.

Inside, the Frontier has a utilitarian setup, with a blend of high-quality materials and useful tech. Soft-touch surfaces add a modern feel, while the 7-inch Drive Assist Display relays essential data. There’s also a standard NissanConnect 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Nissan offers a variety of Frontier trims, ranging from the base model King Cab S to the top trim Crew Cab Hardbody Edition. Each successive trim brings upgrades all around, from the suspension to the interior. That way, buyers can get the truck they want at a price that fits their budget.

2024 Nissan Frontier: what it gets wrong

While the latest Frontier is a solid pickup, the 2024 version is more of a revision than a redesign. Though its bodywork is modern and tough, its frame can trace its roots to the early 2000s. And with the fully-redesigned Toyota Tacoma on the horizon, the midsize Nissan seems less and less appealing. Beyond that, the Frontier has several other drawbacks.

In a recent review, Edmunds noted the Frontier’s stiff steering, uncomfortable driving position, awkward controls, and below-average rear seat space (Crew Cab).

At low speeds, in particular, they found the steering overly heavy, and the truck hard to maneuver. Due to the firm seats and their minimal adjustments, and the lack of a telescopic steering wheel, the midsize pickup wasn’t the most comfortable ride. And with only 26.2 inches of legroom, the Crew Cab’s rear seats had a cramped feel.

In addition, with the latest pickups offering more modern powertrains and rear coil spring suspension, the Nissan’s basic V6 and leaf springs lag behind. The 2024 Tacoma’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid configuration sets a new standard for midsize truck power and efficiency, with 326 up and 465 lb-ft of torque. And the Toyota’s available coil spring rear suspension should offer exemplary ride and handling.

2024 Nissan Frontier: what it gets right

On the other hand, there’s a lot to like about the Nissan Frontier. Especially in the Crew Cab Hardbody Edition, the Frontier is one of the coolest-looking trucks on the road. And even though it’s a revision, not a full redesign, the latest Nissan midsize truck is a substantial improvement from its predecessor. Add in a smooth ride and reasonable pricing, and you’ve got a strong package.

The Nissan Hardbody pickup of the late ’80s brought trophy truck style to the streets. And with the new Hardbody Edition, the Frontier improves upon the original. Features like retro three-spoke wheels and black exterior highlights add a fun, adventure-ready appearance.

Then there’s the ride quality. Car and Driver liked the Frontier’s updated chassis and suspension, and how it made for a more refined ride. That’s nice to have, whether hauling firewood or towing a trailer.

New for 2024 is the luxurious SL trim. That takes the Frontier’s utility focus and adds a strong helping of modern convenience. Upgrades include leather seating, LED lighting, and a 10-speaker Fender audio system.

Beyond that, the 2024 Frontier’s no-frills design has appeal in and of itself. There’s something nice about a straightforward pickup truck with an ICE engine, a powerful stance, and throwback styling. It hearkens back to trucks of yesteryear, where brawn and simplicity were the name of the game.

The 2024 Nissan Frontier has plenty of appeal. But it isn’t perfect. Its chunky styling and squared-off fenders give it a strong presence on the road. And its reliable V6 has stout horsepower and torque. But compared to upcoming trucks like the 2024 Tacoma, it lags behind.

The lack of an advanced powertrain and coil spring rear suspension makes it a more basic truck. And the interior’s layout takes away from the driving experience. But overall, Nissan’s midsize truck is a capable, useful ride. And with its reasonable pricing, it’s a solid deal.