As gas prices seem to only be rising, it makes sense that some pickup truck buyers want a truck that is focused on efficiency. But, for 2022, Nissan has dropped the standard four-cylinder engine from the Frontier. Because of that, buyers of this mid-size truck can only get a V6 engine. Despite this, the 2022 Frontier has been selling exceedingly well. So, even though the Frontier now only has one engine, is it still worth buying?

The 2022 Nissan Frontier only has one engine

Back in 2020, Nissan introduced its 3.8-liter V6 engine. For 2022, the Frontier is nearly an all-new truck still boasting 310 horsepower and 281 pound-foot of torque. This means that the 2022 Nissan Frontier currently has best-in-class horsepower, which is fairly impressive for a pickup that starts under $20,000.

Additionally, the Frontier’s V6 engine allows it to tow up to 6,720 lbs when properly equipped. That may not be as much as other mid-size trucks, but it is a respectable number. Better yet, the Frontier can also haul up to 1,610 lbs in payload. Because of that, this pickup has legitimate utility. 

Is the 3.8-liter V6 engine reliable?

Nissan’s new V6 was introduced in 2020, and according to AutoBlog, it has been fairly reliable. It is more potent than the previous V6 engine, which is something that is likely to be appreciated. Unfortunately, this engine has not been around for that long. So extended use has not really been tested. 

That said, no powerplant is going to be perfect. But, the nine-speed automatic transmission offers a smooth delivery of power. This new transmission adds to the comfort that this mid-size truck has to offer. 

Is the 2022 Frontier new?

For nearly 20 years, the Frontier went without any major updates, but that changed for 2022. Nissan has given its mid-size pickup a nearly full redesign. This means that the interior feels modern, the suspension has been revised, and an update to the Frontier’s powertrain. Although the Nissan Frontier is only available with a V6 engine, this powertrain does provide ample performance. 

Unfortunately, the 2022 Frontier no longer has its four-cylinder engine. And that may be a bit of a disappointment for those who want a more efficient truck. This Nissan truck has also ditched its manual transmission. Meaning that you can now only buy it with an automatic transmission. 

Is Nissan’s mid-size truck worth buying?

The 2022 Frontier has a starting cost of $28,690, but that is for the most basic model. That said, you can get a well-equipped Frontier for around $35,000. With that price, you can get the Nissan Frontier SV with a crew cab and four-wheel drive. And that means you can get a pickup that is ready to handle a variety of needs. 

If you need a truck with a longer bed, the Frontier SV is also available as a long bed. This option will increase your overall cargo capacity, but it does make the truck a little more difficult to navigate.