It’s been called America’s cheapest truck. It’s been around for over 15 years, with very few upgrades, little, if any significant changes, or improvements. It tops the list of worst fuel economy in the midsize truck class. We’re talking about the 2019 Nissan Frontier. Here’s the caveat. It’s still on the market and confirmed for 2020. This means people are still driving them, still buying them, and ultimately still raving about them. Despite missing the mark in so many reviews, the Nissan Frontier still deserves attention. Here’s why you should still consider buying one.

It’s the midsize truck that meets usage needs

What do you need your truck to do for you? If you’re a daily driver, with occasional needs to haul mulch, firewood, or furniture, Frontier is perfect. If you need 4WD for seasonal road conditions, Frontier can do that. The Nissan isn’t posh with amenities or tech. But, it does satisfy the itch that is most common with truck buyers.

It’s capable and practical, and more importantly, reliably functional. At the end of the day, do you really care if it can pull the heaviest load in its class? You more than likely just need it to pull the load you have, which may or not be the heaviest on record. You may not need the biggest in-dash touch screen. Rather, you’d just like to have one in general. The Frontier is the minimalists’ truck.

It’s safe to drive

The 2019 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab earned an overall four-star rating with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It didn’t necessarily score the highest in rollover testing, and its roof strength tested, ‘marginal.’ But, in the end, its shortcomings were met with positive endorsements. It’s safe in basic driving conditions, and while it could stand to improve the halogen headlights for visibility, overall, it’s not a death trap.

It’s ideal for small business working trucks

The Frontier is capable in every sense. It may not tow the most, haul the heaviest, or rev like its midsize truck counterparts. It does, however, get the job done. It’s ideal for service-based, industry small businesses looking for practical and capable trucks, with low prices. Being the most affordable truck in America means, those who have to have a truck or two, opt for the Frontier.

There’s nothing wrong with being in the top seven

In the grand scheme of things, we’re often encouraged to hunt for the best of the best. We’re constantly reminded of which products are best in class, state of the art, and consumers’ top picks. But, does that mean others in the industry aren’t worthy? If anything, the 2019 Nissan Frontier proves that it’s perfectly acceptable to place in the top ten or in its case, seventh in Car and Driver’s midsize trucks, ranked. It may not be setting any records or gracing automotive magazine covers. It is, however, selling just fine. As with other brands, the Nissan Frontier has a following of enthusiasts, and in some ways, its own culture of fans.

Enthusiasts are loyal to their ‘old faithful’

What can be said about the Nissan Frontier, if it isn’t broken, don’t worry about fixing it. Those who own them rely on them because they can. It’s an everyday truck that performs precisely as intended. Folks can accessorize, lift, and adjust as they would any other truck. And they have. The forums are busy with Frontier owners sharing tips and pictures. You could easily join them when you purchase your 2019 Frontier.

Before you discount the 2019 Nissan Frontier, based on top lists and best of ratings, we strongly encourage that you take a closer look and a test drive. You might find you feel the same way many others do about their favorite midsize truck. It may not be the everything-truck to everyone. It is, however, just enough truck for many.