The third-generation Nissan Frontier is the first one made for US customers, and it shows. Nissan introduced a new truck powertrain in the previous model - which was so old it couldn't be called competitive - and now we finally get a full upgrade with all the bells and whistles. It was definitely worth the wait.
At the time of its demise, the pre-2022 Nissan Frontier was a dreary-looking pickup that looked like it had been sealed up tight in a 2008 dealer showroom. In comparison, the 2022 Frontier looks like a concept vehicle, with its bold wings and straightforward design features at the front and rear. It's very sharp, especially in the case of my Pro 4X tester, which boasts a certain off-road aesthetic with thick 265/70R17 Hankook off-road tires, beadlock-style wheels (part of the Pro Premium package for $2,790), running boards ($750) and a sports bar above the bed ($1,095).
There are also some big changes inside the Frontier. Sure, some of the switches are a bit older, but the dashboard no longer looks like it was made in 2006. The car's new layout is more modern and more in line with Nissan's current design language. There is more emphasis on smooth edges and a variety of materials. All controls are still within easy reach, and thanks to the many physical buttons, operating the vehicle is not a problem, even with gloves on.
The Frontier's interior is perfect for everyday use. There is plenty of space in both rows of the double cabin. Storage options abound, from the ample armrest compartment to the large door pockets and cup holders. There is also plenty of storage in the second row, as the seat bottoms can be folded down to create additional storage, although I sometimes wish the entire seat unit could be folded down in favor of a completely flat floor. Loading the bed is quite easy thanks to the folding step in the rear bumper, and there are plenty of ways to attach items.
The only thing I consider a problem here is the steering column, which only offers a tilt function. Without the ability to adjust the steering column, combined with the lack of adjustable pedals, the seating position can feel uncomfortable for my 5'8" height as it does in the Toyota Tacoma, where I'm constantly sitting too close or too far away from the dashboard.
Nissan has never been a leader in cabin technology, but in the aging field of midsize trucks, the 2022 Frontier makes a good case. My test vehicle was equipped with an optional 9-inch touchscreen running Nissan's traditional infotainment system, which offers the usual features: Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The embedded navigation has maps that seem a bit old, but everything is quite responsive and easy to use with minimal distractions. Charging is via USB-A and USB-C ports, but there's also a wireless charger between the gear lever and armrest compartment if you'd rather ditch the cables.
As for safety tech, the offerings are more diverse. The $990 Technology Package equips the Frontier 2022 with just about everything you could want in a midsize truck, including automatic emergency braking, rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring. The only safety tech that comes standard on the Frontier is front collision warning. It would have been nice - and a smart way to stand out from the crowd - if all other safety features were standard, even if it meant a slightly higher base price. Also, the government-mandated reverse camera has flip phone video quality, which is pretty pathetic in 2021.
To say that the 2022 Nissan Frontier feels better on the road than its predecessor is a huge understatement. The Frontier is much more comfortable to drive than in previous years; it no longer feels cumbersome as a commuter. The upgraded suspension components definitely contribute to the reduced bumping of the cabin on unwanted bumps in the road. The steering can be a little sluggish at low speeds, but not so much that it's difficult to maneuver in parking lots. The fully hydraulic steering rack also means there is no lane departure warning - one of the drawbacks of keeping the old style.