Nissan Frontier vs. Nissan Pathfinder
iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Nissan Frontier and Nissan Pathfinder contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Nissan Frontier and the Nissan Pathfinder.
When comparing the Nissan Frontier's and the Nissan Pathfinder's specifications and ratings, the Nissan Frontier has the advantage in the areas of new vehicle base pricing, typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, resale value and base engine power. The Nissan Pathfinder has the advantage in the areas of reliability, interior volume and overall quality score. Based on this comparison of the Nissan Frontier's and the Nissan Pathfinder's specifications and ratings, the Nissan Frontier is a better car than the Nissan Pathfinder.
Pricing: A used 2024 Nissan Frontier ranges from $33,998 to $47,374 while a used 2024 Nissan Pathfinder is priced between $37,204 to $53,428. For a new model, the Nissan Frontier's price is between $32,528 and $48,271, with the Nissan Pathfinder priced between $38,360 and $54,340.
Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Nissan Frontier loses 32.7 percent of its value and the Nissan Pathfinder loses 52.7 percent of its value. This means the Nissan Frontier retains 19.9 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Nissan Pathfinder.
Quality Rating: The iSeeCars Overall Quality rating for the Nissan Frontier is 8.3 out of 10 while the Nissan Pathfinder's quality rating is 8.6 out of 10. This results in the Nissan Frontier being ranked 5 out of 7 Best Midsize Trucks and the Nissan Pathfinder being ranked 11 out of 39 Best SUVs with 3 Rows.
Reliability Rating: iSeeCars’ Reliability Rating for the Nissan Frontier is 8.4 out of 10. For the Nissan Pathfinder the reliability rating is 8.6 out of 10. This gives the Nissan Pathfinder a slight advantage in reliability compared to the Nissan Frontier.
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Nissan Frontier’s base engine makes 310 horsepower, and the Nissan Pathfinder base engine makes 284 horsepower.
Passenger Space Comparison: The Nissan Pathfinder, a crossover/midsize SUV, has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front shoulder room, front leg room, rear head room, rear shoulder room and rear leg room.
Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the Nissan Pathfinder has higher safety ratings than the Nissan Frontier, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4 out of 5 Stars. When comparing IIHS evaluations, the Nissan Pathfinder has the advantage with a Top Safety Pick+ award.
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
$32,528 - $48,271
Starting MSRP:
$30,510
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
$33,975
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
$29,500 - $39,750
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
$38,360 - $54,340
Starting MSRP:
$36,650
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Midsize SUVs)
$37,697
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Midsize SUVs)
$31,990 - $43,320
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
$40,974
Price Range:
$33,998 - $47,374
Category Avg Price:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
$47,535
Category Avg Price Range:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
$40,919 - $57,389
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
8,016
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
196
# Good or Great Deals:
40
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
$45,204
Price Range:
$37,204 - $53,428
Category Avg Price:
(Midsize SUVs)
$47,563
Category Avg Price Range:
(Midsize SUVs)
$40,678 - $66,020
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
9,721
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
308
# Good or Great Deals:
163
5-year Depreciation
Depreciation $:
$10,322
Depreciation %:
33.8%
Resale Value $:
$20,188
Residual Value %:
66.2%
Typical Category Depreciation %:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
29.8%
Category Depreciation Range:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
22.9% - 39.1%
5-year Depreciation
Depreciation $:
$19,605
Depreciation %:
53.5%
Resale Value $:
$17,045
Residual Value %:
46.5%
Typical Category Depreciation %:
(Midsize SUVs)
46.3%
Category Depreciation Range:
(Midsize SUVs)
27.5% - 53.5%
Nissan Frontier Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.3 / 10
Reliability:
8.4 / 10
Retained Value:
8.5 / 10
Safety:
8.0 / 10
Nissan Pathfinder Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.6 / 10
Reliability:
8.6 / 10
Retained Value:
7.2 / 10
Safety:
10.0 / 10
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for Nissan Frontier
Avg Life Expectancy (years):
12.2
Typical Category Life Expectancy:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
13.6
Category Life Expectancy Range:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
12.2 - 14.7
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
36.1%
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for Nissan Pathfinder
Avg Life Expectancy (years):
10.6
Typical Category Life Expectancy:
(Midsize SUVs)
10.4
Category Life Expectancy Range:
(Midsize SUVs)
8.6 - 13.7
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
44.8%
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
3
Typical Category Recalls:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
2.2
Category Range for Recalls:
(Midsize Pickup Trucks)
1.5 - 15.8
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
4.7
Typical Category Recalls:
(Midsize SUVs)
3.6
Category Range for Recalls:
(Midsize SUVs)
1.6 - 14.8
Nissan Frontier Rankings
Ranking
2 out of / 7Ranking
3 out of / 7Ranking
3 out of / 3Ranking
3 out of / 3Ranking
3 out of / 3Ranking
3 out of / 3Ranking
4 out of / 7Ranking
4 out of / 6Ranking
5 out of / 7Ranking
5 out of / 7Ranking
5 out of / 7Ranking
5 out of / 7Ranking
5 out of / 7Ranking
6 out of / 7Ranking
6 out of / 7Ranking
6 out of / 7Ranking
7 out of / 7Nissan Pathfinder Rankings
Ranking
3 out of / 67Ranking
3 out of / 39Ranking
3 out of / 32Ranking
4 out of / 67Ranking
4 out of / 67Ranking
4 out of / 39Ranking
4 out of / 32Ranking
5 out of / 67Ranking
5 out of / 39Ranking
5 out of / 32Ranking
5 out of / 10Ranking
7 out of / 67Ranking
7 out of / 39Ranking
7 out of / 32Ranking
7 out of / 32Ranking
7 out of / 32Ranking
7 out of / 18Ranking
7 out of / 17Ranking
7 out of / 16Ranking
8 out of / 28Ranking
9 out of / 67Ranking
10 out of / 34Ranking
10 out of / 21Ranking
11 out of / 67Ranking
11 out of / 39Ranking
11 out of / 32Ranking
12 out of / 67Ranking
12 out of / 39Ranking
12 out of / 32Ranking
13 out of / 32Ranking
14 out of / 67Ranking
14 out of / 39Ranking
14 out of / 39Ranking
14 out of / 32Ranking
21 out of / 39Ranking
22 out of / 30Ranking
24 out of / 39Ranking
25 out of / 32Ranking
30 out of / 32Ranking
31 out of / 32Ranking
32 out of / 39Ranking
34 out of / 39Ranking
35 out of / 39Ranking
40 out of / 59Ranking
45 out of / 67Ranking
49 out of / 67Ranking
56 out of / 67Ranking
66 out of / 67Summary Review
The Nissan Frontier received a much-needed redesign for 2022, transforming it from the oldest to the newest truck in the midsize category. Its drivetrain, a 3.8-liter V6 with 310 horsepower connected to a 9-speed automatic transmission, was all new in 2021. Now the rest of the truck has caught up, giving the Frontier a stylishly-aggressive exterior design, high-quality interior materials, and a long list of advanced standard and optional technology.
Summary Review
The three-row Nissan Pathfinder was redesigned for the 2022 model year. The new model features a more boxy facade, additional standard safety features, a new nine-speed automatic transmission, and a more premium interior that can now seat up to eight passengers. This much-needed makeover of the aging Pathfinder, after nearly a decade, will better position the midsize SUV in this competitive segment.
Pros and Cons
- Powerful engine mates to an advanced, capable transmission
- Appealing style, inside and out
- Wide range of standard and optional high-tech features
- Towing capacity weaker than many competitors
- Resale value not as strong as class leaders
Pros and Cons
- “Right-sized” for this three-row segment (not huge, but certainly not small)
- Selectable modes to optimize optional AWD system
- Impressive suite of standard safety features
- Intuitive touchscreen infotainment system
- No green (hybrid/electric) version available
- Handling can be lackluster
Available Body Styles
Pickup Truck
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Cab Types
Crew Cab, Extended Cab
Available Cab Types
Not applicable
Available Bed Length(s)
58.9 inches, 59.5 inches, 72.7 inches, 73.3 inches
Available Bed Length(s)
Not applicable
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Nissan Frontier Trim Levels
PRO-4X, PRO-X, S, SL, SV
Nissan Pathfinder Trim Levels
Platinum, Rock Creek, S, SL, SV
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
4 out of 5 Stars
2024 NHTSA Overall Rating:
3 out of 5 Stars
2024 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
Not yet available
2024 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
Not yet available
2024 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
3 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
5 out of 5 Stars
2024 NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2024 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2024 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2024 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
TOP SAFETY PICK +
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
310 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque:
281 foot-lbs @ 4400 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.071 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Max Payload:
1590 lbs
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
284 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque:
259 foot-lbs @ 4800 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.066 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
3500 lbs
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
3.8 liters
Engine Configuration:
V
Number of Cylinders:
6
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
4X2 / 4X4
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
Not yet available
Range (city/hwy):
Not yet available
Recommended Fuel Type:
Not yet available
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
3.5 liters
Engine Configuration:
V
Number of Cylinders:
6
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
FWD / AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
Not yet available
Range (city/hwy):
Not yet available
Recommended Fuel Type:
Not yet available
Standard/Optional Features
Android Auto:
Standard
Apple CarPlay:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Keyless Ignition:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Satellite radio:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available
Alloy wheels:
Available
Bench Seats:
Available
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Internet Radio:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Available
Roadside assistance:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Wifi:
Available
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Massage Seats:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Power Lift Gate:
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Roof Rack:
N/A
Standard/Optional Features
Android Auto:
Standard
Apple CarPlay:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Keyless Ignition:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Satellite radio:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available
Alloy wheels:
Standard
Bench Seats:
Standard
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Internet Radio:
N/A
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Trailer Hitch:
Standard
Wifi:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Captain's seat:
Available
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
Available
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Massage Seats:
N/A
Paddle Shifters:
Standard
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Quad Seats:
Available
Roof Rack:
Available
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Driver Attention Monitoring:
Standard
Forward Collision Warning:
Standard
Pedestrian Detection:
Standard
Rear Seat Reminder:
Standard
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Blind Spot Monitoring:
N/A
Lane Departure Warning:
N/A
Lane Keeping Assist:
N/A
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Driver Attention Monitoring:
Standard
Forward Collision Warning:
Standard
Pedestrian Detection:
Standard
Rear Seat Reminder:
Standard
360-Degree Camera:
Available
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Standard
Lane Departure Warning:
Standard
Lane Keeping Assist:
Available
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Standard
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.7 inches
Front Leg Room:
42.3 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
58.2 inches
Rear Head Room:
36.6 inches
Rear Leg Room:
26.2 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
52.4 inches
Cargo Space:
Not yet available
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
Not yet available
Overall Interior Volume:
85.6 cubic feet
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
42.3 inches
Front Leg Room:
44.3 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
60.8 inches
Rear Head Room:
39.6 inches
Rear Leg Room:
35.5 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
59.6 inches
Cargo Space:
16.6 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
80.5 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
164.6 cubic feet
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
4367 lbs
Width:
84.1 inches
Height:
71.5 inches
Length:
210.2 inches
Wheelbase:
126 inches
Ground Clearance:
9.3 inches
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
4317 lbs
Width:
77.9 inches
Height:
70.9 inches
Length:
197.7 inches
Wheelbase:
114.2 inches
Ground Clearance:
7.1 inches
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
16.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
steel
Tire Size:
265/70R16
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
18.0 x 8.0 inches
Wheel Type:
painted aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
255/60R18
Exterior Colors
Black
Super Black
Gray
Gun Metallic
Red
Red Alert
White
Glacier White
Silver
Not available
Exterior Colors
Black
Super Black
Gray
Gun Metallic
Red
Not available
White
Glacier White
Silver
Brilliant Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Black
Charcoal
Interior Colors
Black
Charcoal
