In case you're new to the pick-up truck world, towing and load carrying capabilities are usually better with 2WD trucks, when compared with their 4WD siblings. Nissan offers both, with two body configurations that should satisfy most anyone. The standard King Cab offers rear jump seats that fold out of the way for increased storage space while the Crew Cab offers room for up to five adults in comfort, with true forward-hinged, full-size 4-door convenience.
Nissan has completely updated the interior for the 2002 model year as well, with a new instrument panel incorporating three "cockpit-style" round gauges, new HVAC controls plus a new console with side map pocket. The glove box is increased by 25% while three power outlets can supply juice to your cellular phone, PDA, laptop computer or portable TV/DVD player. Standard equipment includes A/C, cruise control and tilt steering. Available in the Crew Cab, a 300-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with a 6-disc, dash-mounted CD player literally rocks the house - and the street. The Frontier's optional leather seats incorporate red stitching, highlighting the sporty nature of the SC V6 model.
It took a long, long time but Nissan has finally replaced the dash-mounted pull-and-twist parking brake with a more convenient foot pedal. While this might be better for daily commuters, the old e-brake was popular with 4x4 enthusiasts. Why? When accelerating from a standstill on a steep upward incline, modulating the hand-brake frees up the feet for applying the clutch and throttle. Of course, off-road adventurers comprise a very small portion of the entire pick-up truck demographic, where adhering to convention pays dividends.
On the road, the supercharged V6 equipped test vehicle immediately responds to dabs at the throttle, shooting away from standstill at a brisk pace - especially considering its substantial 1,975 kg (4,354 lb) curb weight. This weight improves its ride, however, while handling on and off paved roads is easier than anticipated. That said, at over 18-feet in length, the Nissan is even longer than the mid-size Dodge Dakota Quad-Cab, making parallel parking a fairly daunting task.