🔥 Write a review and Earn Upto $50 on PayPal

2016 Nissan Frontier

header-image
Rating6.8

Ranked #5 in 

Midsize Pickup-truck
Write Review
$18,290 - $35,610
Starting Price 

Year

Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on September 26, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Well-planted ride

Lower towing capacity than rivals

Sunroof is now standard in the SV trim

Cogent engine option

Inferior interior build

Intuitive infotainment unit

Substandard efficiency

Aplomb off-roading capabilities

Specs & Features

$26,750

price

261 hp @ 5600 rpm

horsepower

281 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

torque

5-Speed Automatic

transmission

4.0L 6cyl 4WD 5A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

In an industry moving towards flamboyance and opulence, the pickup truck segment continues to be the flagbearer of practicality and utility. But to derive maximum out of your truck, it is best to opt for the Crew cab variant, considering their ability to be family haulers as well. In this regard, the Nissan Frontier promises to be a befitting choice. Introduced initially in 2007, the Frontier is the epitome of reliability and user-friendliness. And with no major changes for 2016, it continues to be built on a similar set of ideas.

Buying Advice

The 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab makes use of a standard engine option and delivers standard performance throughout the lineup. So, keeping feature set and comfort as priorities in the buying decision, we feel that the Desert Runner is the trim to go for. It comes with an extensive list of features, distinct design cues, and also has off-roading tires, making it a well-rounded package.

Read More +

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is available in a total of five trim levels and offers a myriad of customization options to buyers. While its lackluster cabin and underwhelming fuel efficiency do take away from its value, the Frontier’s affordability is where its oneness lies. It is a potent off-roader and in the city limits as well, it is easily maneuverable. In its segment, the Nissan Frontier competes with the likes of the Toyota Tacoma Double Cab, Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab, GMC Canyon Crew Cab.

Features
7.0/10

As is typical to the pickup truck segment, the Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is highly customizable, and is available in an extensive number of configurations. It is available in a total of five trim levels. However, it gets two cargo boxes and two transmission options to choose from. The Frontier falls in a price range that starts a little over $24,000 and extends up to $35,610 for the fully-loaded trim. While it does feel a bit under-equipped in its base variant, it is a sumptuous option at the higher levels, which is packed to the hilt with class-competing features.

Trims

S

SV

Desert Runner

PRO-4X

SL

MSRP (RWD) (Manual)

$23,000

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

MSRP (RWD) (Automatic)

$24,050

$24,960

$25,680

N/A

$31,710

MSRP (AWD) (Manual)

N/A

$28,910

N/A

$31,840

N/A

MSRP (AWD) (Automatic)

$26,750

$27,960

N/A

$32,890

$34,360

Key Features

Bluetooth Phone Connectivity

Adds to or retains features of S

Adds to or retains features of SV

Adds to or retains features of Desert Runner

Adds to or retains features of SL

 

6-speaker sound system

5-inch touchscreen unit

8-way manual driver seat

8-way power-adjustable driver seat

Optional trailer hitch receiver

 

Cloth Upholstery

16-inch alloy wheels

Special Exterior paint

Leather Upholstery

Side steps

 

16-inch steel wheels

Smartphone Integration

Fog Lights

Heated Mirrors

18-inch alloy wheels

 

Cruise Control

Sunroof

Off-road tires

Roof rack with crossbar

Roof rack with crossbar

 

Air Conditioning

Keyless Entry

Performance shock absorbers

Rear-seat center armrest

Rear-seat center armrest

We Recommend

The 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab makes use of a standard engine option and delivers standard performance throughout the lineup. So, keeping feature set and comfort as priorities in the buying decision, we feel that the Desert Runner is the trim to go for. It comes with an extensive list of features, distinct design cues, and also has off-roading tires, making it a well-rounded package.

Engine and Performance
7.0/10

The Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is motivated by a standard 4.0L V6 unit. It churns out 261hp of power and 281 lb.-ft of torque, which are the lowest outputs in the segment. The power deficiency that the Frontier suffers from is evident in its performance. It manages to sprint from 0-60 mph in 8.2 seconds and while its quarter-mile timings are not yet known, the performance of the truck is undoubtedly sluggish.

In terms of its setup, the 2016 Frontier Crew Cab can be configured to suit the needs of the buyers. It comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and is channeled as an RWD configuration. However, Nissan does provide the option to be configured with a 5-speed automatic unit, and an AWD setup, as well. 

Model

Nissan Frontier Crew Cab

Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab

GMC Canyon Crew Cab

Toyota Tacoma Double Cab

MSRP

$24,050

$26,510

$27,385

$28,345

Engine

4.0L V6

3.6L V6

3.6L V6

3.5L V6

Drivetrain

RWD

RWD

RWD

RWD

Transmission

5-speed automatic

6-speed automatic

6-speed automatic

6-speed automatic

Power

261hp

305hp

305hp

278hp

Torque

281lb.-ft

269lb.-ft

269lb.-ft

265lb.-ft

0-60 MPH (seconds)

8.2 seconds

7.5 seconds

7.5 seconds

8.2 seconds

Quarter-mile (mph)

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Top speed (mph)

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Every option in the segment comes equipped with a V6 engine under its hood and is channeled as an RWD variant as standard. However, they differ in terms of power and performance. While the Toyota Tacoma Double Cab clocks similar timings like the Nissan, it produces 17 additional horsepower. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, belong to a similar stable and share their underpinnings. They are the most powerful trucks in the segment and take only 7.5 seconds to reach the 60mph mark.

Fuel Economy
6.0/10

Like its acceleration capabilities and straight-line performance, the Nissan Frontier Crew Cab fails to impress even in efficiency. It is rated at 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway, which are the lowest in the segment. Even under combined driving conditions, the Frontier lurks at the bottom of the table and is averages at least 3 MPG less than all of its competitors. But even with a sizable tank, it does not benefit in terms of range, and the truck manages to average of 338 and 464 miles in the city and on the highway, respectively.

Model

Nissan Frontier Crew Cab

Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab

GMC Canyon Crew Cab

Toyota Tacoma Double Cab

MPG (city)

16

18

18

19

MPG (Highway)

22

26

26

24

MPG (Combined)

18

21

21

21

Fuel Capacity

21.1 gallons

21 gallons

21 gallons

21.1 gallons

Range (City/highway)

338/464 mi

378/546 mi

378/546 mi

401/506 mi

When frugality is concerned, it is difficult to declare a certain winner amongst the Chevrolet, GMC, and Toyota. Each truck averages a combined efficiency of 21 MPG and comes with a standard fuel capacity of around 21-gallons. The only point of distinction between these trucks is the range they cover. While the Tacoma Double Cab leads in terms of city range, the GM sisters gain a lead on the highway averaging 546 miles.

Interior
7.0/10

Apart from its ergonomic setup, there is not much to like about the cabin of the 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab. It feels outdated and is in need of a refresh to compete with the rivals in the segment. It is lackluster in its build and is built using inferior materials. It lacks finesse and the hard-touch surfaces are not the most refined.

Even in terms of comfort, the Frontier is not the best. While the front seats do seem to be sumptuous and offer a commanding seating position, the rear seats lack space. It is best suited for children or small adults, as taller passengers might feel claustrophobic. Also, its cargo capacity of 33.5 cubic feet feels limited in comparison to its rivals.

Model

Nissan Frontier Crew Cab

Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab

GMC Canyon Crew Cab

Toyota Tacoma Double Cab

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)

40/58.3/42.4

39.5/57.5/41.7

39.5/57.5/41.7

39.7/58.3/42.9

Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)

38.7/58.3/33.6

38.3/56.1/35.8

38.3/56.1/35.8

38.3/58.9/32.6

Cargo Capacity (cu.-ft)

33.5

41.6

41.6

N/A

Each truck in the segment has a total seating capacity of 5 passengers only. However, like the Nissan, the Tacoma’s cabin lacks rear-seat space. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab and GMC Canyon have proportionate cabins with better overall space. Even their cargo capacities of 41.6 cu.-ft are the highest and for us, the GMC, which has a more sophisticated and opulent build, does resonate with new-age buyers in the segment.

Some of the salient interior features include:

  • Air conditioning
  • Single-zone climate control
  • Cruise Control
  • Electric Power Steering
  • Front and rear door pockets
  • Dual vanity mirrors

How intuitive is the infotainment system of the 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab?

Like every other aspect, the Nissan Frontier Crew Cab’s infotainment system feels rather barebones in its base variant. However, it upholds an element of intuitiveness, and with the higher trims, even the feature load starts to increase. As standard, it comes with Bluetooth connectivity and a 6-speaker sound system. From the SV trims onwards, the Frontier gets equipped with a 5-inch touchscreen unit, which makes it almost instantaneously.

Some of the salient features include:

  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • 6-speaker sound system
  • Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Smartphone Integration

Exterior
7.0/10

The Nissan Frontier Crew Cab isn’t all that impressive on the outside as well. While it does sport a subtle fascia, like its interiors, the design is old-fangled. Though it looks burly and imposing like most of its contemporaries, we just do not find it appealing. The head and taillights are rather minimalistic in their design but complement well both cargo beds. The only good thing we find about the design is the use of chrome lining on the grille and window sills, as it does bestow a plush look to the truck.

In terms of dimensions, the Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is the most compact option in the segment. It is 205.4 inches long and has a wheelbase of 125.9 inches. But it does come with a higher ground clearance of 8.6 inches.

Model

Nissan Frontier Crew Cab

Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab

GMC Canyon Crew Cab

Toyota Tacoma Double Cab

Curb Weight (lbs)

N/A

4,230

4200

4,230

Length (in.)

205.5

225

224.6

212.3

Width (in.)

72.8

74.3

74.3

74.4

Height (in.)

70.1

70.6

70.6

70.6

Ground Clearance (in.)

8.6

8.1

8.1

9.4

Wheelbase (in.)

125.9

140.5

140.5

127.4

In comparison to its competitors, the GMC Canyon Crew Cab and Chevrolet Colorado are considerably larger. They sport wheelbases of 140.5 inches, but it is the Toyota Tacoma that has the best-in-class ground clearance of 9.4 inches. However, purely in terms of design, we feel that the modernity of the contemporaries make them better options in comparison, and their evident aggressiveness complements well their capabilities.

Some of the standout exterior features include:

  • Cargo Bed
  • Trailer Hitch Receiver
  • Fog Lamps
  • 16-inch alloy wheels
  • Fog Lamps

Safety
7.0/10

The 2016 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab has not been tested either by the NHTSA or IIHS. Even in the base variant, the truck is pretty impressive in its performance and is based on a sturdy chassis, so you need not worry about yourself and your family. Amongst its list of safety specifications, the Frontier comes with front and rear airbags, traction control, and 4-wheel ABS, as standard. Some other safety specifications include:

  • Engine Immobilizer
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System
  • Front and Rear Ventilated disc brakes
  • True Value Package
  • Optional front-collision warning system
  • Child Safety Locks

Final Verdict

The pickup truck segment is lucrative, but the Nissan Frontier does not have what it takes. It is far from an ideal choice and while it upholds its commercial viability, its fuel efficiency and acceleration capabilities feel underwhelming. Even the inferior build of its cabin might irk some buyers, but its safety, and reliability remain unquestioned. So, if you are in the market for a midsize pickup truck, we suggest looking out for the competitors.

Trims

    S
    $18,290 onwards
    • 15-inch styled steel Wheels
    • Cloth Seat trim
    • Radio
    SV
    $22,180 onwards
    • Engine: 4.0L 6cyl 4WD 6M
    • Horsepower: 261 hp @ 5600 rpm hp
    • Torque: 281 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 7.2 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 18 mpg
    Desert Runner
    $24,520 onwards
    • Driver Lumbar support
    • Front Fog/driving lights
    SL
    $31,690 onwards
    • 18-inch machined aluminum Wheels
    • Dual Zone Front Automatic Air Conditioning
    • Navigation system
    • Parking assist
    PRO-4X
    $31,840 onwards
    • Premium cloth Seat trim

Compare to similar cars

7.0
2016 Chevrolet Colorado

Price

$20,100- $35,300

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7

Horsepower

200 hp @ 6300 rpm

Torque

191 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm

Capacity

2

Read Review

7.3
2016 GMC Canyon

$20,955- $38,110

Gasoline

7.29

200 hp @ 6300 rpm

191 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm

2

Read Review

6.8
2016 Nissan Frontier

$18,290- $35,610

Gasoline

6.79

261 hp @ 5600 rpm

281 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

2016 Nissan Frontier vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    		SourceCompare
    		9.1 sec--
    		8.6 sec16.8 sec100 mph
    		8.6 sec16.9 sec105 mph
    Read More

    2016 Nissan Frontier vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      		SourceCompare
      		17 mpg23 mpg21 mpg21.1 gal.400.9/485.3 mi.
      		19 mpg26 mpg22 mpg21 gal.399/546 mi.
      		19 mpg26 mpg22 mpg21 gal.399/546 mi.

      2016 Nissan Frontier vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        		SourceCompare
        		205.5 in.72.8 in.68.7 in.7.6 in.125.9 in.
        		212.7 in.74.3 in.70.4 in.8.4 in.128.3 in.
        		212.4 in.74.3 in.70.4 in.8.4 in.128.3 in.

        2016 Nissan Frontier vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          		SourceCompare
          		33.5 cu.ft.144 cu.ft.33.5 cu.ft.
          		49.9 cu.ft.102 cu.ft.49.9 cu.ft.
          		49.9 cu.ft.88.6 cu.ft.49.9 cu.ft.

          2016 Nissan Frontier vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            		SourceCompare
            		136.5 cu.ft.33.5 cu.ft.33.5 cu.ft.73 ft.
            		13.1 cu.ft.49.9 cu.ft.49.9 cu.ft.74 ft.
            		15.9 cu.ft.49.9 cu.ft.49.9 cu.ft.74 ft.

            2016 Nissan Frontier vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              		SourceCompare
              		3500 lbs.930 lbs.3708 lbs.
              		3500 lbs.1410 lbs.3960 lbs.
              		3500 lbs.1465 lbs.3920 lbs.

              2016 Nissan Frontier Pickup Truck Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              1

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              42

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

              Top Nissan Cars

              2016 Nissan GT-R

              Horsepower : 545 hp @ 6400 rpm

              MPG Combined : 19 mpg

              0-60 : 2.9 sec

              #1

              2016 Nissan Titan XD

              Horsepower : 390 hp @ 5800 rpm

              MPG Combined : 18 mpg

              0-60 : 9.1 sec

              #2

              2016 Nissan 370Z

              Horsepower : 332 hp @ 7000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 21 mpg

              0-60 : 5 sec

              #3

              2016 Nissan Maxima

              Horsepower : 300 hp @ 6400 rpm

              MPG Combined : 25 mpg

              0-60 : 6.1 sec

              #4

              2016 Nissan Pathfinder

              Horsepower : 260 hp @ 6400 rpm

              MPG Combined : 23 mpg

              0-60 : 8.2 sec

              #5

              2016 Nissan Quest

              Horsepower : 260 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 23 mpg

              0-60 : 8.5 sec

              #6

              2016 Nissan Murano

              Horsepower : 260 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 24 mpg

              0-60 : 7.6 sec

              #7

              2016 Nissan Murano Hybrid SUV

              Horsepower : 250 hp @ 5600 rpm

              MPG Combined : 29 mpg

              0-60 : 7.4 sec

              #8

              2016 Nissan Juke

              Horsepower : 188 hp @ 5600 rpm

              MPG Combined : 30 mpg

              0-60 : 7.7 sec

              #9

              2016 Nissan Altima

              Horsepower : 182 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 31 mpg

              0-60 : 8.6 sec

              #10

              2016 Nissan Frontier User Reviews

              0.0

              [1 Reviews]

              1

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

              2

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

              3

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

              4

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

              5

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

              POPULAR TAGS

              travel
              SLNM

              Sandra Lynn Nobles Miller

              2015 Nissan Frontier

              Desert Runner 4dr Crew Cab 5.0 ft. SB (4.0L 6cyl 5A)

              Not Rated

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: June 17, 2024

              Great gas mileage

              Pros - ["Lots of room", "Great gas mileage"]

              Cons - ["There is so much room I've missed place things", "I have to wash it"]

              For a smaller truck its like having a large one because of all the room for people, pets and stuff. Great for travel and quick trips. There are no blind sides when driving or changing lanes and I feel safe.

              Not Rated
              Features
              Not Rated
              Interior
              Not Rated
              Design
              Not Rated
              Safety
              Not Rated
              Reliability
              Not Rated
              Deal Value
              Not Rated
              Dealer Review

              1. Home
              2. Nissan
              3. 2016 Frontier

              Other Midsize Pickup Truck

              2016 Chevrolet Colorado
              2016 GMC Canyon
              2016 Nissan Frontier