2007 Nissan Frontier Review: A More Comfortable Alternative to the Tacoma and Ranger

Gilbert Smith
Apr 29, 2023

The 2007 Nissan Frontier might not command the loyal following of the Ford Ranger or the Toyota Tacoma, but it offers a more comfortable cabin and slightly better fuel economy. A handy compromise of power and agility, the Frontier is capable and fun to drive.

Front angle medium view.
likeFilled The Good
More comfortable than most small trucks, the 2007 Nissan Frontier finds the right balance between power and manageability.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Being one of the most comfortable small trucks, it’s still not incredibly comfortable. Entry-level features are bare bones, even by work truck standards.

Is the 2007 Nissan Frontier a Good Used Car?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – If you want rugged power and raw off-roading capability without the unwieldy width of a full-size truck, the Frontier is hard to beat.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – With bed options bigger than some full-size trucks and more interior space than a typical small truck, the Frontier is one of the more agreeable pickups in its size class.
  • Reliability 8/10 – Major repairs are few and far between, and maintenance costs are lower than average for a pickup.
  • Safety 8/10 – Crash test scores are good and anti-lock brakes come standard.
  • Gas Mileage 7/10 – Averaging 22/25, the Frontier is a hair more efficient than comparable Toyotas and Fords.
  • Value 8/10 – Low-maintenance, fuel-efficient for the size class, and priced fairly, the Frontier is a hidden gem.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Jeff B
I would have to say I haven't put a lot of repairs into this vehicle.
My truck gets good fuel mileage for its size. The bed of the truck is big so I can haul almost anything I want. I wish I had more space in the interior as it is crammed in the back. I haven't had any major repairs overall so I can say it's been quite reliable.
accountCircle Valerie M
Most dependable enjoyable truck to drive.
The main reason I picked Nissan is the seats are the most comfortable for me, feels solid to drive, have had no troubles with starting or power response, am a little disappointed with gas mileage, some basic problems like power windows failing, and alert fuses blowing but still would buy again and again because this is the 4th Nissan in the family.
accountCircle Kari P
It's fast, amazing and handles well, On road or off road.
No problems, love the way it drives, rides, handles, not bad on gas, good acceleration, four-wheel drive is amazing
accountCircle Cindy C
My most reliable Nissan frontier.
The seats are comfortable. The truck runs great, handles the roads very well. Gets good gas mileage. Overall I love my truck. It is a 2007 and is good shape cosmetically. I am not sure what else to write about my truck. I am a truck person so a car is not even an option.
accountCircle Matt B
It is very reliable and a lot more spacious than it seems.
It's been very reliable. Other than routine maintenance, I haven't had any issues with it. It's also been big enough to grow with my family, which has grown over the years.
accountCircle Adrian s
My truck does not have a lot of miles on it.
My truck is black with tinted windows. I had some new pipes added to my truck. I like my truck because I don't have any problems with it. I don't have any complaints about my truck.
accountCircle Mike L
Versatile vehicle with room for cargo and passengers,
Very versatile vehicle. Useful for some many tasks,. Decent gas mileage.
accountCircle Evan L
Best small truck for its value.
My 2007 Nissan Frontier is one of the best tricks I have owned. It is very roomy considering it is only a 2 door. I feel it gets good gas mileage for a truck and I haven't had many issues considering it is an older truck. I have only had to change the radiator. Changing the oil is a breeze because there is so much room under the hood. Even a girl like me can do it. She does have a few miles on her now but it is a great truck to drive and of course she can haul quite a truck load.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Kevin K
Did get all terrain tires but on it. And does drive very well off road.
It is a mid-size truck. The thing about it the turning ratio sucks. But besides that it's good on long trips, about average on gas. It has room for up to 5 people. It is getting old but has a lot of miles on it but still handles very well. Engine is strong and drives smooth. As long if the oil is changed it runs very good still to this day. Like to trade it in soon. It is comfortable and reliable. No transmission problems after all these years.
accountCircle Ryan S
2007 Nissan Frontier 4WD with tinted windows and 6 cylinder transmission in great condition.
My truck is red and has four doors two seats in the front for seats in the back. The bed of the truck is 5 feet long and has a bed extender which I really like. We have not had many problems with our truck. The biggest thing that we've had to fix on it is a catalytic converter that went out just a couple months ago. Our truck has driven us from Tennessee to Washington state back down to Texas and over to South Carolina without any major issues. I feel like the truck is very comfortable I can ride in it for several hours without having any problems. The passenger-side automatic window is a little slow because I think the motor is going out. The truck can be converted between 2 Wheel Dr. And all wheel drive, it has power windows, six-cylinder automatic transmission, and a CD player with AM/FM radio. The interior is gray.
accountCircle Diana S
The thing is that it makes noise for no apparent reason.
It makes a sound when you turn it on. It gives the impression that it does not work when you try to start it.
accountCircle Robert A
Faults with Nissan frontiers and of the many recalls on the truck.
A lot of mechanical issues and vehicle recalls. First there were several issues with the fuel sensor. There has been a lot of issues with the electrical work in the truck. It also has had issues with the window motor and all of the molding around each of the four doors.
accountCircle Sergio L
Nissan frontier characteristics.
It has good space, fits up to 5 people. Its economic in terms of gas (v4). Very easy and adequate for driving of road. It is fast when you need it. Count with a big back compartment for putting stuff when traveling. It is perfect for road trips. If you have an adventurer lifestyle, then this is the perfect car for you.

What Do Critics Say About the 2007 Nissan Frontier?

Consumer Reports found the Nissan Frontier to be a satisfactory compromise between big and little trucks, finding a fair compromise between power and agility. They note the tight backseat and heavy tailgate in the minuses column, but they liked how the 4.0L V6 engine delivered a V8 feel.

Kelley Blue Book liked the Frontier’s towing and off-roading capabilities, noting that the truck offers a more manageable, convenient, and smooth-riding alternative to full-size trucks. They note the lack of a standard cab model as one of the truck’s few downsides.

Edmunds offered a mostly-glowing review of teh Frontier, praising the “muscular V6 engine” delivering excellent off-road performance. The spacious cabin earned special praise, as did the generous ground clearance, allowing the truck to serve as a capable adventure vehicle. They were less thrilled about the cheap interior plastics.

What Common Problems Does the 2007 Nissan Frontier Have?

The 2007 Nissan Frontier has generated 515 complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Powertrain complaints take the lead here at 220 reports covering cracked radiators and skipping, jittery transmissions. There has been no recall for the issue.

There are 113 complaints on file for fuel issues, with drivers reporting fuel gauges reading inaccurate levels. Where failure mileage has been reported, it has typically been under 100,000.

A handful of complaints report further issues with various gauges and instruments. In particular, drivers are reporting tire pressure monitors giving inaccurate readings.

The 2007 Nissan Frontier has only been recalled twice in its many years of service. This is impressive for a mid-size pickup truck, but typical for a Nissan.

How Long Will the 2007 Nissan Frontier Last?

Nissans are usually built to last, and the Frontier should get you a minimum of 200,000 miles before your first expensive repair. With excellent care, 250,000 miles isn’t unrealistic. Just make sure to shop around and find one in good condition.

Repairpal estimate an annual maintenance cost of around $496, which isn’t bad for a mid-size pickup from this model year. The most expensive common fix, by far, is a replacement exhaust manifold, starting at around $1,256. These repairs don’t usually pop up until you’re at least nearing 200,000 on the odometer.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology in the 2007 Nissan Frontier is strictly work truck grade. The entry-level XE doesn’t even include a radio, while CD players in the higher trims are about as fancy as it gets here.

Safety technology in the 2007 Nissan Frontier is pretty good. Anti-lock brakes and full airbags come standard. You won’t see advanced features like rearview cameras, but what’s here isn’t bad for 2007.

Is the 2007 Nissan Frontier a Good Value?

The 2007 Nissan Frontier is a good value, but it’s a better deal the higher up the trim list you go.

The entry-level King Cab XE typically lists for around $7,114, which is about as much as an entry-level Nissan Titan. The NISMO lists for around $8,677, delivering more horsepower and interior upgrades for a couple thousand dollars less than you’d spend on a comparable full-size truck.

What are the Different Models of the 2007 Nissan Frontier?

The Nissan Frontier is offered in three standard trims, from the base XE to the high-end LE, plus an off-road oriented NISMO model. The truck is available in the smaller King or larger Crew Cab, with a 5′ or 6′ bed.

With the entry-level XE you’re getting:

  • Cloth seating
  • Anti-lock brakes
  • 4 speakers

The mid-range SE adds:

  • Manual air conditioning
  • CD player

With the top-of-the-line LE you’re adding:

  • Premium cloth seating
  • Leather wrapped steering wheel

Finally, the off-road NISMO features:

  • Traction control
  • Chrome power mirrors
  • Skid plates Front tow hook
  • NISMO-spec Bilstein off-road shock absorbers
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What Engines Come In the 2007 Nissan Frontier?

  • The base engine in the 2007 Nissan Frontier is a 2.5L inline-four delivering 152 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque. This is paired to a 5-speed automatic in rear wheel drive, it averages 22/25 miles to the gallon, city/highway, and it can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
  • In the SE trim level and up you’ll find a 4.0L V6 delivering 261 horsepower and 281 lb.-ft. of torque. This is paired to a 5-speed automatic in rear/four wheel drive, it averages 17/21 miles to the gallon, and it can tow up to 6,500 pounds.

What Colors Does the 2007 Nissan Frontier Come In?

How Comfortable Is the 2007 Nissan Frontier?

The 2007 Frontier is moderately comfortable. The back row stretches 55 inches across with limited leg room, so even the larger Crew Cab is a bit tight. But the suspension is nice and smooth, and the front seats offer a comfortable, steady ride.

How Much Storage Space Does the 2007 Nissan Frontier Have?

The 2007 Frontier offers two bed sizes, a 5′ short bed, and a 6′ long bed. Whichever one you go with, they’re 59 inches across at the tailgate, and 18 inches deep. The Frontier can pack up to 1,551 pounds of payload in the 4.0L models.

Centered wide dash shot

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The Nissan Frontier is simply what we call the Nissan Navara in North America, and the 2007 edition is the third model year in the truck’s 2nd Generation, running from 2005 to 2021.

2005: The Nissan Frontier as we know it today was introduced in 2005 with King and Crew Cab body styles.

2006: Chrome accents were added to the NISMO and LE models for 2006, and a new Power Package included remote keyless entry and cruise control.

2007: A Crew Cab/Long Bed configuration was offered in SE and LE trim levels for 2007.

2008: The sound system got an upgrade for 2008, including Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and an auxiliary input jack.

2009: Nissan gave the Frontier a front-end redesign for 2009 featuring new headlights and a sleeker grille.

How Does the 2007 Nissan Frontier Compare to the Competition?

The Nissan Frontier’s stiffest competition would have to be the Toyota Tacoma, a light-duty truck that commands a loyal cult following who are unlikely to be swayed. But, the Frontier is a little roomier, and typically sells for around $1,500 cheaper from trim level to trim level.

A Ford Ranger comes up 500 pounds shy of the Frontier’s 6,500 pound towing capacity, and it’s cramped and uncomfortable, like the Tacoma. But typically lists for a few hundred dollars cheaper than a Frontier, and it’s the most fuel efficient of the three, averaging 24/29 miles to the gallon.

All three of these trucks do a fine job splitting the difference between power and convenience. The Frontier is the clear winner in the area of overall comfort. None of these trucks are great family vehicles, but the Frontier rides smooth and at least the front seats are comfortable.

Ranks #5 Compact Pickup Trucks by Owners

1
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4.63
2
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4.52
5
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4.31

Do Owners Recommend the 2007 Nissan Frontier?

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Ryan S on February 26, 2021
2007 Nissan Frontier 4WD with tinted windows and 6 cylinder transmission in great condition.
My truck is red and has four doors two seats in the front for seats in the back. The bed of the truck is 5 feet long and has a bed extender which I really like. We have not had many problems with our truck. The biggest thing that we've had to fix on it is a catalytic converter that went out just a couple months ago. Our truck has driven us from Tennessee to Washington state back down to Texas and over to South Carolina without any major issues. I feel like the truck is very comfortable I can ride in it for several hours without having any problems. The passenger-side automatic window is a little slow because I think the motor is going out. The truck can be converted between 2 Wheel Dr. And all wheel drive, it has power windows, six-cylinder automatic transmission, and a CD player with AM/FM radio. The interior is gray.
accountCircle Cindy C on January 19, 2021
My most reliable Nissan frontier.
The seats are comfortable. The truck runs great, handles the roads very well. Gets good gas mileage. Overall I love my truck. It is a 2007 and is good shape cosmetically. I am not sure what else to write about my truck. I am a truck person so a car is not even an option.
accountCircle Terrence B on December 14, 2020
It's still in good condition for as old as it is still good
I like my car, it has some issues now and then but it gets me where I need to be and it's been like that for a while
accountCircle Kevin K on October 20, 2020
Did get all terrain tires but on it. And does drive very well off road.
It is a mid-size truck. The thing about it the turning ratio sucks. But besides that it's good on long trips, about average on gas. It has room for up to 5 people. It is getting old but has a lot of miles on it but still handles very well. Engine is strong and drives smooth. As long if the oil is changed it runs very good still to this day. Like to trade it in soon. It is comfortable and reliable. No transmission problems after all these years.
accountCircle Patrick P on October 17, 2020
Very reliable , bad gas mileage , good payload capacity.
Very reliable truck. Bad gas mileage. Not much get up and go when entering the freeway. Holds a fairly large payload. No mechanical issues in the 10 years I have had it.
accountCircle Julie J on July 27, 2020
2007 Nissan Frontier Advantages
My 2007 Nissan Frontier has been reliable with very few problems other than replacing the clutch at 90,000 miles. The vehicle is a 6 speed that has a very good hauling/pulling capacity. The interior has everything you need comfortable seating, which cleans up easily. Another option I have enjoyed is the cruise.
accountCircle Adrian s on July 19, 2020
My truck does not have a lot of miles on it.
My truck is black with tinted windows. I had some new pipes added to my truck. I like my truck because I don't have any problems with it. I don't have any complaints about my truck.
accountCircle Katie L on June 30, 2020
Nissan Frontier 2007 truck
My Nissan Frontier is extremely reliable and capable. I enjoy it's appearance and qualities. I wish it were four wheel drive but for a two wheel drive vehicle it runs great and gets me where I need to go. I have never had a single problem with my Nissan Frontier and I would definitely recommend this vehicle to anyone. I enjoy having a pickup truck and especially that it is four doors.
accountCircle Brandy V on April 12, 2020
It is very dependable, I feel safe when driving this vehicle.
I love that it is a truck but also 4 door. I also love its ability to haul my atv and pull a trailer without any struggle.
accountCircle Miss S on February 26, 2020
It is a great truck - reliable, good on gas, handles beautifully, powerful.
Love this truck! Smooth drive, handles road well, great in the snow! Reliable and excellent quality. Excellent value.
accountCircle Diana S on February 24, 2020
The thing is that it makes noise for no apparent reason.
It makes a sound when you turn it on. It gives the impression that it does not work when you try to start it.
accountCircle Robert A on February 6, 2020
Faults with Nissan frontiers and of the many recalls on the truck.
A lot of mechanical issues and vehicle recalls. First there were several issues with the fuel sensor. There has been a lot of issues with the electrical work in the truck. It also has had issues with the window motor and all of the molding around each of the four doors.
accountCircle Chris E on January 2, 2020
Silver Nissan frontier truck w/ extended cab.
I have had my truck for about 6 years... It had a manufacturing issue with the transmission. I had to have the transmission replaced. The cost was partly covered by the dealership. Other than that transmission issue, I have no complaints. I would recommend this truck to buyers.
accountCircle Kayla S on December 8, 2019
Great everyday reliable vehicle.
This vehicle is very reliable. I have not had any mechanical failures and purchased it new in 2007. The exterior paint still looks new and the interior finishes are still like new. I would highly recommend this vehicle to other buyers. Everything still works, including the stereo system and all lights. It rides smooth and quiet, no rattling sounds.
accountCircle James G on October 11, 2019
It is dependable and economical.
It is economical and dependable. It is not fancy, just good basic transportation.
accountCircle Michael W on July 18, 2019
One good ride for work and for the family
Good mileage, good air conditioner, grate stereo system, good speed, large in the back, good brakes, good alternator. Grate rear view mirrors, headlights, tail lights and dashboard lights are all bright and working, wheels and axles are good, the paint doesn't chip easily.
accountCircle Sergio L on July 2, 2019
Nissan frontier characteristics.
It has good space, fits up to 5 people. Its economic in terms of gas (v4). Very easy and adequate for driving of road. It is fast when you need it. Count with a big back compartment for putting stuff when traveling. It is perfect for road trips. If you have an adventurer lifestyle, then this is the perfect car for you.
accountCircle Jeff B on June 22, 2019
I would have to say I haven't put a lot of repairs into this vehicle.
My truck gets good fuel mileage for its size. The bed of the truck is big so I can haul almost anything I want. I wish I had more space in the interior as it is crammed in the back. I haven't had any major repairs overall so I can say it's been quite reliable.
accountCircle Kari P on June 6, 2019
It's fast, amazing and handles well, On road or off road.
No problems, love the way it drives, rides, handles, not bad on gas, good acceleration, four-wheel drive is amazing
accountCircle Evan L on May 29, 2019
Best small truck for its value.
My 2007 Nissan Frontier is one of the best tricks I have owned. It is very roomy considering it is only a 2 door. I feel it gets good gas mileage for a truck and I haven't had many issues considering it is an older truck. I have only had to change the radiator. Changing the oil is a breeze because there is so much room under the hood. Even a girl like me can do it. She does have a few miles on her now but it is a great truck to drive and of course she can haul quite a truck load.
accountCircle Serra M on May 13, 2019
It takes a bit more gas to get the car to actually move although this is expected with a truck.
The vehicle runs well and personally I'm a big fan of mid sized pickup trucks. Very few problems have arose since I got the car and those that have are not costly. Overall the car is very well made and I enjoy it very much.
accountCircle Emilee W on April 11, 2019
Relatively reliable pickup truck with enough space to haul most things
Truck gets me to where I need to go but several pieces of it have rusted through already making some of it not as usable as it should have been after 10 years. It is not great on gas by any means either.
accountCircle Mike L on February 2, 2019
Versatile vehicle with room for cargo and passengers,
Very versatile vehicle. Useful for some many tasks,. Decent gas mileage.
accountCircle sam f on January 19, 2019
It is reliable and if maintained at a decent level you should not have many problems. Turn radius is wide. Can be expensive to get fixed at the dealership.
It's getting old but it still runs great. I have had to make no major repairs to it over the 11 years I've had it. My biggest complaint is it has a very wide turn radius for a smaller truck and it can be hard to park. I plan to ride it till it falls apart.
accountCircle Valerie M on January 11, 2019
Most dependable enjoyable truck to drive.
The main reason I picked Nissan is the seats are the most comfortable for me, feels solid to drive, have had no troubles with starting or power response, am a little disappointed with gas mileage, some basic problems like power windows failing, and alert fuses blowing but still would buy again and again because this is the 4th Nissan in the family.
accountCircle Matt B on December 20, 2018
It is very reliable and a lot more spacious than it seems.
It's been very reliable. Other than routine maintenance, I haven't had any issues with it. It's also been big enough to grow with my family, which has grown over the years.
accountCircle Todd W on November 26, 2018
With a double cab, it's a very versatile vehicle and I can't complain about the power, considering the size.
It's a pretty dependable vehicle. My only regret is I'm an extra large man in a midsize truck.
accountCircle Jeff B on November 22, 2018
My truck has the best torque in its class.
Overall it has been a great truck as I haven't had any costly repairs. It drives smoothly and is a comfortable ride. It has a big bed for hauling stuff but the cab space is limited for passengers cause its small. The gas mileage is good not great for a v6 engine. I wish it had more audio features such as mp3 connect.
avatar Gilbert Smith
Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.