Is the 2024 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X a Good Pickup Truck? 5 Pros, 3 Cons

In the increasingly hot market for off-road mid-size pickup trucks, the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X stands out as a particularly well-rounded package that’s as strong on value as it is capable both on and off the pavement.

Related: 2024 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X Review: A Rugged Pickup That’s Just the Right Size

Introduced for the 2022 model year, the current-generation Frontier is slightly smaller than its competitors, including the Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss and the recently redesigned Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road. The trade-off is that the Frontier’s tidier dimensions make it a bit easier to maneuver in tight spots while still being spacious enough inside for five passengers to ride in relative comfort.

Other virtues include physical knobs and switches for most controls rather than the touchscreen controls found in many competitors. Nissan’s approach makes even more sense in a vehicle designed for off-road use, especially when trying to adjust settings over bouncy terrain or with gloves on for cold days.

Cars.com News Editor Stef Schrader recently had a chance to explore the Frontier Pro-4X both on and off road and found a lot to like along with a few shortcomings. Tap the link above to read her expert review; for a quicker rundown, read on for five things we like about the 2024 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X and three things we don’t.

Things We Like

1. Plenty of Grunt

The Pro-4X gets the same 3.8-liter V-6 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission found in all versions of the 2024 Frontier. It also features standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, which gives it plenty of low-end grunt for tackling rocky inclines and trails. On the pavement, there’s decent power in reserve for highway merging and passing.

2. Ready to Rumble

Pro-4X upgrades over other Frontier trims include Bilstein off-road shocks front and rear, an electronically locking rear differential, tow hooks and three steel skid plates to protect underbody components. Beefy P265/70R17 Hankook Dynapro AT2 all-terrain tires mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels provide added grip, and standard hill start assist and hill descent control can help maintain that grip over tricky obstacles.

3. Right-Sized

Its relatively compact dimensions give the Frontier Pro-4X an advantage over larger competitors on the trail, where even a couple extra inches in width can make the difference between a smooth passage and body damage. It’s also easy to accurately place the Frontier in tight spots, as it features a slow steering rack.

4. On-Road Manners

On-road handling is surprisingly good for a pickup truck, particularly for one set up for off-road driving. The Pro-4X’s suspension is absorbent enough to soak up most bumps without being overly soft, and thick sway bars help with body control to make driving more entertaining in the twisties. The Frontier’s hydraulic steering feels heavier compared to some of its competitors’, but it offers good feedback.

5. Rugged Yet Comfortable

The interior’s design combines sturdy plastics with soft-touch surfaces and leather upholstery, giving it an overall feel that fits its off-road purpose while remaining comfortable. The crew-cab layout offers less rear-seat room than in some competitors but can accommodate most adults. Storage options include bins under the rear seats and a deep, covered compartment in the center console. Most controls are refreshingly analog, with easy-to-use knobs and switches.

More From Cars.com:

• Throwback: 2024 Nissan Frontier Gets ‘80s-Inspired Hardbody Edition, Starts at $31,105
• Mid-Size Pickups Are Acceptable at Best in New IIHS Crash Test
• Updated 2025 Nissan Frontier Priced From $33,560
• Here Are the 10 Cheapest Pickup Trucks You Can Buy Right Now
• Research the Nissan Frontier

Things We Don’t Like

1. Fuel Economy

The Frontier trails most of its mid-size competitors in fuel economy, and not just in the Pro-4X trim. Rear-wheel drive Frontiers return an EPA-estimated 18/24/21 mpg city/highway/combined, and that drops slightly with 4WD. The Pro-4X is the worst of the Frontier lineup, earning an EPA-estimated 18/22/19 mpg. Our observed fuel economy didn’t even match that and dropped to as low as 17 mpg, but that was with the stop-start system disabled most of the time.

2. Rough Stop-Start

Stop-start is a common fuel-saving feature nowadays, and it works by shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped. Some systems are smoother than others, but the Frontier’s is particularly rough and disruptive every time it starts up. There is a button to disable it, but you’ll have to press it every time you get in the truck to keep the peace. Unfortunately, doing so has a negative impact on the Pro-4X’s already unimpressive fuel economy.

3. Minor Gripes

As appealing as the Pro-4X is overall, a few minor issues could use attention. The wireless charging pad is just that: a pad with no significant ridge or edge to keep the phone in place, which is particularly odd in a truck that’s likely to get bounced around off-road. The headlights are bright but are so focused that it’s harder to see anything outside the primary area of illumination. Additionally, the steering wheel tilts but does not telescope, which might make it harder for some drivers to get comfortable.

Related Video:

Cars.com’s Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with Cars.com’s long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of Cars.com’s advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.