The Good
The 2020 Frontier boasts a strong V6 engine, offering decent performance. Its simple design is perceived as reliable by many. While not luxurious, it provides adequate comfort for work truck duties. Its retro design appeals to some, and its relative affordability provides excellent value. Emotionally, it offers a sense of ruggedness; practically, it's a capable and cost-effective truck.
The Bad
The 2020 Frontier's age is its biggest weakness. Its outdated interior and technology feel ancient compared to rivals. Fuel economy is poor. Ride quality can be rough. Watch for rust, especially in older models or those in northern climates. The base model is very barebones.
2020 Nissan Frontier: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: One engine option: 3.8-liter V6
- Horsepower: 310 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2WD: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- 4WD: 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Around 7.3 seconds (varies slightly based on configuration)
- Towing Capacity:
- Maximum towing capacity is approximately 6,720 lbs (varies by configuration)
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and air conditioning.
- SV: Adds features such as upgraded cloth upholstery, power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, and available options like a Value Truck Package.
- Pro-4X: Designed for off-road use, featuring four-wheel drive, Bilstein off-road shocks, electronic locking rear differential, skid plates, and unique styling elements. Also includes heated front seats and a Rockford Fosgate audio system.
- King Cab: Available on S and SV trims, offers a smaller rear seating area with rear-hinged doors.
- Crew Cab: Available on all trims, providing a more spacious rear seating area with conventional doors.
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission
- Drivetrain: Available in 2WD or 4WD
2020 Nissan Frontier Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2020 |
| Make | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | AGUASCALIENTES |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.8-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 9-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2020 Nissan Frontier Have?
Recalls for the 2020 model year are relatively limited, but it's always advisable to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the most up-to-date recall information specific to your VIN. Prior model years of the Frontier (especially earlier in the 2nd generation) had issues with radiator leaks contaminating the transmission fluid, but the 2020's updated powertrain should mitigate that concern. Overall, the 2020 Frontier benefits from Nissan having addressed some common failure points from earlier models.
How long will the 2020 Nissan Frontier last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are limited compared to newer trucks. Available features include rear parking sensors. Advanced driver-assistance systems like automatic emergency braking or lane departure warning are not offered.
Safety features include standard front airbags, side-impact airbags, and anti-lock brakes.
Crash-test ratings vary. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings should be checked for the 2020 model year to get a comprehensive understanding of its safety performance. Keep in mind the Frontier's design is older, which impacts its performance in modern crash tests compared to newer vehicles designed with the latest safety standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2020 Nissan Frontier Prices and Market Value
The Frontier holds its value relatively well due to its reputation for reliability and its appeal to budget-conscious buyers. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (especially rust), trim level (Pro-4X models tend to hold their value better), and location (demand for trucks varies regionally). Depreciation is slower compared to some other vehicles in its class.
2020 Nissan Frontier Cost of Ownership
2020 Nissan Frontier Fuel Efficiency
2020 Nissan Frontier Safety Rating
NHTSA
2020 Nissan Frontier Recalls & Defects
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Power Train:automatic Transmission
2020 Nissan Frontier Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2020 Nissan Frontier Compare to Other Truck?
Alternatives to consider include:
- Toyota Tacoma: Known for its reliability and strong resale value, but pricier.
- Chevrolet Colorado: Offers a more modern interior and better fuel economy, but may be less reliable.
- Ford Ranger: Provides better technology and performance, but can be more expensive.
Ranks #159 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 159 | 2020 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Nissan Frontier a Good Truck?
B.Burgess on June 21, 2023
A dissatisfied customerThe interior reminds me of the old American Motors cars. Cheap plastic interior door covers. The console is big but has little room to put your items. The bed liner is crappy white painted black. It is too soft and shows scuffs and scrapes. I don’t plan on buying another Frontier.
Ako on April 21, 2023
2020 Nissan Frontier midnight edition reviewI went from a 2015 frontier pro4x to a 2020 frontier midnight edition only thing the midnight didn’t have was gps xm radio the truck has more power better handling in my opinion no problems with this truck
Greg on November 19, 2022
Older model: great, new model: blah.A former friend wrecked my 2014 Frontier, I bought a 2022 Frontier to replace it, I miss my 2014 so badly. I'm not a fan of the electronics, the start button, the ride, the overall feal of the 22. I am searching high and low to find me an older one again.
RW on October 6, 2022
Overall a nice truck.Overall I am pleased. Get 24mpg. Comfortable interior but dated. One major criticism by "experts" was the lack of more modern safety features and electronics. Things that cost money to repair. Simpler is better. Good power and ride. A little stiff. Some body lean / roll in the corners, however the CG is higher because of good ground clearance. Lots of interior storage. Nice exterior look. Only had for 1 month so long term reliabllity is unknown.
lesrof2evils on April 25, 2022
Old school with a new heart.10,000 miles in six months, half pulling a 3500lb. popup camper with zero problems. I bought this truck to tow and it does that with zeal. The torque range and nine speed transmission make pulling a trailer just a Sunday drive.
TruckNp300 on June 9, 2021
Nice Truck.As one of the owners has shared, all the sudden the truck just stops and hardly moves again even with 4lo, the car dealer said it just has to replace the clutch system all cover with the guaranty, there is no evidence what could cause the failure as those trucks ussualy the clutch system failed after 25k miles, 8K miles so far for my truck.
Johnjoe on May 8, 2021
Best midsize no-nonsense truckPowerful V6 that is meant for a truck, excellent towing, lots of headroom and I don't knock myself silly entering like on the Tacoma. It has a real truck feel.
Seth on April 17, 2021
Intermittent hesitationThe Frontier will sometimes stop. The gas is applied but the vehicle will just stop moving, the engine does not rev up. We where almost hit when the truck stop moving in a intersection even putting the gas pedal to the floor had no effect. After about 10 seconds the truck continued as normal (gas tank full). Intermittently the truck hesitates whilst driving then proceeds as if nothing happened. The dealer finds no computer error codes. Contacted Nissan North America for help. 1000 miles on the new truck. Will consider Lemon Law if it comes to that.
Dealership fan on April 5, 2021
Most reliable car I’ve ownedGreat reliable vehicle. This is my second Frontier and my fourth Nissan.it’s a smooth comfortable ride. I keep up with routine oil changes and service and it pays of with Nissans.
BRACE on April 3, 2021
Traded 2016 for 2020 and Very HappyTraded in my 2016 Frontier for a 2020....Same vehicle but different...In a Better way. 9 speed transmission is much better and has the appearance of more power. Handles better. Nothing fancy about interior but what I want vs. paying MUCH more for other brands. Would have been 5 stars across the board but other vehicles are more comfortable....but you will pay for it
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.