While reviewers like the Frontier overall, there are a few complaints. Critics don’t like the Frontier’s interior materials.
The Nissan Frontier is a rare truck, one that’s part of a dying breed. The SV V6 and PRO-4X King Cab models and all Crew Cab models have a VQ40DE 4.0 liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine with 261 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 281 pounds per foot of torque at 4,000 rpm.
All 2011 Nissan Frontier models meet Tier 2, Bin 5 Federal emissions standards and LEV2-ULEV California emissions standards. Depending on the model, the 2011 Nissan Frontier comes either with a 5-speed or 6-speed manual transmission with some having the option of an automatic transmission.
Interior Features
All King Cab models also have fold-flat front-passenger seats and forward-facing rear flip-up seats, and cloth seat trim. Beyond that, different models have other additional features with the PRO-4X and SL models by far offering the fullest range of interior features.
Additionally, all 2011 Nissan Frontier models come with a 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) built-in. The S and SV 4-Cylinder models have 11.1" front vented disc brakes and 11.3" rear vented disc brakes. The SV V6 and PRO-4X King Cab models and all Crew Cab models have 11.7" front vented disc brakes and 11.3" rear vented disc brakes.
The 2011 Nissan Frontier’s styling doesn’t change. Frontier features an extended cab, which Nissan calls the King Cab, and an eponymous Crew Cab. Wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles and Frontier’s is on par with that of most other extended- and crew-cab compact pickups. Kings have a pair of small rear-seat cushions. Nissan provides a class-competitive 6.1-foot-long box as the sole King Cab cargo bed. The 2011 Frontier lineup again consists of four models, though their labels change slightly. The 2011 Nissan Frontier S is still the entry-level model. Onto the next rung in place of the SE model slips the newly introduced 2011 Frontier SV model. The off-road-styled Frontier PRO-4X model returns. But the fanciest 2011 Frontier is renamed the SL model instead of the LE and is now available only in the Crew Cab body style.
Mechanical: In combination with the model relabeling, the 2011 Nissan Frontier loses its former LE King Cab and will not offer an SV Crew Cab with the long-bed and manual transmission. However, the 2011 Frontier roster gains an S Crew Cab short-bed and a PRO-4X Crew Cab short-bed with manual transmission.
In any configuration, the 2011 Frontier continues to follow compact-pickup convention with a choice of four- and six-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive (2wd) or four-wheel drive (4wd). Frontier’s four-cylinder is a dual-overhead-cam 2.5-liter with 152 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque. A few key competitors make 4wd available on their four-cylinder models, but Frontier’s four-cylinder is confined to 2wd models. The V-6 is available on both Frontier cab styles and with 2wd and 4wd. Four-cylinder Frontiers are only adequate performers. The 4wd Frontiers are formidable off-road, aided by available four-wheel limited slip technology plus Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist. Features: Changes to 2011 Nissan Frontier features run mostly to reconstituted and renamed options packages. The 2011 Frontier PRO-4X models are newly available with a Luxury Package that includes a power tilt/slide moonroof, leather upholstery, and heated front seats. Every 2011 Frontier continues with head-protecting curtain side airbags for both seating rows. Air conditioning and a tilt steering wheel are optional on the entry-level 2wd King Cab S model and standard on all other 2011 Frontiers. Both cab styles again have flip-up rear seat cushions and a fold-flat front passenger seat.