“Anyone looking for solid pickup as a great value, good looking, and great performer, the Nissan Frontier is at the top of the list!”
2018 Nissan Frontier: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2018 Nissan Frontier is a standard backup camera on every trim. Otherwise, this is a light equipment update rather than a redesign, with more standard basics for the S and a new appearance package for select SV Crew Cab models.
About the 2018 Nissan Frontier
2nd generation Frontier for North America (2005-2021), late-cycle year with no redesign or major mechanical overhaul.
Nissan positions the Frontier as a straightforward midsize pickup for workdays and weekend use, with towing strength, multiple cab and bed layouts, and real off-road capability in the upper trims. The appeal is its simple truck formula: a proven V6, manageable size, durable ladder-frame construction, and trims that range from basic utility to trail-focused or comfort-focused versions without turning the truck into something overly complicated.
The 2018 Frontier ranges from the straightforward, work-ready S to the better-equipped SV and comfort-focused SL, which has leather-appointed seats, navigation, and a standard power moonroof. The rear-wheel-drive Desert Runner adds off-road-style shocks and unique exterior details, while the four-wheel-drive PRO-4X has trail-focused hardware including a locking rear differential, skid plates, and off-road shocks.
What changed, by category
Safety
A backup camera becomes standard across the entire Frontier lineup.
Tech
The base S gains a 5.0-inch display, Bluetooth calling and audio streaming, cruise control, and air conditioning as standard equipment. The SL’s power moonroof also becomes standard.
Styling
A Midnight Edition appearance package joins the range on select SV Crew Cab models.
2018 Nissan Frontier specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, FFV, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, FFV, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, FFV, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 15–19 mpg | 15–16 mpg | 15–17 mpg | 15 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21–23 mpg | 21–22 mpg | 21–23 mpg | 21 mpg | 22–23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 152–261 hp | 261 hp | 152–261 hp | 261 hp | 261 hp |
| Torque | 171–281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 171–281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3780–6370 lb | 6480 lb | 3780–6370 lb | 6290–6450 lb | 6610–6690 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 101.1 cu-ft | 101.1 cu-ft | 101.1 cu-ft | 101.1 cu-ft | 101.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 25.4–33.6 in | 33.6 in | 25.4–33.6 in | 25.4–33.6 in | 25.4–33.6 in |
| Seats | 4–5 | 5 | 4–5 | 4–5 | 4–5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 4 | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic Headlights | |||||
| Hill Descent Control | |||||
| Hill Start Assist | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Power Mirrors | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| Side Steps | |||||
| Tow Hooks | |||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Subwoofer | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Locks | |||||
| Power Windows | |||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||||
| Tilt Wheel | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 Nissan Frontier?
The biggest change is that every 2018 Frontier has a standard backup camera. The rest of the truck remains largely unchanged rather than receiving a redesign or major mechanical update.
Did the 2018 Nissan Frontier get a new engine or transmission?
No, the 2018 Frontier carries over its existing engines and transmissions. Its engine lineup remains the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 4.0-liter V6.
What became standard on the 2018 Frontier S?
The 2018 Frontier S gains a standard backup camera, air conditioning, cruise control, a 5.0-inch display, Bluetooth hands-free calling, and Bluetooth audio streaming. These additions make the base truck easier to use every day.
What changed on the 2018 Nissan Frontier SV?
The 2018 Frontier SV gains a standard backup camera. Select SV Crew Cab models also have a new Midnight Edition package with appearance-focused upgrades.
Is the 2018 Nissan Frontier a redesign?
No, the 2018 Frontier is not a redesign. It remains part of the same generation and receives only a light equipment update, led by the standard backup camera.
2018 Nissan Frontier Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Nissan Frontier.
3.9
2018 Nissan Frontier
(405 reviews)
“I originally was looking for the Toyota Tacoma pickup but after seeing how expensive they were I decided on the Nissan Frontier pickup and have not been disappointed.”
“Great no frills truck. Reliable and easy to work on and upgrade. Proven design reliability for 14 years.”