beebs
Skip to main content

2012 Nissan Frontier review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Nissan Frontier highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Mileage (EPA estimate)

14 city, 19 highway, 16 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

View our Nissan Frontier inventory
Lighting bolt logo
Can an EV fit my lifestyle? Image of woman on smartphone while charging an EV

Does an EV fit my lifestyle?

On this page

Find your Frontier
then buy online or in-store

Learn more about getting pre-qualified with no impact to your credit score
Price
Year
Search our Frontier inventorySearch for a different car

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Get Pre-qualified

All Nissan Frontier years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Nissan Frontier generation from 2012 to 2026

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Get Pre-qualified

Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.5 out of 5

19 customer reviews
The 2012 Nissan Frontier enjoys strong customer satisfaction, highlighting its reliable power, easy handling, and spacious interior. However, drawbacks include fuel economy and outdated technology features. Owners especially appreciate its durability and smooth ride, making it a solid choice for those in need of a capable and dependable midsize truck.

RepairPal reliability rating

4
Excellent

RepairPal gave the Nissan Frontier an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks Nissan Frontier 2nd out of 8 among Midsize Trucks.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Nissan Frontier

Nissan Frontier features and specs

Curious how Nissan Frontier trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SV 4D Crew Cab 2WD

Standard Features

  • Rear Defroster
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • CD Audio

Optional Features

  • Bed Liner
  • Running Boards
  • Tow Hitch
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

4.0L

Horsepower

261

Torque (ft-lbs)

281

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

21.1

Wheelbase

125.9"

Overall length

205.5"

Width

72.8"

Height

70.1"

Leg room

F 42.4"/R 33.6"

Head room

F 40"/R 38.7"

Front tires

P265/70R16

Rear tires

P265/70R16

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

630/6300 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2012 Nissan Frontier FAQ

Nissan Frontier articles

Best High-MPG Used Trucks for 2023: Abstract

Best High-MPG Used Trucks for 2023

Explore the top choices for high-mpg used trucks for 2023 shoppers, where power meets efficiency. From diesel-powered performers to mighty V8 engines, we've compiled a list of trucks that redefine the balance between robust capabilities and gas mileage.
Best Used Small Trucks: Abstract | CarMax

Best Used Small Trucks

For work tasks and family fun, why not choose a small truck? It's got the right dimensions for hefty hauling, and the versatility to ace busy life tasks. Identify the right small truck for your needs from this list of the best used small trucks for shoppers.
Best used pickup trucks

Best Used Pickup Trucks

With the right pickup truck, you can transition from on-the-job tasks to weekend fun easily. This list of the 10 best used pickup trucks for shoppers showcases everything from capable handling to high-tech features.
Most Reliable Trucks: Abstract | CarMax

Most Reliable Trucks

To help out in your search for your next pickup, we've compiled this list of the most reliable used trucks for 2024 shoppers. This list includes trucks with the highest reliability ratings from our partners at RepairPal.
9 Best Pickup Trucks under $25,000

9 Best Pickup Trucks under $25,000

Are you looking for a truck that's ready to tackle every task you throw its way? Check out this list of the 9 best pickup trucks under $25,000, based on CarMax sales data from April 1, 2020 through September 30, 2020.

Want to view more trending articles?

Research other vehicles


* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.​ By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.