The Nissan Frontier continues to be a strong contender in the mid-size pickup truck segment, offering a range of trims to cater to various needs and preferences. Let’s explore the key differences between the premium and basic trims of the Nissan Frontier, focusing on the top-tier PRO-4X (or Platinum Reserve in some markets) and the entry-level S trim. 

Exterior Design and Styling

While the Nissan Frontier maintains its rugged and capable appearance across all trim levels, there are notable differences between the premium and basic trims:

S (Basic):

• 16-inch steel wheels
• Black front grille and bumpers
• Halogen headlights
• Manual-folding side mirrors

PRO-4X (Premium):

• 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with all-terrain tires
• Unique PRO-4X badging and red tow hooks
• LED headlights, fog lights, and Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
• Power-adjustable heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators

The premium trim elevates the Frontier appearance with larger alloy wheels, LED lighting, and additional styling elements that enhance its aesthetics and functionality.

Interior Quality and Materials

The interior is where the premium trim truly distinguishes itself from the basic offering:

S (Basic):

• Cloth seat trim
• Urethane steering wheel
• Basic plastic interior accents
• Manual air conditioning

PRO-4X (Premium):

• Premium leather-appointed seats with PRO-4X embroidery
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Synthetic leather door trim and instrument panel accents
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Heated front seats and steering wheel

The PRO-4X trim offers a significantly more upscale and comfortable interior experience, with high-quality materials and additional comfort features that elevate the cabin’s overall feel.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Both trims offer modern infotainment systems, but the premium trim includes several upgrades:

S (Basic):

• 8-inch touchscreen display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system
• AM/FM audio system with six speakers

PRO-4X (Premium):

• 9-inch touchscreen display with navigation
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM
• Premium Fender audio system with ten speakers and subwoofer
• Wireless smartphone charging pad

The premium trim provides a more immersive and technologically advanced infotainment experience, with a larger screen, premium audio system, and additional connectivity features.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Nissan has equipped the Frontier with a comprehensive suite of safety features, but the premium trim offers additional advanced technologies:

S (Basic):

• Nissan Safety Shield 360 (includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist)
• Rearview camera

PRO-4X (Premium):

• Intelligent Around View Monitor
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Intelligent Driver Alertness
• Intelligent Forward Collision Warning
• Intelligent Cruise Control
• Off-road specific camera views (front, side, and bird’s eye)

The PRO-4X trim provides a more comprehensive safety package, with advanced driver assistance features that offer enhanced peace of mind and convenience, especially during off-road adventures or challenging driving conditions.

Powertrain and Performance

The Nissan Frontier offers a capable powertrain across all trims, but there are some differences in configuration and features:

S (Basic):

• 3.8-liter V6 engine (310 horsepower, 381 Nm of torque)
• 9-speed automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel drive (4×2) standard

PRO-4X (Premium):

• 3.8-liter V6 engine (310 horsepower, 381 Nm of torque)
• 9-speed automatic transmission with manual mode
• Four-wheel drive (4×4) with electronic locking rear differential
• Bilstein off-road performance shocks
• Hill descent control and hill start assist

While both trims share the same powerful V6 engine, the PRO-4X offers enhanced off-road capabilities and performance features that set it apart from the basic trim.

Towing and Payload Capacity

Towing and payload capacities can vary between trims due to different configurations:

S (Basic):

• Maximum towing capacity: Up to 2,944 kg (when properly equipped)
• Maximum payload: Up to 703 kg

PRO-4X (Premium):

• Maximum towing capacity: Up to 2,839 kg (slightly lower due to additional equipment)
• Maximum payload: Up to 658 kg

While the basic trim may offer slightly higher towing and payload capacities in certain configurations, the PRO-4X provides additional features that enhance overall capability and versatility.

Off-Road Capabilities

The PRO-4X trim is specifically designed for enhanced off-road performance:

S (Basic):

• Standard suspension system
• No specific off-road features

PRO-4X (Premium):

• Bilstein off-road performance shock absorbers
• Electronic locking rear differential
• Skid plates (oil pan, fuel tank, 4×4 transfer case)
• All-terrain tires
• Off-road specific drive modes
• 360-degree off-road camera system

These additional features in the PRO-4X trim significantly enhance the off-road capabilities, making it a more versatile choice for adventure-seeking drivers.

Comfort and Convenience Features

The PRO-4X trim offers several comfort and convenience upgrades:

S (Basic):

• Manual adjustable front seats
• Power windows and door locks
• Remote keyless entry

PRO-4X (Premium):

• 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support
• Heated front seats and steering wheel
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Overhead console with sunglasses storage
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Remote engine start system

These additional features in the premium trim create a more luxurious and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers, especially during long trips or in varying weather conditions.

Exterior Lighting and Visibility

Lighting technology is another area where the premium trim stands out:

S (Basic):

• Halogen headlights
• Daytime running lights

PRO-4X (Premium):

• LED headlights with auto on/off feature
• LED fog lights
• LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
• LED cargo bed lighting

The advanced lighting features in the PRO-4X trim enhance the vehicle’s appearance and provide improved visibility and safety in various driving conditions, especially during off-road adventures.

Cargo Management and Utility Features

Both trims offer practical cargo solutions, but the premium trim includes some additional features:

S (Basic):

• Standard truck bed with tie-down cleats
• Tailgate assist

PRO-4X (Premium):

• Utili-track Channel System with four adjustable tie-down cleats
• Spray-on bedliner
• 120-volt power outlet in truck bed
• LED under-rail bed lighting
• Tailgate assist with bed access assist

While the basic cargo capacity remains similar across trims, the PRO-4X offers more versatile and convenient cargo management solutions.

Wheels and Tires

The wheel and tire configurations differ significantly between trims:

S (Basic):

• 16-inch steel wheels
• All-season tires

PRO-4X (Premium):

• 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with unique finish
• All-terrain tires
• Full-size spare tire

The PRO-4X’s wheel and tire combination enhances the appearance and provides better off-road performance and durability.

Interior Storage and Functionality

While both trims offer practical interior storage, the premium trim includes some additional features:

S (Basic):

• Standard center console storage
• Front door map pockets

PRO-4X (Premium):

• Larger center console with enhanced organization
• Under-seat rear storage
• Dual-level glove compartment
• Sunglasses holder in overhead console

These additional storage solutions in the PRO-4X trim enhance the Frontier’s practicality for daily use and long trips.

Make the Right Choice for Your Needs

The Nissan Frontier offers a significant contrast between its premium PRO-4X and basic S trims. While the S trim provides a capable and functional mid-size pickup truck experience, the PRO-4X elevates the Frontier to a more premium level with its advanced features, superior materials, enhanced off-road capabilities, and cutting-edge technology.

Ultimately, the choice between the premium and basic trims of the Nissan Frontier will depend on individual needs, intended use, budget considerations, and desired features. Both trims uphold the Nissan reputation for quality and capability, ensuring you’ll drive a robust and modern mid-size pickup truck, whichever version you choose.

Consider your primary use case for the vehicle:

• If you primarily use the truck for work or basic transportation, the S trim might offer everything you need at a more accessible price point.
• If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, frequently engage in off-road adventures, or simply desire a more luxurious and feature-rich driving experience, the PRO-4X trim would be the better choice.

Regardless of which trim you choose, the Nissan Frontier continues to be a strong contender in the mid-size pickup truck segment, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and modern features that cater to a wide range of drivers and their diverse needs.