GM's midsize contender pairs a punchy turbo four-cylinder with an 8-speed that can't decide what gear it wants and software that freezes mid-commute. The 2024 redesign earned a sales stop within months, infotainment screens go dark, remote start is a gamble, and one ZR2 owner burned through three torque converters before 15,000 miles. The previous generation splits owners into camps: some sailed past 180k with zero drama, others became dealer regulars. The ZR2 off-road package impresses when the truck cooperates, but you're betting GM patches the bugs before your warranty expires. If you need a midsize that starts reliably and doesn't strand you hunting for cell service on a trail, the Frontier costs less and the Tacoma holds value better. Buy this if you like the look enough to gamble on future software updates, and spring for the extended warranty.
The current-gen Frontier (2022+) delivers exceptional value and proven mechanical reliability, using a battle-tested 3.8L V6 and Mercedes 9-speed auto that owners trust past 200k miles. It deliberately trades modern refinement for simplicity, old-school controls, naturally aspirated power, and fewer electronic systems that can fail. Users consistently rank it as more reliable and comfortable than the Tacoma at thousands less, though it clearly trails in interior quality and tech. The primary hesitation isn't the truck itself but the notoriously poor Nissan dealership experience.