by Michael Satterfield - 03/03/2022
For 2022, Nissan has added the 4X2 Pro-X to the Frontier line up, like visual it shares everything that the Pro-4X version we tested last year, minus the 4X4 drivetrain. The Pro-4X won our truck of the year for 2022 and the Pro-X is perfect for buyers looking for a well-equipped midsize pickup truck, but don't need the 4X4 capability.
Starting at $34,770, this Glacier White test truck is loaded with options including the 17" Beadlock-style wheels, Sports Bar with Utili-Track, off-road style step rails, bumper step, all-season floor mats, tow package, and technology package, bringing the grand total to $39,425 including $1,225 delivery. This puts it within $1,000 of a comparably equipped 4 cylinder Ford Ranger and nearly $3,000 less than a Tacoma TRD Sport 2WD.
Like all 2022 Frontiers, this one is equipped with the 3.8 V6 producing 310 horsepower with 281-lb-ft of torque, which makes it the most powerful midsize pickup currently on the market. The ride is better than the Pro-4X we tested last year, providing a comfortable (for a truck) ride. To put it to the test we took the Pro-X several different truck chores around Texas from towing a project car to hauling stuff to storage, it did everything we asked, but you do feel the limitations of the smaller bed when you start loading it up.
The Nissan Pro-X Crew Cab with the Class IV hitch can tow 6,570 lbs. far more than our latest little project car and tow-dolly, the compact size of the Frontier made it so much easier to maneuver than a full-size truck and with under 3,000 lbs on the hitch it was like towing nothing at all.
Taking advantage of having a truck also meant taking some of our props, car parts, and other bulky items up to the storage unit. The bed is fairly small but with the Util-Track system in place lashing everything down was super easy. The Sports Bar is also a cool accessory and just needs some cool lights added to it like the concept trucks Nissan unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show.
photo via Nissan |
Inside the Pro-X is a carbon copy of the Pro-4X as you would expect Nissan Connect gets you Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 7" touch screen. Everything else is still fairly basic, real switches control most of the interior functions, power seat is only for the driver, but the heated seats on high will get your warm and toasty in no time. It isn't anything groundbreaking, but it is comfortable and functional.
If like me you really don't need a truck for off-roading, the Pro-X offers Nissan's best equipment and great off-road styling without the need for 4X4. Plus with a smoother ride and slightly better gas mileage, the Pro-X is the perfect truck for suburban Home Depot runs and weekend adventures.
2022 Nissan Frontier Specifications
PRICE $28,990 - $38,390
LAYOUT Front-engine, 2WD, 4-5-pass, 4-door pickup truck
ENGINE 3.8L/310-hp/281-lb-ft DOHC 24-valve V-6
TRANSMISSION 9-speed automatic
CURB WEIGHT 4,451 - 4,773 lb
WHEELBASE 126.0 - 139.8 in
L x W x H 210.2 - 224.1 x 73.0 - 74.7 x 71.6 -72.9 in
EPA FUEL ECON 17 - 18/22 - 24/19 - 20 mpg