2026 Nissan Frontier

When the 2026 Nissan Frontier arrives in dealers, don't expect there to be much, if anything, different from what you'll find for '25. The Frontier tends to evolve on more of a geological scale; the previous generation lasted for 16 model years and its frame still underpins today's model. As such, the changes made last year were radical by Frontier standards. Nissan updated the styling got a nip-tuck, all but the base trim level added a big 12.3-inch touchscreen, and, wait for it ... a telescoping steering wheel became standard. Twenty years too late? Sure, but again, this is the Frontier we're talking about. If anything, we wouldn't be surprised to see a special edition pop up (a return of the Hardbody perhaps?), some minor feature additions or a new color for 2026.

Edmunds spotlight: Rare body and bed options

The Nissan Frontier is one of only two midsize pickup trucks that can still be had with a choice of cab style: the extended King Cab and a four-door crew cab. The Toyota Tacoma is the other. Not only that, but they're also the only trucks that give crew-cab buyers a choice of bed length. In the Frontier's case, that means one can pick between the standard length that's a little less than 5 feet long and the 6-foot-1-inch bed that comes standard on the King Cab. The situation is similar with the Tacoma, but the Ford and GM trucks have 5-foot beds only. Whether you're looking to toss lumber in the back or have a surfboard to take to the beach, this can be a big deal.

Competitors to consider

Given its common bed/body combo availability, the Toyota Tacoma is probably the best place to start when looking for a Frontier alternative. It's also the segment's best-seller, although Edmunds gave both trucks the same 7.6 (out of 10) rating that put them near the bottom of the segment. The Tacoma was completely redesigned for 2024, and it's doubtful many substantial changes will occur for 2026. The Edmunds Top Rated Ford Ranger was also new for '24 and should similarly receive only minor updates (if any). The Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon were new for 2023, which does increase the possibility that they'll see more substantive updates for 2026, though likely nothing that would fundamentally alter the segment's landscape.

The Nissan Frontier doesn't break any new ground, but there are reasons to consider one. Chief among these, it has a more varied and versatile lineup than most of its competitors.