The Nissan Frontier is a class leader in the compact pickup truck category, and the SE is its mid-level trim line.

The Crew Cab configuration is the more spacious of the two available configurations (Crew and King), being "more sedan-like" with its rear bench seating. Reviewers found the front seats comfortable and supportive. The Crew Cab was considered the best choice for carrying five people, but reviewers criticized "kid-size" rear seat legroom.

The Crew Cab SE's engine is a 4.0-liter V6 that produces 261 hp and 281 pound-feet of torque. Kelley Blue Book commented that the engine "might be the smoothest, strongest V6 ever put in a pickup." The front-wheel-drive configuration couples it to a six-speed manual transmission that received reviewers' praise. The optional five-speed automatic also received favorable reviewer comments as a sophisticated unit. Overall Performance is brisk, and handling is exceptionally well mannered.

Gas mileage is the only drawback. The EPA rates the V6 with front-wheel drive and manual transmission at 16/20 mpg city/highway, while the five-speed automatic is rated for 15/20 mpg.

The SE trim line adds a front tow hook and voltage and oil pressure gauges. The truck bed comes equipped with Nissan's Utili-track Channel System and a factory-applied spray-on bedliner with bed rail caps.

The front-wheel drive SE Crew Cab manual can carry 1,427 pounds, and the automatic can carry 1,446. Both have a maximum towing capacity of 6,300 pounds.