Adding standard air conditioning, a CD player, and a new powerful 4.0-liter, 265-hp DOHC V6 engine means you've stepped up from the base model to the SE trim of Nissan's mid-sized pickup.  The rear-wheel drive 2005 Nissan Frontier SE King Cab comes with a choice of two new transmissions -- a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.  It also features larger 16-inch wheels.  Otherwise, it's much like the base, with 4-wheel ABS brakes, dual front airbags, a tire monitor, intermittent wipers, and a tachometer.

The King Cab features reverse-hinged doors that open into a small backseat.  Fold-down jump seats are not that comfortable.  The cargo bed is just over 6-feet long and can be equipped with Utili-Trak rails, a bedliner, cover, and a trailer hitch to tow up to 6500 pounds.  A roof rack is also available.  The 2005 Frontier SE King Cab has a lot more options, including traction control, alloy wheels, a power package (mirrors, locks, and windows), cruise control, and side impact airbags.  Drivers seem to like the increased V6 power, but wish the cabin was larger and made of less plastic.