The Nissan Frontier is by far the best compact truck you can buy.  My 2001 SE-V6 Model is great.  It has a good engine, its not the most powerful but it gets the job done.  It is a good looking truck as well, and can get the job done.  The only regret is that is doesn't have 4WD or a supercharger.  While the power is good nissan made a supercharged version that made 40 more horsepower, which would be nice.  Gas mileage is terrible, driving conservatively i get 17 or less.  The interior is also spacious but the backseat is not.  

I've owned my truck for 9 months and other than the lack of leg room for the back seat passengers it's a great vehicle.