2020 Nissan Frontier vs 2021 Nissan Titan

The 2020 Nissan Frontier retained a design reminiscent of its 2005 predecessor, which had aged gracefully. The PRO-4X trim stood out with its tube-style roof rack, unique 16-inch alloy wheels, and distinctive graphics, giving it a rugged appeal. Available in King Cab and Crew Cab styles, the Frontier offered various trim levels and packages, including the Value Truck Package and Utility Package. The interior, though dated, was solidly built, with a nostalgic mid-2000s Nissan design featuring hard plastics and leather upholstery in the PRO-4X. Despite its age, the Frontier's cabin was free from squeaks and rattles, a testament to its long-standing build quality.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Titan maintained its refreshed look from 2020, offering a more modern and diverse design across its five trim levels. Each trim had distinct grille designs, with the Pro-4X featuring a black grille and lava-red accents. The Titan boasted new headlights with improved light output and LED lighting throughout, enhancing visibility. The interior received significant upgrades, including a large infotainment screen and modern materials, making it more competitive with other full-size trucks. The Titan's cabin was spacious and comfortable, with Zero Gravity seats and available heated and cooled options, though petite drivers might struggle with seat positioning.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier featured a new 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain replaced the older engines and offered improved fuel economy, with RWD models achieving 19 mpg combined. The Frontier's acceleration was strong, and the transmission provided smooth shifts. However, its steering was heavy, and the turning radius was wide. The PRO-4X trim included Bilstein off-road shocks, which absorbed bumps well but allowed road vibrations to be felt in the cabin. Despite its age, the Frontier's new powertrain added charm to its truck-like driving experience.

The 2021 Nissan Titan came with a single powertrain option: a 5.6-liter V8 engine delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, making it the best-in-class standard powertrain. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Titan offered strong acceleration and smooth shifts, though it struggled in mid-range gears. The Titan's fuel economy was 18 mpg combined for both RWD and 4WD models, slightly better than the Toyota Tundra but less efficient than some competitors. The Titan's steering was traditional, with a bit of play, and its ride quality was average for the class. The Titan Pro-4X featured off-road equipment, enhancing its capability in rough terrain.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier offered ample storage with dual glove compartments and a bin under the center armrest. The PRO-4X trim had an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, though it wasn't a Zero Gravity design, leading to discomfort on long drives. Rear seat space was tight, typical for midsize pickups, and lacked modern amenities like rear air vents and USB ports. The Frontier's bed, equipped with a spray-in bedliner and Utili-Track system, could handle a 1,020-pound payload but was shallow at 18 inches deep.

The 2021 Nissan Titan provided seating for five or six, with Zero Gravity seats ensuring comfort on long journeys. Heated and cooled front seats were available, though petite drivers might find seat adjustments challenging. The Titan offered ample front and rear seating space, with a spacious center console for storage. A panoramic moonroof and power-sliding rear window were available, adding to the cabin's appeal. The Titan's interior featured thoughtful touches like grab handles and folding rear seatbacks, enhancing practicality.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier's technology was basic, with a 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering NissanConnect Apps, satellite radio, and a Rockford Fosgate sound system. However, it lacked modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, relying on Bluetooth and Siri Eyes Free for connectivity. The Frontier's technology was minimal, reflecting its dated design.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Titan featured a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, the largest in its class, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Titan offered additional tech options like navigation, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The interface was responsive, though graphics were less modern than competitors. The Titan's audio system could be upgraded to a Fender Premium Audio System, providing superior sound quality.

The 2020 Nissan Frontier's safety ratings were lackluster, with a four-star overall rating from NHTSA and poor frontal-impact scores. It lacked modern safety features, offering only a reversing camera, antilock brakes, traction control, and stability control. The Frontier's safety shortcomings were a significant drawback.

The 2021 Nissan Titan came equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety features like adaptive cruise control and an Around View Monitor were available. The Titan's comprehensive safety suite and best-in-class warranty made it a safer choice.