Insider advice on getting the most from Nissan

Nissan Frontier Desert Runner Vs Pro 4x: Which Is The Best Off-road Pickup?

Quick Overview

  • The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner has a starting price of $34,490, while the Pro-4X has a starting price of $38,490.
  • It has similar features and capabilities to the Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X, but it has a slightly higher starting price.
  • It has a lifted suspension, a locking front differential, and a set of off-road tires.

The Nissan Frontier is a midsize pickup truck that offers two different off-road trims: the Desert Runner and the Pro-4X. Both trims are designed for adventure, but they have different features and capabilities. In this blog post, we’ll compare the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner vs Pro-4X to help you decide which one is right for you.

Capability and Performance

The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X are both powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. Both trims also come standard with a four-wheel-drive system and a locking rear differential. However, the Pro-4X has a few additional features that give it a slight edge in capability, including:

  • Bilstein off-road shocks: These shocks provide better articulation and control when driving over rough terrain.
  • Underbody skid plates: These plates protect the truck’s vital components from damage when driving off-road.
  • All-terrain tires: These tires provide better traction in off-road conditions.

Exterior and Styling

The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X have different exterior styling cues that set them apart. The Desert Runner has a more aggressive look, with a blacked-out grille, black wheels, and red accents. The Pro-4X has a more rugged look, with a chrome grille, gunmetal wheels, and orange accents.

Interior and Comfort

The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X have similar interiors, with comfortable seats and plenty of storage space. However, the Pro-4X has a few additional features that make it more comfortable, including:

  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel: This steering wheel provides a more comfortable grip and looks more upscale.
  • Heated front seats: These seats keep you warm on cold days.
  • Bose audio system: This audio system provides better sound quality than the standard audio system.

Technology and Connectivity

The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X both come standard with a touchscreen infotainment system that includes Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the Pro-4X has a few additional features, including:

  • NissanConnect with Navigation: This system provides turn-by-turn directions and traffic updates.
  • SiriusXM satellite radio: This service provides access to a variety of music, news, and sports channels.
  • Remote start: This feature allows you to start the truck from your key fob.

Safety and Security

The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X both come standard with a variety of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. However, the Pro-4X has a few additional features, including:

  • Blind-spot monitoring: This system warns you of vehicles in your blind spot.
  • Lane departure warning: This system warns you if you start to drift out of your lane.
  • Forward collision warning: This system warns you of potential collisions with other vehicles.

Pricing

The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner has a starting price of $34,490, while the Pro-4X has a starting price of $38,490.

Which One is Right for You?

The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X are both great choices for off-road enthusiasts. The Desert Runner is a more affordable option, while the Pro-4X has more features and capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your budget and your specific needs.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re considering the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner or Pro-4X, you may also want to consider the following alternatives:

  • Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road: The Tacoma TRD Off-Road is another great choice for off-road enthusiasts. It has similar features and capabilities to the Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X, but it has a slightly higher starting price.
  • Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: The Colorado ZR2 is a more extreme off-road pickup truck than the Frontier Desert Runner or Pro-4X. It has a lifted suspension, a locking front differential, and a set of off-road tires.
  • Ford Ranger Raptor: The Ranger Raptor is the most extreme off-road pickup truck on the market. It has a powerful engine, a long-travel suspension, and a set of massive off-road tires.

Verdict: Nissan Frontier Desert Runner vs Pro-4X

The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X are both great choices for off-road enthusiasts. The Desert Runner is a more affordable option, while the Pro-4X has more features and capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your budget and your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X?

A: The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X are two different off-road trims of the Frontier pickup truck. The Pro-4X has a few additional features that give it a slight edge in capability, including Bilstein off-road shocks, underbody skid plates, and all-terrain tires.

Q: Which one is better, the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner or Pro-4X?

A: The best choice for you will depend on your budget and your specific needs. The Desert Runner is a more affordable option, while the Pro-4X has more features and capabilities.

Q: What are the alternatives to the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X?

A: Some alternatives to the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and Pro-4X include the Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road, Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, and Ford Ranger Raptor.

Was this page helpful?No
BJ
About the Author
My name is Bob Jenkins and I'm thrilled to share my automotive adventures with you here on mphdiary.com. Cars have always been a passion of mine, especially sporty yet practical Japanese models. For the past 10 years, I've been driving various Nissan vehicles and am constantly enjoying learning more about...