Overview
- The Nissan Frontier is a mid-size pickup truck that offers a variety of trim levels, including the Desert Runner and the SV.
- The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner has a maximum towing capacity of 6,720 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,610 pounds.
- The Desert Runner is the better choice for off-roading because it comes with a number of features that are designed to improve its performance on rough terrain.
The Nissan Frontier is a mid-size pickup truck that offers a variety of trim levels, including the Desert Runner and the SV. Both of these trims are designed for off-road enthusiasts, but they offer different features and capabilities. In this blog post, we’ll compare the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner vs. SV to help you decide which one is right for you.
Off-Road Performance
The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner is the more off-road-capable trim level of the two. It comes with a number of features that are designed to improve its performance on rough terrain, including:
- A lifted suspension with Bilstein shocks
- All-terrain tires
- A skid plate
- A locking rear differential
- Hill descent control
The Nissan Frontier SV, on the other hand, is a more street-oriented trim level. It does not come with the same off-road features as the Desert Runner, but it still offers a comfortable ride and good handling on pavement.
Engine and Transmission
Both the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and the SV are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine. This engine produces 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner has a maximum towing capacity of 6,720 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,610 pounds. The Nissan Frontier SV has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,580 pounds.
Interior Features
The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and the SV both offer a comfortable and well-equipped interior. Standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Desert Runner also comes with a number of unique features, such as:
- Orange stitching on the seats and steering wheel
- A unique instrument cluster
- Desert Runner floor mats
Price
The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner has a starting price of $36,990. The Nissan Frontier SV has a starting price of $32,990.
Which One is Right for You?
The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner is the best choice for off-road enthusiasts who need a truck that can handle rough terrain. The Nissan Frontier SV is a good choice for drivers who want a comfortable and well-equipped truck that can still handle some light off-roading.
Final Thoughts
The Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and the SV are both great choices for off-road enthusiasts. The Desert Runner is the more capable off-road truck, but the SV is a more affordable option. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: What are the key differences between the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and the SV?
A: The key differences between the Nissan Frontier Desert Runner and the SV are:
- The Desert Runner has a lifted suspension with Bilstein shocks, while the SV does not.
- The Desert Runner comes with all-terrain tires, while the SV does not.
- The Desert Runner has a skid plate, while the SV does not.
- The Desert Runner has a locking rear differential, while the SV does not.
- The Desert Runner has hill descent control, while the SV does not.
Q: Which trim level is better for off-roading, the Desert Runner or the SV?
A: The Desert Runner is the better choice for off-roading because it comes with a number of features that are designed to improve its performance on rough terrain.
Q: Which trim level is more affordable, the Desert Runner or the SV?
A: The SV is the more affordable trim level.