If you’re considering buying a brand-new midsize truck, the 2023 Nissan Frontier is an option. As one of the less popular vehicles in its class, it has a good reputation that some competitors outshine. For the 2023 model year, the Frontier is touted as a smooth-riding, well-handling, spacious pickup with many amenities. However, there are many trim levels in the lineup, so which should you choose? One trim level, the Pro-4X, stands out above the rest and is the only one worth buying over rival models.

The 2023 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X has better technology

To the average buyer, it might seem like the 2023 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X is only an off-road midsize truck. However, it’s also the range-topping model, offering the best tech of any Frontier. According to Edmunds, for just over $40,000, the Pro-4X gets wireless Apple CarPlay, 10 speakers, a nine-inch touchscreen, and LED headlights. In addition to equipment from lower models, these items make it a well-equipped model for its starting price.

For example, things like heated seats and a heated steering wheel, proximity keyless entry, synthetic leather upholstery, forward collision warning, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a sunroof carryover from cheaper model’s optional packages. All this equipment is in addition to Pro-4X exclusive technology and convenience items, plus the many off-road features. The range-topping model has access to all the lower trim options and more.

Exclusive off-road features

The off-roading features are most prominent in the lineup for the 2023 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X. For example, Bilstein shock absorbers, extra skid plates, a locking rear differential, dark-painted wheels, and all-terrain tires. The top-of-the-line model also comes with standard four-wheel drive and a potent 3.8-liter V6 engine, good for 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. Other models use rear-wheel drive and the same engine, but customers must pay extra for 4WD on all trims not called Pro-4X.

Although this off-road offering isn’t an F-150 Raptor or even a Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, it’s a worthy off-roader for the price. Comparably, the Tacoma TRD Pro starts at $47,185, while the Pro-4X is $40,015. Moreover, the features provided for straying from the paved path are nearly identical for the two midsize trucks. It’s worth noting the Tacoma gets an upgraded suspension and a slight lift.

More optional packages

Finally, the 2023 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X is the only trim worth buying for the optional packages. This version of the pickup gains access to more options than any other. For example, only the Pro and 4X can get the Pro Convenience package. It’s the most value-filled package in the lineup, adding a 360-degree camera system and wireless smartphone charging pad to the SV Convenience package. The lower package includes a spray-in bed liner, adjustable bed tie-down cleats, bed under-rail lighting, power outlets, heated mirrors, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, and a trailer hitch/wiring harness, among other things.

Similarly, the Pro Premium package adds leather upholstery and an upgraded interior trim to the SV Premium package. The lower trim’s option contains a 10-speaker Fender sound system, LED headlights, and a sunroof. All versions of the Frontier are available with a Technology package geared toward safety. Highlights include blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic rear braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Only Nissan Frontier trim worth buying

In conclusion, only one 2023 Nissan Frontier trim is worth buying. The Pro-4X model provides owners with more than just off-road capability. It also has access to every optional package, exclusive technology, and a reasonable starting price even rivals don’t beat. If we were to suggest a model from the Frontier lineup, we’d go with the most expensive of them all. Cheaper models don’t offer as much as the affordable options available from other automakers.