These are the two long-term pickup trucks that we currently have: the 2017 Nissan Frontier, we call “Final Frontier”, and the 2017 Ram Power Wagon, simply the “Power Wagon”. Final Frontier 2WD is the most affordable new pickup truck you can currently purchase in the United States (as-tested $20,730). It could not be much more different from the nearly fully-loaded Power Wagon, which is a heavy duty off-road beast (as-tested $63,200).
We put several thousand miles on each one of these trucks, and both trucks have been great in their own way.
The Final Frontier has been absolutely problem-free over the last three months. It’s averaging about 22 MPG – running loaded on the highway, or mostly empty around town. The Frontier S king cab 2WD actually has a comfortable ride, thanks to the suspension setup, 15-inch rims, relatively tall tire sidewall, and relatively long wheelbase. This truck does have a very usable 6-foot long bed, which we have used many times. The 2.5L four-cylinder purrs like a kitten. The 5-speed manual transmission will not be confused for a one from a sports car, but it’s nonetheless very fun to drive.
The brand-new Power Wagon has already seen its share of off-road trails and highways. It’s been to Moab, Utah and its many trails (twice). It easily ascended the Gold Mine Hill, and it’s getting ready for the Cliffhanger 2.0 trail. This truck turns heads most anywhere it goes. The 6.4L HEMI V8 (with 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque) help this heavy truck move out with authority. However, the big red beast has been averaging around 13 MPG combined. We did not expect much more than that from a truck with heavy axles and 4.10 axle gearing.
Funny thing, the Final Frontier and the Power Wagon both have 4.10 rear axle ratio.
Join the team for this Live show and the long-term update on these trucks, as well as an update on the 1985 Chevy K10 “Big Green” project.
