I’m always on the lookout for overland-equipped rigs at affordable prices and today’s 2002 Nissan Frontier 4×4 with 190,000 miles is a great example. The owner is transparent about any issues, but what’s clear above all else is that this vehicle has been well-maintained; with a little TLC, it would make a turnkey truck for adventure. At $13,500 OBO it represents an excellent value considering the SE trim, premium aftermarket modifications, Gold Coast Transmissions gearbox rebuild (at 165,000 miles), and ARE camper shell topper. The Frontier is often overlooked for overlanding but this is not a reflection of the truck’s reliability or capability; rather, it’s simply eclipsed by the popularity of the Tacoma. Subsequently, pre-owned examples are oftentimes significantly cheaper and snapped up by those who recognize its potential. If you’d like to better understand how this platform performs for backcountry travel then check out the builds from Softroading the West and BadWolf Offroad.
From the Seller:
“When I bought the truck, it had been a bit neglected and I had to do some work to get it to where I wanted it to be. I’m a yacht captain, and I refit and outfit vessels for expeditions on a regular basis. So that’s what I did for this truck, for its intended purpose of off-grid, hunting excursions. I lived and adventured out of it for three months in 2021, hunting, camping, and exploring out West (I lived in South Florida at the time). Pretty much anything I would expect to go wrong has been fixed or replaced, mostly preemptively. I would drive this thing anywhere.”
2002 Nissan Frontier 4×4
The Frontier is fitted with a 3.3-liter V6 that produces 210 horsepower, 246 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 15 mpg. A long-lived engine is matched with excellent capability thanks to 4WD, high and low range, rear limited-slip differential, armor, and more. These rugged credentials are balanced with a well-equipped interior with driver comforts that include:
- Cruise control
- Air-conditioning
- Center console with cupholders
- Power steering, windows, locks, and mirrors
- Bluetooth-compatible audio
Distinguishing Features
- Automotive Customizer’s 3-inch lift, heavy-duty Old Man Emu leaf pack, Bilstein shocks
- ARB front bumper with Mile Marker winch
- ARE camper shell topper
- Yakima roof rack and Skybox 21 Carbonite
- Dometic fridge/freezer
- Goal Zero Yeti 1000 with 200 watts of solar
- Backseat delete with platform
This 2002 Nissan Frontier 4×4 is listed for $13,500 OBO and is currently located in Greenville, South Carolina. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
Our No Compromise Clause: We do not accept advertorial content or allow advertising to influence our coverage, and our contributors are guaranteed editorial independence. Overland International may earn a small commission from affiliate links included in this article. We appreciate your support.
