Two tests of the Frontier were conducted, one by the Institute of a 2wd King Cab and the other by Nissan of a 2wd Crew Cab as part of frontal crash test verification. The overall rating of Good is based on review of both tests, which independently result in overall ratings of Good.

In each test, measures taken from the head, neck, and chest indicate low risk of injuries to these body regions in a crash of this severity. In the test conducted by Nissan, forces on the left knee, right tibia, and right foot indicate that left knee and right lower leg and foot injuries would be possible. (In the Institute's test, forces on the left knee and both tibias indicate that knee and lower leg injuries would be possible.)

Dummy movement was well controlled in both tests. After the dummy moved forward into the airbag, it rebounded into the seat without its head coming close to any stiff structure that could cause injury.