2022 Nissan Frontier Overland Build Trail-Tested & Adventure-Approved

Those of us who are constantly on the go (and we’re confidently betting that’s most of us) know just how much easier life is when your mode of transportation is always ready to go. There’s great satisfaction in investing time and effort into building a vehicle that doesn’t only just do its job but actually plays a part in getting you out the door quickly and more often. That’s what Johnathan Smith’s 2022 Nissan Frontier Overland does for him.

Armed with a full quiver of accessories and upgrades and modified to suit his exact needs, the Frontier is his key to getting out faster and staying out longer.

Getting Off-Road

Smith has been off-roading since he was old enough to drive. Never having camped as a kid, he first got into the scene at 16. His first truck, a 1994 Isuzu Rodeo, was the tipping point. “I threw some BFGs on it and hit some local trails in the San Bernardino mountains,” he tells us. “[I’ve been] hooked ever since.”

Since that first ‘94 Isuzu, Smith has piloted quite a few rigs, but the work he’s put into his 2022 Nissan Frontier and the adventures he’s taken in it make it stand apart from the rest.

Adventure Companion

For someone who’s on the road as much as Smith is, putting in the work to build a perfect adventure companion is a serious undertaking. While the truck of course functions as his dedicated overland rig, he notes that it’s designed to be used for a little bit of everything, from off-roading to bugging out when needed. “Oh, I can’t forget about mall crawling as well!” he laughs.

“Armed with a full quiver of accessories and upgrades and modified to suit his exact needs, the Frontier is his key to getting out faster and staying out longer, too.”

Its main purpose, though, is to be a basecamp for Smith to live out of during extended overland trips so he can enjoy the outdoors in comfort.

“I’m always on the go and I wanted to maximize my time being outdoors so staying in the truck and sleeping near the area I wanted to explore just made more sense than driving home and unpacking every single time and starting over again for the next trip,” he explains.

Always focused on the next adventure, and not wasting time dealing with unnecessary loading and unloading of gear? Sounds like just about every overlander’s dream come true.

“We drive the Frontier everywhere we can,” Smith notes. And he’s got the evidence to back it up, too: they’ve put about 30,000 miles on the truck in just about eight months of driving.

Long trips and extended adventures contribute to that, including the roughly 3,200-mile round trip trek from Orange County, California, to Springfield, Missouri, for MOORE Expo back in April 2023.

In Good Company

Staying just a bit closer to home, Smith can often be found in one of his favorite spots, Moab, Utah, enjoying the beautiful scenery and wheeling on some of the best trails in the country.

A recent trip found him spending four days in Moab with a skilled crew of off roaders as he joined Rogue Overland’s 2023 Winter Expedition. Onion Creek, Hurrah Pass, and a drive through 7 Mile Rim in the snow were highlights of the trip, during which 25-30 rigs caravanned through the area.

“Always focused on the next adventure, and not wasting time dealing with unnecessary loading and unloading of gear? Sounds like just about every overlander’s dream come true.”

Unfortunately, “The trip was cut short due to weather conditions making some of the areas impassable,” but, ever the optimist, Smith insists, “The four days we explored was one of the best trips I’ve ever had, and the Frontier performed flawlessly… It was a blast.”

Building the Frontier

Timeline: It took about eight months to fully build out the Frontier, with the help of All Dogs Off-Road, LTW Motorsports, and Peak Suspension.

Suspension details:

• All Dogs Parabolic Leaf Springs
• All Dogs Enhanced Extended Travel Fox coilovers with heavy coils pair with High Clearance upper control arms.
• Another set of Enhanced Extended Travel Fox shocks hold it down in the rear.

“Beyond being well-prepared for extended overland adventure, Smith’s Frontier has all the mods it needs to handle some serious off-road terrain, too.”

Starting with a solid base:

• Engine: 3.0L V8, 310hp and 281 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Drivetrain: An ARB Diff Cover, All Dogs Off Road Rear Differential Breather keep things working smoothly.
• Tires/Wheels: The Frontier rolls on BFGoodrich KO2s, which, paired with his Method Race Wheels 301s.
• Communications: Midland Radios.

Rugged Exterior

Beyond being well-prepared for extended overland adventure, Smith’s Frontier has all the mods it needs to handle some serious off-road terrain, too.

• White Knuckle Off-Road Rock Sliders.
• CBI Off Road accessories: Covert Bumper, Bull Bar, and Full Overland Skid Plate

Covering his engine, transmission, transfer case, and gas tank, to provide extra damage protection.

“…they’ve put about 30,000 miles on the truck in just about eight months of driving.”

Lighting:

• Baja Designs Light Bars keep everything illuminated, both on the trail and at camp.
• An S8 30-inch Light Bar in amber secures to his CBI bumper
• S8 40-inch Light Bar is mounted on the Prinsu roof rack.
• Baja Designs S2 Sport side area lights and Sport chase lights round out his lighting setup.

Recovery: He’s got a Warn Zeon 10S winch on the front bumper as well.

Bed organization: In the bed, a Front Runner Outfitters Nissan Navara D40 Drawer Kit keeps all of Smith’s gear organized.

Interior Accessories

In the cab, we find more organizational equipment and tech.

• The backseat is home to his ARB Zero Fridge 38Q powered by a Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Lithium battery.
• Plus plenty of other gear stored in backseats.

Dashboard accessories:

• On the dash is a RAM Mounts Quick Grip Phone Holder
• GoPro Mount
• Mic Mount

Communication setup:

• Midland Radios handle all of Smith’s comms through an MXT275 Micromobile Two-Way Radio
• MXTA 25 Ghost Antenna, MXTA 22 ditch light bracket mount, and MXTA 24 Antenna

Battery and Power Management:

• An AGM Battery with a SwitchPros SP9100 keep all of his tech powered and controlled.

Ideal Rig

The first thing we notice when glancing over at Smith’s 2022 Nissan Frontier is:

• The GoFastCampers Platform Camper.
• It’s no surprise to us that the truck topper/rooftop tent combo is Smith’s favorite part of his setup.
• The GFC is easy to set up and break down, which, according to Smith, is “paramount” on busy days and after long drives. “It feels like home even when you’re away from home,” he explains.

A top the GFC is an Overland Kitted Boomerang MaxTrax Mount that secures his MaxTrax Xtreme recovery boards to the top of his tent.

At the end of the day, “I think the truck is perfect just the way it is,” he says, “It has been a pleasure for me to drive on these adventures, that’s for sure.”

But while he gives props to Nissan for “really nailing” the 3rd-gen, Smith deserves just as much credit for building off that solid foundation to create the perfect truck for himself.

UPGRADES OF 2022 NISSAN FRONTIER

2022 Nissan Frontier Pro 4x

Engine:

• 2022, 3.8 Liter V6

Suspension:

• All Dogs Off-Road Parabolic leaf springs;
• (front) All Dogs Off-Road Enhanced Extended Travel Fox coilovers with heavy coils, High Clearance upper control arms;
• (rear) All Dogs Off-Road Enhanced Extended Travel Fox shocks

Wheels & Tires:

• Method Race Wheels 301 Standard Matte Black 17-inch
• BFGoodrich KO2 tires, 285/70/17

Interior Accessories:

• RAM Mounts Quick Grip Phone Holder
• GoPro Mount
• Mic Mount
• Midland Radio MXT275 Micromobile Two-Way Radio
• MXTA 25 Ghost Antenna
• MXTA 22 ditch light bracket mount
• MXTA 24 Antenna
• Odyssey AGM Battery
• SwitchPros SP9100

Exterior Accessories:

• Baja Designs S8 30-inch Light Bar, amber
• Baja Designs S8 40-inch Light Bar, amber/ clear
• Warn Zeon 10S winch
• Front Runner Outfitters Nissan Navara D40 Drawer Kit
• White Knuckle Off-Road Rock Sliders
• CBI Off Road Covert Bumper
• Bull Bar
• Full Overland Skid Plate

Additional Modifications:

• ARB Diff Cover
• All Dogs Off Road Rear Differential breather
• Prinsu Roof Rack (custom cut to half rack by Peak Suspension)
• GFC Platform Camper
• ARB Zero Fridge 38Q
• MaxTrax Xtreme
• Overland Kitted Boomerang Maxtrax Mount
• AVS in channel Visors
• Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Lithium battery
• UnderLand OffRoad Molle Panel
• Baja Designs S2 sport side area lights
• Baja Designs S2 sport chase lights

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the truck perform with 285/70-17 BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires, and do they fit without rubbing?

Testing Out the 285/70-17 All-Terrains:

When it came time for tires, Smith didn’t hesitate to throw on a set of 285/70-17 BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2s—trusty companions that have served adventurers well on countless trails. Swapping them in from a previous build, he was pleasantly surprised: they fit right onto the stock setup without any fuss.

On the road and around camp, he reports no noticeable rubbing during regular driving. Of course, the real test comes when the trails demand maximum flex and articulation. So far, even with the suspension working through its range, clearance hasn’t been an issue. It’s a straightforward upgrade that adds traction and confidence, with the bonus of hassle-free installation—just the kind of modification every overlander appreciates.

What is the overall satisfaction with the truck’s build quality, adjustability, and rust resistance of aluminum components?

Satisfaction With Build Quality and Design

When it comes to the truck’s build, Smith is all smiles. The level of adjustability in components like the rack means everything can be dialed in to suit his exact needs—raising or lowering it on a whim for gear, visibility, or aerodynamics. And with aluminum construction throughout, he’s confident there’s no threat of rust, even after countless miles and unexpected weather on the trail. It’s a sturdy, quality setup—one that’s clearly ready for the long haul.

What were the factory steps removed from the truck, and what benefits did that provide?

Shedding the Stock Steps

One of the very first tweaks Smith made was saying goodbye to the factory side steps. Why? Simple: while those stock steps might be handy in the grocery store parking lot, out on the trail, they’re more of a liability than an asset. Removing them gives the Frontier an instant boost in ground clearance, making it far less likely to get hung up on rocks or tree roots when things get technical.

It’s a classic move for anyone who sees more dirt than pavement—tossing the factory steps not only trims down unnecessary weight but also paves the way for robust aftermarket protection like the White Knuckle Off-Road Rock Sliders. The result? Cleaner lines underneath, less chance of unwanted battle scars, and a rig ready to take on just about anything that Moab or beyond can throw at it.

How do others in the community perceive the redesign of the Nissan Frontier Pro 4x, and how does it compare to prior models?

Community Impressions of the Frontier Pro-4X Redesign

If you spend any time among Nissan enthusiasts, you’ll notice plenty of chatter about the latest redesign of the Frontier Pro-4X—and it’s almost universally positive. The new body lines and color options are quick to win fans, with many arguing that Nissan knocked it out of the park with the updated look. For some, even the most loyal owners of older models, the temptation to upgrade is real.

Longtime Nissan drivers—those who have run everything from first-gen Titans to second-gen Xterras—are especially keen on the latest Pro-4X. Many note that, despite owning different Nissan trucks and SUVs over the years, there’s something about the latest Frontier that keeps drawing them back. The appeal goes beyond aesthetics, too. Owners often praise the truck’s improved capability and comfort, with the Pro-4X standing out as a favorite for those who want a rig that can double as a daily driver and a dedicated overland vehicle.

What’s more, plenty of folks have expanded their Nissan lineup, adding new generation Frontiers alongside tried-and-true models like the Xterra for when their bigger builds are overkill. Whether it’s for tackling demanding trails or just a bit of light “mall crawling,” the consensus is clear: the newest Frontier is making a strong case for itself among Nissan faithful and newcomers alike.

What is the stock flex capability of the 2022 Frontier Pro 4x before suspension modifications?

Curious about its capabilities before adding any upgrades, Smith took the 2022 Frontier Pro-4X out for a little test—just as it rolled off the showroom floor. Without any suspension modifications, the stock setup provided a respectable amount of articulation and flex, managing uneven terrain with surprising competence. While it’s not going to rival a purpose-built rock crawler straight away, the Frontier’s factory suspension gives you a good baseline: solid flex for daily adventures and enough capability to build on.

Of course, as many seasoned overlanders know, seeing just what the truck can handle in its original form sets the stage for future modifications. In Smith’s case, those initial tests revealed a truck ready for fun, but with even more potential once the upgrades rolled in.

What communications equipment is planned, such as adding a Midland radio for future trips?

In the cab, we find more organizational equipment and tech. The backseat is home to his ARB Zero Fridge 38Q powered by a Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Lithium battery, plus plenty of other gear he stores there.

On the dash is a RAM Mounts Quick Grip Phone Holder, as well as a GoPro Mount and Mic Mount. Midland Radios handle all of Smith’s comms through an MXT275 Micromobile Two-Way Radio, MXTA 25 Ghost Antenna, MXTA 22 ditch light bracket mount, and MXTA 24 Antenna. An AGM Battery with a SwitchPros SP9100 keep all of his tech powered and controlled.

Smith likes to keep things practical and ready for a quick weekend getaway—or a longer trek. For added visibility, he’s installed ditch light brackets paired with Rough Country flood pattern pods, and even brought over his trusty amber lights from a previous build. To make managing all the accessories as streamlined as possible, an Auxbeam 8-circuit controller pulls everything together, putting lighting, fridge, and comms all at his fingertips.

With everything from daily essentials to trail tech neatly arranged, Smith’s Frontier is dialed for both work and play, making pre-trip prep and spontaneous adventures equally stress-free.

What are the initial impressions of the 2022 Nissan Frontier Pro 4x after purchase and a long road trip?

“I think the truck is perfect just the way it is,” he says, “It has been a pleasure for me to drive on these adventures, that’s for sure.” But while he gives props to Nissan for “really nailing” the 3rd-gen, Smith deserves just as much credit for building off that solid foundation to create the perfect truck for himself.

From the moment he picked up his Frontier, Smith wasted no time getting it out on the road—logging a 1,200-mile road trip for work just two days after purchase. The experience only confirmed his decision to return to the midsize truck platform after years with a Grand Cherokee Trailhawk. “It just felt right,” he recalls, noting how the Frontier handled the miles with comfort and confidence.

Since then, he’s continued to rack up the miles—about 30,000 in just eight months—all while dialing in the setup that lets him seamlessly transition from daily life to remote adventures. Whether it’s long stretches of highway or trails that test the limits of his gear, Smith’s approach is simple: build on what works, stay organized, and make every journey enjoyable.