Posted: Oct 09 2008 at 8:51am | IP Logged

I am looking to buy a 2004 year model Frontier (that year body style is my favorite). I owned a 2002 XE a few years ago and loved it, but it was a bare minimum model (didn't have power anything). So this time I want to get one as tricked out as I can. My issue is that in looking there are quite a few models and I can't find specifics on the differences and I was hoping that the information and community here could help me make the best decision on getting what I want.

My minimum requirements are 4X4, roof rack, and 4 door crew cab.

In searching for 4X4 models all that I can find are XE, S/C, and SVE models.

From experience I thought the XE model was the base model and the LE was the next trim level up, as I cannot seem to find any LE models that have 4X4 I had begun to assume that it is not offered in the LE.

The S/C is the supercharged version which I really like, but from reading on the forums here it sounds like there is a group of people that think the S/C is a bit of a waste as the power increase doesn't offset the need for premium fuel and reduced gas mileage.

The SVE edition is the "value edition" of the S/C trim level, but sadly I cannot find what is "value" on the SVE that isn't there on the S/C one. The ads I can find show me that it's about the same truck.

So, my questions to the community are...

1. Is the S/C version worth the extra cost over the XE for the increase in HP?

2. Can I get an XE with all the bells and whistles or are there limitations on the XE trim level?

3. What is the difference in the SVE and S/C trim levels?

4. Are there any "gotchas" for the Frontier that I should look for when buying a used model?

Any other information that anyone can provide would be appreciated as I want to get the right truck.

Thanks