2002 Pro
- at 30k miles, it's not even broken in yet.
- Looks better inside and out
- less computers (less to go wrong)
- more reliable powertrain
- Smaller & more maneuverable
- I miss my 2002
2002 Con
- Slower (if you need it to go fast)
- Less aftermarket support
- Timing belt needs to be changed ever 105k. Given only 30k on this but accounting for age, I'd probably do it sooner rather than later.
- OE parts are getting harder to find if you need them
- not great on gas (small engine, heavy truck)
2015 Pro
- Also super reliable
- Faster
- More interior space
- better aftermarket support
- 100k is just broken in
- doesn't suffer any of the faults / problems of the early 2nd gen (SMOD, Timing chain tensioners, etc)
- slightly better on gas
- Many OE parts being manufactured through 2028 thanks to sharing the F-Alpha platform w/ the Frontier.
2015 Con
- Not as stylish.
- Driveline is weaker for the increased size/weight of the truck
- computers run everything
- Orange dash lights are hideous at night
- much larger turning circle
On the surface it looks like a solid win for the 2015.
But, as someone who has owned both, I miss my 02 and should never have sold it. Functionally, my 07 is better in lots of ways. I just don't love it like I did the 1st gen.
I have 03' and 13'. I owned 2003 for 10.5 years and 2013 since Dec.
Cons 2002
Nissan's 3.3 will eventually need a head gasket job and oil burners.
timing belt upkeep
distributor
gutless if need to hit sudden passing on the highway
Cats
headliner
Center hub cap rattle
no coin holder
Pros for 2002
Better interior features
Nice design and look
4wd shift
Better interior layout
2015 cons
you have to put a floor mat in the trunk, or things will slide.
No door pockets on the back doors.
The Interior is heavy plastic.
Everything has to be OEM to be happy.
The engine is louder than 3.3, The 747 sound
the double-pressure cooling system sucks.
All models don't have the simple outside temperature gauge like the first gens.
Auto-locking doors when you drive off
seats are smaller than in 2002.
Pros 2015
The engine has the power to go on in that passing lane
Quieter road noise than in 2002.
Better windsheild wipers
change holder
Overall I can depend on 2013 for long trips and 2003 for work. My 2003 left me stranded two times in 10+ years.