The Nissan Frontier pickup truck is one of the most traditional choices in the midsize pickup segment.
It is smaller than a full-size Nissan Titan-sized truck, easier to maneuver than a large pickup and still offers enough power and towing capacity for many everyday truck jobs.
For 2027, the Nissan Frontier continues with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. It uses a 9-speed automatic transmission, while four-wheel drive is available on selected versions. Nissan lists maximum towing capacity of up to 7,150 pounds and maximum payload of up to 1,590 pounds.
The Frontier also remains one of the few midsize pickups that still uses a naturally aspirated V6 rather than downsizing to a turbocharged four-cylinder.
For buyers who prefer a simpler powertrain, that is an important part of the Frontier’s appeal.
Nissan Frontier Pickup at a Glance
| Feature | 2027 Nissan Frontier |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Midsize pickup |
| Engine | 3.8L naturally aspirated V6 |
| Horsepower | 310 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Maximum towing | 7,150 lbs |
| Maximum payload | 1,590 lbs |
| Starting MSRP | $33,890 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / available 4WD |
| Cab | Crew Cab |
| Bed lengths | 5.0 ft / 6.1 ft |
| Off-road model | PRO-4X |
| Sport model | Frontier Sport |
| Fuel economy | Up to 19 city / 24 highway mpg |
| Seating | Up to 5 |
Nissan’s official 2027 specifications list the 310-hp V6, 281 lb-ft of torque, 9-speed automatic transmission, 7,150-pound maximum towing capacity and up to 1,590 pounds of payload.
What Is the Nissan Frontier?
The Nissan Frontier is Nissan’s midsize pickup truck.
It sits in the same broad market as the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger.
The current-generation Frontier arrived for the 2022 model year and brought a more modern exterior and interior while retaining a relatively traditional truck construction.
That combination is one of the Frontier’s biggest selling points.
It does not try to turn itself into a crossover with a pickup bed.
It still feels like a truck.
The Frontier uses a body-on-frame construction, rear leaf springs and a conventional gasoline V6.
For buyers who want a straightforward midsize pickup rather than the newest possible powertrain technology, that formula can be attractive.
2027 Nissan Frontier Price
The 2027 Nissan Frontier starts at $33,890 in the United States.
Nissan’s current 2027 specifications list these starting prices for the main Crew Cab configurations:
| Trim | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| Frontier S 4×2 | $33,890 |
| Frontier SV 4×2 | $36,490 |
| Frontier PRO-X 4×2 | $38,890 |
| Frontier PRO-4X 4×4 Long Bed | $42,690 |
Nissan lists a $1,775 destination charge separately on these configurations.
The S is the basic work-oriented option.
The SV adds more convenience equipment and is likely to appeal to the largest number of daily drivers.
The PRO-X adds a more aggressive appearance and off-road-oriented equipment while remaining rear-wheel drive.
The PRO-4X is the serious factory off-road version.
Nissan Frontier Engine
The Frontier uses a 3.8-liter V6.
It produces:
- 310 horsepower
- 281 lb-ft of torque
- Direct fuel injection
- 9-speed automatic transmission
The engine is naturally aspirated.
That means there is no turbocharger or supercharger helping the V6 produce its power.
Nissan describes the engine as part of its VQ family, a series of V6 engines with a long history within Nissan and Infiniti vehicles.
For buyers who want a naturally aspirated engine, the Frontier is unusual in today’s midsize pickup market.
Several competitors have moved toward smaller turbocharged engines and hybrid powertrains.
The Frontier instead continues with a relatively large-displacement V6.
Is the Nissan Frontier V6?
Yes.
The Frontier uses a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 across the current lineup.
It produces 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque.
The engine does not produce as much torque as some turbocharged competitors, but its 310-horsepower output is strong for a midsize pickup.
The lack of turbocharging also gives the Frontier a different driving character.
Power builds progressively rather than delivering the stronger low-rpm torque associated with turbocharged engines.
Nissan Frontier Performance
The Frontier’s 310 horsepower is one of its strongest specifications.
Its 281 lb-ft of torque is more modest compared with trucks such as the Chevrolet Colorado, which offers 430 lb-ft from its TurboMax engine.
That difference is important.
The Frontier has plenty of power for everyday driving and highway use, but it does not have the same low-speed torque advantage as some newer turbocharged competitors.
On the other hand, the V6 is relatively straightforward.
For buyers who do not need maximum towing or instant low-rpm torque, that can be a worthwhile trade-off.
Nissan Frontier Towing Capacity
The 2027 Nissan Frontier can tow up to 7,150 pounds when properly equipped.
That gives it enough capacity for many:
- Travel trailers
- Boats
- Utility trailers
- Motorcycles
- ATVs
- Small campers
- Landscaping equipment
Nissan lists the 7,150-pound maximum across its current Frontier specifications.
However, the maximum rating depends on configuration.
For example, Nissan’s 2027 specifications show the Crew Cab S 4×2 at up to 7,040 pounds, while the SV 4×2 is rated up to 7,000 pounds and the PRO-X at up to 6,910 pounds. The PRO-4X Long Bed is listed at up to 6,310 pounds.
This is a good example of why maximum advertised towing should not be confused with the towing capacity of every Frontier.
Nissan Frontier Payload Capacity
Maximum payload reaches 1,590 pounds.
Payload is the amount of weight the truck can carry, including occupants and cargo.
The actual payload depends on configuration.
Nissan’s official specifications list up to 1,590 pounds for the Frontier, while the PRO-4X is rated lower because of its additional off-road equipment.
If you plan to carry heavy equipment regularly, check the payload rating of the exact truck before buying.
Nissan Frontier Bed Size
The Frontier is available with different bed configurations.
The standard bed measures approximately 5 feet, while the long-bed Crew Cab configuration provides approximately 6.1 feet of cargo length.
Nissan’s 2027 specifications list 59.5 inches of cargo length for the regular bed and 73.3 inches for the long bed.
The longer bed is particularly useful for buyers carrying:
- Lumber
- Tools
- Camping equipment
- Motorcycles
- Construction materials
- Agricultural equipment
The shorter bed is easier to live with in city driving.
Nissan Frontier 4×4
Four-wheel drive is available on the Frontier.
The system uses a switch-operated two-speed transfer case, allowing the driver to select four-wheel-drive modes when conditions require additional traction.
The PRO-4X goes further with:
- 4WD
- Low-range gearing
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Terrain Mode
- Hill descent control
- Off-road tires
- Specialized suspension tuning
That makes the PRO-4X much more capable away from pavement than a standard 2WD Frontier.
Nissan Frontier PRO-4X
The Frontier PRO-4X is Nissan’s flagship factory off-road model.
It is designed for buyers who want to drive on rocky trails, dirt roads, sand and uneven terrain without immediately modifying the truck.
The PRO-4X includes:
- 4WD
- Electronic locking rear differential
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- All-terrain tires
- Bilstein off-road shocks
- Skid plates
- Hill descent control
- Terrain Mode
- Off-road-focused styling
Nissan’s 2027 PRO-4X page specifically highlights its 310-hp V6, 281 lb-ft of torque and factory 4×4 capability.
The PRO-4X is not the best Frontier for maximum towing.
It is designed around off-road capability.
That distinction matters when choosing a trim.
Nissan Frontier Sport
For 2027, Nissan also offers the Frontier Sport.
The Sport version combines a more aggressive appearance with useful off-road equipment.
Nissan lists:
- 17-inch off-road-style alloy wheels
- All-terrain tires
- Sport two-tone interior
- Skid plates
- Front accent lighting
- LED fog lamps
It retains the 310-hp V6.
The Sport is an interesting middle ground for buyers who want a more rugged-looking truck without necessarily choosing the full PRO-4X package.
Nissan Frontier PRO-X
The PRO-X is the rear-wheel-drive alternative to the PRO-4X.
It gets a more aggressive appearance and all-terrain tires but does not have the same 4WD system.
For buyers who mostly drive on pavement but like the look and stance of an off-road pickup, the PRO-X can make sense.
It is also less expensive than the PRO-4X.
However, if you regularly drive through mud, rocks, deep sand or steep trails, the PRO-4X is the much better choice.
Nissan Frontier Interior
The Frontier’s cabin combines traditional truck design with modern technology.
The overall layout is straightforward.
That can actually be a benefit.
The controls are generally easy to understand, and the cabin does not rely entirely on touchscreen menus for basic vehicle functions.
Higher trims add:
- Power seats
- Heated seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Leather seating
- Premium audio
- Larger infotainment features
- Additional driver-assistance technology
The Crew Cab seats up to five people.
Rear-seat legroom is not as generous as a full-size pickup, but the Frontier remains practical for adults on shorter and medium-length journeys.
Nissan Frontier Technology
The Frontier offers modern connectivity without abandoning physical controls.
Depending on trim and package, features include:
- Touchscreen infotainment
- Apple CarPlay
- Android Auto
- Available wireless smartphone connectivity
- USB connectivity
- Available Fender premium audio
- Digital information display
- NissanConnect services
The higher trims provide a more premium experience.
The base S is more focused on affordability and practical truck use.
Nissan Frontier Safety
The Frontier offers Nissan’s suite of driver-assistance technologies.
Depending on trim and equipment, available systems include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Automatic Braking
- Blind Spot Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Intelligent Cruise Control
- Intelligent Around View Monitor
The exact availability depends on trim and package.
For a daily-driven truck, these systems can make highway and parking situations easier.
Nissan Frontier Fuel Economy
The Frontier is not a fuel-economy champion, but its numbers are reasonable for a midsize V6 pickup.
Nissan lists up to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for applicable 2WD configurations.
The PRO-4X naturally returns lower fuel economy because of its four-wheel-drive hardware, suspension, tires and additional weight.
Nissan’s 2027 specifications list:
| Configuration | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| S 4×2 | 19 mpg | 24 mpg | 21 mpg |
| SV 4×2 | 19 mpg | 24 mpg | 21 mpg |
| PRO-X 4×2 | 19 mpg | 24 mpg | 21 mpg |
| PRO-4X 4×4 | 16 mpg | 20 mpg | 18 mpg |
These are official EPA-rated figures shown by Nissan for the listed configurations.
Nissan Frontier Ground Clearance
Ground clearance depends on configuration.
Nissan’s 2027 specifications list approximately:
- 7.8 inches for the S 4×2
- 7.5 inches for the SV 4×2
- 8.4 inches for the PRO-X
- 8.6 inches for the PRO-4X
The PRO-4X therefore has a meaningful advantage when driving over rocks, ruts and rough trails.
Ground clearance is only one part of off-road capability.
Tire selection, suspension travel, approach angle, departure angle, drivetrain and traction control are also important.
Nissan Frontier Off-Road Capability
The Frontier is particularly interesting because Nissan has kept a dedicated off-road version in the lineup.
The PRO-4X gets hardware designed specifically for difficult terrain.
Its electronic locking rear differential is particularly useful.
A locking differential helps send torque to both rear wheels when traction is limited.
The truck also has a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing.
Low range is useful when climbing steep obstacles or moving slowly through difficult terrain.
Nissan lists approach, breakover and departure angles of approximately 32.3, 19.6 and 23.0 degrees for the applicable PRO-4X configuration.
Nissan Frontier vs Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is probably the Frontier’s most direct competitor.
The two trucks share several characteristics.
Both are midsize pickups.
Both offer dedicated off-road models.
Both have long histories in the pickup market.
But their powertrains are very different.
The Frontier uses a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft.
The current Tacoma uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder, with an available i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain.
The Tacoma hybrid can produce substantially more torque than the Frontier.
The Frontier’s advantage is simplicity.
If you specifically want a naturally aspirated V6, the Frontier is one of the few remaining choices.
Nissan Frontier vs Chevy Colorado
The Chevrolet Colorado takes a very different approach.
The Colorado uses a 2.7-liter TurboMax turbocharged four-cylinder producing 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque.
The Frontier has the same horsepower but significantly less torque.
The Colorado also offers a maximum towing rating of 7,700 pounds.
The Frontier reaches 7,150 pounds.
The Chevrolet therefore has an advantage on paper for maximum torque and towing.
The Nissan counters with its naturally aspirated V6, traditional truck character and competitive PRO-4X off-road model.
Nissan Frontier vs Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is another major competitor.
The Ranger uses turbocharged engines and offers a broader range of powertrains.
The Frontier is simpler.
Its 3.8-liter V6 is naturally aspirated and its transmission is a 9-speed automatic.
For buyers who prefer turbocharged torque and newer powertrain technology, the Ranger may be more attractive.
For buyers who want a conventional V6 midsize pickup, the Frontier remains unusual.
Nissan Frontier vs Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline is also a midsize pickup, but it is mechanically very different.
The Ridgeline uses a unibody platform and independent suspension.
The Frontier uses a traditional body-on-frame truck platform with a solid rear axle and leaf springs.
The Ridgeline is more car-like.
The Frontier feels more like a conventional pickup.
If you regularly drive on rough trails or need a traditional truck chassis, the Frontier makes more sense.
If comfort and everyday road driving are the main priorities, the Ridgeline deserves consideration.
Is the Nissan Frontier a Good Pickup?
Yes.
The Frontier is one of the more traditional midsize pickups available.
Its main strengths include:
- 310-hp V6
- Naturally aspirated engine
- 9-speed automatic
- Up to 7,150 pounds of towing
- Up to 1,590 pounds of payload
- Available 4WD
- PRO-4X off-road model
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Good ground clearance
- Useful bed configurations
- Competitive starting price
Its biggest weakness is torque.
At 281 lb-ft, it cannot match turbocharged competitors that produce significantly more low-end pulling force.
Fuel economy is also only average.
But if you value a conventional V6 and a straightforward truck design, those compromises may not matter much.
Is the Nissan Frontier Reliable?
The Frontier has a long history, and Nissan’s 3.8-liter V6 has been used in the truck for several years.
Nissan says the V6 is derived from its VQ engine family and highlights the engine’s longevity and reliability heritage.
However, no pickup should be called automatically reliable simply because of its engine design.
Maintenance, driving conditions, towing, off-road use and service history all affect long-term ownership.
For a used Frontier, check:
- Maintenance records
- Transmission operation
- 4WD operation
- Differential condition
- Suspension components
- Frame condition
- Evidence of towing
- Evidence of serious off-road use
A truck that has spent years towing heavy trailers or driving difficult trails can have substantially more wear than a similar-looking truck used mainly on highways.
Is the Nissan Frontier Good for Towing?
Yes.
Its maximum 7,150-pound rating makes it capable of towing many recreational and utility trailers.
However, the exact configuration matters.
The standard 2WD versions generally have higher towing ratings than the off-road PRO-4X.
That makes sense.
The PRO-4X adds heavier off-road equipment, which changes vehicle weight and capability priorities.
If towing is your primary requirement, compare the exact tow rating rather than simply choosing the most expensive Frontier.
Is the Nissan Frontier Good for Off-Roading?
Yes, particularly the PRO-4X.
The PRO-4X has:
- 4WD
- Low range
- Electronic locking rear differential
- All-terrain tires
- Off-road suspension
- Skid plates
- Terrain modes
- Hill descent control
It is a genuine factory off-road truck.
The standard Frontier can also handle dirt roads and light trails, but the PRO-4X is designed for much more demanding terrain.
Is the Nissan Frontier Worth Buying?
The Frontier is worth considering if you want a midsize pickup with a traditional mechanical layout and naturally aspirated V6.
Its 310 horsepower is competitive.
Its 7,150-pound towing capacity is useful.
The PRO-4X is genuinely capable off pavement.
The interior is modern enough for everyday use.
The biggest question is whether you want a naturally aspirated V6 in a market increasingly dominated by turbocharged engines and hybrids.
For some buyers, that is exactly why the Frontier is attractive.
2027 Nissan Frontier: What’s New?
The 2027 Frontier continues the basic mechanical package but expands the lineup and equipment.
Frontier Sport
The new Sport model gets off-road-style wheels, all-terrain tires, skid plates, front accent lighting and a unique interior.
PRO-4X
The PRO-4X remains the dedicated factory off-road model with 4WD and 310 horsepower.
PRO-4X R by Roush
Nissan also lists a Frontier PRO-4X R by Roush, featuring Roush-tuned off-road suspension, a lift kit, aggressive all-terrain tires and special styling.
This is an interesting option for buyers who want something more aggressive than the standard PRO-4X without building a modified truck themselves.
Final Verdict
The Nissan Frontier pickup truck is one of the remaining choices for buyers who want a relatively straightforward midsize truck.
Its naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 produces 310 horsepower, while the 9-speed automatic transmission keeps the truck competitive in everyday driving.
The 7,150-pound maximum towing capacity is strong enough for many recreational and work applications.
The PRO-4X is the highlight for off-road buyers.
It adds four-wheel drive, low-range gearing, an electronic locking rear differential, all-terrain tires and specialized suspension hardware.
The Frontier does have one major disadvantage compared with newer turbocharged rivals.
Its 281 lb-ft of torque is not especially high.
A Chevrolet Colorado, for example, produces 430 lb-ft from its TurboMax engine.
But numbers are not everything.
The Frontier’s naturally aspirated V6 provides a different driving experience, and some buyers will prefer its conventional character.
If you want a midsize pickup that can tow, haul, explore trails and serve as a daily driver without becoming overly complicated, the Frontier remains a strong option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of the 2027 Nissan Frontier?
The 2027 Nissan Frontier starts at $33,890 in the United States before destination charges, options, taxes and other fees.
How much horsepower does the Nissan Frontier have?
The Frontier produces 310 horsepower from its 3.8-liter V6.
How much torque does the Nissan Frontier have?
The 3.8-liter V6 produces 281 lb-ft of torque.
Does the Nissan Frontier have a V6?
Yes. The current Frontier uses a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6.
Is the Nissan Frontier turbocharged?
No. The current Frontier’s 3.8-liter V6 is naturally aspirated.
How much can the Nissan Frontier tow?
The 2027 Frontier can tow up to 7,150 pounds when properly equipped.
What is the Nissan Frontier payload capacity?
Maximum payload reaches 1,590 pounds, depending on configuration.
Is the Nissan Frontier 4WD?
Four-wheel drive is available, with the PRO-4X offering a dedicated 4WD off-road configuration.
What is the Nissan Frontier PRO-4X?
The PRO-4X is the Frontier’s factory off-road model. It includes 4WD, an electronic locking rear differential, all-terrain tires, off-road suspension and additional trail equipment.
What is the Nissan Frontier PRO-X?
The PRO-X is a more rugged-looking rear-wheel-drive Frontier. It provides some of the appearance and equipment of the off-road models without the full 4WD system.
Is the Nissan Frontier good for off-roading?
Yes. The PRO-4X is particularly capable because it combines 4WD, low range, a locking rear differential, off-road tires and specialized suspension.
Is the Nissan Frontier reliable?
The Frontier has a long-standing reputation as a durable midsize pickup, but actual reliability depends on maintenance, driving conditions and vehicle history.
What is the Nissan Frontier fuel economy?
Applicable 2WD Frontier configurations are rated at up to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The PRO-4X is rated at 16 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.
Is the Nissan Frontier better than the Toyota Tacoma?
Neither is universally better. The Frontier offers a naturally aspirated V6, while the Tacoma uses a turbocharged four-cylinder and offers an available hybrid powertrain. Buyers should compare powertrain preference, towing, off-road equipment and price.
Is the Nissan Frontier better than the Chevy Colorado?
The Colorado has a major advantage in torque and maximum towing capacity. The Frontier’s advantage is its naturally aspirated V6 and traditional truck character.
Is the Nissan Frontier a full-size pickup?
No. The Frontier is a midsize pickup truck.
What size bed does the Nissan Frontier have?
The Frontier is available with approximately 5-foot and 6.1-foot bed configurations. Nissan lists 59.5 inches and 73.3 inches of cargo length for the applicable 2027 configurations.
Does Nissan still make the Frontier?
Yes. The Frontier remains Nissan’s current pickup truck in the United States, and the 2027 model is officially listed by Nissan.
