The new engine design includes Continuous Valve Timing Control (C-VTC), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), a silent timing chain, microfinished
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| The base 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine will also be available in the King Cab model. (Photo: Nissan Canada) |
camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, molybdenum-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, a digital knock control system, cross flow engine coolant pattern, high capacity muffler, lightweight aluminum block and platinum-tipped spark plugs. In V6 guise the Frontier's maximum towing capacity will be rated in excess of 2,495 kilos (5,500 pounds). Incidentally, the new V6 will be assembled in the U.S., at Nissan's engine production facility in Decherd, Tennessee.
Nissan has not announced a supercharged version of the new engine, currently an option. A 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder, up 0.1 liters over the current base engine, will also remain in the Frontier lineup. What's more, the 2.5 will also be available in the King Cab model - not so with the current Frontier four-door.
Getting power down to the road will be a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed
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| Nissan states that the Frontier's off-road capability will be "substantially enhanced in virtually every aspect." (Photo: Nissan Canada) |
manual, the latter being the first of its kind to be offered in the compact pickup class. Both rear-wheel drive and electronically controlled part-time shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive will be available. The latter will include 2WD/4H/4LO modes driven through an electronically controlled part-time transfer case. What's more, Nissan will provide a new advanced off-road traction system with 4x4 Frontiers, plus performance gas shocks and alloy wheels wrapped in off-road performance tires. The Japanese brand states that the truck's off-road capability will be "substantially enhanced in virtually every aspect." On-road handling will no doubt be improved as well, especially in top trim where the Frontier features 17-inch alloy rims under 265/65R17 tires.
