Nissan's Next-Generation Frontier is Larger and More Powerful
Nissan's Frontier compact pickup truck is among the last of only a few models to receive major updates prior to this week's North American International Auto Show in Detroit. As it seems the wait has been worth it. Not only is the new truck completely redesigned with styling reminiscent of Nissan's new full-size Titan pickup, but it's larger and more powerful.
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| Not only has the new Frontier been completely redesigned, but it's also larger and more powerful. (Photo: Nissan Canada) |
Nissan's third-generation Frontier is new from the ground up, sharing a modified version of the Titan's fully-boxed ladder frame. Its wheelbase is 9.8 inches longer than the current Frontier which should provide improved ride comfort and overall stability. The truck's overall length is now 205.5 inches, longer than the current model by 2.6 inches in King Cab guise and 5.6 inches for the Crew Cab. While larger, Nissan makes a point that its 2005 Frontier "is not as big as the full-size Titan."
What about its drivetrain? The Frontier's current generation 3.3-L V6 is already a strong performer, but the new 4.0-L DOHC V6 steps up output with 250-plus horsepower and 270-plus lb-ft of torque. When compared to the base engine of the current truck the new specifications show an improvement of 70 horsepower and 68 lb-ft of torque over current normally aspirated 180-hp 3.3-litre V6 with 202 lb-ft of torque. Nissan has not announced a supercharged version of the engine, currently an option, with speculators figuring a V8 will be offered in the new Frontier's top model. A 4-cylinder base Frontier will remain in the lineup.
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| The updated Frontier's frame will be sourced from its full-size Titan sibling, making it larger than the current model. (Photo: Nissan Canada) |
Getting power down to the road will be a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed 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.
Not only will the frame be sourced from its larger Titan sibling but much of its chassis componentry, including its all-steel double-wishbone front setup and rigid leafs in the rear.
Other Titan exclusives will be added too, including a spray-in bedliner, and the Utili-Track bed channel tie-down system that offers unprecedented cargo flexibility.
The 2005 Frontier will be assembled at Nissan's Smyrna, Tennessee plant and available in King Cab (extended cab) and Crew Cab iterations when it arrives in Nissan showrooms nationwide this winter (2004).