The new generation of Nissan’s mid-size pickup is finally here. After more than 15 years, the redesign has finally happened and we can see that the new model brings novelties in various aspects. The most notable is the new styling, which looks way better than before. The same can be said for the interior design, which is nicer and more refined, equipped with more tech features. The 2022 Nissan Frontier continues with the recently introduced V6 engines, which is among the most powerful units in the class.
Despite the redesign, not all things are completely new. The mechanical part of the truck remained largely the same. This pickup rides on the same F-Alpha platform, with minor updates only. The drivetrain is largely the same, despite the new transmission. On the other hand, what we really like about the 2022 Nissan Frontier is that there is no fooling around. This is a work machine, which comes in just two trim levels on the offer, as well as with an off-road-oriented Pro-4X model.
2022 Nissan Frontier Design
As we’ve just mentioned, some things are new while others are not. The 2022 Nissan Frontier is a mix of new and proven design solutions, and that may seem like a good combination. We like the new styling, which looks rugged and capable. You can notice a lot of new styling details, different from what we’ve seen in the updated Titan. This pickup looks more attractive and the styling will definitely be one of the reasons why to pick it over rivals like Tacoma or Colorado.
On the other hand, we expected a little bit more in terms of mechanics. Most of the things remained the same as in the previous generation and even the ride feels kinda familiar, despite the suspension update. One of the things we like about this pickup is hydraulic steering. On the other hand, the drivetrain remained the same and includes three selectable modes – rear-wheel-drive, as well as four-wheel drive with either low or high gearing. Even the selector looks largely the same as in the previous generation.
The new Pro-4X model comes with a couple of upgrades. You will certainly notice unique wheels and other visual details first, but upgrades under the skin are far more important. This pickup comes with the upgrades suspension, as well as with locking rear differential.
Interior
This is where things look much better compared to the previous model. Simply, too many years have passed and even the average dashboard design, which does characterize the new model, looks way better compared to the previous iteration. The materials are nicer, while the dashboard finally features contemporary aesthetics.
We also like that there are numerous tech features on the offer. A nice 7-inch screen on the instrument cluster is standard, as well as an 8-inch touchscreen. You can also opt for a bigger 9-inch unit. Furthermore, you may count on all contemporary tech goodies, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, upgraded audio system, Bluetooth, USB and more.
There is also a fair amount of safety features. You can get systems like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and many more.
Of course, you may count on two familiar configurations – King Cab (which is a kind of extended two-door cab) and Crew Cab. Also, there are two bed sizes on offer – 5-foot and 6-foot units.
2022 Nissan Frontier Engines
The Japanese manufacturer introduce an engine for the new generation a year ago. A 3.8-liter V6 unit continues without any modifications to the new generation. It features a max output of 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, which makes it one of the most capable engines in the class. On the other hand, a 9-speed automatic transmission is new and it works fine on most occasions, though it may trouble to find the right gear sometimes.
Interestingly, the max towing capacity hasn’t improved, so the new model can also tow up to 6.720 pounds. On the other hand, the max payload capacity is now higher and goes up to 1.610 pounds. When it comes to fuel economy, 2WD models return around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while models with four-wheel drive are slightly thirstier.
2022 Nissan Frontier Pricing
The all-new 2022 Nissan Frontier starts at around 31.500 dollars. The most expensive versions can easily go over 40.000 dollars.