After being on sale for over a decade without a major update, the Nissan Frontier is getting its time in the spotlight.
The automaker today takes the wraps off its new truck and reveals a vehicle with sharp styling, best-in-class features and a load of new safety and convenience technologies.
Technically, the 2022 Frontier isn’t all-new. The powertrain has been a part of the truck’s lineup since 2020, when Nissan implanted a new V-6 and 9-speed automatic transmission.
The engine produces 310 hp and 281 lb.-ft. (381 Nm) of torque, which Nissan says earns Frontier the title of best-in-class for its power output.
The transmission is designed for maximum efficiency and strong acceleration, which comes thanks to a new high-response electro-hydraulic system, a long input shaft and a 99% wider gear range.
Underneath, Nissan updates the Frontier with a retuned hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering gear and overhauled suspension system.
The truck’s cab mounts feature new hydraulic units that reduce vibration up to 80%, and the front stabilizer bar is enlarged to reduce body roll and increase traction.
Four-wheel-drive Frontier models will get a new drive system that is operated by an electronically controlled part-time transfer case, while an available 4-wheel limited-slip system can shift power to the wheels that need traction most.
Hill start assist is standard for all models and hill descent control is standard for those equipped with 4-wheel drive.
The off-road oriented PRO-4X model pushes that capability further with an electronic locking differential, Bilstein off-road shocks and skid plates underneath the body.
Inside (above), the Frontier’s cabin gets a clean-sheet redesign for 2022. A new 9-in. (23-cm) touchscreen graces the center stack of every truck, making it the largest display in the segment. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities will be standard, while a wireless charging pad and Wi-Fi hotspot are optional.
Safety upgrades take a front seat with the new truck, though most equipment is still optional. Intelligent forward collision warnings and a new tire-pressure monitoring system are standard, while adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition and an intelligent driver alertness monitor are available.
All Frontier models will get a rear-door alert system that warns drivers when a child or cargo are left in the back seat.
Pricing details for the ’22 Frontier (pictured below) have not yet been released. The automaker says more information will come as the truck goes on sale this summer.
At launch, Nissan also will release dozens of accessories to upgrade the truck. The list includes sport bars, off-road step rails and NISMO suspension kits.
Slotting below the fullsize Titan pickup in Nissan’s lineup, the Frontier, late in its lifecycle, has fallen in Wards Intelligence’s Small Pickup segment.
Last year, Nissan sold 36,845 Frontiers, down 49% from 2019, while the entire Small Pickup segment fell only 4.8%. Still, the Frontier outsold the GMC Canyon and Honda Ridgeline while trailing the Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, Jeep Gladiator and the No.1 Toyota Tacoma, which posted 238,806 deliveries last year.
Nissan sold a Frontier derivative, the rugged Xterra SUV, until 2015, so it wouldn’t be a stretch to see that nameplate resurrected with a new Frontier arriving, especially as the Ford Bronco comes to market. Nissan isn’t commenting on prospects for a new Xterra.
