The mid-size Nissan Frontier has been without the full redesign since 2005 when the second-generation version was introduced. The Frontier is outdated in every respect and aimed against the reintroduced Ford Ranger and new Jeep Gladiator now as well. However, the ancient Frontier still appeals to buyers and managed to outsell the unibody Honda Ridgeline and GMC Canyon in 2018. The Toyota Tacoma and Chevy Colorado were in front of the Frontier in 2018. Surprisingly, the Frontier was in front of the Ford Ranger in the first quarter of 2019 with 20221 sold units compared to 9421 sold Rangers.
However, Nissan confirmed recently that the new-generation Frontier is in works and should appear soon. But as the things stand now, the model won’t appear soon enough for the 2020 model year. The newest reports reveal that the redesigned Frontier should debut in September 2020 as the 2021 version. In the meantime, the 2020 Frontier will return with minimal if any modification.
However, the 2020 version will again find the way to the buyers and get attention again with affordable price, surprisingly comfortable ride, etc. Those who want to draw the best from the next Frontier should go with the 2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X which will provide tough off-road capability.
2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X: Performance
The off-road-ready pickup trucks are popular these days and the 2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X will also be the better side of this model.
The 2020 Frontier PRO-4X will again use a 4.0-liter V-6 engine capable of producing 261 horsepower and peak torque of 284 pound-feet available from 4, 000 rpm. The engine will come in the combination with the six-speed manual gearbox and the automatic unit should also be available.
The PRO-4X trim will improve the off-road capability with the standard, part-time four-wheel drive with low-speed transfer case and locking rear differential. Adding also to the off-road performance will be specially tuned suspension with Bilstein off-road shock absorbers. Important for the off-roading is also knobby, all-terrain tires, and skid plates.
As for the next generation Frontier, the model should get a new 3.0-liter V-6 engine with the power output around 300 hp to replace the current V-6 unit. A new 7-speed automatic transmission should also improve the model’s performance. There are also suggestions that the new-gen Frontier could gain 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine.
2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X: Design
The redesigned Frontier, as the latest reports claim, won’t arrive on the global Navara-platform as it was expected initially yet the model should use the upgraded version of the current F-Alpha architecture. The model will also get modernized styling with the new grille and headlights similar to what we can see on the most recent Nissan SUVs.
The 2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X will, in the meantime, remain the same from the exterior perspective. Nissan’s old-style V-motion grille and wide headlights will define the model’s face. The model will use body color bumpers and unique 16-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires. The exterior features will also include skid plates, fog lights, splash guards, tailgate spoiler, etc.
Interior, Equipment:
Inside the cabin, the Frontier will lack the level of sophistication available in the rival models. It won’t also be the most comfortable or best-equipped mid-size truck on the market. The new generation version should bring more sophistication and modern tech and safety equipment.
The PRO-4X trim will come with a 5.8-inch center display and Nissan Connect infotainment system. There will also be navigation, voice commands, smartphone compatibility, satellite radio, etc. The part of the equipment list will also be dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, unique upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, 10-speaker Rockford Fosgate sound system, etc.
The PRO-4X trim will be available with both extended and crew cab body styles. The crew cab version will also offer the luxury package which upgrades with the leather upholstery, heated mirrors, a sunroof and power front seats.
The 2020 Frontier will again lack advanced safety equipment which should apper with the new-generation version.
2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X: Release, Price
The 2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X should hit the market in the last quarter of the year. The third generation Frontier should debut in September 2020 for the 2021 model year. The 2020 Frontier Pro-4X should again cost from around $33, 000.
