The new Nissan Frontier is coming and the derived Xterra SUV model could also see the light of day. Nissan confirmed the new generation Frontier but still keeps us in the dark with no release date and specs revealed. With the new Ford Ranger on the US shores and the recent introduction of the Wrangler-based Gladiator model, the mid-size class has become more competitive than ever and Nissan should soon respond with the redesigned Frontier.
With no prototype versions spotted on the road yet, the new Frontier could arrive sometime in 2020 or 2021. Nissan hasn’t said what it has in the plan for the new Frontier and we must again rely on the rumors in the industry. Based on the latest reports, the new Frontier should arrive with global Navara-based underpinning and design but should get unique powertrain options and equipment. The diesel version is possible for the US market and the model could arrive as the 2020 Nissan Frontier but more likely for the 2021 model year.
2020 Nissan Frontier: Design
The new Frontier hasn’t been spotted yet testing on roads which could mean that we are still a year or two away from the launch but the most optimistic reports claim the arrival as the 2020 Nissan Frontier version.
Nissan hasn’t’ revealed any details about the design of the new version and different sources suggest a similar outcome. As most of the reports indicate, the new Frontier should arrive based on the platform of the global Navara model which underpins also the Mercedes X-Class.
The Ford Ranger is also based on the global version and share the same design theme. The new Frontier should also borrow heavily from the Navara model with some elements from the brand’s recent versions as well.
So, the new Frontier should look similar to the global version and adopt the new version of the V-motion grille. The new, more modern design of the headlights and taillights will also improve the look of the model. The truck should again return in the extended and crew cab styles and with two bed sizes.
Interior, Equipment:
Nissan will lift the material and finish quality of the Frontier’s interior to the new level compared to the current, dated design. The truck will also benefit from the latest tech and safety features. The well-equipped version with the leather upholstery, heated seats, contrasting trim, premium sound system and more will also be available.
The truck will also equip some of the advanced safety systems. The model should get parking sensors, surround view cameras, and crash avoidance technologies which become the common part of the newest trucks.
2020 Nissan Frontier: Powertrains
When it comes to the engine options, Nissan promised already the new V-6 engine for the Frontier and Titian models. The diesel unit is also possible for the redesigned 2020 Nissan Frontier. Nissan wasn’t again specific when the new V-6 will arrive and about its performance.
Nissan will likely offer the base I-4 engine again but we don’t know what solution the brand will use. The current 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes 152 hp and torque of 171 pound-feet.
The new V-6 unit will replace the current 4.0-liter V-6 but it remains to see the performance of the new option. With the new engine, the Frontier should also get a new, 7-speed automatic transmission.
As for the diesel option, a 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel has been mentioned in rumors with power around 200 hp and torque around 350 lb-ft. The global Navara uses single or bi-turbo 2.3-liter four-cylinder diesel mill but this engine won’t likely be the solution for the Frontier version.
2020 Nissan Frontier: Release, Price
The new generation Frontier should appear sometime in 2020 or even in 2021. If it comes as the 2020 Nissan Frontier, the release date should be in early 2020. With the expected upgrades, the base price should move to around $20, 000.
I was interested in a Frontier. I simply want a basic truck. I don’t care about bling or 4×4. Yes, the truck has shortcomings and is dated, but it also came in at under $20 K. In one year the MSRP jumped $6 K. Huh? That’s the end of my interest.