Entering its third generation, the all-new 2022 Nissan Frontier is receiving its first major redesign in 16 years. The reimagined midsize pickup comes as part of Nissan’s NEXT transformation plan, and with over 6 decades on the road, it’s time the beloved Frontier gets a total upgrade.
Over its long history, the Frontier has become one of the best-selling mid-size trucks in the U.S. The 2022 Nissan Frontier builds on this footing adding new capabilities, utility features, and an upgraded powertrain. Drivers can expect the 2022 Frontier to hit showrooms in late summer 2021.
Embracing tradition with a twist
In 1959, Nissan brought the U.S. something never seen before – the midsize pickup. Known as the Nissan Hardbody, this truck became a popular choice for its durability, practicality, and off-roading capabilities. Now known as the Frontier, the 2022 rendition goes back to its roots pulling elements from the iconic Hardbody and adding its own modern twist.
The truck’s distinct exterior features a squared-off front face framed by a massive grille and chiseled hood. The tall vertical fender evokes power and vigor – a look that pairs perfectly with the vehicle’s powerhouse engine.
The Frontier packs power, but in an efficient, compact frame. Whether you need it for driving around the city, or the open plains, the Frontier is the perfect middle ground. It’s compact enough to fit in urban street spaces while also being large enough for loads of cargo and equipment. In a market where pickup truck dimensions are growing, the Frontier stays true to its award-winning frame.
Powertrain that can do-it-all
The Frontier offers looks, brains, and brawn. If you’re looking for a truck that does it all, look no further. The 2022 Frontier stands out from the pack with its best-in-class 310 horsepower and standard 3.8-liter direction-injection V6 engine. If that’s not enough, the truck is also equipped with an all-new 9-speed automatic transmission. When paired together, they create a maximum performance powertrain with strong acceleration.
Nissan continued to go full throttle when redesigning the Frontier’s riding capabilities. Along with the freshly minted powertrain, they’ve included a new high-response electro-hydraulic system, long input shaft, and 99 percent wider gear range. This means the transmission offers a crisp, direct response through the entire gear range. Even the steering gear was fine-tuned to deliver the best driving experience. Drivers can expect a better on-center feel, which reduces driver fatigue on long trips.
There’s beauty in the details, too. Carefully crafted design changes make for a much smoother ride in the 2022 Frontier. One way this is achieved is through the new front and rear suspensions, which create the best-level handling possible both on and off-road. In addition, new hydraulic cab mounts reduce road vibration by 80 percent, while urethane jounce bumpers (the only in class) improve damping. Nissan tops off the Frontier’s riding capabilities with larger front and rear stabilizer bars to reduce body roll and increase traction, as well as standard 4-wheel ABS disc brakes for confident stopping power.
For 4WD models, drivers can expect even more. They feature a limited-slip system, which helps transfer power to the front wheels on low traction surfaces. And for extra challenging terrain, the Frontier comes standard with Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. For maximum off-roading adventures, the PRO-4X pushes the limit adding on off-road shock absorbers and underbody skid plates.
Need to tow large trailers? No need to worry. The Frontier’s towing capacity is rated at 6,720 pounds – plenty for boats, ATVs, and any type of gear. Along with this, the Frontier comes standard with Trailer Sway Control – a first for the truck. This helps create a more secure towing experience by automatically applying the brakes when swaying is detected. To finish things off, the bed comes with four tie-down hooks to help secure gear of any shape and size.
Upgraded safety and technology
Don’t just go off our word; the Frontier has the awards to back it. One of these being J.D. Power’s “Most Dependable Midsize Pickup” – which it’s won 3 years in a row. The Nissan hopes to continue this streak and possibly win even more with the 2022 Frontier. Here are some of the features drivers can expect with the 2022 Frontier:
Nissan Safety Shield 360 8 Standard Airbags Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Blind Spot Warning Lane Departure Warning High Beam Assist Intelligent Forward Collision Warning Tire Pressure Monitoring System with Easy-Fill Tire Alert Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Driver Alertness Remote Engine Start with Intelligent Climate Control
Nissan wanted to up the ante with the Frontier, so they also added six new class-exclusive features. These include:
Two front USB ports and two front 12V outlets Rear Automatic Braking Intelligent Cruise Control Wireless smartphone charging and NissanConnect with WiFi Hotspot (PRO-4X and PRO-X models) Two 110V outlets with 400-watt capability (SV, PRO-4X, PRO-X models) Fender Premium Audio with 10 speakers (SV, PRO-4X, PRO-X models)
More interior cargo space
The Frontier’s cabin space has been reinvented to give maximum protection, versatility, and functionality. When it came to the interior, Nissan listened to drivers’ feedback. From this, they learned that the center console storage was a common feature lacking in pickups. With the Frontier, drivers can enjoy 4 liters of center console storage – nearly double that of most mid-size trucks. Along with this, there are 5.7 liters of rear-door pocket storage and 6.5 liters of front-door pocket storage.
All models are also equipped with a largest-in-class 9-inch color touchscreen. The center dashboard has also been reinvented to give an intuitive, user-friendly interface.
Drivers can choose between Charcoal or Sandstone interior color options. For the PRO-4X/PRO-X models, options also include Charcoal with Lava Red.
New 2022 Frontier Trim Levels
The 2022 Frontier will have 4 different trim levels and 6 different configurations available for sale. These include:
2022 Nissan Frontier S 2022 Nissan Frontier SV 2022 Nissan Frontier PRO-X 2022 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X
Options for 2WD or 4WD will also be available. Similarly, drivers can choose short bed (5-foot) or long bed (6-foot) options. At the time of writing, the 2022 Frontier is not on sale. It is expected to be available in later summer 2021.
Have any additional questions? Please feel free to contact us. Also, you can shop our current selection of Nissan Frontier’s online.
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