Nissan hits hard when they remodel their vehicles. The new Frontier is no exception. This truck finally has the power and looks to rival any of the competition. I wanted to help you in your shopping by pointing out the features I saw the other day on my test drive.
The 4.0 DOHC V6 puts 265 hp down and 284 lb-ft of torque. It feels like it can pull a house down. The new engine has an aluminum block and is very smooth. The 4-cylinder is no slouch. It puts down 154 hp and is much more balanced for a smooth like comparison to the V6.
The new, boxed frame is similar to the big brother Titan’s full size frame. The welded in cross members add to the midsize trucks rigid handling. Nissan went all out. This truck has a double wishbone suspension and leaf spring rear suspension. Drives like a car in the city, but the structure of a big truck for work or off road time. Speaking of off roading – your 4x4 guys will like the 10.1” of ground clearance. Nothing is hanging down anymore. Add a skid plate to the 4WD model and some optional off road tires and you are ready to climb a hill with just the push of a 4WD button.
Technology was put into this bad boy, too. 4 wheel limited slip so that the wheels don’t loose traction and a vehicle dynamic control. It keeps your truck in control by braking and engine controls to help maintain total vehicle control. Of course, it may not prevent an accident, but it sure could help on a rainy day.
My friend got the NISMO Frontier. It has the off road package and some special graphics along with Bilstein shocks. The interior was a unique as were the wheels. His was an automatic, and although he doesn’t take it off roading, it sure did ride nice and it wasn’t that much more with all of these options. He had a bed protector and the utili-track bed rail system. The tie down locations were limitless. It has two glove boxes. Yes, in the front where you only get one. The Nissan also had neat under seat storage and the front passenger seat folded up to provide a desk type surface.
The truck has been really well thought out. There are tons of air bags for protection on the sides, window curtains, and of course in front. ABS and brake assist (helps you apply more braking force if necessary) features along with the brake distribution (applies more braking power to the rear wheels balance the weight) helps remove safety as a concern.
The truck is truly a world-class midsize pickup and leads in most categories. I wish you had to opportunity to drive one as I did.
