The current Nissan Frontier has been more or less the same truck since the last Bush https://yourtestdriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2023-Ford-Escape-Plug-In-Hybrid_Vapor-Blue_Ford-Escape-ST-Line-Elite_Rapid-Red_01.webpistration, but its age and simplicity haven’t stopped them from commercial success. The 2022 Frontier is here, and the (almost) all-new truck represents a significant step forward for both the nameplate and Nissan’s truck business.
The 2022 Frontier will be offered in a wide range of trims and configurations. King Cab models will be available in both two- and four-wheel drive, and either S or SV trims. Crew Cab trucks can be had with two- or four-wheel drive and in S, SV standard bed, SV long bed, and PRO-4X trims. A new PRO-X trim joins the Frontier lineup with 2WD only.
The powertrain has been battle-tested by customers for a couple years now, as it first debuted in the 2020 model-year Frontier. The 3.8-liter V6 produces a class-best 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. It comes paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that Nissan says was developed specifically for U.S. buyers.
Elsewhere, Frontier four-wheel drive models will continue to have a shift-on-the-fly 4WD system with three modes that are operated by an electronically-controlled part-time transfer case. The trucks are available with a four-wheel limited-slip system that helps transfer traction to the wheels that need the most grip. The off-road oriented PRO-4X model builds on that foundation with an electronic locking differential, Bilstein off-road shocks, and underbody skid plates.
The Frontier’s cabin has been overhauled with an eye on utility, function, and versatility. The centerpiece is a new 9-inch touchscreen that runs Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As standard equipment, the new display ranks at the top of the Frontier’s class, and will be joined by a 7.0-inch driver information display in the gauge cluster. Nissan also says that it has added better sound insulation and upgraded carpet to reduce road noise, and notes that its excellent Zero Gravity seats are standard in all Frontier models.
Where the previous Frontier has felt long in the tooth for years, the new truck will sit on the cutting edge of both entertainment and safety tech. Standard features like two USB ports, that large touchscreen, and several power outlets will keep passengers charged and connected, while available features such as a wireless smartphone charging pad and a WiFi hotspot add to the party.
The Frontier will get Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 technology, which includes forward collision warnings and an advanced tire pressure monitoring system as standard, but adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and more can be added.
Pricing details haven’t yet been released, but Nissan says there will be more information as the truck nears its on-sale date in summer 2021. Around the same time, the automaker will announce more than 85 accessories for the truck, including sports bars, step rails, suspension kits, and more.
