In a segment where overall truck dimensions continue to expand, the Nissan Frontier remains a traditional mid-size truck that is applicable for a variety of fleet needs ranging from urban vocational applications to working in remote non-paved rural environments. The 2020 Frontier is available in rear-wheel drive or available shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system with 2WD/4HI/4LO modes and electronically controlled part-time transfer case. Also, the Frontier is available in three trim levels — S, SV, and PRO-4X.
Automotive Fleet magazine recently had an opportunity to test drive the 2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X Crew Cab model.
The most noteworthy aspect about the 2020 Frontier is its all-new 3.8L V-6 and all-new 9-speed automatic transmission. The new V-6 engine generates 310-horsepower and 281 lb.-ft. of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission further improves acceleration and fuel economy performance. Our driving impression is that the transmission offers quick shift response throughout the entire gear range and is very quiet, which, according to Nissan, is due to a centrifugal pendulum absorber.
PRO-4X Off-Road Capability
During AF’s one-week test drive, the Frontier provided good ride-and-handling characteristics and a comfortable ride. The cab interior, from the driver and front passenger perspective, is ergonomically comfortable, but legroom will be tight in the back seat of the crew cab when transporting a work crew.
Standard on all 4x4 Frontier models is Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist. The Hill Descent Control feature allows slow hill descent without the constant application of the brake pedal. Hill Start Assist allows the pickup to stop on an incline and not roll back for up to two seconds while the driver shifts from the brake pedal to the accelerator.
Cargo-Carrying Capabilities
The cargo bed of the Frontier PRO-4X Crew Cab features a factory-applied spray-on bedliner and the Utili-Track System, which provides cargo hauling flexibility through the use of five special “C” cross-section rails mounted in the bed. Removable utility cleats slide into the channels, providing a wide range of attaching points that can be ratcheted down to secure even the most awkward or unwieldy loads by using the built-in-tie down loops.
In addition, a full line of accessories are offered for use with the Utili-Track System, including bed dividers, extenders, sliding tool boxes, and modular storage units that can be integrated into the cargo system.
All Frontier pickups feature a locking tailgate and cargo bed light.
All-New Frontier to Debut in 2021
The 2020 Frontier will be the last model year of this generation pickup to feature the current body design. An all-new next-generation Frontier is anticipated to debut in 2021. According to Nissan, the all-new 3.8L V-6 engine and the all-new nine-speed automatic transmission combination “previews the heart of an all-new next generation Frontier.”
