2022 Nissan Frontier gets bold looks, better tech, and more safety

KUALA LUMPUR: The second-generation Nissan Frontier has been on sale in the US market for the last 17 years. But finally, after a long wait and anticipation, the market gets an all-new pickup with new bodywork, a significantly redesigned interior, and a number of tech features, although it rides on the same platform dated back to 2005.  

On the exterior, the new iteration features a square front fascia with a wider grille and a chiseled hood, which is framed by new precision interlocking LED headlamps. The pickup’s strong face is teamed up with big arches and light signatures for a bolder stance. At the back, there are C-shaped tail lights and a tailgate stamped with a “FRONTIER” badge, and a ducktail spoiler. The overall design is inspired by the legendary Hardbody compact truck version that was on offer between 1986 and 1997.

The interior of the 2022 Nissan Frontier can be seen as a major change over the outgoing model. It now boasts zero gravity seats, a seven-inch instrument cluster, and a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard appointments. The optional kit includes a wireless charger, and Wi-Fi hotspot.

Nissan also worked on the storage spaces available inside the cabin, the central console is now twice as large as other midsize trucks offer, at 4.0 litres. Also, rear door pockets can now store more stuff. 

However, under the bonnet, it gets the same 3.8-litre V6 mill introduced last year. It generates a maximum power of 310 hp and 381 Nm of peak torque and is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Nissan offers the setup in both rear- and four-wheel drive. Also, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control are now standard across the range. Speaking about the towing capacity, the pickup truck can tow a maximum weight of 6,720 pounds.

Nissan also added Bilstein off-road shocks, and an electronic locking differential to the setup for maximum off-road capability, while it features underbody skid plates for more protection in the rough terrains.

As for safety, the 2022 Frontier is equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360 safety suite, which includes different driver assists like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot and rear cross traffic warning, and high beam assist. Added to the driver assistance systems is an optional surround-view camera system that comes with Moving Object Detection and Off-Road Mode.

Nissan has not yet announced the 2022 Frontier price but has confirmed that it will hit the US showrooms in summer 2021.

Also read: 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SUV revealed in the US market