The 2025 Nissan Frontier has made a grand entry into the midsize pickup truck market, bringing with it a host of updates and improvements that have enthusiasts and critics alike buzzing with excitement.
This new model addresses many of the shortcomings of its predecessor while introducing a slew of new features that make it a strong contender in its segment. Let’s dive into what makes the 2025 Nissan Frontier a game-changer.
Table of contents
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine Options | 3.8L V6 (Standard) |
3.8L V6 Turbocharged (Optional) | |
Horsepower | 310 hp (Standard V6) |
330-350 hp (Turbocharged V6) | |
Torque | 280 lb-ft (Standard V6) |
320-350 lb-ft (Turbocharged V6) | |
Fuel Economy (City) | 18 MPG (Standard V6) |
20-22 MPG (Turbocharged V6) | |
Fuel Economy (Highway) | 25 MPG (Turbocharged V6) |
22 MPG (Standard V6) | |
Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive (Standard) |
All-Wheel Drive (Optional on Pro 4X) | |
Infotainment System | 8-inch touchscreen (Base) |
9-inch touchscreen (Higher Trims) | |
Safety Features | Nissan ProPilot Assist (Standard) |
Lane-Keeping Assist | |
Adaptive Cruise Control | |
Automatic Emergency Braking | |
Interior Features | Soft-touch Plastics |
Digital Gauge Cluster (Optional) | |
Updated Climate Controls | |
Exterior Features | LED Headlights and Tail Lights |
Slimmer Headlight Design | |
Modernized Wheels | |
Side Steps (Higher Trims) | |
Trim Levels | Frontier S |
Frontier SV | |
Pro X | |
Pro 4X | |
Base Price | Starting under $32,000 |
Higher Trim Prices | SV: $35,000 (approx.) |
Pro X: $37,000 (approx.) | |
Pro 4X: $40,000+ (approx.) |
Revamped Powertrains
One of the most significant updates to the 2025 Nissan Frontier is its revamped powertrain lineup. The previous model was limited to a single engine option: a 3.8-liter V6.
While this engine was competent, offering 310 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, it was also criticized for being too thirsty on fuel and not powerful enough for some buyers’ needs.
For 2025, Nissan has expanded the engine choices while retaining the 3.8-liter V6 as the base. The big news is the introduction of a turbocharged variant of this engine, which promises to deliver more power and better fuel efficiency.
The turbocharged version is expected to offer improved MPG figures, with city mileage increasing to 20-22 MPG and highway mileage reaching up to 25 MPG. This makes the new Frontier not only more powerful but also more economical to run, especially in urban settings.
Additionally, the naturally aspirated engine has been revised to offer an additional 10-20 horsepower, providing a welcome boost in performance.
This improvement, coupled with the better fuel economy, makes the 2025 Frontier a more versatile and appealing option for a broader range of buyers.
Updated Exterior Design
The 2025 Nissan Frontier retains the distinctive, boxy design that has made it a standout in the midsize pickup truck market. This design pays homage to classic pickup trucks while incorporating modern elements that enhance its overall appeal.
One of the most notable changes is the updated rear end, which now features slimmer, full LED tail lights. These new lights give the Frontier a sharper and more athletic look, adding to its retro-esque aesthetic.
The sides of the truck have also been given a more prominent appearance, amplified by the addition of side steps on higher-end models. These steps not only enhance the truck’s rugged look but also improve functionality.
The wheels have been modernized to bring the Frontier more in line with its competitors without sacrificing its unique identity.
However, the most significant change is at the front of the truck. The 2025 model boasts slimmer headlights and a more prominent grille design, making it stand out even more. This new front end looks both more refined and aggressive, drawing comparisons to the new Land Cruiser – a definite plus in the eyes of many.
Interior Upgrades
The interior of the previous Nissan Frontier models often received criticism for its outdated design and lackluster materials. For 2025, Nissan has addressed these issues head-on, delivering an interior that is both modern and comfortable.
One of the key improvements is the use of higher-quality materials throughout the cabin. Soft-touch plastics now cover the dashboard’s top and bottom parts, providing a more premium feel. The overall fit and finish have been improved, with tighter panel gaps and better assembly quality.
Technology has also seen a significant upgrade. The outdated infotainment system has been replaced with a newer, larger unit that is more responsive and easier to use. This new system includes a larger touchscreen, replacing the old 8-inch unit with a 9-inch version that was previously reserved for higher trim levels.
The climate controls have been updated to feature a modern digital screen, reducing the reliance on physical buttons and decluttering the central console.
Another notable addition is the digital gauge cluster, which enhances the driving experience by providing clearer and more customizable information displays. While not all trim levels will come with this feature, its availability is a welcome improvement.
Enhanced Safety Features
Safety has always been a crucial aspect of vehicle design, and the 2025 Nissan Frontier makes significant strides in this area. Previous models were criticized for being under-equipped, especially in terms of advanced safety features. Nissan has responded by making several key safety technologies standard across the range.
One of the standout additions is Nissan’s ProPilot Assist, a suite of semi-autonomous driving features that enhance safety and convenience.
This system includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, among other features. Even the base model now comes equipped with these advanced safety technologies, making the Frontier one of the safest options in its class.
The larger 9-inch touchscreen also contributes to safety by providing a clearer and more intuitive interface for navigation and media controls, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road. Higher trim levels offer even more advanced variations of ProPilot Assist, ensuring that buyers can choose a model that meets their specific safety needs.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 Nissan Frontier maintains its competitive pricing while offering more features and better value for money. The trim levels have been slightly revised, with some changes to the lineup to reflect the new design and feature set.
The base model, known as the Frontier S, offers a significant amount of equipment for its price, which is expected to remain under $32,000. This model includes the advanced safety features mentioned earlier, as well as the new infotainment system and improved interior materials.
The next step up is the SV trim, which adds stylistic enhancements such as alloy wheels, fully painted body panels, and a broader range of color options. While the equipment level remains similar to the base model, the SV offers a more polished appearance for a small price increase.
For those looking for a more rugged and off-road capable option, the Pro X trim is the way to go. This model features an increased ride height, larger wheels, full LED headlights and tail lights, and rugged exterior details that enhance its off-road credentials.
The Pro X also comes with the new infotainment system as standard and offers the option to upgrade to a fully digital gauge cluster.
The Pro 4X trim is the top-of-the-line option for those who need all-wheel drive (AWD). This model includes all the features of the Pro X, plus the added capability of AWD. While it is the most expensive option in the lineup, the Pro 4X offers the best combination of style, performance, and off-road capability.
2025 Nissan Frontier Release Date
The release date for the 2025 Nissan Frontier is expected to be around October to November 2024, with the first batch expected to hit dealerships by the end of November 2024. This timeline gives prospective buyers ample time to explore the new features and improvements before making a purchase decision.