The Frontier shares its basic layout, including the suspension and other components with the larger Titan pickup. This setup includes a double-wishbone front setup with a solid-axle and leaf springs at the rear.
The base S and SV Frontier King Cab rear-wheel drive trucks feature a 152-horsepower, 2.5L 4-cylinder engine. All other Frontiers are powered by a 4.0L V6 engine, making 261 horsepower and 281 lb-feet of torque. This predominantly aluminum, double-overhead-cam engine utilizes continuously variable valve timing, variable induction and a number of technologies to ensure smooth operation and efficiency. Four-cylinder models have a 5-speed manual transmission standard, while V6 models get 6-speed versions. A 5-speed automatic is available on both.
On V6 models, a 4-wheel-drive system is available which features electronically controlled shift-on-the-fly engagement and a low range. The 4-wheel drive models also bring a 4-wheel limited-slip system. Hill Descent Control is a system intended to help maintain a steady, slow speed while descending especially steep slopes, while Hill Start Assist allows a smooth, controlled start on a steep incline without roll-back. Both features are standard on all 4-wheel drive models and an automatic transmission.
The top-of-the-line SL includes the V6 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission, as well as additional features such as 18-inch aluminum wheels, fog lights, 8-way adjustable power driver's seat and side step rails.
For the off-road enthusiast, Nissan offers the PRO-4X edition, which is available in both the King Cab and Crew Cab SV V6-equipped Frontiers with either rear-wheel or 4-wheel drive. The package brings Bilstein performance shocks, an electronic-locking rear differential and anti-lock-brake-controlled limited slip. The PRO-4X also includes additional skid plates and 16-inch off-road tires.
The Frontier has several innovative storage options, including storage boxes under the rear seats, a large center console, a dual-compartment glove box and several power points. The Utili-Track system, which brings removable utility tie-down cleats and secure attaching channels, is available and especially useful for securing heavy cargo that doesn't take up the entire bed.
Front-seat side air bags are standard, as are side-curtain air bags that cover front and rear occupants and stability control is standard on V6 models.