What We Know About the Redesigned Nissan Frontier

After years of neglect, the Nissan Frontier is finally getting a new generation planned for release in 2021.

The model is now being marketed by the automaker as a cheaper alternative to the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevrolet Colorado, all of which are nearing the prices of full-size pickup trucks.

But if Nissan wants to succeed over its competitors, it should strive for more, according to Stephanie Brinley, a principal automotive analyst at IHS Markit.

“It needs to adapt to some of the creature comforts and some of the technology, not because the other guys have them, but because consumers are indicating that they want them,” Brinley says.

According to multiple sources, the new Nissan Frontier’s design is completely new, with potential buyers being advised to expect an interpretation of the Warrior design seen on the new Titan. The pickup is said to be more masculine and closely resembles the Titan, replicating the design language followed by other manufacturers.

There are also reports that the new Frontier will use an updated version of its current platform while others are claiming that it will ride on a shortened and modified Titan chassis. Nissan has yet to confirm which platform the next Frontier will be on.

A new powertrain is also planned for the new pickup with none of the current standard and optional engines making it to the 2021 Frontier. A 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 and nine-speed automatic transmission is likely the final picks with a 300-horsepower estimate.

Moreover, sources are claiming Nissan will let go of the King Cab and will only offer the new Frontier in a Crew Cab version.

Nissan is expected to officially launch the fully redesigned Frontier within a year with the arrival at dealership lots set in February 2021.

The automaker declined to comment on the reports, but a spokesperson for the company said there are plans to launch 12 new products in the next 20 months.