The 2020 Nissan Frontier marks a significant step forward for this dependable mid-size truck, serving as a preview of the next-generation model while delivering substantial upgrades for the present. For truck enthusiasts and those in need of a reliable workhorse, the 2020 Frontier introduces an all-new, robust 3.8-liter direct injection V6 engine and a responsive 9-speed automatic transmission, setting a new standard in its class. This model year isn’t just a carryover; it’s a strategic enhancement, ensuring the Frontier remains a competitive and compelling option in the mid-size truck segment as we look towards the future of Nissan trucks.
Unleashing Power and Efficiency: The All-New 3.8-Liter V6 Engine
At the core of the 2020 Nissan Frontier lies a completely redesigned 3.8-liter direct injection V6 engine, a powerhouse specifically engineered to meet the demands of American truck owners. This engine isn’t merely an incremental improvement; it’s a ground-up redesign with 93 percent new or redesigned parts. This commitment to innovation results in a best-in-class horsepower rating of 310, surpassing all competitors in the small truck segment. Alongside this impressive power, the engine delivers a solid 281 lb-ft of torque, ensuring ample muscle for hauling, towing, and tackling challenging terrains.
But the advancements don’t stop at power. Nissan engineers have meticulously optimized this engine for enhanced fuel economy and reduced emissions. Compared to previous Frontier models, the 2020 V6 offers a notable improvement in fuel efficiency, gaining 2 mpg for 4×4 models and an even more impressive 2 mpg city / 1 mpg highway and combined for 4×2 configurations. This balance of power and efficiency is crucial for today’s truck owners, who demand both performance and responsible fuel consumption. The official EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2020 Nissan Frontier stand at 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined for 4×2 models, and 17 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined for 4×4 models. These figures are a testament to Nissan’s dedication to providing a modern and efficient powertrain.
The development of this engine was a rigorous process, focused squarely on the needs of the North American market. Extensive testing and refinement were conducted to ensure durability and performance in real-world conditions. Adding to its significance, this engine is assembled at Nissan’s state-of-the-art engine facility in Decherd, Tennessee, sharing production lines with the powerful 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 found in the full-size TITAN pickup. This co-location highlights the importance Nissan places on truck powertrains and the quality standards applied across its truck lineup.
Technologically, the 3.8-liter V6 is packed with features designed to optimize performance and efficiency. The direct injection gasoline system ensures precise fuel delivery, maximizing combustion and power output. Cylinder heads with integrated exhaust manifolds contribute to a more compact and efficient engine design. A variable displacement oil pump adapts to engine load, reducing parasitic losses and improving fuel economy. Variable timing control and a variable tumble control valve further enhance combustion efficiency and responsiveness across the engine’s operating range.
Seamless Performance: The All-New 9-Speed Automatic Transmission
Complementing the potent new engine is an equally advanced 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous generation’s 5-speed automatic and manual options. This transmission is a key contributor to the 2020 Frontier’s improved acceleration and fuel economy. Sharing design similarities with the 9-speed automatic in the 2020 TITAN, this transmission is engineered for optimal powertrain efficiency and a more engaging driving experience.
The increased number of gears provides a wider gear ratio spread, allowing for quicker acceleration from a standstill and more relaxed and fuel-efficient cruising at higher speeds. Features like an expanded lockup area, a new high-response electro-hydraulic system, and a long input shaft contribute to the transmission’s quick, crisp, and direct shift response throughout the entire gear range. Drivers will appreciate the smooth and responsive shifts, whether navigating city streets or tackling demanding trails.
Beyond performance, the 9-speed automatic also enhances refinement. It is notably quieter than the previous 5-speed automatic, thanks to a centrifugal pendulum absorber that minimizes noise and vibration. This improvement in noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) contributes to a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, especially on longer journeys.
More Than Just a Powertrain: Additional 2020 Enhancements
The 2020 Nissan Frontier’s upgrades extend beyond the engine and transmission, encompassing a range of new standard features and package options that enhance convenience, style, and value. A key addition across all grades is the standard push-button start, bringing a modern touch to the Frontier’s interior. Further enhancing the user experience, features like a leather shift knob, manual tilt steering, power door locks, and power windows with driver-side auto-down are now standard on every 2020 Frontier model.
Wheel options and trims have also been refined for the new model year. The base S grade now comes standard with 16-inch styled steel wheels paired with 265/70R16 tires. The SV grade continues with 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, while the off-road-oriented PRO-4X boasts distinctive 16-inch off-road design machine-finish aluminum-alloy wheels wrapped in 265/75R16 all-terrain tires. These wheel and tire combinations not only enhance the visual appeal of each trim level but also contribute to their specific performance characteristics.
For buyers seeking added style and features, a new Special Edition Package is available on the Crew Cab SV. This package includes a trip computer, a Satin Chrome grille, a body-colored rear bumper, and eye-catching 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/60R18 tires. The Special Edition Package joins the already popular Value Truck Package and Midnight Edition Package, providing a diverse range of customization options to suit various tastes and needs.
The Authentic Mid-Size Truck: Right-Sized for Any Adventure
In a market where trucks are constantly growing in size, the 2020 Nissan Frontier remains true to its mid-size roots. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need a capable truck that’s still maneuverable in urban environments and agile on off-road trails. The Frontier’s dimensions are perfectly suited for navigating city parking garages and tight backwoods paths, offering a blend of practicality and versatility that larger trucks can’t match.
Nissan offers the 2020 Frontier in both King Cab and Crew Cab configurations, with a choice of 4×2 and 4×4 drive systems and three distinct grade levels: S, SV, and PRO-4X. This variety ensures there’s a Frontier configuration to meet a wide range of needs and preferences, from basic work truck duties to more adventurous off-road excursions.
Despite its mid-size designation, the Frontier is still capable of handling substantial loads. Available in standard and long wheelbase models, it offers ample bed space for cargo, work equipment, or building materials. The standard wheelbase models feature a 125.9-inch wheelbase, contributing to a comfortable ride, while the overall length of 205.5 inches (for King Cab and Crew Cab Regular Bed models) strikes a balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability.
For those needing maximum bed space, the Frontier SV Crew Cab Long Wheelbase offers a bed that’s over 13 inches longer than the standard bed on the SV Crew Cab Short Wheelbase. A 5-foot bed is standard on all Crew Cab models, with a 6-foot bed optional on Crew Cab SV Long Wheelbase models and standard on all King Cab models.
The exterior design of the 2020 Frontier retains its rugged and recognizable Nissan truck DNA. Signature elements include the angled strut grille, robust bumpers, short front and rear overhangs, and bold, stamped-steel geometric fender flares. These design cues give the Frontier a strong and purposeful stance, reflecting its inherent capability. A palette of six exterior colors is available for 2020, including Gun Metallic, Magnetic Black Metallic, Glacier White, Cayenne Red Metallic, Brilliant Silver Metallic, and Arctic Blue Metallic, allowing buyers to personalize their truck’s appearance.
Both King Cab and Crew Cab models offer an available high-utility bed that significantly enhances cargo management. This bed features a factory-applied spray-on bedliner for durability and the Utili-track™ Channel System. The Utili-track™ system utilizes five special “C” cross-section rails within the bed, providing exceptional cargo hauling flexibility. Removable utility cleats slide into these channels, offering a wide array of tie-down points for securing various types of cargo. A comprehensive range of accessories is also available for use with the channel system, including bed dividers, sliding cargo trays, and modular storage units. Standard features across all Frontier models include a locking tailgate and a cargo bed light for added convenience and security.
Inside the cabin, the Frontier prioritizes functionality and comfort. Both King Cab and Crew Cab configurations offer large rear doors for easy access to the rear seats and storage areas. Flip-up rear seats further enhance interior versatility, maximizing cargo and passenger space. Useful storage compartments are integrated beneath the rear seats, and the cabin offers a locking dual glove box, center console storage, one-liter bottle storage in the front doors, and numerous cupholders and power points. For a touch of premium comfort, a leather-appointed interior is available on Crew Cab models.
Safety is a paramount concern in the 2020 Frontier, which comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones helps to absorb and dissipate impact energy in a collision. The Nissan Advanced Air Bag System includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor. Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with a rollover sensor provide further occupant protection. The LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System are also standard, reinforcing Nissan’s commitment to safety.
Legendary Capability: Built to Perform On and Off-Road
Underneath its refreshed exterior and enhanced powertrain, the 2020 Frontier retains its legendary capability, built upon a foundation of rugged engineering. Every Frontier starts with a robust, full-length, fully boxed ladder frame constructed from high tensile-strength steel. This platform provides exceptional structural rigidity, ensuring solid performance both on paved roads and challenging off-road terrains.
The 2020 Frontier utilizes an all-steel double-wishbone front suspension and a solid axle rear suspension with overslung leaf springs and a long suspension stroke. This suspension setup is designed for both on-road comfort and off-road articulation, providing a balanced ride and confident handling in various conditions. The PRO-4X model takes off-road performance a step further with the addition of Bilstein® off-road high-pressure shock absorbers, further enhancing its capability on rough terrain.
Frontier 4×4 models are equipped with a shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel drive system, allowing drivers to seamlessly switch between 2WD, 4H (high-range 4WD), and 4LO (low-range 4WD) modes via an electronically controlled part-time transfer case. For enhanced traction in challenging conditions, 4×4 models are available with a 4-wheel limited-slip system, which helps to distribute power to the wheels with the most grip on slippery surfaces.
The available Hill Descent Control (HDC) system provides controlled downhill descents without constant brake pedal application. Activated by the driver via a switch, HDC is available in 4H and 4LO modes in both forward and reverse, functioning at speeds up to 21 mph in 4H and 15 mph in 4LO. Hill Start Assist (HSA) is another valuable feature, preventing rollback when starting on an incline. HSA operates in 2WD, 4H, and 4LO modes on 4×4 models, holding the brakes for up to two seconds while the driver transitions to the accelerator. Both Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist are standard on all 4×4 models. For 4×2 models, a 2-Wheel Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system is standard, providing enhanced traction in slippery conditions.
Ground clearance is a crucial factor for off-road capability, and the Frontier delivers with a minimum of 8.9 inches for 4×2 models and 10.1 inches for 4×4 models. Key underbody hardware is tucked up close to the frame rails to maximize clearance and protect vital components. The Frontier also boasts strong approach and departure angles, further enhancing its off-road prowess. Additional driveline components include engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and standard 4-wheel disc brakes with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
The 2020 Nissan Frontier offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,720 pounds when properly equipped, making it a capable partner for work and play.
A Frontier for Every Need: Trim Levels and Packages
The 2020 Frontier lineup offers a variety of models to suit different needs and budgets. The King Cab configuration is available in 4×2 and 4×4 S and SV grades. The Crew Cab configuration expands the choices with 4×2 and 4×4 S, SV SWB (standard bed), and SV LWB (long bed) models, along with the top-of-the-line Crew Cab PRO-4X, which is exclusively available in 4×4.
The PRO-4X model is purpose-built for off-road adventures, featuring Bilstein® off-road high-pressure shock absorbers, skid plates to protect underbody components, an electronic rear differential locker for enhanced traction, and 4-wheel limited-slip (ABLS). It also includes unique machine-finished 16-inch aluminum-alloy off-road wheels with 265/75R16 All-Terrain tires, body-colored grille and bumpers, outside mirrors and fog lamps, NissanConnect with Navigation featuring a 5.8-inch touch-screen display, a rear fold-down center armrest, a moonroof, and a roof rack with crossbars.
For those seeking added value and features, three option packages are available. The Value Truck Package, offered on the SV grade, includes rear sonar, Dual Zone Auto A/C, two additional speakers, an auto-dimming mirror with compass and temperature display, a spray-in bedliner, the Utili-Track™ system with four adjustable tie-down cleats, heated cloth seats, fog lights, a Vehicle Security System, a sliding bed extender, and a trailer hitch. The Midnight Edition Package, available on Crew Cab SV SWB models, provides a distinctive blacked-out appearance with a Gloss Black painted grille, 18-inch Gloss Black wheels, 265/60R18 all-season tires, a body-colored rear bumper, black painted exterior rearview mirrors, semi-gloss black carline badging, and Midnight Edition badging. The new Special Edition Package, for Crew Cab SV SWB models, adds a trip computer, a Satin Chrome grille, a body-colored rear bumper, and 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/60R18 tires.
The 2020 Nissan Frontier is more than just a refresh; it’s a strategic update that injects new life into this enduring mid-size truck. With its groundbreaking new engine and transmission, enhanced features, and continued focus on capability and value, the 2020 Frontier stands ready to meet the needs of today’s truck buyers while paving the way for the next generation of Nissan trucks.
