The Frontier shares its basic layout, including the suspension and other components, with the larger Titan pickup. The suspension combines a double-wishbone front setup with a solid-axle and leaf springs at the rear.
The base XE and SE Frontier King Cab 2WD trucks have 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-ft of torque. The predominantly aluminum, double-overhead-cam engine utilizes continuously variable valve timing, variable induction and a number of attributes for smooth operation and efficiency. Four-cylinder models have a 5-speed manual transmission standard, while V6 models get six speeds. A 5-speed automatic is available on both.
On V6 models, a 4-wheel drive system is available, featuring electronically controlled shift-on-the-fly engagement and a low range. The 4WD models also bring a 4-wheel limited-slip system. Hill Descent Control (HDC) helps maintain a steady slow speed while descending especially steep slopes, while Hill Start Assist (HSA) allows a smooth, controlled start on a steep incline without roll-back; both features are optional. The top of the line LE 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.
There's also a new PRO-4X off-road edition, available in King Cab or Crew Cab SE V6 versions with either 2WD or 4WD, which brings Bilstein performance shocks, an electronic-locking rear differential and 2- and 4-wheel 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. A factory-applied spray-in bedliner is standard with SE V6 Crew Cab, as well as the PRO-4X and LE models
Front-seat side air bags are optional, as are side-curtain air bags that cover front and rear occupants.