The previous-generation truck debuted all the way back for the 2005 model year. By 2021, the Frontier was way behind other midsize trucks in regards to technology, comfort, and towing and hauling performance. Thankfully, this year’s much-improved 2022 Frontier has greater appeal.
The 2022 Nissan Frontier features a capable V6 engine, and it has a decent payload capacity. It also rides smoothly and handles well for a pickup.
The cabin looks modern (a refreshing change from the outgoing model), and the front seats provide plenty of comfort and support. There are many standard and available features, including an intuitive infotainment system.
After waiting for more than a decade and a half, Nissan finally reveals the third-generation Frontier for the 2022 model year. Sure, it still rides on a frame that dates back to the early 2000s, but the suspension has been revised and the rest of the truck is considerably improved.
ENGINE AND IMPLEMENTATION
The 2022 Nissan Frontier inherits Nissan’s new naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V-6, which made its debut on the last-generation 2020 model. The engine generates 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. It pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear- or four-wheel drive.
Our first driving impressions revealed that the Frontier’s V-6 provides adequate thrust and smooth operation. We drove the off-road-oriented Pro-4X model that’s ready and willing to tackle rugged terrain, even if it’s not as capable as the lifted Chevy Colorado ZR2 or the Jeep Gladiator.
We also appreciated the Nissan’s new quicker and more direct steering and the myriad other chassis enhancements that have helped the truck feel more composed and refined on the go.
ENERGY AND REAL-WORLD MPG
The rear-drive Frontier is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. With four-wheel drive, those figures drop to 17 mpg city and 22 highway.
Once we can run the new Frontier on our 75-mph highway route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information about the 2022 Nissan Frontier’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
INTERIOR, CONVENIENCE, AND BOOTH
Thankfully, the new 2022 Nissan Frontier delivers an interior design and materials that look like a big improvement over the outdated and plastic-laden cabin that plagued its predecessor.
Not only did Nissan add snazzier trim pieces and soft-touch surfaces that were much needed, but the company also introduced more contemporary features. The gauge cluster now offsets its analog gauges with a larger 7.0-inch color display. A heated steering wheel and heated front seats are also available.
Speaking of seats, the 2022 Nissan Frontier continues to comfort our backsides with Nissan’s supple Zero Gravity thrones. Interior cubby storage includes a bin on top of the dashboard and a place to store items under the back seat.
The truck offers two wheelbase lengths that provide a short and long cargo bed, with the former measuring just under 5 feet and the latter extending just over 6 feet.
IN-VEHICLE INFOTAINMENT AND INTERCONNECTIONS
The new 2022 Nissan Frontier‘s infotainment system operates through a standard 8.0-inch or optional 9.0-inch touchscreen. A pair of physical knobs for adjusting the stereo’s volume and tuning settings are present and located below the screen.
The most desirable standard connectivity features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and several charging outlets that include a USB-C port.
The 2022 Nissan Frontier can also be had with a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless smartphone charging. The sound system can also be upgraded to a nine-speaker Fender unit for an additional cost.
PROTECTION AND DRIVER-ASSISTANCE ASPECTS
Unlike its predecessor, the 2022 Nissan Frontier offers an assortment of driver-assistance technology as part of Nissan Safety Shield 360. Highlights include automatic high-beams, automated emergency braking, and class-exclusive rear automated emergency braking.
For more information about the 2022 Nissan Frontier’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
PHOTOS
FULL SPECIFICATIONS
2022 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X
Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-/4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door pickup
PRICE
Base/As Tested: $38,415/$44,735
Options: premium package (sunroof, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, Fender audio system, upgraded interior trim), $2790; comfort and convenience package (bed lighting, remote engine start, 120-volt power outlets in cab and bed, heated front seats, spray-in bedliner, trailer hitch), $1990; technology package (rear park alert, blind-spot detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control), $990; Tactical Green paint, $395; floor mats, $155
ENGINE
DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 232 in3, 3799 cm3
Power: 310 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque: 281 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
TRANSMISSION
9-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: control arms/live axle
Brakes, F/R: 11.7-in vented disc/11.3-in vented disc
Tires: Hankook Dynapro AT2
265/70R-17 115S M+S
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 126.0 in
Length: 210.2 in
Width: 74.7 in
Height: 72.9 in
Passenger Volume: 100 ft3
Curb Weight: 4772 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 7.3 sec
1/4-Mile: 15.6 sec @ 90 mph
100 mph: 20.6 sec
Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 7.5 sec
Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.3 sec
Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 5.2 sec
Top Speed (gov ltd): 113 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 183 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.76 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 17 mpg
75-mph Highway Driving: 20 mpg
Highway Range: 420 mi
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 19/17/22 mpg
