The 2020 Nissan Frontier isn’t just another model year; it’s a significant bridge to the future of Nissan trucks. While it carries the torch for the current generation, it simultaneously lays the groundwork for the highly anticipated next-generation Frontier. This model year introduces a completely redesigned powertrain – a potent 3.8-liter V6 engine and a responsive 9-speed automatic transmission – showcasing what’s in store for the future of this beloved mid-size pickup.
Alt: Front view of the 2020 Nissan Frontier showcasing its robust mid-size truck design with the signature Nissan grille.
Heart-Pumping Powertrain: The All-New 3.8-Liter V6 and 9-Speed Transmission
For the 2020 model year, Nissan made a bold move, replacing the previous engine options with a brand-new, robust 3.8-liter direct injection V6. This engine isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a complete overhaul designed specifically for the demands of US truck owners. Producing a best-in-class 310 horsepower, this engine outshines its predecessors – the inline 4-cylinder and the 4.0-liter V6 – while also promising enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The torque is equally impressive, rated at 281 lb-ft, ensuring ample power for hauling and towing.
Alt: Close-up view of the 2020 Nissan Frontier’s new 3.8-liter V6 engine, highlighting its direct injection technology and powerful design.
Best-in-Class Horsepower and Improved Efficiency
The development of this all-new 3.8-liter V6 engine was heavily influenced by the needs and expectations of truck owners in North America. With 93 percent new or redesigned parts, this engine is practically a clean-sheet design. Nissan subjected it to rigorous testing in North America to ensure it could withstand the challenges faced by truck owners. Interestingly, this engine is assembled in Decherd, Tennessee, at the same facility that produces the robust 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 for the full-size Nissan TITAN pickup, showcasing Nissan’s commitment to American manufacturing and quality.
Beyond the impressive horsepower figures, the 2020 Frontier also delivers on fuel economy. Compared to the previous V6 model, the 2020 Frontier offers a 2 mpg improvement for 4×4 models and a notable 2 mpg city / 1 mpg highway and combined increase for 4×2 models. Officially, the EPA fuel economy ratings are 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 improvements make the 2020 Frontier a more efficient option without sacrificing power.
Key technical features contributing to the engine’s performance and efficiency include a direct injection gasoline system, cylinder heads with integrated exhaust manifolds, a variable displacement oil pump, variable timing control, and a variable tumble control valve. These advanced technologies work in concert to optimize power delivery and fuel consumption across various driving conditions.
9-Speed Automatic Transmission Details
Complementing the new engine is an all-new 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the older 5-speed automatic and manual options. This transmission, similar to the one found in the 2020 TITAN, is engineered to maximize powertrain efficiency and provide a more responsive acceleration feel. It boasts features like an expanded lockup area, a new high-response electro-hydraulic system, a long input shaft, and a 99 percent larger gear range. These enhancements result in quicker, crisper, and more direct shifts throughout the gear range, enhancing the overall driving experience. Moreover, the 9-speed automatic is quieter than the previous 5-speed, thanks to a centrifugal pendulum absorber, contributing to a more refined cabin environment.
Alt: Side view of the 2020 Nissan Frontier’s 9-speed automatic transmission, emphasizing its advanced engineering for improved performance and efficiency.
2020 Frontier: More Than Just a New Powertrain
While the powertrain upgrades are the headline for the 2020 Nissan Frontier, Nissan didn’t stop there. Several other enhancements were introduced to sweeten the deal.
Additional Model Year Enhancements
For added convenience, push-button start becomes a standard feature across all 2020 Frontier models. Furthermore, several features previously available on higher trims are now standard across the entire lineup, including a leather shift knob, manual tilt steering, power door locks, and power windows with driver-side auto-down.
The base Frontier S grade now rides on 16-inch styled steel wheels fitted with 265/70R16 tires. The SV trim continues with 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, while the off-road-oriented PRO-4X boasts 16-inch off-road design machine-finish aluminum-alloy wheels wrapped in 265/75R16 all-terrain tires.
A new Special Edition Package is available for the Crew Cab SV trim, adding a trip computer, a distinctive Satin Chrome grille, a body-colored rear bumper, and stylish 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/60R18 tires. This package joins the existing Value Truck Package and Midnight Edition Package, offering buyers more customization options.
Authentic Frontier Design and Utility
In a market where trucks are constantly growing in size, the 2020 Frontier remains true to its mid-size roots. Its dimensions are perfectly suited for navigating urban environments and tight trails alike. Nissan offers the 2020 Frontier in King Cab and Crew Cab configurations, with both 4×2 and 4×4 drive options, and across three trim levels (S, SV, and PRO-4X).
Alt: The 2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X model showcasing its off-road capabilities and rugged styling, parked on a rocky trail.
The Frontier offers ample cargo space with standard and long wheelbase models available. The standard 125.9-inch wheelbase contributes to ride comfort, while the overall length of 205.5 inches (for King Cab and Crew Cab Regular Bed models) strikes a balance for buyers who need capability without the bulk of a full-size pickup. The Frontier SV Crew Cab Long Wheelbase provides 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 retains signature Nissan truck cues, including an angled strut grille, substantial bumpers, short overhangs, and prominent geometric fender flares. Six exterior colors are available for 2020: Gun Metallic, Magnetic Black Metallic, Glacier White, Cayenne Red Metallic, Brilliant Silver Metallic, and Arctic Blue Metallic.
Both King Cab and Crew Cab models offer an available high-utility bed with a factory-applied spray-on bedliner and the Utili-track™ Channel System. This system features five “C” cross-section rails in the bed and includes removable utility cleats for versatile cargo securing. A range of accessories, such as bed dividers, sliding cargo trays, and modular storage units, are available for use with the Utili-Track™ system. All Frontier models come standard with a locking tailgate and cargo bed light.
Inside, the Frontier prioritizes functionality and comfort. Both cab styles feature large rear doors (rear-hinged on King Cab) for easy access to rear seating and storage areas, along with flip-up rear seats. Useful under-seat storage boxes, a locking dual glove box, center console storage, one-liter bottle storage in the front doors, and multiple cupholders and power points are standard. Leather-appointed interiors are available on Crew Cab models.
Safety is also well-addressed, with every 2020 Frontier equipped with Zone Body construction, front and rear crumple zones, the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact airbags. The LATCH child seat anchor system and Tire Pressure Monitoring System are also standard.
Legendary Frontier Capability
Underneath the skin, the 2020 Frontier is built on a robust, full-length, fully boxed ladder frame made of high tensile-strength steel, providing a solid foundation for both on- and off-road performance. All models feature an all-steel double-wishbone front suspension and a solid axle rear suspension with overslung leaf springs for off-road articulation. The PRO-4X model further enhances off-road prowess with Bilstein® off-road high-pressure shock absorbers.
Frontier 4×4 models utilize a shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel drive system with 2WD/4H/4LO modes, controlled by an electronically controlled part-time transfer case. A 4-wheel limited-slip system is available to enhance traction in low-grip conditions.
Hill Descent Control allows for controlled downhill driving without constant braking, while Hill Start Assist prevents rollback when starting on inclines. These features are standard on all 4×4 models. A 2-Wheel Brake Limited Slip system is standard on 4×2 models.
Excellent ground clearance – a minimum of 8.9 inches for 4×2 and 10.1 inches for 4×4 models – and strong approach and departure angles contribute to the Frontier’s exceptional off-road capabilities. Engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and standard 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS round out the chassis features. The 2020 Frontier boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,720 pounds when properly equipped.
2020 Frontier Model Lineup and Packages
The 2020 Frontier King Cab is offered in 4×2 and 4×4 S and SV grades, while the Crew Cab is available in 4×2 and 4×4 S, SV SWB (standard bed), and SV LWB (long bed) configurations, as well as the 4×4-only Crew Cab PRO-4X.
The PRO-4X trim stands out with its Bilstein® shocks, skid plates, electronic rear differential locker, 4-wheel limited-slip, unique 16-inch off-road wheels, body-colored exterior accents, fog lamps, NissanConnect with Navigation, moonroof, and roof rack.
Three option packages provide further customization. The Value Truck Package (SV grade) includes rear sonar, dual-zone auto A/C, additional speakers, auto-dimming mirror, spray-in bedliner, Utili-Track™ system, heated cloth seats, fog lights, security system, bed extender, and trailer hitch. The Midnight Edition Package (Crew Cab SV SWB) features blacked-out styling elements. The new Special Edition Package (Crew Cab SV SWB) adds a trip computer, Satin Chrome grille, body-colored rear bumper, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The 2020 Nissan Frontier represents the culmination of years of rugged dependability and introduces a forward-looking powertrain. It’s a testament to Nissan’s truck heritage while providing a taste of what’s to come in the next generation. Visit your local Nissan dealership this spring to experience the 2020 Frontier and discover what makes this mid-size truck a legend in its own right.
