The Nissan Frontier II Crew Cab, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2009 and continuing through the 2020 model year, represented a significant evolution of Nissan’s mid-size pickup truck offering. This generation, known internally as the D40, aimed to blend rugged capability with improved comfort and refinement. The 4.0-liter V6 4×4 variant occupied a prominent position in the lineup, offering a balance of power and practicality for both work and recreational use. It was primarily marketed towards buyers in North America, South America, Europe, and Australia, where mid-size trucks remained popular. This particular configuration, with its 261 horsepower engine and four-wheel drive system, was a mainstay for those needing a versatile and capable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier II Crew Cab (D40, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 (261 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2009 year |
| End of production | 2020 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 191.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 261 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66 Hp/l |
| Torque | 381 Nm @ 4000 rpm (281.01 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ40DE |
| Engine displacement | 3954 cm3 (241.29 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.2 l (10.78 US qt | 8.97 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1987 kg (4380.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 583 kg (1285.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 948 l (33.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2767 kg (6100.19 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 277 kg (610.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 5220 mm (205.51 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 226 mm (8.9 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 31.5° |
| Departure angle | 22.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.6° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16; 265/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Frontier variant is the VQ40DE 4.0-liter V6 engine. This engine, a member of Nissan’s highly regarded VQ family, is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The VQ40DE produces 261 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 381 Nm (281 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes smooth power delivery and reliability over outright performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering drivers full control over the engine’s power. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to provide a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively low first gear for off-road capability and a higher sixth gear for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.0L V6 and 6-speed manual combination in the Frontier II Crew Cab delivered a capable and confident driving experience. While not a sports truck, the engine provided ample power for everyday driving, hauling, and towing. Acceleration was respectable, and the engine felt strong throughout the rev range. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, enhancing driver engagement. Compared to lower-powered engine options, this variant offered significantly more grunt, making it better suited for challenging terrain or heavy loads. However, it wasn’t as fuel-efficient as the smaller engines, and the manual transmission required more driver involvement than the available automatic option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2009-2020 Frontier II Crew Cab 4.0L 4×4 typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as the LE or PRO-4X, added features like alloy wheels, a premium audio system, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and off-road-specific equipment like a locking rear differential and skid plates. The interior design was functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. The Crew Cab configuration offered generous passenger space, making it a comfortable option for families or those needing to transport multiple passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier II Crew Cab utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The ABS system helped to maintain control during emergency braking situations. The 4×4 system offered a variety of modes, including 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO, allowing drivers to adapt to different driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Frontier II Crew Cab 4.0L 4×4 was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its ruggedness, reliability, and capable powertrain. However, some critics noted that the interior was somewhat dated compared to newer competitors. In terms of fuel economy, it lagged behind some of the more modern trucks on the market. Compared to the base 2.5-liter engine, the 4.0L V6 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The PRO-4X trim, with its off-road-focused features, was particularly popular among enthusiasts.
Legacy
The Nissan Frontier II Crew Cab 4.0L 4×4 has proven to be a durable and reliable truck, with many examples still on the road today. The VQ40DE engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, these trucks hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition and with low mileage. While the Frontier has since been updated with a new generation, the D40 remains a popular choice for those seeking a capable and affordable mid-size pickup truck.
