The Nissan Frontier II Crew Cab Long, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2009, represented a significant update to Nissan’s mid-size pickup truck offering. Produced from 2009 through 2020, this generation (D40 chassis code) aimed to balance rugged capability with improved comfort and refinement. The 4.0-liter V6 4×4 variant, producing 261 horsepower, occupied a prominent position in the lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a powerful and versatile truck for both work and recreational purposes. This configuration was a mainstay for the North American market, where full-size trucks often proved too large for everyday use, and compact pickups lacked sufficient power for towing and hauling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier II Crew Cab Long (D40, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 (261 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.6 l/100 km (15.1 US mpg, 18.1 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.8 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 capacity | 10.2 l (10.78 US qt | 8.97 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2018 kg (4448.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 552 kg (1216.95 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%) | 2858 kg (6300.81 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 277 kg (610.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 5572 mm (219.37 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3553 mm (139.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 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 60-degree V-engine featuring an aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads. It utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its strong power output. The VQ40DE employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine’s 9.7:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Paired with this engine was a 6-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with direct control over gear selection. The longitudinal engine layout and rear-wheel-drive based 4×4 system were standard for this configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 261 horsepower and 381 lb-ft of torque delivered by the VQ40DE, combined with the 6-speed manual transmission, provided a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the lower-powered 2.5-liter four-cylinder options. While not a sports truck, the V6 offered ample power for merging onto highways, passing other vehicles, and tackling inclines while towing. The manual transmission allowed for precise control, especially beneficial in off-road situations or when hauling heavy loads. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, though the larger engine naturally consumed more fuel than its smaller counterparts. Compared to automatic transmission equipped models, the manual offered a more engaging driving experience and slightly improved fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.0L 4×4 Crew Cab Long typically came with a fairly comprehensive list of standard features. These included 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, and off-road specific equipment like a locking rear differential and skid plates. The Crew Cab configuration offered generous interior space, comfortably seating five passengers. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded sound systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for demanding tasks. The front suspension featured a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs, a traditional setup for pickup trucks. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. The ABS system helped to maintain steering control during hard braking maneuvers. The truck’s relatively high ground clearance (8.58 inches) enhanced its off-road capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.0L V6 Frontier was generally well-received by automotive critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its strong engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the interior design felt somewhat dated compared to newer competitors. Fuel economy was also a common criticism, as the V6 engine consumed a significant amount of fuel, especially in urban driving conditions. Compared to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder models, the V6 offered a substantial performance upgrade but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The Frontier also competed with other mid-size trucks like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, often being positioned as a more affordable and practical alternative.
Legacy
The VQ40DE engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The Frontier II, particularly the 4.0L V6 models, have maintained a solid reputation in the used car market. They are often sought after by buyers looking for a capable and affordable pickup truck. While the Frontier has undergone further revisions in subsequent generations, the D40 chassis remains a popular choice for those seeking a rugged and dependable workhorse. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing chain inspection (though generally robust), and monitoring of the cooling system. The truck’s relatively simple design makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair, contributing to its longevity.
