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 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission was a popular configuration, positioned as a mid-range option offering a blend of power and convenience for both work and family use. This variant catered to buyers needing more than the base four-cylinder offered, but didn’t require the ultimate capability of potential heavy-duty configurations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier II Crew Cab Long (D40, facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 (261 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 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 | 7.6 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 capacity | 10.2 l (10.78 US qt | 8.97 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1987 kg (4380.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2599 kg (5729.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 612 kg (1349.23 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 | 286 kg (630.52 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 | 30.5° |
| Departure angle | 22.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic 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 multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. The 5-speed automatic transmission, typically the RE5R31A, was chosen for its balance of durability and smooth operation. This transmission features electronic control for optimized shift points and responsiveness. While not the most technologically advanced automatic available at the time, it proved to be a reliable unit when properly maintained.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.0L V6 with the 5-speed automatic provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 2.5L four-cylinder Frontier. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and hauling moderate loads. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, meaning passing maneuvers required planning. Compared to the available manual transmission, the automatic sacrificed some responsiveness and fuel efficiency. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of towing capability and on-road comfort, rather than outright performance. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional truck feel, with predictable handling and good traction in dry conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.0L V6 automatic Frontier typically came in the SE or LE trim levels. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and basic cloth upholstery. The LE trim added features like alloy wheels, a premium audio system, and often, a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system. The Crew Cab configuration, regardless of trim, offered spacious seating for five passengers, making it a practical choice for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier II 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 – a traditional setup for pickup trucks. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability over refined ride quality. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and intended use, but lacked the advanced features found on some contemporary vehicles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2009-2020 Nissan Frontier with the 4.0L V6 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its reliability, comfortable ride (for a pickup truck), and strong engine. However, some reviewers noted that the interior felt dated compared to newer competitors, and the fuel economy was not class-leading. Compared to the four-cylinder Frontier, the V6 offered significantly more power and towing capacity, justifying the higher price. Against competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Frontier offered a compelling value proposition, often undercutting them in price while providing similar capabilities.
Legacy
The VQ40DE engine paired with the RE5R31A automatic transmission has proven to be a relatively durable and reliable powertrain combination. While not immune to age-related issues, these components generally hold up well with regular maintenance. In the used car market, these Frontier models are often sought after for their affordability and dependability. Common maintenance items include fluid changes (engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant) and inspection of suspension components. Overall, the 2009-2020 Nissan Frontier 4.0L V6 automatic remains a viable option for buyers seeking a capable and reliable mid-size pickup truck.
