The Nissan Frontier III Crew Cab Long, particularly the facelifted 2024 model equipped with the 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, represents a significant update to Nissan’s mid-size pickup truck offering. Introduced in August 2024, this variant builds upon the foundation of the D023 platform, aiming to deliver a blend of capability, comfort, and modern technology to the American truck market. This configuration sits as a higher-tier offering within the Frontier lineup, positioned above the base engine options and appealing to buyers seeking enhanced performance and towing capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier III Crew Cab Long (facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (310 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | LEV3-ULEV70 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 144.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 381 Nm @ 4400 rpm (281.01 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ38DD |
| Engine displacement | 3799 cm3 (231.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.4 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2151-2235 kg (4742.14 – 4927.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2727 kg (6012.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 492-576 kg (1084.67 – 1269.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1405 l (49.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3066 kg (6759.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 307 kg (676.82 lbs.) |
| Length | 5692 mm (224.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2135 mm (84.06 in.) |
| Height | 1826-1829 mm (71.89 – 72.01 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3550 mm (139.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218-226 mm (8.58 – 8.9 in.) |
| Approach angle | 30.6-31.5° |
| Departure angle | 21.9-22.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 297×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 287×18 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Frontier variant lies Nissan’s 3.8-liter VQ38DD V6 engine. This naturally aspirated engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVVTCS) to optimize performance and efficiency. The VQ38DD is known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, contributing to its reputation for reliability. The engine produces 310 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 381 Nm (281 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. This power is then channeled through a sophisticated 9-speed automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the previous generation’s 5-speed unit. The 9-speed transmission offers a wider gear ratio spread, improving both acceleration and fuel economy. The drivetrain is a part-time four-wheel drive system, allowing the driver to switch between 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO modes depending on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8L V6 and 9-speed automatic combination delivers a noticeable improvement in driving experience compared to earlier Frontier models. The wider gear ratios of the 9-speed transmission keep the engine in its optimal power band more frequently, resulting in quicker acceleration and more responsive performance. While not as fuel-efficient as some of the turbocharged four-cylinder options offered by competitors, the V6 provides a smooth and linear power delivery that is well-suited for both daily driving and demanding tasks like towing. The 4×4 system provides confident traction in various off-road conditions, making this Frontier a capable workhorse. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Frontier, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in urban environments, but sacrifices some driver engagement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2024 Frontier Crew Cab Long 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic typically comes standard with features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Nissan Safety Shield 360 (a suite of driver-assistance technologies), and a comfortable interior with cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels offer upgrades like leather seats, a premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Optional extras include a spray-in bedliner, a utility bed channel system, and various off-road packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier utilizes a fully boxed frame, contributing to its robust construction and towing capacity. The front suspension consists of a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a rigid axle with leaf springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard equipment.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2024 Nissan Frontier facelift, and specifically this 3.8L V6 4×4 Automatic variant, has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers have praised the updated interior, improved technology, and the capable powertrain. Fuel economy, however, remains a point of criticism, as it lags behind some competitors offering turbocharged engines. Compared to the base engine Frontier models, this V6 version offers significantly more power and towing capacity, justifying the higher price point for buyers who prioritize performance. Against rivals like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Frontier offers a compelling value proposition, particularly for those seeking a traditional, body-on-frame pickup truck experience.
Legacy
The VQ38DD engine has a proven track record of reliability in other Nissan vehicles, and early indications suggest that the 9-speed automatic transmission is also holding up well. As a result, this Frontier variant is expected to maintain good resale value and provide years of dependable service. The combination of a robust engine, a capable drivetrain, and a well-equipped interior positions this Frontier as a strong contender in the competitive mid-size pickup truck segment, and a potentially long-lasting vehicle for owners.
