The Nissan Frontier III King Cab, specifically the 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic variant, represents a significant update to Nissan’s mid-size pickup truck lineage. Introduced in February 2021 and continuing through the 2024 model year, this iteration of the Frontier aimed to modernize the platform while retaining the rugged capability expected of a Nissan truck. Positioned as a well-rounded offering within the Frontier lineup, this configuration balanced power, convenience, and off-road potential, appealing to a broad range of truck buyers. It builds upon the D023 platform, representing the third generation of the Frontier, and was a direct response to increasing competition in the mid-size truck segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier III King Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (310 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2021 |
| End of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Tier 2-Bin5/LEV2-LEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 150.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.2 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2057 kg (4534.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2727 kg (6012.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2953 kg (6510.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 295 kg (650.36 lbs.) |
| Length | 5339 mm (210.2 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1831 mm (72.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 226 mm (8.9 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.9 m (42.32 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 31.4° |
| Departure angle | 22.4° |
| Ramp-over angle | 20.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 282×18 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 287×18 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Frontier III King Cab 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic lies the VQ38DD 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine is a member of Nissan’s well-regarded VQ engine family, known for its reliability and smooth operation. The VQ38DD utilizes direct fuel injection, enhancing both power and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 310 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 381 Nm (281 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine is a 9-speed automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the previous generation’s 5-speed unit. This transmission provides smoother shifts and a wider gear ratio spread, improving both acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8L V6 and 9-speed automatic combination delivers a noticeable improvement in driving experience compared to earlier Frontier models. While not a performance-oriented truck, the powertrain provides adequate power for everyday driving and hauling. The 9-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in responsive acceleration. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Frontier, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in city driving and off-road situations. However, some drivers may find the automatic less engaging than a manual. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, making it suitable for both on-road and light off-road use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Frontier III King Cab 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic typically came standard with features such as a 9-inch 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, such as the PRO-4X, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and off-road-specific equipment like a locking rear differential and skid plates. Optional extras included a sunroof, spray-in bedliner, and various accessory packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier III King Cab utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. 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 comfortable ride and good load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The 4×4 system allows the driver to switch between 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive modes, enhancing traction in various conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021 Nissan Frontier III King Cab 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. The updated powertrain and interior were praised, as was the truck’s overall value proposition. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, with the 19 US mpg combined rating being somewhat lower than some competitors. Compared to other mid-size trucks like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Frontier offered a more affordable price point and a comfortable ride, but lacked some of the advanced technology features found in those models. The 3.8L V6 automatic was often seen as a good all-around choice, offering a balance of power and convenience.
Legacy
The VQ38DD engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and the 9-speed automatic transmission has generally held up well in service. On the used car market, the Frontier III King Cab 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic represents a solid value, offering a capable and comfortable mid-size truck at a competitive price. Its relatively simple design and proven components contribute to its long-term reliability, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a dependable and affordable pickup truck.
