The Nissan Frontier II Crew Cab Long (D40) with the 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 261 horsepower and equipped with a four-wheel drive system was a mid-size pickup truck sold primarily in North America and select international markets from 2007 to 2009. Representing the second generation of the Frontier, the D40 chassis aimed to provide a blend of rugged capability and everyday usability. This particular configuration, with its larger engine and crew cab layout, positioned itself as a versatile option for both work and family duties, bridging the gap between basic work trucks and more luxurious full-size pickups.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier II Crew Cab Long (D40) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 (261 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 261 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 4000 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 4000 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.) |
| 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 | 2059 kg (4539.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 511 kg (1126.56 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5572 mm (219.37 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1880 mm (74.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3554 mm (139.92 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 257 mm (10.12 in.) |
| 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 | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15; 265/70 R16; 265/75 R16; 265/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 15; 7.0J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
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 dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel atomization for efficient combustion. The VQ40DE is known for its relatively smooth operation and durability. The six-speed manual transmission paired with this engine offered drivers full control over the power delivery. Gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration with highway cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.0L V6 and six-speed manual combination in the D40 Frontier provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Acceleration was brisk, and the engine had sufficient torque for towing and hauling moderate loads. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, enhancing the driving experience for those who preferred more control. However, the Frontier’s leaf spring rear suspension, while robust, could result in a somewhat firm ride, particularly when unladen. Compared to the automatic transmission option, the manual offered better fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience, but required more driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long configuration of the Frontier II offered a spacious cabin with seating for five passengers. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels, such as the LE, added features like alloy wheels, a premium sound system, and upgraded interior materials. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system. The interior design was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The D40 Frontier utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a solid and durable platform for off-road capability and load-carrying. The front suspension featured independent double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup offered a good balance of ride comfort and load-hauling capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2007-2009 Nissan Frontier II Crew Cab Long 4.0L V6 4×4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, spacious cabin, and capable four-wheel drive system. However, some reviewers noted the firm ride quality and the somewhat dated interior design compared to newer competitors. In terms of fuel economy, it lagged behind some of the smaller, more fuel-efficient pickups on the market. Compared to the 2.5-liter Frontier, the 4.0L version offered significantly more power and towing capacity, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The manual transmission version was favored by enthusiasts for its engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The VQ40DE engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The D40 Frontier, as a whole, has developed a reputation for being a dependable and capable truck. On the used car market, these models remain relatively affordable and are often sought after by those looking for a rugged and practical pickup. While not as refined as some of its competitors, the Frontier II Crew Cab Long 4.0L V6 4×4 offers a compelling combination of performance, capability, and value.
