The Nissan Frontier III Crew Cab, specifically the 3.8 V6 (310 Hp) 4×2 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 configuration occupied a sweet spot in the Frontier lineup, offering a balance of power, capability, and relative affordability. It was positioned as a strong contender for buyers seeking a versatile truck for both work and everyday use, without the added complexity and cost of a four-wheel-drive system. This generation, internally designated D023, marked a substantial departure from the previous D40 Frontier, adopting a more modern design and a completely new powertrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier III Crew Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (310 Hp) 4×2 Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2021 |
| End of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Tier 2-Bin5/LEV2-LEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 152.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 187.8 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 | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2029 kg (4473.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2727 kg (6012.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 698 kg (1538.83 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2980 kg (6569.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 298 kg (656.98 lbs.) |
| Length | 5339 mm (210.2 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1829 mm (72.01 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 236 mm (9.29 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13 m (42.65 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.4° |
| Departure angle | 21.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16; 265/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Frontier III Crew Cab 3.8 V6 4×2 Automatic lies Nissan’s VQ38DD 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine is a member of the renowned VQ engine family, known for its smoothness and reliability. The VQ38DD utilizes direct fuel injection, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and power output. The engine produces 310 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 381 Nm (281 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine is longitudinally mounted, sending power to the rear wheels. Paired with the V6 is a 9-speed automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the 5-speed automatic found in previous Frontier generations. This transmission offers smoother shifts and a wider gear ratio spread, enhancing 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 310 hp engine provides ample power for daily driving and towing. The 9-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering responsive shifts and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a more traditional truck feel, and the absence of a four-wheel-drive system contributes to slightly better fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission option, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in urban environments. However, some drivers may prefer the more direct control offered by a manual gearbox. The gear ratios are optimized for both on-road cruising and hauling loads, providing a balance between responsiveness and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Frontier III Crew Cab 3.8 V6 4×2 Automatic typically came standard with features such as a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather upgrades available on higher trim levels. Common optional extras included a premium audio system, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Trim levels varied, but this engine/transmission combo was often found in the SV and PRO-4X trims, offering a good balance of features and value.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier III Crew Cab 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 comfortable ride and good load-carrying capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS included as standard. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes, reflecting the weight distribution of the vehicle. Steering is rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021+ Nissan Frontier was generally well-received by automotive critics, with praise directed towards its updated interior, improved powertrain, and enhanced technology. The 3.8L V6 and 9-speed automatic combination was lauded for its smooth operation and ample power. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Frontier offered a more affordable entry point and a more comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the interior materials were not as premium as those found in some competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment. The 4×2 configuration offered a slight fuel economy advantage over the 4×4 models, making it an attractive option for buyers who did not require off-road capability.
Legacy
The VQ38DD engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and the 9-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good long-term reliability. The Frontier III Crew Cab 3.8 V6 4×2 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of value, capability, and dependability. Its relatively simple design and robust construction suggest that it will continue to provide years of reliable service with proper maintenance. The updated design and improved powertrain of this generation Frontier helped to revitalize the model and establish it as a competitive player in the mid-size pickup truck segment.
