The Nissan Frontier III Crew Cab Long with the 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission was a key offering in Nissan’s mid-size pickup truck lineup from its introduction in February 2021 until its discontinuation in August 2024. Representing a significant update to the Frontier platform (D023), this configuration aimed to balance capability, comfort, and modern technology within the competitive American pickup truck market. This particular variant occupied a mid-to-upper position in the Frontier lineup, offering a substantial step up in power and refinement compared to the base engine options, while remaining more accessible than potential future performance-oriented trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier III Crew Cab Long |
| 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 | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 183.7 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 | 2074 kg (4572.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2727 kg (6012.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 653 kg (1439.62 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2930 kg (6459.54 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 293 kg (645.95 lbs.) |
| Length | 5692 mm (224.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1819 mm (71.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3551 mm (139.8 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 229 mm (9.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.3 m (46.92 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 29.4° |
| Departure angle | 21.6° |
| Ramp-over angle | 19.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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, 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 | 265/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Frontier variant is Nissan’s VQ38DD 3.8-liter V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 24-valve DOHC powerplant featuring Nissan’s Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) technology. VVEL continuously adjusts valve timing and lift based on driving conditions, optimizing both power and fuel efficiency. Direct fuel injection further enhances combustion efficiency and responsiveness. The engine produces 310 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 281 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The 9-speed automatic transmission, a relatively new addition to the Frontier lineup, provides smooth and efficient gear changes. It’s designed to maximize the engine’s output while improving fuel economy compared to older transmission designs.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8L V6 and 9-speed automatic combination delivers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall driving experience compared to earlier Frontier models with smaller engines. While not a performance-focused pickup, it provides ample power for daily driving, hauling moderate loads, and towing. The 9-speed transmission is tuned for smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. The gear ratios are optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road capability. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Frontier, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, some drivers may find the automatic slightly less engaging and responsive than a manual.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long 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, Nissan Safety Shield 360 (a suite of driver-assist technologies), and a comfortable interior with cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the PRO-4X, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and off-road-focused equipment. Optional extras included a sunroof, spray-in bedliner, and various accessory packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier III Crew Cab Long utilizes a fully boxed ladder frame chassis, providing a robust foundation for both on-road and off-road driving. 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 balances ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS included as standard. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Frontier III Crew Cab Long 3.8 V6 for its improved powertrain and modern features. The 3.8-liter V6 was widely regarded as a significant upgrade over the previous generation’s engine. Fuel economy, however, was considered average for the segment, with combined MPG figures around 19.9 US mpg. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Frontier offered a compelling value proposition, particularly in terms of standard features and warranty coverage. The 4×2 configuration made it a more affordable option for buyers who didn’t require all-wheel drive.
Legacy
The Nissan Frontier III Crew Cab Long 3.8 V6 Automatic represents a solid and reliable mid-size pickup truck. The VQ38DD engine has a proven track record for durability, and the 9-speed automatic transmission, while not without its critics, has generally proven to be dependable. On the used car market, these Frontiers are often sought after for their combination of capability, comfort, and value. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain. As with any vehicle, potential buyers should carefully inspect the truck’s history and condition before making a purchase.
