The Nissan Frontier III Crew Cab Long, 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. Produced from February 2021 through August 2024, this configuration occupied a prominent position in the Frontier lineup, targeting buyers seeking a blend of capability, comfort, and modern technology. It builds upon the foundation of the D023 platform, representing the third generation of the Frontier, and aimed to compete directly with offerings from Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier |
| Generation | Frontier III Crew Cab Long |
| 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 | 5 |
| 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 | 7 kg/Hp, 143.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176 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 | 2165 kg (4773.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2727 kg (6012.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 562 kg (1239 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2839 kg (6258.92 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 284 kg (626.11 lbs.) |
| Length | 5692 mm (224.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1829 mm (72.01 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3551 mm (139.8 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.2 m (46.59 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 30.6° |
| Departure angle | 21.9° |
| Ramp-over angle | 20° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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, a member of the well-regarded VQ family, utilizes direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The VQ38DD is known for its relatively smooth operation and respectable power output. The 9-speed automatic transmission, a relatively new addition to the Frontier lineup, was designed to improve fuel efficiency and provide smoother shifts compared to the previous 5-speed unit. The transmission features adaptive shift control, adjusting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input. The 4×4 system employs an electronically controlled clutch to engage the front wheels when traction is needed, offering drivers selectable 2WD, 4-High, and 4-Low modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 310-horsepower V6 and 9-speed automatic provide adequate power for everyday driving and hauling. While not as quick as some of its competitors, the Frontier offers a usable amount of torque (381 Nm or 281 lb-ft) that makes it capable of towing and carrying loads. The 9-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, but some drivers have noted occasional hunting for the right gear, particularly during highway cruising. Compared to the base 3.8L engine with a manual transmission, the automatic version offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, the manual transmission generally delivers slightly better fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic typically came standard with features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of driver-assistance technologies including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trim levels, such as the PRO-4X, added features like a locking rear differential, Bilstein shock absorbers, and a more rugged exterior appearance. Interior upholstery ranged from cloth on lower trims to leather on higher ones. Optional extras included a premium audio system, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Chassis & Braking
The Frontier III utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust platform for hauling 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 prioritizes load-carrying capacity and durability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS included as standard. The braking system is adequate for the vehicle’s weight and intended use, but it doesn’t offer the same level of stopping power as some competitors.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021-2024 Nissan Frontier received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its updated interior, improved technology, and capable V6 engine. However, the fuel economy was often cited as a weakness compared to some of its competitors, particularly those offering turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The Frontier’s reliability has also been generally good, although some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system. Compared to the Toyota Tacoma, the Frontier offered a more comfortable ride and a more spacious interior, but the Tacoma generally held its value better. Against the Ford Ranger, the Frontier provided a more traditional truck experience, while the Ranger offered a more modern and refined driving experience.
Legacy
The VQ38DD engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant in other Nissan vehicles, and its application in the Frontier is expected to provide years of dependable service. The 9-speed automatic transmission, while not without its quirks, represents a significant improvement over the previous generation’s transmission. As a used vehicle, the 2021-2024 Frontier Crew Cab Long 3.8 V6 4×4 Automatic offers a compelling combination of capability, comfort, and value, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a mid-size pickup truck.
