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As a mid-size truck, the 2023 Nissan Frontier brings quite a bit to the table. Although it is the third generation of this pickup, the new Frontier harkens back to some of the first Nissan trucks, known as the Hardbody. So, what should you know about the 2023 Frontier, and what does it have to offer?

The 2023 Nissan Frontier has a standard V6 engine

Every new Nissan Frontier comes equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine. This powerplant was first debuted in the 2020 Frontier, and it is now the sole engine of this mid-size truck. It makes 310 horsepower and 281 pound-foot of torque. Plus, it comes mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, which has been experiencing some problems recently. 

The 2023 Frontier is one of the few mid-size trucks that comes standard with a V6 engine. You will not have to pay extra in order to get the power of six cylinders. And that is something that should be appreciated. 

Overall, the 3.8-liter V6 has been seen as reliable. It might be a bit of a disappointment that the Frontier no longer has engine options, and you can no longer purchase one with a manual transmission. But, when properly equipped, this pickup truck can tow up to 6,720 lbs.

Nissan’s mid-size truck offers Safety Shield 360

If you want a new pickup truck, you likely want the benefits of modern safety technology. Like many other truck manufacturers, Nissan has been sure to equip its mid-size truck with some helpful technology. Each 2023 Frontier comes standard with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. 

A 2023 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X sits in a remote area as a mid-size truck.
Nissan Frontier PRO-4X | Nissan

Of course, if you don’t mind paying extra, you can get other safety equipment. Optional driver assist features include things like:

  • Lane-departure warning
  • Adaptive cruise control
  •  360-degree camera with off-road mode
  • Blind-spot monitoring

It would be nice to see more safety features as standard, but perhaps that will happen in future model years. 

The 2023 Frontier has modern tech features

If you need any indication that the world of trucks has undergone a serious evolution, just look at what new pickups offer in terms of tech. The 2023 Nissan Frontier has available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can even opt for a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless smartphone charging. 

The interior of Nissan's mid-size truck, the 2023 Frontier. It has a lot of modern features, including a touchscreen.
2023 Nissan Frontier Interior | Nissan

According to Car and Driver, if you want to upgrade your audio system, you can do so through the available Fender unit. But, you will have to pay an additional fee in order to get it. 

Do Nissan Frontiers last long?

Generally speaking, a Nissan Frontier should be able to last about 10 years. Of course, that does vary depending on how you treat your truck and if you follow a routine maintenance schedule. 

The 3.8-liter V6 engine is still new, but because it is naturally aspirated, hopefully, it can pack on the miles. It is also worth noting that the Frontier has had some transmission problems; it even faces a recall. 

Overall, the new generation of Frontier has breathed life into Nissan’s mid-size truck. It now feels like much more of a competitor to pickups like the Toyota Tacoma and Chevy Colorado. Especially as Toyota has not yet updated the Tacoma.