What's new in 2022 Nissan Frontier?

After waiting over a decade and a half, Nissan is finally revealing the third generation of the Frontier for the 2022 model year. Its suspension has been redesigned and the rest of the pickup has been significantly improved.

The 2022 Frontier inherits Nissan's new 3.8-liter V-6 engine that debuted on the latest-generation 2020 model. The engine produces 310 horsepower. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Frontier V-6 engine provides adequate traction and a smooth ride. It also asks for Nissan's new faster and more direct steering and a host of other chassis enhancements that have helped the truck feel more collected and refined on the go.

The Frontier's towing capacity reaches the same 6,724 lbs as the previous generation, so it still lags behind rivals like the Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon and Jeep Gladiator, which can pull at least 7,650 lbs. Nissan's maximum payload is increased to 160 lbs.

The new Frontier offers interior design and materials that look like a big improvement over the outdated plastic-coated cab that haunted its predecessor. Nissan not only added more attractive finishes and soft-touch surfaces that were needed, but also introduced more modern elements. A large 7.0-inch color display appeared. Heated steering wheel and heated front seats are also available. The pickup offers two wheelbase lengths that provide a short and long cargo platform: the first is around 5 feet and the second is just over 6 feet.

The entry-level 2022 Frontier S-trim starts at $29,015 for the rear-wheel-drive, extended cab model. There are less expensive small pickups on the market, but many are not as well equipped or are limited to a four-cylinder engine - or, in the case of the new Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, they are one-piece SUVs with a cargo platform. Fully equipped with leather, heated steering wheel and adaptive cruise control, the Pro-4X models have a top price tag of less than $45,000.