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2017 Nissan Frontier: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2017 Nissan Frontier is the addition of a flexible-fuel powertrain option across every trim. Otherwise, this is largely a carryover year without a redesign or broad equipment upgrade.
About the 2017 Nissan Frontier
2nd generation Frontier (D40, 2005-2021 U.S.), late-cycle year after the 2009 update and well before the 2022 redesign.
Nissan positions the 2017 Frontier as a straightforward midsize pickup built for work, towing, hauling, and getting off pavement without a lot of complication. The brochure leans on toughness at the jobsite, rugged capability for rough terrain, available V6 power, available 4WD, and the practical Utili-track bed system. For most shoppers, the Frontier’s core appeal is simple truck hardware, proven V6 strength, multiple cab and bed layouts, and real off-road credibility in PRO-4X form.
The 2017 lineup runs from the basic, work-focused S and practical SV to three more specialized trims. Desert Runner pairs 2WD with Bilstein shocks and rugged-looking details, while PRO-4X adds 4WD, a locking rear differential, skid plates, and navigation for off-road use. The comfort-focused SL has leather-appointed heated seats, premium audio, navigation, and power-adjustable front seats.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
A flexible-fuel powertrain option was added to Desert Runner, PRO-4X, S, SL, and SV. There was no new engine or transmission across the lineup.
Styling
The base S trim changed from a chrome rear bumper to a body-color rear bumper.
2017 Nissan Frontier specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Flexible Fuel / Gas | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 15–19 mpg | 15–16 mpg | 15–17 mpg | 15 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21–23 mpg | 21–22 mpg | 21–23 mpg | 21 mpg | 22–23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 152–261 hp | 261 hp | 152–261 hp | 261 hp | 261 hp |
| Torque | 171–281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 171–281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3760–6400 lb | 6110–6510 lb | 3760–6500 lb | 6290–6450 lb | 6640–6710 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 25.4–33.6 in | 33.6 in | 25.4–33.6 in | 25.4–33.6 in | 25.4–33.6 in |
| Seats | 4–5 | 5 | 4–5 | 4–5 | 4–5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 4 | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic Headlights | |||||
| Hill Descent Control | |||||
| Hill Start Assist | |||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Power Mirrors | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| Side Steps | |||||
| Tow Hooks | |||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Subwoofer | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Locks | |||||
| Power Windows | |||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||||
| Tilt Wheel | |||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2017 Nissan Frontier redesigned?
No. The 2017 Frontier continues the second-generation design and received only limited changes rather than a full redesign.
What changed between the 2016 and 2017 Nissan Frontier?
The main difference is that flexible-fuel powertrain options joined all five 2017 trims. The base S also switched from a chrome rear bumper to a body-color bumper, while the rest of the truck largely carried over.
Did the 2017 Nissan Frontier get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2017 Frontier did not receive a new engine or transmission across the lineup, though flexible-fuel powertrain options were added to every trim.
Which 2017 Nissan Frontier trim has the strongest factory off-road equipment?
The PRO-4X has the strongest factory off-road setup. Its equipment includes 4WD, an electronic locking rear differential, skid plates, and Bilstein shocks.
Is the 2017 Nissan Frontier substantially different from the 2016 model?
No. The 2017 Frontier is very similar to the 2016 model, with flexible-fuel options and the S trim's body-color rear bumper accounting for the notable differences.
2017 Nissan Frontier Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 Nissan Frontier.
4.0
2017 Nissan Frontier
(684 reviews)
“I purchased the Nissan Frontier. It has lots of room and is comfortable. It drives smoothly and quietly. It is a very good-looking vehicle exterior wise. The interior has all the space I need and has a great amount of storage.”
“Nissan Frontier Pro-4X is in my opinion the nicest, best built mid-size truck. The engine is unbeatable with power and performance. The styling is tough, rugged and it really stands out.”