“Great little vehicle. Handles well. Very quiet. Looks great. Great value for your money. You will like it.”
2020 Nissan Frontier: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The single biggest change for the 2020 Nissan Frontier is its new standard 310-hp 3.8-liter V6 and 9-speed automatic transmission. This is a substantial mechanical and equipment update, not a full redesign.
About the 2020 Nissan Frontier
2nd generation (2005-2021), late-cycle powertrain update year and the last major update before the all-new 2022 redesign.
Nissan positions the Frontier as a traditional midsize pickup for people who want real truck hardware without stepping up to a full-size truck. The emphasis is on straightforward capability: strong standard V6 power, a boxed ladder frame, useful towing and hauling ability, and a size that is easier to park and place than a bigger pickup. In 2020, its biggest distinction is that even the base truck gets the strong V6 instead of a weak entry engine.
The S is the straightforward work-focused trim, with a 7-inch touchscreen and everyday conveniences such as push-button start. The SV adds a more finished look with alloy wheels, a sliding rear window, and upgraded exterior trim. The off-road-focused PRO-4X brings Bilstein shocks, a locking rear differential, skid plates, heated leather-appointed seats, navigation, and upgraded audio.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
Every trim switches to a new 310-hp 3.8-liter V6 with 281 lb-ft of torque and a new 9-speed automatic transmission. The previous flexible-fuel powertrain options are dropped.
Lineup
The range is reduced to S, SV, and PRO-4X. The Desert Runner and SL trims are dropped.
Tech and equipment
Push-button start, power windows, power door locks, and a leather-wrapped shift knob become standard across the lineup. The PRO-4X also makes formerly packaged features standard, including heated leather-appointed seats, power-adjustable front seats, and a power moonroof.
2020 Nissan Frontier specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.8 Liter | V6, 3.8 Liter | V6, 3.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd | Automatic, 9-Spd | Automatic, 9-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 310 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6370–6620 lb | 6250–6720 lb | 6290 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 25.4–33.6 in | 25.4–33.6 in | 33.6 in |
| Seats | 4–5 | 4–5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 2–4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Hill Descent Control | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Tow Hooks | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2020 Nissan Frontier?
The biggest change is a new 310-hp 3.8-liter V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is standard on every 2020 Frontier trim.
Is the 2020 Nissan Frontier a full redesign?
No. The 2020 Frontier keeps the existing second-generation body, cabin shape, frame, and chassis. Its major updates are under the hood and in its standard equipment.
Which trims does the 2020 Nissan Frontier have?
The 2020 Frontier lineup consists of S, SV, and PRO-4X. Nissan dropped the Desert Runner and SL trims after 2019.
What equipment became standard on the 2020 Nissan Frontier?
Push-button start, power windows, power door locks, and a leather-wrapped shift knob became standard across the 2020 Frontier lineup.
What changed on the 2020 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X?
The 2020 PRO-4X gets the new V6 and 9-speed automatic, while heated leather-appointed seats, power-adjustable front seats, and a power moonroof become standard. It retains off-road hardware such as Bilstein shocks, a locking rear differential, skid plates, and 4WD.
2020 Nissan Frontier Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Nissan Frontier.
3.9
2020 Nissan Frontier
(549 reviews)
“The truck works.... ok. It says it will tow 6600 lbs but it squats 2"" with a 1900lbs trailer. The interior leaves a ton to be desired. It's full of extremely cheap materials and poorly put together.”
“The Nissan Frontier comes with newest updated features. Easy to maneuver and came with a great bedliner.”