“This an all round excellent vehicle in all aspects, even as a family vehicle that is versatile for all.”
2021 Nissan Frontier: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 Nissan Frontier is a true carryover with no major product changes. It keeps the same powertrain, styling, technology, safety equipment, and basic trim lineup as 2020.
About the 2021 Nissan Frontier
2nd gen (2005-2021), final year before the all-new 2022 redesign.
Nissan positions the 2021 Frontier as a straightforward midsize pickup for work and weekend use, built around strong standard V6 power, real towing and hauling ability, and a tough boxed ladder frame. The brochure leans on its 310 horsepower, up-to-6,720-pound towing capability, and usable 4x4 hardware rather than cutting-edge cabin tech. For most buyers, this Frontier is the simple, durable truck in the class: compact enough to live with, strong enough to tow and haul, and available in trims that range from basic work use to serious off-road duty.
The S is the straightforward work-focused truck, while the SV adds everyday upgrades such as alloy wheels, power mirrors, and a sliding rear window. The PRO-4X is the off-road specialist, pairing Bilstein shocks, skid plates, and a locking rear differential with navigation, premium audio, heated leather-appointed seats, and a moonroof.
2021 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 | 4WD / 2WD | 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 changed on the 2021 Nissan Frontier compared with the 2020 model?
Nothing major changed for 2021. The Frontier carries over the same 310-hp 3.8-liter V6, nine-speed automatic, body, basic technology, and three-trim structure from 2020.
Is the 2021 Nissan Frontier the final year of the older generation?
Yes. The 2021 Frontier is the final model year of the second-generation truck before the redesigned 2022 Frontier arrived.
What engine does the 2021 Nissan Frontier have?
Every 2021 Frontier has a 3.8-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
What makes the 2021 Frontier PRO-4X different?
The 2021 Frontier PRO-4X is the off-road-focused trim. It has Bilstein shocks, underbody skid plates, a locking rear differential, and four-wheel drive, plus navigation, premium audio, heated leather-appointed front seats, and a moonroof.
2021 Nissan Frontier Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Nissan Frontier.
3.9
2021 Nissan Frontier
(404 reviews)
“Reliable nice truck, I read material on them and I would recommend. My main gripe is the radio does not have a wiring harness allows you to change it out to one that has Sirius XM. Plus zero technological packages for it. I am very interested in a 2022 Frontier because it does have a fantastic technology package. But I will keep my 2021 Frontier.”
“The Nissan Frontier is an exceptional vehicle. Make sure to get the SV model with the convenience package.”