2026 Nissan Frontier: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2026 Nissan Frontier is the new PRO-4X R by Roush special edition, which adds a lifted, more trail-focused setup to the PRO-4X formula. Otherwise, this is a light-update year with the same V6 and basic design, plus a few trim and equipment changes.
About the 2026 Nissan Frontier
3rd generation Frontier for North America (2022-present), in the second year after the 2025 refresh.
Nissan positions the Frontier as a traditional midsize pickup that balances everyday usability with real truck capability. Its core identity is straightforward and rugged: standard V6 power, body-on-frame construction, useful towing and payload ratings, and available 4WD for trails or rough job sites. Versus many newer turbo-four rivals, the Frontier leans on simple controls, a naturally aspirated V6, and a right-sized feel that works for commuting, hauling gear, and weekend off-road use.
Every 2026 Frontier uses a 310-hp 3.8-liter V6 and a 9-speed automatic. The S is the straightforward work-focused truck, while the SV adds everyday comforts and a 12.3-inch touchscreen; PRO-X brings rugged styling in a rear-wheel-drive package, and PRO-4X adds 4WD, an electronic locking rear differential, skid plates, and Bilstein shocks. The new PRO-4X R goes further with a lift kit, Roush-tuned suspension, forged upper control arms, and unique exterior and interior details.
What changed, by category
2026 Nissan Frontier specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.8 Liter | V6, 3.8 Liter | V6, 3.8 Liter | V6, 3.8 Liter | V6, 3.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd | Automatic, 9-Spd | Automatic, 9-Spd | Automatic, 9-Spd | Automatic, 9-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD | 2WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 19 mpg | 19 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 310 hp | 310 hp | 310 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6960–7150 lb | 6760–6880 lb | 6900 lb | 6270–6310 lb | 6270 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 26.2–33.2 in | 33.2 in | 33.2 in | 33.2 in | 33.2 in |
| Seats | 4–5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||||
| Automatic High Beams | |||||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Hill Descent Control | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| 360 Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| LED Headlights | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Power Mirrors | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Side Steps | |||||
| Tow Hooks | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Subwoofer | |||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Driver Seat | |||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2026 Nissan Frontier?
The biggest change is the new PRO-4X R by Roush special edition. It builds on the 4WD PRO-4X with a lift kit, forged upper control arms, Roush-tuned off-road suspension, and distinct Roush styling.
Is the 2026 Nissan Frontier a full redesign?
No, the 2026 Frontier is not a full redesign. It follows the 2025 refresh with the same basic third-generation design and receives a new special edition plus smaller trim-content updates.
Did the 2026 Nissan Frontier get a new engine?
No, the 2026 Frontier keeps the 310-hp 3.8-liter V6 and 9-speed automatic used for 2025. There is no lineup-wide powertrain change this year.
How is the 2026 Frontier PRO-4X R different from the regular PRO-4X?
The PRO-4X R has a more aggressive off-road setup than the regular PRO-4X. Its key additions are a lift kit, forged upper control arms, Roush-tuned suspension, titanium-finish grille accents, special badging, and R-embroidered headrests.
Is the SL trim part of the 2026 Nissan Frontier lineup?
No, the SL trim is not part of the 2026 Frontier lineup. It was offered for 2025 but is dropped for 2026, leaving S, SV, PRO-X, PRO-4X, and the new PRO-4X R special edition.