Nissan's New Frontier Pro Plug-in Hybrid Aims to Conquer the Global Market | Carscoops

      Developed through a collaboration with Dongfeng in China, the new plug-in pickup truck is aimed at global markets.

      According to Thanos Pappas, the Frontier Pro was created in partnership with Dongfeng and will launch internationally. This mid-size truck built in China is unrelated to the US-spec Frontier or the upcoming Navara.

      It features a 402 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain and boasts an electric-only range of up to 84 miles.

      At the Shanghai Auto Show, Nissan revealed a new pickup truck that differs from the traditional Frontier. Named the Frontier Pro, this vehicle comes with a plug-in hybrid powertrain and is not connected to the US-market Nissan Frontier or the forthcoming Mitsubishi-based Navara. While initially debuting in China, this mid-size truck is expected to reach various global markets.

      Although it seems unlikely that this Chinese version will make its way to America, Nissan’s CEO recently confirmed plans for a hybrid Frontier for the North American market. It remains uncertain whether this version will share any features with the Chinese model or be a separate design made in the US.

      Nissan’s first electrified truck is developed in partnership with Dongfeng and is produced through the Zhengzhou Nissan (ZNA) joint venture. The Frontier Pro shares a platform with the recently unveiled Dongfeng Z9 while incorporating distinct Nissan elements.

      **A New Look with Retro Touches**

      The Frontier Pro's design is highlighted by its distinctive front end, which includes unique headlight graphics, an illuminated Nissan emblem, and a robust bumper, projecting a serious demeanor. For design enthusiasts, the three horizontal LEDs above the emblem pay tribute to the Nissan D21 Hardbody from the 1980s, referencing its hood vents.

      While the profile closely resembles the Dongfeng Z9, the Nissan Frontier Pro features new 18-inch wheels and enhanced side protection for a more rugged appearance. At the rear, the taillights have updated graphics, with additional horizontal LEDs on the tailgate to complete the design.

      Nissan has not yet disclosed the exact dimensions, but if the Dongfeng Z9 measures 5,520 mm (217 inches) in length, it's reasonable to expect that the Frontier Pro will fall into the range between mid-size and full-size trucks, competing against rivals such as the BYD Shark in the Chinese market.

      **A Familiar Interior, But With Extras**

      The interior design is also derived from the Dongfeng Z9, featuring a conventional dashboard that combines a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster behind a two-spoke steering wheel. The front seats can be equipped with heating, ventilation, and massaging options. Additionally, there is an electronically retractable cover available for the rear bed.

      **Nissan’s First Plug-In Hybrid**

      Under the hood, the Frontier Pro is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with a "high-output" electric motor integrated within the transmission. The plug-in hybrid system produces a total output of over 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. The truck features intelligent All-Wheel Drive and an electromechanical rear differential lock.

      For those who enjoy driving, the truck offers four selectable drive modes: Hybrid, Pure Electric, Performance, and Snow. According to Nissan, the Frontier Pro can achieve an electric-only range of up to 135 km (84 miles) based on the CLTC testing cycle. Plus, for added convenience, the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system can provide up to 6 kW of power for charging household devices while on the move.

      **Global Availability and What’s Next**

      Production of the Nissan Frontier Pro is scheduled to start in China later in 2025. While it will eventually be offered in other markets, Nissan has not specified the exact locations yet.

      Alongside the Frontier Pro, Nissan also showcased the N7 electric sedan in Shanghai, marking the introduction of two of nine new Nissan-branded NEVs expected to launch in China by the summer of 2027.