Nissan’s Latest Chinese Frontier is Priced at Half the Cost of America’s Frontier | Carscoops

      If you thought the bare-bones Slate was affordable at $20,500 after tax credits, just wait to see the price of Nissan’s Chinese Frontier.

      Zhengzhou Nissan has introduced the plug-in hybrid Z9 pickup truck for the Chinese market.

      This electrified midsize truck is a sibling to the Nissan Frontier Pro, which is manufactured in China.

      Prices start at ¥119,900 ($16,600) and go up to ¥219,900 ($30,500) for the top-tier PHEV.

      For those seeking an economical midsize pickup, China is gradually revealing a wealth of unexpectedly capable choices. With suitable currency conversion and a little perspective, the prices appear almost unbelievable, particularly for Zhengzhou Nissan's Z9 series.

      Zhengzhou Nissan, the truck-focused segment of the Dongfeng-Nissan partnership, has recently expanded the local Z9 series with the GE PHEV, a plug-in hybrid that is the electrified counterpart to the locally produced Nissan Frontier Pro. Previously, the company had released gas and diesel variants of the Z9.

      Affordable Workhorses

      The Zhengzhou Nissan Z9 starts at merely ¥119,900 (approximately $16,600 at today’s exchange rates) for the standard combustion model. For a greener alternative, the new Z9 GE PHEV begins at ¥156,900 ($21,800), still significantly lower than what most midsize pickups cost elsewhere.

      While the Z9 and Frontier Pro share a family resemblance, they can be distinguished by their grille and bumper designs, along with unique LED light patterns at both front and rear. Beyond these visual differences, the body structure is the same, featuring a five-seat cabin.

      Competitive Pricing with Advanced Features

      Inside, the Z9 offers impressive features for its price point. Standard equipment includes a 12.8-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. Higher trims upgrade to a 14.6-inch touchscreen, Nappa leather seats, and a host of modern amenities including heating, ventilation, massage functions, and a 12-speaker sound system. Tech enhancements include four ultrasonic radars, a transparent engine hood camera mode, and four high-definition cameras that support Level 2 driver assistance.

      Size and Powertrain Specifications

      With a length of 5,494 mm (216.3 inches) and a wheelbase of 3,300 mm (129.9 inches), the Z9 GE PHEV fits comfortably into the midsize pickup category. It is offered only in a dual-cab configuration, accommodating five passengers in a 1,520 mm (59.8 inches) long cargo bed.

      The plug-in hybrid system combines a turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine with a single electric motor. Depending on the variant, total power output is either 322 hp (240 kW) or 429 hp (320 kW), with both configurations delivering a substantial 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of peak torque. Power is dispatched to either the rear or all four wheels through an automatic transmission specifically designed for hybrids.

      The PHEV provides two battery variants. The base model features a 17 kWh battery pack, allowing for an electric-only range of 60 km (37 miles). For those seeking more, the larger 32.85 kWh battery extends the zero-emission range to 135 km (84 miles). However, it is important to note that these figures are based on the more optimistic NEDC test cycle.

      A Genuine Value Compared to U.S. Models

      This brings us to the surprisingly low pricing. The entry-level Z9 GE PHEV starts at ¥156,900 ($21,800), while the higher-powered variant with the extended EV range is listed at ¥168,900 ($23,400). Even the fully equipped top version, laden with premium features, caps at just ¥219,900 ($30,500). For those focused on budget, the base diesel model with a six-speed manual is available for only ¥119,900 ($16,600).

      To provide some context, the comparable U.S. Nissan Frontier begins at $32,050 for the simplest 4×2 King Cab with a non-electrified 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates 310 hp and 218 lb-ft of peak torque. This is nearly double the price of the Z9, lacking both electrification and notable tech features.

      In terms of electric vehicle options, the upcoming Slate is anticipated to start around $28,000. However, the base model omits even the most basic conveniences, such as power windows – and paint. It will be available in a single molded-in gray color, with buyers offered a $500 DIY wrap kit as their only customization choice. Federal incentives could potentially lower the price to about $20,500, but one shouldn't rely on this. With Trump’s "Big Beautiful Bill" gaining traction, those generous tax credits may soon disappear