2009 Nissan Frontier

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The mid-size 2009 Nissan Frontier pickup comes in two cab styles, King Cab and Crew Cab. The King Cab has smaller, rear-hinged rear doors, and the Crew Cab has full-size, front-hinged rear doors and a larger rear-seat area. The King Cab is available in a single bed length, while the Crew Cab is available in standard bed and long bed versions.

The Frontier shares its basic layout, including the suspension and other components, with the larger Titan pickup. The suspension combines a double-wishbone front setup with a solid-axle and leaf springs at the rear.

The base XE and SE Frontier King Cab 2WD trucks have a 152-horsepower, 2.5L 4-cylinder engine. All other Frontiers are powered by a 4.0L V6 engine, making 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The predominantly aluminum, double-overhead-cam engine utilizes continuously variable valve timing, variable induction and a number of attributes for smooth operation and efficiency. Four-cylinder models have a 5-speed manual transmission standard, while V6 models get six speeds. A 5-speed automatic is available on both.

On V6 models, a 4-wheel drive system is available, featuring electronically controlled shift-on-the-fly engagement and a low range. The 4WD models also bring a 4-wheel limited-slip system. Hill Descent Control (HDC) helps maintain a steady slow speed while descending especially steep slopes, while Hill Start Assist (HSA) allows a smooth, controlled start on a steep incline without roll-back; both features are optional. The top of the line LE includes the V6 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission, as well as additional features such as 18-inch aluminum wheels, fog lights, 8-way adjustable power driver's seat and side step rails.

There's also a new PRO-4X off-road edition, available in King Cab or Crew Cab SE V6 versions with either 2WD or 4WD, which brings Bilstein performance shocks, an electronic-locking rear differential and 2- and 4-wheel anti-lock brake-controlled limited slip. The PRO-4X also includes additional skid plates and 16-inch off-road tires.

The Frontier has several innovative storage options, including storage boxes under the rear seats, a large center console, a dual-compartment glove box and several power points. The Utili-track system, which brings removable utility tie-down cleats and secure attaching channels, is available and especially useful for securing heavy cargo that doesn't take up the entire bed. A factory-applied spray-in bedliner is standard with SE V6 Crew Cab, as well as the PRO-4X and LE models

Front-seat side air bags are optional, as are side-curtain air bags that cover front and rear occupants.
For 2009, the Frontier gets some basic exterior styling upgrades including a bolder grille, a new headlight design, and two new exterior colors: Red Brick and Navy Blue. Several new Value Truck Packages provide solid value, and the SE and LE models both get redesigned wheels. All models get a slightly redesigned audio and climate control layout. A new PRO-4X off-road package is available, which includes Bilstein off-road high-pressure shock absorbers, additional skid plates, an electronic locking rear differential, 2- or 4-wheel anti-lock brake-controlled limited slip, and 16-inch aluminum wheels. King Cab models get power heated front seats and heated side mirrors. Fog lamps as well as body-colored bumpers, grille, mirrors, and door handles are included, as well as unique interior appointments and a host of power options.
Utility and cargo versatility; PRO-4X off-road model; power (V6); towing ability.
The 2009 Nissan Frontier is a good, manageably sized alternative to full-size trucks, and its V6 engine is one of the most powerful in its class. The truck also stands out for its unique Utili-track system and plentiful interior storage bins. Towing ability is a strong point for the Frontier, too; properly equipped, it is rated to tow up to 6,500 pounds.