What Engine Comes in the 2027 Nissan Frontier?

October 17th, 2026 by
A dark grey midsize crew-cab pickup truck parked on a dealership service drive with its hood raised, revealing a clean V6 engine bay with the engine cover and intake plumbing clearly visible, three-quarter front angle so both the open hood and the truck's stance are in frame, bright overcast autumn daylight, gravel apron and a treeline behind. Photorealistic, natural lighting. No text, no logos other than natural vehicle badging, no identifiable faces. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)
Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.

Every 2027 Nissan Frontier comes standard with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 281 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, this direct-injection engine provides responsive acceleration, strong towing power, and steady highway performance without requiring a turbocharger.

This naturally aspirated engine setup remains a standout feature in the midsize truck class, giving truck buyers reliable power right off the line. Driver-assist features help keep you safe on the road, while the powertrain maintains smooth power delivery under heavy loads or when cruising down the highway. The nine-speed automatic transmission optimizes gear ratios for both immediate low-end torque and efficient highway cruising.

Rear-wheel drive is standard on base models, while an advanced four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing is available across the lineup. EPA fuel economy estimates reach up to 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined for rear-wheel-drive configurations and 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway / 19 mpg combined for four-wheel-drive models.

Our team at Newton Nissan of Gallatin frequently walks buyers through the benefits of a proven V6 engine during test drives. If you want to check out the powertrain in person, you can get our Gallatin showroom location details or give our team a quick call to schedule a time behind the wheel.

Table of Contents

How Does the 2027 Nissan Frontier Compare to the Toyota Tacoma?

The Toyota Tacoma’s base model features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower, contrasting with the Frontier’s standard V6 power.

For buyers comparing midsize trucks, engine architecture plays a central role in how a truck handles daily work and long-distance driving. The standard V6 in the Frontier delivers immediate, linear throttle response without the spool-up delay associated with turbocharged engines. While the Tacoma offers a hybrid powertrain variant, the Frontier focuses on mechanical simplicity, rugged durability, and classic truck driving dynamics.

When it comes to interior controls, the Frontier balances modern technology with physical switchgear. An available 12.3-inch touchscreen display features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone connectivity, while keeping physical knobs for volume, climate adjustments, and drive-mode selection.

  • Standard Powertrain: 3.8-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque in the Frontier versus a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 228 to 278 horsepower in the Tacoma.
  • Standard Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission in the Frontier versus an 8-speed automatic in the Tacoma.
  • Interior Usability: Intuitive physical controls paired with modern touchscreen integration.
  • Hauling & Utility: Practical bed options with robust cargo space and sturdy tie-down points for equipment.

For farmland property owners and outdoor enthusiasts driving around Cross Plains, the consistent pulling power of a naturally aspirated V6 provides dependability on unpaved access roads and country lanes. Lebanon area drivers cross-shopping options can also browse our pre-owned pickup selection to see how previous Frontier model years hold up over time.

What Is the Starting MSRP for Each 2027 Nissan Frontier Trim Level?

The 2027 Nissan Frontier lineup begins at a starting MSRP of $32,490 for the S King Cab 4X2 trim level, providing a broad range of cab, bed, and drivetrain configurations to match various budgets and utility needs.

Nissan structures the Frontier lineup across four primary trim tiers: S, SV, PRO-X, and PRO-4X. A destination charge of $1,775 applies across all trim configurations. Here is how the starting pricing breaks down by body style and drivetrain:

  • S King Cab 4X2: $32,490 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,376 lbs | Max towing: 7,150 lbs | Max payload: 1,636 lbs
  • S King Cab 4X4: $35,490 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,534 lbs | Max towing: 7,000 lbs | Max payload: 1,478 lbs
  • S Crew Cab 4X2: $33,890 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,500 lbs | Max towing: 7,040 lbs | Max payload: 1,512 lbs
  • S Crew Cab 4×4: $36,890 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,660 lbs | Max towing: 6,930 lbs | Max payload: 1,352 lbs
  • SV Crew Cab 4X2 SWB: $36,490 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,477 lbs | Max towing: 7,000 lbs | Max payload: 1,535 lbs
  • SV Crew Cab 4X2 LWB: $36,990 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,452 lbs | Max towing: 6,930 lbs | Max payload: 1,560 lbs
  • SV Crew Cab 4X4 SWB: $39,790 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,742 lbs | Max towing: 6,880 lbs | Max payload: 1,371 lbs
  • SV Crew Cab 4X4 LWB: $40,290 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,861 lbs | Max towing: 6,760 lbs | Max payload: 1,270 lbs
  • PRO-X Crew Cab 4X2: $38,890 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,557 lbs | Max towing: 6,910 lbs | Max payload: 1,455 lbs
  • PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4: $42,190 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,759 lbs | Max towing: 6,680 lbs | Max payload: 1,253 lbs
  • PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4 LWB: $42,690 base MSRP | Curb weight: 4,861 lbs | Max towing: 6,310 lbs | Max payload: 1,151 lbs

Every trim comes equipped with essential safety tech including Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning. Upgrading to the SV trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels and the NissanConnect 12.3-inch color touch-screen display, while the PRO-4X equips Bilstein off-road performance shock absorbers and an electronic locking rear differential.

If you are planning to upgrade your current vehicle, you can easily estimate your trade-in value online before exploring trim options at the dealership.

Pricing

Pricing by trim

Feature PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4 PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4 LWB PRO-X Crew Cab 4X2 S Crew Cab 4X2
Base MSRP $42,190 $42,690 $38,890 $33,890
Destination charge $1,775 $1,775 $1,775 $1,775

Pricing (continued)

Feature S Crew Cab 4×4 S King Cab 4X2 S King Cab 4X4 SV Crew Cab 4X2 LWB
Base MSRP $36,890 $32,490 $35,490 $36,990
Destination charge $1,775 $1,775 $1,775 $1,775

Pricing (continued)

Feature SV Crew Cab 4X2 SWB SV Crew Cab 4X4 LWB SV Crew Cab 4X4 SWB
Base MSRP $36,490 $40,290 $39,790
Destination charge $1,775 $1,775 $1,775

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

Feature PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4 PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4 LWB PRO-X Crew Cab 4X2 S Crew Cab 4X2
Engine 3.8L 3.8L 3.8L 3.8L
Horsepower 310 hp 310 hp 310 hp 310 hp
Torque 281 lb-ft 281 lb-ft 281 lb-ft 281 lb-ft
Transmission automatic 9-speed automatic 9-speed automatic 9-speed automatic 9-speed
Drivetrain All-wheel drive All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive

Engine & Performance (continued)

Feature S Crew Cab 4×4 S King Cab 4X2 S King Cab 4X4 SV Crew Cab 4X2 LWB
Engine 3.8L 3.8L 3.8L 3.8L
Horsepower 310 hp 310 hp 310 hp 310 hp
Torque 281 lb-ft 281 lb-ft 281 lb-ft 281 lb-ft
Transmission automatic 9-speed automatic 9-speed automatic 9-speed automatic 9-speed
Drivetrain All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive

Engine & Performance (continued)

Feature SV Crew Cab 4X2 SWB SV Crew Cab 4X4 LWB SV Crew Cab 4X4 SWB
Engine 3.8L 3.8L 3.8L
Horsepower 310 hp 310 hp 310 hp
Torque 281 lb-ft 281 lb-ft 281 lb-ft
Transmission automatic 9-speed automatic 9-speed automatic 9-speed
Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive All-wheel drive All-wheel drive

Which 2027 Nissan Frontier Trim Level Offers the Highest Towing Capacity?

The 2027 Nissan Frontier S King Cab 4X2 delivers the maximum towing capacity in the lineup at 7,150 pounds, making it the top configuration for heavy trailering needs.

Towing performance varies depending on cab configuration, bed length, and drivetrain options. The fully boxed ladder frame provides a solid structural foundation across all trims, but lighter two-wheel-drive extended cab configurations allow for higher maximum tow ratings.

  • S King Cab 4X2: 7,150 pounds max towing | 1,636 pounds max payload
  • S Crew Cab 4X2: 7,040 pounds max towing | 1,512 pounds max payload
  • S King Cab 4X4: 7,000 pounds max towing | 1,478 pounds max payload
  • SV Crew Cab 4X2 SWB: 7,000 pounds max towing | 1,535 pounds max payload
  • PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4: 6,680 pounds max towing | 1,253 pounds max payload

For residents navigating the rolling hills and agricultural properties around Westmoreland, having a reliable tow vehicle for utility trailers, farm equipment, or recreation boats is essential. Nissan offers integrated towing tech such as a Tow/Haul Mode Switch and trailer hitch receiver packages to make hitching and hauling straightforward. You can also order genuine Nissan towing accessories directly through our dealership team.

Is the 2027 Nissan Frontier a Reliable Midsize Pickup Truck?

The 2027 Nissan Frontier stands out as a highly reliable midsize truck, earning a 4 out of 5 reliability rating from RepairPal and ranking second out of eight midsize trucks evaluated for low repair frequency and manageable ownership costs.

Much of the Frontier’s long-term dependability stems from its naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine and proven nine-speed automatic transmission. By avoiding complex turbocharging hardware, the powertrain experiences less thermal stress over time. Industry recognition highlights this reliability track record:

  • Consumer Reports: Selected the Frontier as one of its 2026 Recommended Vehicles.
  • Consumer Guide Automotive: Awarded the Frontier a 2026 Best Buy Award in the midsize truck class.
  • Wards Auto: Recognized Nissan’s 3.8-liter engine family on its 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems list.

Every new Frontier comes backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Standard driver-assist features help keep you safe on the road, while the robust ladder-frame chassis ensures structural integrity over years of daily work and highway driving.

Dimensions & Capacity

Capacity and dimensions by trim

Feature PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4 PRO-4X Crew Cab 4X4 LWB PRO-X Crew Cab 4X2 S Crew Cab 4X2
Seating 5 5 5 5
Cargo 40.1 cu ft 40.1 cu ft 40.1 cu ft 40.1 cu ft
Curb weight 4,759 lbs 4,861 lbs 4,557 lbs 4,500 lbs
Towing 6,680 lbs 6,310 lbs 6,910 lbs 7,040 lbs
Payload 1,253 lbs 1,151 lbs 1,455 lbs 1,512 lbs

Dimensions & Capacity (continued)

Feature S Crew Cab 4×4 S King Cab 4X2 S King Cab 4X4 SV Crew Cab 4X2 LWB
Seating 5 4 4 5
Cargo 40.1 cu ft 49.6 cu ft 49.6 cu ft 40.1 cu ft
Curb weight 4,660 lbs 4,376 lbs 4,534 lbs 4,452 lbs
Towing 6,930 lbs 7,150 lbs 7,000 lbs 6,930 lbs
Payload 1,352 lbs 1,636 lbs 1,478 lbs 1,560 lbs

Dimensions & Capacity (continued)

Feature SV Crew Cab 4X2 SWB SV Crew Cab 4X4 LWB SV Crew Cab 4X4 SWB
Seating 5 5 5
Cargo 40.1 cu ft 40.1 cu ft 40.1 cu ft
Curb weight 4,477 lbs 4,742 lbs 4,641 lbs
Towing 7,000 lbs 6,760 lbs 6,880 lbs
Payload 1,535 lbs 1,270 lbs 1,371 lbs

Key Questions Buyers Ask Before Choosing a 2027 Nissan Frontier

Q: Does the 2027 Nissan Frontier offer a manual transmission option?

No, the 2027 Nissan Frontier does not offer a manual transmission. Every trim level comes standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission tuned for smooth gear transitions, responsive downshifts, and optimal engine efficiency during city driving and highway cruising.

Q: What bed lengths are available on the 2027 Nissan Frontier?

The 2027 Frontier offers two bed lengths depending on cab choice. King Cab models feature a standard 6-foot bed. Crew Cab configurations come standard with a 5-foot bed, but buyers can select a 6-foot long bed on SV and PRO-4X Crew Cab trims for increased cargo space.

Q: What infotainment screens come in the 2027 Frontier?

Base S trims come equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display. SV, PRO-X, and PRO-4X trims feature a larger 12.3-inch NissanConnect color touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for effortless smartphone connectivity.

Q: What active safety features are included standard on the 2027 Frontier?

Every 2027 Nissan Frontier includes standard Safety Shield 360 features: Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Automatic Braking, and High Beam Assist.

Q: How can I shop current Frontier inventory or start my purchase?

You can explore our current selection of new Nissan Frontier trucks online or complete a quick online financing application to get pre-approved before visiting our showroom.

Take the Next Step with a Local Nissan Dealer

Choosing the right midsize truck comes down to experiencing its performance, comfort, and utility in person. The 2027 Nissan Frontier delivers standard V6 power, practical towing capabilities, and advanced driver-assist features that keep you confident on your daily commute and weekend trips alike.

Our team at Newton Nissan of Gallatin is ready to help you compare trim levels, explore available packages, and walk through flexible financing options designed around your budget. Whether you need a work-ready S King Cab or an off-road equipped PRO-4X, we ensure a transparent and friendly buying experience from start to finish.

We welcome shoppers from across the region, including Hendersonville area customers looking for dependable truck sales and service. Get directions to our dealership at 1461 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066, or call our team directly at (615) 442-3090 to schedule your test drive today.


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