2025 Nissan Frontier is proof boxy (stylish) pickup trucks are here to stay

USDM Nissan Frontier gets plenty of upgrades for 2025 model year

Four years ago, Nissan debuted the third-generation Frontier pickup truck. What was originally a rebadged twin of the Navara, the Frontier became its own pickup truck when the Navara became the brand's global pickup model.

While the two vehicles went their separate ways, we cannot help but see some similarities between the Navara and the USDM Frontier. Fast forward to 2024 and Nissan has revealed the facelifted Frontier pickup truck. Refreshed and upgraded for the 2025 model year, the USDM pickup truck gets some subtle and important changes for its latest update.

Starting with what Nissan changed on the outside, the boxy and tough-looking exterior gets a revised front grille and bumper design in the Pro-X and Pro-4X variants. It also comes with new 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in chunky all-terrain tires. In case you haven't noticed it yet, the 2025 Frontier is available with a striking new paint job called Afterburn Orange which makes the pickup stand out more.

Hop inside and Nissan installed more convenience features for the occupants. For starters, it gets a new telescopic steering rack which complements the tilt-adjust, and a power-adjustable front passenger seat which is standard on the Pro-X and Pro-4X variants. Meanwhile, the driver's seat now comes with lumbar support for extra comfort.

When it comes to features, high-grade models now get a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay. There's also a wireless charging pad for mobile devices, a 10-speaker Fender sound system, a sliding rear window, and the Intelligent Around-View Monitor for extra peace of mind.

Perhaps serving as the main highlight of the 2025 Frontier is the availability of the Crew Cab long wheelbase configuration. Thanks to a 6-foot bed (or 1.83m), the pickup can carry more cargo with ease. Nissan was also able to increase the vehicle's towing capacity to 7,150 lbs (or 3,243 kg) which translates to an increase of around 500 lbs (227 kg).

Under the hood, the Frontier continues to be powered by a 3.8L naturally-aspirated V6 engine that generates 314 PS with 381 Nm of torque. Power is then sent either to the rear wheels (RWD) or all four wheels (4WD) via a 9-speed automatic. Complementing the V6 powertrain are extra features which include a limited-slip differential, an electronic locking differential, idle stop/start, Bilstein off-road suspension, over-fenders, and Lava Red tow hooks.

While there's little to no chance of the Nissan Frontier coming to the Philippines, we cannot help but think that the new-generation Navara could get some inspiration from its USDM cousin. Perhaps we'll find out soon enough when Nissan decides to release the first teaser images of the all-new Navara soon.