Nissan has officially launched the Frontier Pro, a new mid-size pickup truck developed in collaboration with Dongfeng, its Chinese partner. The model has entered the Chinese market with a remarkably competitive starting price of around $24,800. This figure undercuts not only many domestic rivals but also other global models in the same class. For comparison, the upcoming budget-focused Slate Auto EV truck is expected to start at around $28,000, despite omitting basic amenities such as power windows and speakers. In contrast, the Frontier Pro delivers full functionality and refinement at a lower entry price. By comparison, the U.S.-market Frontier begins at $32,150, before taxes and fees, making the Chinese version considerably more affordable.
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The base Frontier Pro comes equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine, paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and a BorgWarner Mlock four-wheel-drive system. This combination delivers both reliability and off-road competence while keeping costs in check. A second gasoline-powered variant is priced at approximately $27,600, offering a slight upgrade in performance or trim. For buyers seeking stronger low-end torque and better fuel economy, two diesel versions are also available. Both utilize a 2.3-liter engine, with prices ranging between $25,200 and $28,000 depending on configuration and features.
However, the standout model in the lineup — and the one generating the most buzz — is the plug-in hybrid variant. This version is visually distinct thanks to its segmented LED light bar connecting the headlights and a color-matched trim strip beneath it. Conventional gasoline and diesel models lack these modern design cues, giving the PHEV a noticeably more premium appearance. But the real draw isn’t just the styling — it’s the performance. The 1.5-liter hybrid system delivers an astonishing 402 horsepower, more than double the output of the standard combustion versions. On top of that, it offers an impressive 135 kilometers of pure electric driving range, making it a compelling option for both city commuters and off-road enthusiasts.
Dimensionally, the Frontier Pro features a 3,300 mm wheelbase, slightly longer than the short-bed version of the American Frontier, giving it a balanced stance and generous cabin space. The interior reflects modern design trends, boasting a 14.6-inch tablet-style infotainment display, a fully digital instrument cluster, and an electronic gear selector, all of which contribute to a more premium driving experience compared to older-generation trucks.
Although the Frontier Pro has been introduced exclusively in China, Nissan has confirmed plans to export the model to other international markets in the near future. While American buyers won’t get this exact version, Nissan’s CEO has revealed that a hybrid Frontier is currently in development for North America. If that project follows through, it could mark a major step toward electrifying Nissan’s truck lineup in the U.S., offering the perfect blend of capability, performance, and efficiency.