Nissan has issued a press release detailing the history of its Hardbody models. Additionally, Nissan shared a photo of a classic Hardbody parked behind the new Frontier. We can see that the Frontier will retain its name as it still appears at the top of the black grille, indicating that the Hardbody name will be used for one of its variants.
Clearly, the Japanese brand shared the history of Hardbody as a teaser for what this specific model may become. Nissan marketed this robust vehicle as a compact and user-friendly truck, which received a warm welcome in both rural and urban settings. The name stemmed from the sturdy design of the double-walled bed that was known for its durability.
Throughout the life of this model, the solid structure was available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive and in single and double cab styles. It was offered in various trims, supported by a 3.3-liter V6 engine.
Nissan began using the Frontier name in the United States in 1997. However, it continued to retain the Hardbody moniker in other parts of the world, where the term 'durability' might hold more significance. Until last year, it was still possible to purchase the first new generation of Frontier with the Hardbody badge in a few African countries.
This makes it particularly difficult to guess what Nissan will unveil next week. It could be something that competes with the Ranger Raptor. Frontier's competitors have shifted to turbocharged four-cylinder engines, while the V6 engine with 310 horsepower displaces 3.8 liters.
However, Nissan is not in a position to develop new internal combustion engines, as it is determined to transition to fully electric vehicles in a few years. Therefore, it is likely that the old V6 engine will be carried over for this model.
Regardless, Nissan urgently needs to make the Frontier more appealing to customers as its competitors are surpassing it. After discontinuing the Titan at the end of summer 2024, the Frontier will be the only truck sold by Nissan in the United States. The new model has become more important than ever, as the next-generation model appears to be delayed until 2029.
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