For the 2013 model year, Frontier again offers an exceptional level of on- and off-road performance with the use of a DOHC V6 engine rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. A 152-horsepower 2.5- liter inline 4-cylinder QR25DE engine with 171 lb-ft of torque is also available (4x2 King Cab S and SV only).
Although the 2013 power trains are essentially the same as the previous models, performance and economy gains have been achieved. This is due to the reduction of engine friction and enhanced aerodynamics.
Most notably a seal has been added between the cab and bed, and a new spoiler is added to the standard locking detachable tailgate on all models to help smooth airflow. With its strong performance combined with good fuel mileage, the Frontier is a fitting truck for work or serious off-road play.
The 2013 Frontier model lineup consists of Frontier S, Frontier SV, Frontier PRO-4X (4x4 models only) and Frontier SL (Crew Cab only). It is offered in both King Cab and Crew Cab body styles, in 4x2 and 4x4 driveline configurations, with both manual and automatic transmissions. A number of enhancements are offered for the new model year trucks. A Desert Runner model is new to the Nissan Frontier King Cab 4x2 A/T and Crew Cab 4x2 A/T lineups. The Desert Runner features rear-wheel drive and an automatic transmission and includes Bilstein off-road high-pressure shocks. It is also equipped with an 8-way manual driver’s seat, unique seat upholstery, embroidered logos, decals, and badging. A new SV Value Truck Package replaces the previous SV Premium Utility Package. The Value Truck Package includes fog lights, floor mats, Dual Zone Auto A/C, RearView Monitor, rear sonar, sliding bed extender and trailer hitch, Vehicle Security System (VSS) and in-cabin microfilter.
The mid-size Nissan Frontier emulates many of the full-size Nissan Titan’s exterior styling features, while providing maneuverability and manageability as an alternative to a full-size pickup. Frontier utilizes signature Nissan truck themes, such as an angled strut grille, large bumpers, short front and rear overhangs and large,stamped-steel geometric fender flares.
The 2013 Frontier provides innovation in an area that matters most to truck owners –both Frontier King Cab and Crew Cab offer an available high-utility bed that includes a factory-applied spray-on bed liner and the Utili-track™ tiedown system. The Utili-track™ system was first introduced on the Nissan Titan and is designed to provide cargo hauling flexibility through the use of five special “C” cross-section rails mounted in the bed (two channels in the bed floor and one each on the bed side rails and the bed header panel). Removable utility cleats slide into the channels, providing a wide range on each of attaching points for securing cargo. In addition to the tie-down cleats, a full range of accessories is offered for use with the channel system, including bed dividers, sliding cargo trays and modular storage units.
Just as the high-utility bed offers Frontier customers an exceptional level of flexibility and utility, Frontiers’ interiors feature outstanding functionality combined with comfort and intelligent design. Dual-zone automatic climate control is a new feature for the Frontier in 2013. Other changes are the rear sonar sensors and a Rearview Monitor system on the SL. Both Frontier King Cab and Crew Cab are equipped with large rear doors (rear hinged on King Cab) for easy access to the rear seating and cargo areas. The cabins look rugged but refined and they both feature flip-up rear seats and excellent cab storage and flexibility.
Removable storage boxes are tucked beneath the rear seats, while the front passenger seat folds flat for added load carrying capacity (not available on leather-trimmed models). A locking dual glove box, center console storage, one-liter bottle storage integrated into the front doors and a multitude of cup holders and power outlets are standard. Frontier Crew Cab also offers an available leather-appointed interior and available tilt and sliding moonroof.
Frontier Crew Cab PRO-4X models are available with a PRO-4X Luxury Package, which features leather-appointed seating with updated contrast stitching and seat embroidery, RearView Monitor, rear sonar, Dual Zone Auto A/C, auto on/off headlights and additional 12V power outlet. SV models add SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately) and an additional 12V power outlet. A Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone added to SV and Desert Runner models.
Finally, a navigation system is added to SL models and the PRO-4X Luxury Package and an upgraded Display Audio with CD/AM/FM/Aux/USB is added to SV and PRO-4X models.
Built on the same frame as the full-size Titan‘s fully boxed ladder frame, Frontier’s rugged F-Alpha foundation is it’s heart and soul. Constructed of high tensile-strength steel, the platform provides structural rigidity for rock-solid performance on- and off-road.
Long Bed models are available with Frontier Crew Cab SV and Crew Cab SL. Measuring more than 13 inches longer than the Crew Cab’s standard bed, the Long Bed models offer the roomy interior of the Crew Cab plus the extended bed space of the King Cab. Frontier’s long 125.9-inch wheelbase helps enhance ride comfort, while the overall length of 205.5 inches (King Cab and Crew Cab Regular Bed) is a perfect activity size for customers who do not need a true full-size pickup. Frontier shares its suspension layout and many component designs with the Titan, including its all-steel double-wishbone front suspension and solid axle rear suspension with over slung leaf springs and a long suspension stroke for off-road performance.
NOTE: Some vehicles may be equipped with straight (non-adjustable) lower link bolts and washers. In order to adjust camber and caster on these vehicles, first replace the lower link bolts and washers with adjustable (cam) bolts and washers.
The Frontier is equipped with a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine that is capable of producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The VQ40DE engine is specifically tuned for the unique demands of truck use. Besides its smooth torque delivery, the V6 offers good fuel efficiency and smooth operation. The 4.0-liter V6 design includes a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), the naturally aspirated Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain, micro finished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, Teflon®-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, forged crankshaft, digital knock control system, high capacity muffler and lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads.
The Frontier V6 is assembled at Nissan’s advanced engine production facility in Decherd, Tennessee, which also produces Titan’s 5.6-liter V8.
Frontier 4x4 models are available with a 4-wheel limited-slip system, which helps transfer power to the drive wheels with more grip on low traction surfaces. They’re also available with Hill Decent Control, a feature that allows slow hill decent without the constant application of the brake pedal. Hill Descent Control must be engaged by the driver (via a switch) and is available only when the transfer case is engaged in 4H or 4LO (it works in both forward and reverse). It can be activated at speeds up to 21 MPH in 4H and 15 MPH in 4LO.
NOTE: During Hill Descent Control operation, a mechanical noise may be heard. This is normal and not a malfunction.
Hill Start Assist (HSA) allows the driver to stop on an incline, release the brake pedal and not roll back for up to two seconds while the driver moves their foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal. HSA operates in 4x4 models in 2WD, 4H and 4LO. HSA is designed for rugged, low-speed off-road driving situations. Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist are standard on all V6 Frontier SV, SL and PRO-4X 4x4 automatic transmission-equipped models. A 2-Wheel Anti-lock Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system is standard on all 4x2 models.
Other Frontier driveline components include engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack and pinion steering and standard 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Frontier is offered with a range of available wheels and tires, including 16-inch off road style wheels with rugged 265/75R16 white-letter tires and 18-inch wheels with 265/60R18 tires.
