Nissan has unveiled its first-ever plug-in hybrid pickup—the Frontier Pro PHEV—at Auto Shanghai 2025. While it shares a name with Nissan’s North American Frontier, this new model is entirely different, built on the Dongfeng Z9 platform and co-developed with Zhengzhou Nissan (ZNA). Designed primarily for China, the Frontier Pro also marks a strategic step in Nissan’s global electrification roadmap, with export plans already confirmed.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF FRONTIER
Though the badge says “Frontier,” this truck has no mechanical ties to the U.S.-spec model. Instead, it’s a uniquely Chinese-market product that may serve as a testbed for Nissan’s mid-size truck future. Nissan has hinted at a potential convergence between the Frontier and Navara nameplates globally, which could shape the next generation of its pickups.
ELECTRIFIED MUSCLE WITH PLUG-IN VERSATILITY
Powering the Frontier Pro is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a transmission-mounted high-output electric motor. Together, they deliver an impressive 402 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque (approximately 300 kW and 800 Nm), giving the truck serious performance cred while maintaining efficiency.
Nissan estimates an EV-only range of up to 83 miles (135 kilometers) on the NEDC cycle—solid for urban commutes and short weekend trips without touching a drop of fuel. The system supports multiple drive modes—Hybrid, Pure Electric, Performance, and Snow—and channels power through Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with a 5-link rear suspension and available electromechanical rear differential lock, enhancing both on-road confidence and off-road traction.
DESIGN: RUGGED TECH MEETS HERITAGE
Styled under Nissan’s “Rugged Tech” design philosophy, the Frontier Pro mixes bold modern lines with subtle heritage nods. The front end is dominated by an illuminated Nissan badge and a distinctive LED light signature inspired by the classic three-slot hood of the 1980s D21 Hardbody pickup. Standard 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/65R18 tires round out the truck’s commanding stance.
INSIDE: HIGH-TECH COMFORT FOR EVERYDAY ADVENTURE
Inside, the Frontier Pro blends utility with refinement. A panoramic sunroof, 10-inch digital gauge cluster, and a massive 14.6-inch infotainment screen headline the cabin’s tech-forward features. Heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats are available, along with generous space for five passengers.
To support an active lifestyle, the truck includes roof rails, an electronic retractable tonneau cover, and a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) port capable of supplying up to 6kW of power—perfect for camping gear or worksite tools.
A STRATEGIC LAUNCH FOR NISSAN
The Frontier Pro represents the second of nine New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) Nissan plans to release in China by 2027. It’s aimed at drivers who want an electrified truck that handles weekday commutes as easily as weekend getaways.
Sales will begin in China later this year, with export plans in the works—though details on which international markets will receive the truck are still to come. Given current U.S.–China trade conditions, American availability seems unlikely for now.
Still, the Frontier Pro PHEV marks a pivotal moment: Nissan’s first electrified pickup and a clear signal of the brand’s intent to stay competitive in the evolving global truck market.
