For 2013, most Nissan Frontier trims will see an uptick in fuel economy of 1 to 2 mpgs because of reduced engine friction and enhanced aerodynamics, according to the automaker. Specifically, Nissan tells us a seal has been added between the cab and bed, the front spoiler has been extended, and a wind diffuser has been added in front of the rear tires and on top of the tailgate.
This new model year also brings a new Desert Runner model; a Value Truck Package with dual-zone air conditioning, a backup camera and parking sensors; and changes to the PRO-4X Package.
The 2013 Frontier King Cab 4×2 with Nissan’s 152-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission is rated at 19/23 mpg city/highway. With crew cab architecture, it gets 16/22 mpg.
The 2013 Frontier crew cab 4×4 with a 261-hp, 4.0-liter V-6 linked to a five-speed automatic gearbox gets an estimated 15/21 mpg.
The Desert Runner model is available in King Cab or crew cab 4×2 versions equipped with automatic transmissions. Special equipment for the Dessert Runner includes 16-inch off-road aluminum-alloy wheels, Bilstein-brand off-road shocks, fog lamps, unique cloth-covered seats with embroidered Frontier logos, Bluetooth hands-free phone connection, and Desert Runner badge and decals.
The new Value Truck Package, which replaces the SV Premium Utility Package, includes dual-zone air conditioning, a backup camera, rear parking sensors, sliding bed extender and trailer hitch, spray-in bed liner, Utili-track tie-down system, fog lamps and floormats.
Other new features for the 2013 Frontier include a satin chrome grille, fog lamps, revised logos and decals, updated contrast stitching and seat embroidery, a backup camera and parking sensors, dual-zone air conditioning, auto headlamps and an additional 12-volt power outlet for the PRO-4X models. The PRO-4X Luxury Package includes a navigation system and a display audio system with an MP3 jack and a USB input.
Frontier SL models (available only in the crew cab configuration) get navigation, a backup camera with parking sensors, dual-zone air conditioning, auto headlamps and the additional 12-volt outlet.
Frontier SV models will come with satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, the display audio setup and an additional power outlet.
All 2013 Frontiers get slide-on-rod sun visors.
Eight colors will be available, including three new ones — Glacier White, Graphite Blue and Cayenne Red.
Pricing information is expected later this month.
