2021 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab

The 2021 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab represents the culmination of a generation, a final send-off before a significant redesign. While its aesthetics and some technologies felt dated even upon its release, a deep dive reveals a surprisingly robust and mechanically straightforward truck. This guide will analyze the key engineering aspects of the 2021 Frontier Crew Cab, focusing on the engine, transmission, chassis, and suspension.

Powertrain: A Familiar Yet Potent Heart

The headline for the 2021 Frontier was undoubtedly its new engine: the 3.8-liter V6, replacing the previous 4.0-liter V6 and the 2.5-liter four-cylinder offerings. This engine, internally designated the VR38DD (a variant of the VR family also found in the Nissan GT-R, albeit heavily modified for truck use), marked a significant upgrade in both power and refinement.

Engine Design and Technology

The VR38DD is a 60-degree, aluminum-block V6 with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. Its key features include:

Direct Injection: Unlike its predecessors, the VR38DD utilizes direct injection, where fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber. This allows for more precise fuel metering, improved combustion efficiency, and increased power output. The high-pressure fuel pump, typically driven off the camshaft, delivers fuel at significantly higher pressures compared to port fuel injection systems.
Variable Valve Timing (VVT): Both the intake and exhaust valves benefit from continuously variable valve timing, allowing the engine control unit (ECU) to optimize valve timing for various engine speeds and loads. This enhances low-end torque, improves fuel economy, and reduces emissions.
Aluminum Block and Heads: The use of aluminum for both the engine block and cylinder heads contributes to a lighter overall engine weight, which improves the vehicle's handling and fuel efficiency.
Fracture-Split Connecting Rods: This manufacturing process creates stronger and more precise connecting rods compared to traditional machining methods.

The VR38DD produces 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The increased horsepower, especially, offered a significant improvement over the previous generation's engine.

Transmission: A Nine-Speed Partner

Paired with the VR38DD is a 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the older 5-speed automatic. This transmission offers a wider gear ratio spread, which contributes to better acceleration and improved fuel economy, particularly at highway speeds.

Key features of the 9-speed automatic include:

Wide Ratio Spread: The large difference between the lowest and highest gear ratios allows for strong off-the-line acceleration while maintaining low engine speeds at cruising speeds.
Adaptive Shift Control: The transmission control unit (TCU) monitors driving conditions and adjusts shift points accordingly, optimizing performance for different driving styles and situations.
Lock-Up Torque Converter: The torque converter locks up in higher gears to eliminate slippage and improve efficiency, mimicking a direct mechanical connection between the engine and transmission.

The shift quality is generally smooth, and the transmission responds well to throttle inputs. However, some drivers have noted a tendency for the transmission to hunt for gears in certain situations, a common characteristic of transmissions with a large number of gears.

Chassis and Suspension: A Body-on-Frame Foundation

The 2021 Frontier Crew Cab utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of pickup trucks. This design separates the body from the frame, providing durability and ruggedness, particularly for off-road use and heavy-duty tasks.

Frame Construction

The frame is constructed from fully boxed, high-strength steel. This design provides excellent rigidity and resistance to twisting and bending, which is crucial for handling heavy loads and traversing uneven terrain. The boxed frame also contributes to improved crashworthiness.

Suspension System

The Frontier's suspension system is designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and off-road capability. The front suspension consists of an independent, double-wishbone design with coil springs and shock absorbers. This setup provides good wheel articulation and helps to absorb bumps and vibrations for a more comfortable ride.

The rear suspension utilizes a solid axle with leaf springs and shock absorbers. This robust design is well-suited for carrying heavy loads and provides excellent durability. However, the leaf spring suspension can sometimes result in a less refined ride compared to independent rear suspension systems.

Steering System

The Frontier utilizes a hydraulic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system. This system provides good steering feel and responsiveness, allowing the driver to accurately control the vehicle. However, it is less fuel-efficient than electric power steering (EPS) systems, which are becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles.

Braking System and Safety Features

The 2021 Frontier Crew Cab is equipped with a four-wheel disc brake system with anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.

Standard safety features include:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC): ESC helps to prevent skidding and loss of control by selectively applying the brakes to individual wheels.
Traction Control System (TCS): TCS limits wheel spin during acceleration, improving traction on slippery surfaces.
Airbags: The Frontier is equipped with front, side, and curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): TPMS alerts the driver when tire pressure is low, helping to prevent accidents and improve fuel efficiency.

Overall Assessment

The 2021 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab represents a blend of old-school reliability and modern powertrain technology. The VR38DD engine and 9-speed transmission provide a significant performance boost compared to previous generations. The body-on-frame construction and robust suspension system make it a capable and durable truck, suitable for both work and recreational activities.

However, its dated interior, limited technology features, and less refined ride compared to some competitors are undeniable drawbacks. Despite these limitations, the 2021 Frontier offered a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a reliable and capable mid-size truck without the complexities and higher price tags of newer models. Its straightforward engineering makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair, which is a significant advantage for some buyers. Ultimately, the 2021 Frontier Crew Cab is a testament to the enduring appeal of a simple, well-engineered pickup truck.