The heart and soul of the Frontier is its rugged F-Alpha platform. Starting with a full-size, fully boxed ladder frame, the F-Alpha platform provides a rugged foundation on which to build. Constructed of high tensile-strength steel, which is 90 percent stronger and 22 percent lighter than conventional steel, the platform improves structural rigidity for rock-solid performance on- and off- road.

Frontier's long 125.9-inch wheelbase helps enhance ride comfort and stability, while the overall length of 205.5 inches (King Cab and Crew Cab Regular Bed) is a perfect "activity size" for buyers who don't need a true full-size pickup.

The 2009 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 overslung leaf springs and a long suspension stroke for optimized off-road dynamics.

Frontier provides exceptional acceleration, towing capacity and all-around off-roading ability, due in large measure to its powerful engine - a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The 4.0-liter DOHC V6 is based on the award-winning Nissan VQ engine series used in the 350Z, Maxima, Altima, Murano and Quest, but is specifically tuned for the unique demands of truck use. Besides smooth torque delivery, the V6 offers excellent fuel efficiency and smooth operation.

The 4.0-liter V6 design includes a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain, microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, Teflon®-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, forged crankshaft, digital knock control system, high capacity muffler, lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads and 105,000-mile spark plugs.

The Frontier V6 is assembled at Nissan's advanced engine production facility in Decherd, Tenn., which also produces Titan's 5.6-liter V8.

An advanced 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, with 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft torque, is also available on the base Frontier King Cab 4x2 model.

For 2009, Frontier is again offered with a choice of transmissions - a smooth 5-speed automatic, a 6-speed manual or 5-speed manual transmission (King Cab 4-cylinder models). Frontier 4x4 models include a shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel drive system with 2WD/4H/4LO modes operated by an electronically controlled part-time transfer case. An advanced off-road traction system is available with 4x4 models. It includes a 4-wheel limited slip system, which helps transfer power to the drive wheels with more grip on low traction surfaces.

The available Hill Descent Control feature allows slow hill descent 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.

Hill Start Assist 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 to the accelerator for a smooth, controlled start. HSA is available on 4x4 models in 2WD, 4H and 4LO. HSA is designed for rugged, low-speed off-road driving situations.

All key underbody hardware is tucked up to the frame rails for a minimum 8.9 inches (4x4) or 8.6 inches (4x2) of running ground clearance on XE, SE, PRO-4X and LE models. Every 2009 Frontier also offers good approach and departure angles for exceptional off-road capability.

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 P265/75R16 white-letter tires and 18-inch wheels with P265/60R18 tires.

Frontier's maximum towing capacity is rated at up to 6,500 pounds (maximum, when properly equipped).