The 2022 Nissan Frontier midsize pickup truck was a long time coming. It looks propelled into the future, but Nissan managed to retain style elements that honor the new Frontier‘s simple, rugged roots. But how far back to those roots does it really go? Does the 2022 Nissan Frontier have a manual transmission?

What engine is in the new Frontier?

First seen on the 2020 model year, the new Frontier keeps that new 3.8-liter V6 engine. Unlike its Toyota Tacoma rival, the 2022 Nissan Frontier offers standard V6 power. Given that the last generation of the Frontier––also known globally as the Nissan Navara––goes all the way back to 2005, we can’t blame Nissan for being pretty excited about this emerging Nissan pickup truck.

“Best-in-class 310 horsepower, proven shift-on-the-fly 4WD.”

Nissan

This truck, like other midsize pickups, fits into a market of truck buyers that want something specific. The compact size of the midsize pickup lends ease to city driving. However, it’s capable enough for weekend detours that take you away from the urban jungle.

Like its predecessors, the 2022 Nissan Frontier fits into a segment designed for versatility. The redesigned 2022 Nissan Frontier is a small truck with deep roots dating back to the famed “Nissan Hardbody” pickup trucks of old. It looks completely new with a modern, rugged style and a full tech overhaul.

The redesigned 2022 Nissan Frontier

According to Nissan’s press release, the redesigned 2022 Nissan Frontier is a new pickup truck inside and out. The only tangible carryover is the V6 engine. However, this new midsize pickup looks like it’s staying true to its roots with a Pro-4X model. Nissan USA playfully claims this new Frontier range-topper is “raised by wolves.”

Every 2022 Nissan Frontier with 4WD features an active system that includes 2WD, 4 Hi, and 4 Lo modes. An “electronically controlled part-time transfer case” operates the modes in this system. Every new Frontier gets “Hill Start Assist,” and “Hill Descent Control” is on the standard features list for every 4WD model. Nissan strives to produce a new truck that makes adventures easier than ever.

The Pro-4X model takes it a bit further. With the Pro-4X Nissan Frontier, you’ll get an electronic locking differential. Plus, off-road designated Bilstein shocks paired with skid plates increase the capability even more. We haven’t gotten to test one yet, so we can only speculate in terms of how it will stack up to other off-road warriors like the Toyota Tacoma and Jeep Gladiator. We do know, however, that both of those midsize pickups have something that the 2022 Nissan Frontier does not.

Does this midsize pickup have a manual transmission?

Both the Toyota Tacoma and the Jeep Gladiator offer a manual transmission for those that like to kick it old school. But does the 2022 Nissan Frontier have a manual transmission? No, the 2022 Nissan Frontier is only available with the 310 horsepower V6 mated with a new nine-speed transmission.

In 2020, the old Nissan Frontier body got a new engine. Car and Driver gives the 2020 Frontier the endearing title of “resto rod.” It’s a new engine and transmission sunk into an old body. With this engine transplant, however, Nissan dropped the manual option. The last model year that the Nissan Frontier offered a manual was, alas, in 2019.