Most midsize trucks have shifted to smaller, turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The Nissan Frontier still comes standard with a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 — 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, no upgrade trim required — giving Robeson County truck buyers in Lumberton, Pembroke, Red Springs, St. Pauls, and Maxton straightforward power and real towing strength.
The midsize truck market has changed quickly, with most competitors shifting to smaller, turbocharged engines. The Nissan Frontier takes a different approach: every trim comes standard with a 3.8-liter V6 and 9-speed automatic transmission — Robeson County shoppers don't have to move up a trim level or add an optional package just to get V6 power.
That straightforward performance is useful whether you're commuting along I-95 between Lumberton and Fayetteville, hauling equipment around a farm outside St. Pauls or Maxton, or heading toward Lumber River State Park for a weekend outdoors. See exactly how the Frontier compares to the competition below.
Whether you're looking for a dependable work truck, a comfortable daily driver, or an off-road-ready Frontier PRO-4X, the core V6 powertrain stays the same across the lineup.
| Feature | Nissan Frontier |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 |
| Horsepower | 310 horsepower |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic transmission |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Up to 7,150 lbs when properly equipped |
| Maximum Payload | Up to 1,620 lbs when properly equipped |
| Turbocharger | No |
From towing and hauling to trail driving and daily commuting, the Frontier is built to handle a wide range of needs across Lumberton and Robeson County.
When properly equipped, the Frontier can tow up to 7,150 pounds — enough for campers, boats, livestock trailers, or equipment hauls around Robeson County farms and job sites.
The Frontier PRO-4X brings rugged styling and off-road-focused equipment for drivers who want more confidence off the pavement, whether that's a back road outside Rowland or a weekend at Lumber River.
Turbocharged four-cylinder engines have become the norm across the segment. Here's how the Frontier's standard naturally aspirated V6 stacks up against the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon.
| Feature | Nissan Frontier | Toyota Tacoma | Ford Ranger | Chevrolet Colorado | GMC Canyon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 3.8L naturally aspirated V6 | 2.4L turbo I4 | 2.3L turbo I4 | 2.7L turbo I4 | 2.7L turbo I4 |
| Standard Horsepower | 310 hp | 228–278 hp* | 270 hp | 310 hp* | 310 hp* |
| Naturally Aspirated? | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Max Towing (properly equipped) | Up to 7,150 lbs | Up to 6,500 lbs | Up to 7,500 lbs* | Up to 7,700 lbs* | Up to 7,700 lbs* |
*Horsepower and towing ratings vary based on configuration and equipment. Figures are manufacturer-published estimates by current model year and are subject to change.
Smaller turbocharged engines can produce strong low-end torque, but they add complexity a naturally aspirated engine doesn't need. The Frontier's V6 delivers power more directly, with the smooth throttle response and familiar feel many Robeson County truck buyers still prefer.
The Frontier pairs a traditional engine design with the technology, capability, and comfort expected from a modern Nissan truck.
A naturally aspirated engine responds directly to throttle input without waiting for turbo boost. That can make acceleration feel smooth and familiar while merging, passing, towing, or driving through changing Robeson County road conditions.
The Frontier doesn't rely on a turbocharger, intercooler, or related boost plumbing to produce its power. Every vehicle still needs proper maintenance, but many buyers value this more traditional engine layout.
The V6 sound, throttle response, and linear acceleration contribute to a familiar truck-driving feel, while available safety, connectivity, 4x4, and convenience features keep the Frontier modern.
The Frontier is more than a work-focused pickup. Its cabin is built to support daily driving between Lumberton and neighboring towns, errands around Pembroke or Red Springs, or longer trips up I-95 toward Fayetteville.
Depending on trim and equipment, Frontier shoppers can explore modern infotainment, smartphone connectivity, driver-assistance features, convenient storage, and available premium appointments designed to make time behind the wheel more comfortable.
When properly equipped, the Nissan Frontier can tow up to 7,150 pounds and carry up to 1,620 pounds of payload — useful capability for farm equipment, work trailers, boats, and recreational gear.
The Frontier can be a smart fit for drivers towing a boat toward Lumber River or White Lake, hauling supplies around Lumberton or Fairmont, or loading the bed for projects on a nearby farm or job site.
Exact towing and payload ratings vary by trim, drivetrain, cab, bed, equipment, passengers, and cargo. Review the specifications for the individual truck before towing or hauling.
Yes. Every Frontier trim, from the base S to the off-road PRO-4X, comes standard with the 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 and 9-speed automatic transmission. There's no separate four-cylinder or turbocharged option to choose between.
Most competitors have moved their base engines to smaller turbocharged four-cylinders to help meet fuel economy and emissions targets. The Frontier is one of the few midsize trucks that still builds every trim around a naturally aspirated V6.
It depends on what you value. A turbocharged four-cylinder can deliver strong low-end torque in a smaller package, while a naturally aspirated V6 offers more predictable, linear power delivery without relying on boost. Many Robeson County truck buyers prefer the V6's simplicity for towing and everyday driving.
When properly equipped, the Frontier can tow up to 7,150 pounds and haul up to 1,620 pounds of payload — enough for boats headed to Lumber River or White Lake, livestock trailers, or work equipment around Robeson County farms and job sites. Exact ratings vary by trim, cab, bed, and equipment.
You can test drive the Frontier at Nissan of Lumberton, 1949 N Roberts Ave, Lumberton, NC 28358 — convenient for shoppers from Pembroke, Red Springs, St. Pauls, and Maxton. Schedule a test drive online or shop our current Frontier inventory to get started.
Stop by our Roberts Ave showroom to test drive the Frontier for yourself, or reach out and we'll answer your questions before you visit.
1949 N Roberts Ave, Lumberton, NC 28358
