Nissan To Offer Four Different Midsize Pickups Globally By 2027

Instead of developing a single pickup for global markets, Nissan chose to treat its customers with unique products for each region

Nissan has been flooding us with teasers of upcoming models for various global markets as it works to recover from its financial challenges. Among these new introductions are a refreshed version of the Navara/Frontier for Latin America, a new midsize pickup for Australia, and the Nissan-Dongfeng Z9 for China—each distinct from the existing Frontier available in North America. In short, Nissan will soon have four different midsize pickups, each tailored to a specific region.

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While this strategy might seem less efficient than developing a single global model for this popular segment, Nissan has its reasons. None of midsize pickups are entirely new designs, which helps save valuable R&D resources. Let’s dive into what Nissan has planned, region by region.
South America’s Navara/Frontier

First up is the Nissan Navara/Frontier for South America, slated to arrive sometime in 2026 or early 2027. If you’re expecting a revolutionary overhaul, you’re going to be disappointed. Instead, Nissan is opting for a major facelift of the current Navara/Frontier D23, which has been around since 2014. Think of it as a cosmetic refresh rather than a complete reinvention.

This strategy isn’t new; it’s something Chevrolet has done with the old Colorado and Volkswagen with the previous-gen Amarok.

The upcoming model’s close ties to the aging Navara/Frontier are clear from the identical proportions and greenhouse seen in the official teaser. However, the front end appears to have been fully redesigned, now featuring modern LEDs flanking a simpler grille. We also spot rugged fender extensions, a new wheel design with grippy tires, and a rear bed rack, all hinting at a high-spec trim.

Expect some updates beyond the exterior, too. Nissan promises an upgraded infotainment system and more advanced driver-assist features. As for the underpinnings, the truck will likely stick with the ladder-frame chassis of its predecessor, though a revised suspension setup might be in the works to keep things feeling fresh.

This pickup will share its ladder-frame platform and 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine with the sixth-gen Mitsubishi Triton, introduced in 2023. But don’t expect a simple rebadge job. Nissan executives have hinted at significant changes to the design and engineering to meet their expectations for the market.

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Earlier comments from high-ranking Nissan executives suggest that the company plans to introduce significant changes to the Mitsubishi-based model to meet its expectations. These changes are expected to go beyond just a redesigned exterior, aiming to further differentiate the models in the eyes of prospective customers.

In addition to the diesel engine likely available at launch, the Navara successor is expected to offer an electrified powertrain option, either hybrid or plug-in hybrid, following the lead of some key competitors. Furthermore, reports suggest that a Nismo variant with a V6 engine and a reinforced chassis may be in the works, positioning it as a rival to the Ford Ranger Raptor.

North America’s Frontier And A Surprise From China

As for North America, the third-generation Nissan Frontier, which debuted in 2021, continues to chug along with only minor updates being exclusively available with a non-electrified 3.8-liter V6 engine. Despite looking modern and fresh, it’s still based on an updated version of the same ladder-frame chassis from the D40 Frontier/Navara, which dates back to 2004.

You might think this is a bit of a stretch, but it works. The Frontier is still a solid, reliable choice, even if it’s not exactly breaking any new ground. It’s expected to stick around until at least the 2029 model year.

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Also, let’s not forget the Z9, which is produced by the Dongfeng-Nissan joint venture in China. This has absolutely nothing to do with the Navara or Frontier. It’s a completely different beast with a styling language all its own.

Measuring 217.3 inches (5,520 mm) in length, the Chinese truck has a larger footprint than the Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi Triton, though it’s slightly smaller than the long-bed version of the U.S.-spec Nissan Frontier. Another key point of differentiation is the available powertrain options that will include gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid setups.`

 

Thanos Pappas

Associate Editor