by Despite financial difficulties, Nissan continues to develop new models. One promising idea is the creation of an SUV based on the recently introduced Frontier Pro for the Chinese market. This model will use the same platform and hybrid powertrain.
The new body-on-frame SUV could become the successor to the outdated Nissan Terra, which is still based on the previous generation Navara. In China, it will compete with models from Fangchengbao (BYD) and Tank (Great Wall Motors).
For the global market, potential competitors could be the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, Toyota Fortuner, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. However, this model is unlikely to be available in the US due to its production in China.
The idea was expressed by Nissan engineer Ikuo Miyai during a conversation with Australian journalists at the auto show in Shanghai. He noted that the company could afford to create a new modification of the hybrid pickup, including an SUV with a shorter wheelbase. However, the final decision will depend on demand and investment.
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Concept images show that the SUV could retain the front-end design of the Frontier Pro. The model will be more compact than the pickup (less than 5,520 mm) but will retain three rows of seats for seven passengers. The interior is likely to inherit elements from Dongfeng/Nissan trucks, including a 14.6-inch touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument cluster.
The Frontier Pro is Nissan’s first hybrid pickup. Its powertrain combines a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 402 hp and 800 Nm of torque. It features all-wheel drive with an electromechanical locking rear differential, ensuring good off-road capability. These characteristics could be transferred to the SUV version, which, thanks to better aerodynamics, might have a greater electric range (over 135 km).
Nissan is also considering the release of right-hand-drive versions of the Frontier Pro for markets such as Australia. However, they are expecting a new generation Navara on the Mitsubishi Triton platform with a turbo-diesel engine, as it does not support the Frontier Pro’s hybrid system.
Despite financial constraints, Nissan continues to expand its lineup of mid-size pickups and SUVs. The realization of an SUV based on the Frontier Pro could be a successful solution for markets where electrified SUVs are popular.
