2027 Nissan Frontier Performance, Towing & Payload
Every 2027 Nissan Frontier runs the same powertrain: a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 281 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Properly equipped, the Frontier tows up to 7,150 lbs§ and carries up to 1,590 lbs of payload§, with EPA-estimated fuel economy reaching 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined‡ on rear-wheel-drive configurations.
§ Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner’s manual and the vehicle’s door-jamb label for specific capacities.
‡ EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
What Engine Powers Every 2027 Nissan Frontier?
The standard 3.8-liter V6 uses direct injection and an 11.0:1 compression ratio to sharpen throttle response without forced induction. By skipping turbochargers and hybrid battery packs, the powertrain keeps mechanical complexity low while delivering pulling power across the rev range. Power flows through a nine-speed automatic with a low first-gear ratio for stronger launches off the line and three overdrive ratios that keep engine speeds down during highway cruising.
All four 2027 grades — S, SV, PRO-X and PRO-4X — share this engine. King Cab models are offered in S grade only, while Crew Cab models are available in all four. The Frontier is built on a ladder-type body-on-frame chassis that provides the structural rigidity that heavy tongue weights and demanding hauling tasks require. For crews working jobsites around Fontana, that chassis strength translates to predictable handling when the bed is loaded with tools and supplies.
| Specification | 2027 Nissan Frontier |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8-liter V6, naturally aspirated |
| Horsepower | 310 hp @ 6,400 rpm |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel delivery | Direct injection |
| Transmission | Nine-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive standard; part-time four-wheel drive available |
| Recommended fuel | Regular unleaded (87 octane) |
| Fuel capacity | 21.0 gallons |
Cited Source: 2027 Nissan Frontier Press Kit — Nissan King Cab and Crew Cab specification sheets
How Much Can the 2027 Nissan Frontier Tow and Haul?
The 2027 Nissan Frontier reaches its maximum towing capacity of 7,150 lbs§ and its maximum payload of 1,590 lbs§ in the same configuration — the S King Cab 4×2. Ratings move from there based on cab style, bed length and drivetrain, and Nissan rates every figure for a properly equipped vehicle. Every configuration shares a gross combined weight rating of 11,960 lbs and a gross vehicle weight rating of 6,012 lbs§.
| Configuration | Cargo bed volume | Max towing§ | Tongue load§ | Max payload§ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S King Cab 4×2 | 49.6 cu ft | 7,150 lbs | 715 lbs | 1,590 lbs |
| S King Cab 4×4 | 49.6 cu ft | 7,000 lbs | 700 lbs | 1,430 lbs |
| S Crew Cab 4×2 | 40.1 cu ft | 7,070 lbs | 707 lbs | 1,490 lbs |
| S Crew Cab 4×4 | 40.1 cu ft | 6,960 lbs | 696 lbs | 1,330 lbs |
| SV Crew Cab 4×2 SWB | 40.1 cu ft | 7,000 lbs | 700 lbs | 1,480 lbs |
| SV Crew Cab 4×4 SWB | 40.1 cu ft | 6,880 lbs | 688 lbs | 1,310 lbs |
| SV Crew Cab 4×2 LWB | 49.2 cu ft | 6,920 lbs | 692 lbs | 1,400 lbs |
| SV Crew Cab 4×4 LWB | 49.2 cu ft | 6,760 lbs | 676 lbs | 1,200 lbs |
| PRO-X Crew Cab 4×2 | 40.1 cu ft | 6,900 lbs | 690 lbs | 1,430 lbs |
| PRO-4X Crew Cab 4×4 SWB | 40.1 cu ft | 6,270 lbs | 668 lbs | 1,220 lbs |
| PRO-4X Crew Cab 4×4 LWB | 49.2 cu ft | 6,310 lbs | 627 lbs | 1,100 lbs |
§ Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner’s manual and the vehicle’s door-jamb label for specific capacities.
Towing and Trailering Technology
Towing technology backs up the rating. Trailer Sway Control monitors vehicle yaw rate and applies individual wheel braking to settle a swaying trailer¶. A driver-selectable Tow/Haul mode adjusts shift points to prevent gear hunting on steep inclines and adds engine braking during descents; it is standard on SV long-wheelbase, PRO-X and PRO-4X Crew Cab models, optional on SV short-wheelbase, and not offered on the S grade.
For outdoor use — loading mountain bikes or camping equipment in Montclair for weekend trips toward the San Gabriel foothills — the bed can be equipped with a spray-in bedliner and, on SV and PRO grades, the Utili-track® system with two adjustable tie-down cleats to secure bulky gear.
¶ Driver-assist and safety systems are supplemental aids and are not a substitute for safe, attentive driving. Their effectiveness depends on weather, road, and traffic conditions and other factors. Always obey traffic laws and stay attentive to the road. See your owner’s manual for system details and limitations.
Cited Source: 2027 Nissan Frontier Press Kit — Nissan King Cab and Crew Cab specification sheets
2027 Frontier EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy by Configuration
EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 2027 Nissan Frontier ranges from 16 to 19 mpg in the city and 20 to 24 mpg on the highway‡, depending on drivetrain and grade.
| Configuration | EPA-Estimated City‡ | EPA-Estimated Highway‡ | EPA-Estimated Combined‡ |
|---|---|---|---|
| All 4×2 — S King Cab, S / SV / PRO-X Crew Cab | 19 mpg | 24 mpg | 21 mpg |
| All 4×4 except PRO-4X — S King Cab, S / SV Crew Cab | 17 mpg | 21 mpg | 19 mpg |
| PRO-4X Crew Cab 4×4 | 16 mpg | 20 mpg | 18 mpg |
Choosing a four-wheel-drive configuration adds an integrated transfer case and front differential weight, costing 3 mpg on the EPA-estimated highway rating compared with the equivalent rear-wheel-drive setup. The off-road PRO-4X gives up a little more: aggressive all-terrain tires and protective underbody armor bring it to an EPA-estimated 16 mpg city, 20 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined‡. Every Frontier carries a 21.0-gallon fuel tank and runs on regular unleaded.
For a grade-by-grade look at what each configuration includes and what it costs, see our Frontier trims and pricing guide.
‡ EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Cited Source: 2027 Nissan Frontier Press Kit — Nissan King Cab and Crew Cab specification sheets | EPA fuel economy data — fueleconomy.gov
Drivetrain Modes and Traction Technology
The 2027 Nissan Frontier comes standard with rear-wheel drive on 4×2 configurations and offers part-time four-wheel drive on 4×4 models. The four-wheel-drive transfer case provides selectable high and low ranges, with the low range delivering maximum low-speed traction over steep, rocky terrain or deep mud.
Electronic Locking Rear Differential
Standard on PRO-4X, locking both rear wheels to turn at equal speeds for maximum off-road traction.
Bilstein® Off-Road Shocks
Standard on PRO-X and PRO-4X, where they damp high-impact terrain strikes to maintain chassis control; all other grades use twin-tube dampers.
Hill Start Assist
Standard on every configuration, holding brake pressure on steep upgrades¶.
Hill Descent Control
Available on 4×4 models only, controlling descent speed automatically without pedal input¶.
Brake-Based Limited Slip
Two-wheel on 4×2 models and four-wheel on 4×4 models, braking slipping wheels individually to transfer torque to the wheels with grip¶.
The nine-speed automatic optimizes power transfer, keeping the V6 in its power band when passing slower vehicles or merging onto busy highway corridors.
¶ Driver-assist and safety systems are supplemental aids and are not a substitute for safe, attentive driving. Their effectiveness depends on weather, road, and traffic conditions and other factors. Always obey traffic laws and stay attentive to the road. See your owner’s manual for system details and limitations.
Cited Source: 2027 Nissan Frontier Press Kit — Nissan King Cab and Crew Cab specification sheets
Common Questions About 2027 Nissan Frontier Performance and Capability
Does the 2027 Nissan Frontier require premium fuel to achieve 310 horsepower?
No. Nissan lists regular unleaded as the recommended fuel for the 2027 Frontier, and the 3.8-liter V6 produces its full 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane. Higher-octane fuel is not required to unlock maximum horsepower or tow ratings.
Is a tow package required to reach the maximum 7,150-pound towing capacity?
Nissan rates the 7,150-pound maximum for a properly equipped S King Cab 4×2§. Tow equipment is offered as a factory or port-installed package depending on configuration, and a Class IV receiver hitch member is available on PRO-4X Crew Cab models. The standard rear step-bumper hitch-ball provision is limited to lighter utility loads.
How does the nine-speed automatic transmission improve hauling performance?
The nine-speed automatic uses a low first-gear ratio for stronger launch torque when towing, along with closely spaced upper ratios that keep the engine in its optimal power band on mountain grades.
§ Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner’s manual and the vehicle’s door-jamb label for specific capacities.
Cited Source: 2027 Nissan Frontier Press Kit — Nissan King Cab and Crew Cab specification sheets
Experience 2027 Nissan Frontier Capability at Empire Nissan
The 2027 Nissan Frontier combines a standard 310-hp V6, up to 7,150 lbs of towing capacity§ and available four-wheel drive into a midsize truck built for demanding work and weekend recreation. Whether you need an entry-level S work truck or a trail-ready PRO-4X, our team at Empire Nissan is ready to help.
Visit our showroom at 1377 Kettering Dr, Ontario, CA 91761 to inspect available configurations, compare bed lengths and test drive the Frontier. Shoppers coming from the south and east can also browse new Nissan Frontier inventory near Riverside. Call us at (909) 740-6712 to speak with a sales representative about inventory and factory ordering options.
Disclaimers
‡ EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
§ Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner’s manual and the vehicle’s door-jamb label for specific capacities.
¶ Driver-assist and safety systems are supplemental aids and are not a substitute for safe, attentive driving. Their effectiveness depends on weather, road, and traffic conditions and other factors. Always obey traffic laws and stay attentive to the road. See your owner’s manual for system details and limitations.
Cited Sources
- 2027 Nissan Frontier Press Kit — Nissan King Cab and Crew Cab specification sheets
- EPA fuel economy data — fueleconomy.gov