Nissan Unveils Frontier Pro PHEV Ute with Global Ambitions

Nissan has just lifted the lid on its all-new plug-in hybrid ute – the Frontier Pro – developed in partnership with Dongfeng and making its debut at the Shanghai Motor Show.

This cutting-edge model isn’t just for the Chinese market. While local sales will begin by the end of 2025, Nissan has confirmed plans to export the Frontier Pro internationally. Exact markets haven’t been disclosed yet, so it remains to be seen if Australia will make the cut.

Key Takeaways:

• Nissan’s first plug-in hybrid ute

• Will be sold in China and exported globally

• Might enter the Australian market in future

• 135km electric-only range, 6.9L/100km fuel use

• 3500kg braked towing capacity and 700mm wading depth

Power, Efficiency, and Tech in One Package

The Frontier Pro sits on a body-on-frame chassis and brings together a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor built into the transmission. Together, they deliver 300kW of power and 800Nm of torque – serious grunt for tradies and tourers alike.

Nissan claims the ute can drive up to 135km on electric power alone (CLTC cycle), and combined fuel consumption comes in at 6.9L/100km. The braked towing capacity is rated at 3500kg, and it can wade through 700mm of water, matching the capability of the current Navara.

Built for Work and Play

This PHEV ute offers vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, with up to 6kW of output, meaning you can run power tools or a fridge from the tray. The five-link rear suspension, selectable drive modes (Hybrid, EV, Performance, Snow), and optional electromechanical rear diff lock ensure it’s ready for work or weekend getaways.

It also includes a retractable electronic cover for the tray and comes standard with 18-inch alloys wrapped in 265/65R18 tyres.

A Bold Look and Luxe Interior

Externally, the Frontier Pro sports its own unique design, separate from the Dongfeng Z9. A full-width LED light bar, chunky bodywork, and throwback Navara-style segmented headlight signature give it plenty of road presence.

Inside, it’s a significant step up from the current Navara – with a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, 10-inch digital instrument display, and features like heated, ventilated and massage front seats, panoramic sunroof, and vibrant interior colour options including yellow upholstery.

Where Does This Fit in the Nissan Ute Line-Up?

The Frontier Pro joins a diverse ute portfolio for Nissan. There’s the current Navara, built in Thailand and soon to receive a facelift for Latin America. For Australia, a new ute based on the Mitsubishi Triton is expected to replace the Navara – potentially also as a PHEV.

Meanwhile, North America still has its own version of the Frontier, which is an evolved take on the D40 Navara platform.

Looking ahead, Nissan has confirmed plans to launch another PHEV ute by 2028, and may eventually consolidate the Frontier and Navara lines into a single global model.

At MRT, We’re Ready for What’s Next

If the Frontier Pro makes its way to Australia, you can count on MRT to have canopy solutions ready for it. Our Tradesman Package and Explorer Package are already trusted by ute owners across the country, and we’ll be ready to kit out the Frontier Pro with the same level of fit, finish and functionality that tradies and adventurers expect.