Nissan’s off-road ambitions extend to the racing circuit as they introduce the Nissan Frontier off-road concept, which is set to participate in the NORRA 500 race taking place in Mexico this weekend.
In collaboration with Forsberg Racing, the brainchild of renowned drifter Chris Forsberg, Nissan has prepared a mid-size pickup truck for competition in the stock-vehicle class. While still retaining its fundamental characteristics, this Frontier has undergone essential modifications tailored for the demanding terrain of desert racing. These enhancements comprise a lift kit and a high-performance suspension kit sourced from Nissan’s esteemed Nismo performance division. The vehicle is also equipped with 17-inch beadlock wheels paired with Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 tires, rock sliders, and off-road lighting to ensure optimal performance.
Under the hood, no discernible changes have been made. Since its redesign in the 2022 model year – the first in 17 years – the Frontier has exclusively offered a 3.8-liter V-6 engine, generating 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, a configuration initially introduced in the 2020 Frontier.
The NORRA 500 race course spans from Ensenada to San Felipe in Baja, Mexico, and back to Ensenada, an area where Nissan has a storied history. Nissan Hardbody pickups famously triumphed in the iconic Baja 1000 race during the 1980s. Nissan has recently launched a Hardbody Edition, which incorporates design elements reminiscent of the original truck into the modern Frontier.
After the race, the Frontier built by Forsberg Racing will be exhibited in its post-race condition at the 2023 SEMA show, scheduled to run from October 31st to November 3rd in Las Vegas. Nissan has plans to unveil other concept vehicles at the event, with full details on these offerings expected closer to the show’s commencement.
It is worth noting that Forsberg Racing and Nissan have previously collaborated on imaginative SEMA concepts, such as a V-8-powered Frontier and an Altima drift car. However, this latest Frontier is specifically engineered for the rigors of competitive racing, setting it apart from its predecessors.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Frontier off-road concept
What is the NORRA 500 race, and where does it take place?
The NORRA 500 is a desert racing event that spans from Ensenada to San Felipe in Baja, Mexico, and then returns to Ensenada. It’s known for its challenging off-road terrain.
What modifications have been made to the Nissan Frontier off-road concept for the race?
The Frontier off-road concept, prepared in collaboration with Forsberg Racing, has undergone key modifications, including a lift kit, high-performance suspension kit from Nismo, 17-inch beadlock wheels with Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 tires, rock sliders, and off-road lighting.
What engine powers the Nissan Frontier in this race?
The Frontier continues to use the 3.8-liter V-6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
What is the significance of Nissan’s history in Baja, Mexico?
Nissan has a rich history in Baja, with its Hardbody pickups achieving success in the legendary Baja 1000 race during the 1980s. This heritage is acknowledged in the modern Frontier’s “Hardbody Edition,” which incorporates design elements from the original truck.
Where can we see the Forsberg Racing-built Frontier after the race?
Following the NORRA 500 race, the Frontier will be displayed in its post-race condition at the 2023 SEMA show in Las Vegas, running from October 31st to November 3rd.
Has Nissan collaborated with Forsberg Racing on previous projects?
Yes, Nissan and Forsberg Racing have partnered on previous SEMA concepts, including a V-8-powered Frontier and an Altima drift car. However, this Frontier is uniquely designed for competitive racing.
More about Frontier off-road concept
- NORRA 500 Official Website: Official website for the NORRA 500 desert racing event.
- Nissan USA Official Website: Nissan’s official website, where you can find information about their vehicles and racing heritage.
- Forsberg Racing Official Website: Explore the world of Forsberg Racing, including their collaborations with Nissan.
- Nismo Official Website: Learn more about Nismo, Nissan’s performance division, and its contributions to the Frontier concept.
- SEMA Show Official Website: Official website for the SEMA Show, where the Frontier concept will be exhibited.
3 comments
Hey, how ’bout some specs on them wheels and tires? Love to know more ’bout those Geolandars!
wow, nissan’s into offroad racing now? that’s cool. frontier looks beastly, wish they’d said more bout its engine mods tho!
Nissan’s desert history’s legendary! Hardbody pickups rule! Excited for SEMA show. What other concepts they bringin’?