Australia’s burgeoning plug-in hybrid (PHEV) dual-cab ute market is set to expand further in 2027 with the arrival of the Nissan Frontier Pro. This development was confirmed by dealer sources following a private event in Adelaide, where Nissan Australia presented the new model to its dealers. The announcement comes on the heels of the global unveiling of the new-generation Mitsubishi Triton-based Navara ute.
While media were not invited to the event, and Nissan Australia has yet to issue a public statement regarding the Frontier Pro’s local release, the move aligns with the company’s strategic plans. Previously, Nissan Australia had indicated that the Frontier Pro, developed in collaboration with its parent company’s Chinese joint-venture partner Dongfeng, was being considered for the Australian market. This would complement Nissan’s existing lineup by providing a low-emissions alternative to the diesel-powered Navara.
Nissan’s Strategic Move in the PHEV Market
Nissan Oceania’s managing director, Andrew Humberstone, has been vocal about the potential fit of the Frontier Pro within the local range. In a statement to CarExpert in May, Humberstone expressed confidence in the model’s compatibility with the Australian market, emphasizing its potential to offset CO2 emissions under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).
“I see no problem with that running in parallel to new Navara,” he said. “It’s about ‘does the business case work?’ I think it takes about six months to get right-hand drive. I think it could potentially work for the market.”
The Frontier Pro is poised to compete directly with popular models like the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, and Ford Ranger PHEV. Additionally, several other PHEVs are expected to enter the market by 2027, including Chery Australia’s first ute and the JAC T9 PHEV.
Technological Advancements and Features
Revealed at the Shanghai Motor Show in April, the Frontier Pro is based on Dongfeng’s Z9 ute platform. It marks Nissan’s first global PHEV model and its inaugural electrified ute. The vehicle is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a transmission-mounted electric motor, delivering a total output of 300kW of power and 800Nm of torque.
Nissan claims an EV range of 135km on the CLTC cycle, with fuel consumption rated at 6.9L/100km.
The ute also features vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, providing up to 6kW of power to run electrical appliances via outlets in the tub. It boasts a braked towing capacity of 3500kg, matching the Navara, and a wading depth of 700mm. Off-road capabilities are enhanced by an electro-mechanically locking rear differential.
The Frontier Pro offers multiple drive modes, including hybrid, electric, performance, and snow, and comes with five-link rear suspension. Standard features include four-wheel drive and 18-inch alloy wheels with 265/65 R18 tires. Inside, the vehicle is equipped with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and options for heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, along with a panoramic sunroof.
Market Implications and Future Prospects
Nissan Australia is banking on the Frontier Pro to revitalize its sales, which have declined by 17.7% this year, causing the brand to fall out of the top 10 list of auto brands. The company aims to reverse this trend by 2027 with a series of new model launches, starting with the D27 Navara in early 2026, updates for the X-Trail and Qashqai SUVs, and the all-new Patrol in early 2027.
In leveraging its partnership with Dongfeng, Nissan could potentially expand its Australian offerings to include a range of Dongfeng models, similar to Mazda’s strategy with its Chinese partner. This could see the introduction of models like the N6 PHEV sedan and N7 electric sedan, as well as electrified SUVs possibly based on the Frontier Pro.
As Nissan confirms plans for five new models in Australia over the next two years, the Frontier Pro’s entry into the PHEV market represents a significant step in the company’s strategy to enhance its presence and competitiveness in the region.
