Mechanicals
Engines remain basically the same; the 4 cylinder has 143 bhp and
153 ft-lbs of torque. The
3.3L SOHC V-6 has 170 bhp and 200 ft-lbs of torque.
The biggest news
is the new aforementioned
Supercharged 3.3L V-6 featuring an estimated 210 bhp and earth
moving 240 ft-lbs of torque. We know it's an Eaton supercharger
similar to the ones used on GM's trucks. We don't know if it's
intercooled or not at this point. Final SC model power ratings should be released close to release time in
November. On SC models, the suspension and transmission has been stiffened
to hold the extra power. Also the SC models will feature 17-inch wheels as
well as a
"Supercharged" logo near the front doors.
Pricing
It's expected that Nissan will keep the price point within the 1999
model's range and charge perhaps $500 or more for the Supercharged
models.
Our Take It’s a surefire improvement over the old Frontier but
the FA jury is still out on the exterior. Most of us agree that thee body
colored bumpers and fender flares look better than the black plastic trim.
And one thing we all can agree on is this: the new SC models sound just
like what the power gods ordered! The SC models will become available
in November right after the normally aspirated models arrive in July.
-Mike Cervantes and Noel Saw
Page 2 of 2
"... make the Frontier look big and powerful...like the
look of a box glove." - Diane Allen,
Frontier Chief Designer
