Nissan is preparing to compete directly with the influx of affordable, plug-in hybrid pickup trucks from China by launching its own Chinese-built model, the Frontier Pro PHEV, in Australia by 2027. This move acknowledges that the updated Navara alone won’t be enough to hold market share against rivals like BYD, GWM, and Chery.
The Rising Threat From China
For years, Nissan’s Navara has been the primary pickup offering in Australia. However, Chinese manufacturers are rapidly gaining ground with competitive plug-in hybrid options. The BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, and upcoming models from Chery and JAC are disrupting the market. This trend forces established brands like Nissan to adapt or risk losing significant sales.
Frontier Pro: Specs and Capabilities
Developed in partnership with Dongfeng, the Frontier Pro PHEV boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine combined with an electric motor. This delivers a combined output of 402 horsepower (300 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. It offers an all-electric range of approximately 84 miles (135 km), comparable to its Chinese competitors.
Key features include:
- 3,500 kg (7,176 lbs) braked towing capacity
- Electro-mechanically locking rear differential for off-road capability
- Vehicle-to-load functionality
- A modern interior with a 10-inch digital instrument display and a 14.6-inch infotainment screen
Why This Matters: Emissions and Market Position
Nissan’s decision to bring the Frontier Pro to Australia isn’t just about competing on price or features; it’s also a strategic move to balance the emissions profile of its diesel-powered Navara lineup. Nissan Oceania managing director Andrew Humberstone stated that the Frontier Pro could “offset the emissions” of the diesel models.
“I see no problem with that running in parallel to new Navara… It’s about ‘does the business case work?’”
This highlights a broader industry trend: automakers are increasingly seeking ways to meet stricter emissions regulations while still offering popular diesel vehicles. The Frontier Pro provides a plug-in hybrid option that appeals to environmentally conscious buyers without sacrificing the utility of a traditional pickup.
The Road Ahead
The Frontier Pro will require right-hand drive conversion before launch, a process estimated to take around six months. Once available, it will join a rapidly expanding segment of plug-in hybrid pickups, forcing Nissan to adapt to the changing automotive landscape. The success of this strategy will depend on whether the Frontier Pro can deliver on its promise of performance, affordability, and practicality in the Australian market.
