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Providing a blueprint for affordable, high-quality overlanding experiences and adventures, the new Nissan Destination Frontier will be a star attraction this weekend at the 2019 Overland Expo West, which kicks off this Friday, May 17, at the Ft. Tuthill County Park in Flagstaff, Arizona, running through Sunday, May 19.
Really, hobbies don’t have to cost a fortune. That’s the statement Nissan is making with the debut of the one-off Destination Frontier, a highly capable, high-quality overlanding truck built on a budget.
Overlanding is an exciting form of outdoor adventuring taking participants into sometimes-extreme terrain and climate conditions – often thought to be only for ultra-expensive modified trucks and SUVs. All in, the Destination Frontier one-off truck can be created for around $40,0002.
“This special Destination Frontier is designed to do two things: first, demonstrate Frontier’s durability, quality and reliability, even when traveling to remote destinations. And second, to help democratize the overlanding experience by showing a more affordable approach to the sport,” said Tiago Castro, director, Light Commercial Vehicles, Nissan North America, Inc.
Starting with a 2019 Frontier Crew Cab SV 4×4 Midnight Edition, the modifications concentrate on enhanced ground clearance and overall body and drivetrain protection from off-trail obstacles. First, a Nisstec 3-inch lift kit and Nitto Trail Grappler off-road tires mounted on American Racing AX201 wheels were installed, providing the overlanding-necessitated extra height and rough terrain traction.
A Hefty Fabworks front bumper, skid plates and rock sliders were added for an additional level of protection for the engine, transmission and body. Also added up front was a powerful WARN Industries ZEON 10-S winch, WARN Winch Roller Fairlead and WARN Epic Winch Hook for helping negotiate extra tough situations.
Since overlanding adventures are known to extend beyond simple day trips, a Leitner Designs bed rack, topped with a CVT Mt. Shasta rooftop tent, was added along with items such as a Dometic fridge/freezer and slider, Rhino Rack Pioneer Tray and Baja Designs LP6 Pro lights. Helping keep the dirt and mud where it belongs – off the carpet – are WeatherTech floor mats.
Frontier offers exceptional acceleration, towing capacity and all-around off-roading ability. Its powerful engine – a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque – is specifically tuned for the unique demands of truck use. Frontier’s maximum towing capacity3 is rated up to 6,720 lbs. when properly equipped.
With a starting MSRP4 of $19,090, the 2019 Frontier remains America’s most affordable pickup5.
“As a multiple-time quality award recipient, Frontier has a tremendous reputation for quality and durability – making it a terrific platform for overland adventures where the nearest service station or road could be miles away,” added Castro. “We believe Destination Frontier will spark the imagination of customers who would like to get into overlanding but don’t want to spend a fortune in the process.”
