Nissan pioneered the compact pickup truck market in 1959 and continues its tradition with the Frontier.

There is a new trim for the 2009 model year, with the PRO-4X off-road model, while the entire range gets new front fascia and headlight designs, as well as newly designed 16- and 18-inch wheels. In the automaker's time-honored tradition of offering great bang for the buck, Nissan will also offer Value Truck Packages (VTP) on the Crew Cab LE and the new PRO-4X trims. The VTPs are basically equipment bundles that save buyers money as opposed to picking the same options on their own.

Available in King Cab and Crew Cab body styles, the Frontier is offered in four different trim levels. The base XE model is essentially a work truck, powered by a 152 horsepower 2.5-liter engine that produces 171 pound-feet of torque. A 4.0L V6 engine delivering 261 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque is also available.

Customers can choose between rear and four-wheel drive, and they must select either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

The new PRO-4X model effectively replaces the Nismo trim, and features Bilstein shocks tuned for greater off-road capability, more skid plates, electronic-locking rear diff, an electronic all-wheel limited slip system and unique 16-inch alloy wheels. The interior features unique accents such as a leather-appointed and red-stitched shift knob on the manual gearbox, the same treatment for the steering wheel, chrome accents on the gauges. Opting for the PRO-4X VTP in the Crew Cab model gets black leather front seats with red stitching, with 8-way power operation for the driver seat and 4-way operated passenger seats, both heated, just like the mirrors. The rear bench gets a fold-down center armrest.

All PRO-4X trims are powered by the 4.0 liter V6 model and sport a body-colored grille, bumpers, outside mirrors, door handles and fog lamps. Standard comfort and convenience features comprise cruise control, remote keyless entry and power windows, door locks and outside mirrors.

In the bed, the Frontier has a utili-track system with movable trays, bike racks, dividers and storage systems for the truck bed. The Long Bed Crew Cab SE and LE have a truck bed that's 13 inches longer than the standard Crew Cab on the Frontier.

The King Cab has rear-hinged back doors, while the larger Crew Cab has the usual front-hinged doors. The Crew Cab models are a few inches taller than the King Cab. Inside, there's more room and the King Cab has flip-up rear seats. Side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags are optional, as is rollover protection.

The 2009 model year also sees two new colors, with Red Brick and Navy Blue.