Nissan Frontier I (D22) photos

Launched in 1997 for the 1998 model year, the D22 series was the first pickup truck to bear the Nissan Frontier nameplate in North and South America, succeeding the venerable D21 Hardbody. Compared to its boxy predecessor, the D22 introduced softer, more aerodynamic exterior lines, a modernized dashboard with dual airbags, and refined cabin ergonomics while retaining a proven body-on-frame architecture with a torsion-bar independent double-wishbone front suspension and a leaf-sprung solid rear axle. Initially launched in two-door Regular Cab and extended King Cab body styles, the lineup expanded for the 2000 model year with the introduction of the four-door Crew Cab, making the Frontier a pioneer in the North American compact four-door pickup segment; a long-bed Crew Cab variant followed later. At launch, North American models were powered by the 2.4-liter KA24DE inline-four petrol engine, soon joined in 1999 by the more powerful 3.3-liter VG33E SOHC V6, while South American and global D22 variants also utilized various four-cylinder diesel engines. Gearbox options consisted of a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission, offered in both 4x2 and part-time 4x4 layouts. A bold facelift arrived for the 2001 model year, bringing an industrial-themed front fascia, flared fenders, a revised interior, and a flagship SC model equipped with a supercharged 3.3-liter V6 (VG33ER). The D22 Frontier was primarily marketed across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and South America until replaced by the D40.