Nissan is shaking up the scene with its Frontier TARMAC concept, a unique, track-ready muscle truck that turns heads and challenges expectations. The concept, developed specifically for the SEMA Show, reflects a vision of what a performance pickup can truly achieve.
Let’s dig deep into the design elements, performance upgrades, and inspiration behind this bold project.
The Design: Muscular Yet Refined
The Nissan Frontier TARMAC carries a tough, aggressive look. Built on the bones of the Nissan Frontier, this track-ready variant goes beyond your average off-road truck. Its low stance, wide body, and aerodynamic enhancements are geared toward asphalt performance.
Key features include:
- Lowered suspension for improved cornering and grip.
- A bespoke wide-body kit designed to boost aerodynamics.
- Custom 20-inch Vossen wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.
- Functional aerodynamics, such as a front splitter and a rear wing.
The exterior sports a gloss black paint job with red accents, drawing inspiration from Nissan’s rich motorsport history. A set of red Brembo brakes completes the visual package, ensuring that the truck stops as impressively as it goes.
Interior: Focused and Sporty
Inside, the Frontier TARMAC strikes a balance between function and style. The cabin has been stripped down for weight savings, while custom touches give it a track-ready vibe.
What to expect inside:
- Recaro racing seats with harnesses for extra safety.
- A minimalist dashboard with essential racing gauges.
- Alcantara finishes for a premium feel.
- A track-inspired steering wheel for precise handling.
These elements come together to create a space that is purely performance-focused, yet comfortable enough for daily use.
Engine and Performance: Muscle Meets Precision
What’s under the hood? The Frontier TARMAC concept relies on Nissan's tried-and-tested 3.8-liter V6 engine. However, several performance upgrades have transformed it into a tarmac-dominating machine.
Here are the key modifications:
- A custom high-flow exhaust system for improved power and a throatier sound.
- Engine tuning to maximize output from the V6.
- An upgraded suspension system for better stability and road grip.
The result? A muscle truck that handles like a sports car, with the power and sound to match.
Inspiration: Racing Heritage Meets Modern Tech
This concept isn’t just about brute force; it’s a nod to Nissan’s racing pedigree. The Nissan Frontier TARMAC borrows cues from Nissan’s GT-R and NISMO brands, showcasing how race technology can be integrated into a modern pickup.
The project team looked at the Frontier’s inherent strengths and reimagined them for the race track. The blend of engineering know-how and racing heritage makes this truck a showcase of Nissan’s versatility.
