Nissan unveils first PHEV as a ute for China

Nissan has launched a new plug-in hybrid double-cab ute in China, which can deliver up to 135km of pure electric driving.

The Frontier Pro PHEV ute made its debut at Auto Shanghai 2025, and represents the second of nine New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) Nissan plans to launch in China by summer 2027.

It is Nissan’s first PHEV and its first electrified ute, co-developed with Zhengzhou Nissan (ZNA).

The Frontier Pro PHEV will be produced and go on sale in China before the end of this year. It will also be exported outside of China, with the recipient markets to be the subject of a future announcement.

The five-seat vehicle has been designed for families who seek a ute that can comfortably support daily urban driving as well as weekend adventures. 

Design:

The Frontier Pro was styled around the concept of “Rugged Tech” with a modern exterior design that complements a spacious and refined interior.

Within the front mask, the Nissan brand logo is illuminated in vibrant white, signifying the Frontier Pro’s new era of electrified capability. Parallel to the hood line, five LED light elements, spaced apart, accentuate the width of the vehicle. The three central lights pay subtle homage to one of Nissan’s most iconic utes.

While styling the all-new Frontier Pro within Nissan’s Shanghai studio, members of the design team were inspired by the distinctive three-slot opening in the hood of the 1980s Nissan D21 hardbody pickup. In creating the Frontier Pro’s lighting signature, they leveraged LEDs to reimagine this design element for a new era.

All variants ride on 18-inch alloy wheels with 265/65r18 tyres.

Powertrain:

At its heart is a plug-in hybrid powertrain featuring a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder internal combustion engine and a transmission-mounted, high-output electric motor.

Combined, the system delivers over 300 kW of power and up to 800 newton meters of torque, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.

For the Chinese market, the Frontier Pro plug-in hybrid is targeted to deliver up to 135km of EV-only range.

Drive:

All models feature a 5-link rear suspension and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, which automatically controls torque distribution between the front and rear wheels.

Off-road capability is supported by the availability of an electromechanical rear differential lock. Four drive modes: ‘Hybrid, Pure electric, Performance and Snow’ allow the driver to tailor their experience to the conditions and their preferences.

Interior:

Inside, the cabin is well-appointed with a standard panoramic roof, a 10-inch LCD instrument panel, and a 14.6-inch infotainment screen. Front seat heating, ventilation and seat-back massage are available.

To support the active lifestyle of owners, the Nissan Frontier Pro includes features such as roof rails and an electronic retractable cover for the cargo area.

Owners can conveniently charge household devices using a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) port, which leverages the plug-in hybrid battery to supply up to 6kW of power.