Nissan is revving up for the adventure of off-road racing as it teams up with Forsberg Racing to campaign a mildly modified version of the 2023 Frontier Pro-4X in the challenging NORRA 500 race set to commence on October 20 in Mexico.
The 2023 Frontier Pro-4X that will tackle this demanding race showcases an assortment of official Nismo Off Road parts, making it a compelling addition to the event. One of the most significant upgrades includes a lift kit and high-performance suspension, which increases the ride height by 1.5 inches at the front and 1.0 inch at the rear. Notably, these are components that are available for purchase, allowing enthusiasts to enhance their own Frontier in a similar fashion.
Adding to its rugged prowess, the Frontier Pro-4X for the race will feature seventeen-inch Axis beadlock wheels at all four corners, equipped with Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 tires designed for optimal traction on challenging terrain. Additionally, the truck is outfitted with Nismo Off Road lighting upgrades, a roof rack for extra cargo capacity, and rock sliders for enhanced off-road durability. To complete the look, the vehicle boasts a graphics package designed by Forsberg Racing, providing it with a distinctive appearance for the race.
The standard Frontier Pro-4X, upon which this modified version is based, already distinguishes itself with functional skid plates and Lava Red badge accents. It comes equipped with a low-range four-wheel-drive mode that incorporates a locking differential and Bilstein shocks, offering a slightly higher ride height compared to a non-Pro-4X pickup.
Nissan introduced a significant redesign for the Frontier in the 2022 model year, unveiling a truck with refreshed styling, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features. Powering the Frontier is a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque, paired with Nissan’s nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain has been in use since 2020 in the previous-generation Frontier.
The NORRA 500, a grueling 500-mile desert race, kicks off in Ensenada, Mexico, with competitors racing to San Felipe and back. The race concludes on October 21 on the beach, and Forsberg Racing will be competing in the Stock vehicle class.
Driving the modified Frontier Pro-4X in this event is none other than Formula Drift champion Chris Forsberg, who is no stranger to collaboration with Nissan. The partnership between Nissan and Forsberg Racing has previously led to projects like the V8-powered Frontier, a Nissan Z drift car, and the remarkable 2,000-horsepower Altima.
After the conclusion of the race, Nissan will proudly display the Frontier in its as-raced condition at this year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas, commencing on October 31. Chris Forsberg will be present at the event, offering autographs, interviews, and photo opportunities for attendees. Nissan also hints at several other concept vehicles set to make their debut at the show, with more details to be unveiled in the near future.
