The Nissan Frontier has been named the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” by the Mississippi Economic Council. This is more than a marketing badge. It signals real impact—on jobs, performance, and buyer value.
Why the Nissan Frontier Earned the Title
The Nissan Frontier has been built at the Canton Vehicle Assembly Plant since 2012. Over one million Frontiers have rolled off the line. This mid-size truck delivers consistent reliability and solid real-world performance.
What sets it apart:
- Made in Mississippi with a workforce of over 5,000
- 310-horsepower V6 engine standard across all trims
- Tows up to 6,720 pounds
- Off-road capable with available 4x4 models
- Straightforward design with rugged build quality
Mississippi’s Manufacturing Powerhouse
The “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” contest by the Mississippi Economic Council spotlights products that shape the state’s economy. Over 200 entries were submitted. More than 100,000 votes decided the winner.
Nissan’s Canton plant didn’t win by accident. The Frontier earned it through utility, consistency, and local impact.
Canton Vehicle Assembly Plant Overview
| Detail | Data |
|---|---|
| Opened | 2003 |
| Frontier Production | Since 2012 |
| Total Vehicles Built | Over 5 million |
| Employees | 5,000+ |
| Plant Size | 4.7 million sq. ft. |
| Location | Canton, Mississippi |
The Frontier supports thousands of local jobs and a national customer base.
Why Buyers Keep Choosing the Nissan Frontier
1. Simple, Strong Performance
- 3.8L V6 engine standard
- 9-speed automatic transmission
- Up to 24 MPG highway
- Steel ladder frame
Buyers don’t have to upgrade for real power.
2. No-Nonsense Design
- Functional controls
- Standard safety features
- Durable cabin materials
- Straightforward tech
Everything has a clear use.
3. Real-World Utility
PRO-4X trim adds serious capability:
- Off-road shocks
- Skid plates
- Electronic locking differential
- Factory lift and all-terrain tires
It’s ready out of the box.
4. Lower Cost of Ownership
Compared to its competition, the Frontier offers more engine power for less money, plus fewer long-term repair risks.
How It Stacks Up: Comparison Table
Let’s look at how the Nissan Frontier compares to six other midsize trucks.
| Truck Model | Starting MSRP (USD) | Standard Engine | Max Towing (lbs) | MPG (City/Hwy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Frontier | $30,510 | 3.8L V6 (310 hp) | 6,720 | 18 / 24 |
| Toyota Tacoma | $31,500 | 2.4L Turbo-4 (228 hp) | 6,500 | 20 / 26 |
| Ford Ranger | $32,565 | 2.3L Turbo-4 (270 hp) | 7,500 | 21 / 25 |
| Chevy Colorado | $31,095 | 2.7L Turbo-4 (237 hp) | 7,700 | 20 / 25 |
| GMC Canyon | $36,000 | 2.7L Turbo-4 (310 hp) | 7,700 | 18 / 23 |
| Honda Ridgeline | $39,750 | 3.5L V6 (280 hp) | 5,000 | 18 / 24 |
What stands out:
- Most horsepower standard at the lowest starting price
- Only model with a standard V6
- No turbocharger = fewer long-term maintenance costs
Built for Real-World Drivers
The Frontier prioritizes function, not frills. That’s why it appeals to:
- Construction and utility workers
- Off-roaders
- Rural households
- Drivers needing a reliable second vehicle
Key practical features include:
- Zero Gravity front seats for reduced fatigue
- User-friendly interior layout
- 360-degree camera system
- Optional spray-in bedliner and factory tow kit
It’s a tool—not a gadget.
Nissan’s Local Commitment
Nissan has invested over $4 billion USD in the Canton plant since opening. It’s more than a production facility. It’s a local economic engine that powers:
- Engineering
- Assembly
- Maintenance
- Logistics
- Management
Over 5,000 Mississippians are directly employed there.
Tech That Makes Driving Easier
Even base trims include:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Blind spot warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane departure warning
These aren't premium add-ons. They’re standard across most models.
What Owners Say
Owners value:
- Reliability
- Ease of maintenance
- Durability under heavy use
- Good ride quality
Many report keeping their Frontier for over 200,000 miles with few issues.
A Proven Truck in a Changing Market
Other brands are focusing on turbocharged engines and digital dashboards. The Frontier keeps things mechanical and accessible.
Key Differences
| Feature | Frontier | Tacoma | Ranger | Colorado | Canyon | Ridgeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine Type | V6 NA | Turbo-4 | Turbo-4 | Turbo-4 | Turbo-4 | V6 NA |
| Engine Complexity | Low | High | High | High | High | Moderate |
| Most Affordable 300+ hp Trim | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Built in the USA | Yes (MS) | Partially | Yes | Partially | Partially | Yes |
| Focused on Utility | Yes | Mixed | Mixed | Mixed | Mixed | Comfort |
Only the 2025 Nissan Frontier pickup truck offers a simple V6, strong towing, and a low price in one package.
Why the Award Matters
This isn’t just a product recognition. It reflects what Mississippians build, trust, and buy. The Frontier supports:
- Local families
- Statewide tax revenue
- Blue-collar jobs
- National logistics and trucking networks
It was voted “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” for a reason: because it works.
Final Thoughts
The Nissan Frontier is the coolest thing made in Mississippi not because of flash or hype. It’s cool because it does its job, year after year, for buyers who depend on it.
Power. Value. American-made. That’s what makes it stand out.
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