Nissan Shows Diesel Pickup Concept

Nissan Motor Co. is testing U.S. consumer interest in diesel-powered midsize pickup trucks with its proof-of-concept Frontier model at the Chicago auto show.

If built, the pickup would compete with the just-introduced Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize trucks from General Motors Co. The GM models are expected to offer a diesel option shortly after their market introduction this summer.

The diesel Frontier concept is powered by a Chinese-made 2.8-liter, 4-cylinder Cummins oil burner. The powerplant, which is fitted with a Cummins-designed turbocharger with waste gate, makes about 200 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Nissan says the engine is about 35% more fuel efficient than the standard V-6 gasoline in the Frontier.

The two-wheel-drive concept is based on Nissan's Frontier Desert Runner package and is equipped such features as a clear acrylic hood insert, full-bed tonneau cover and tailgate spoiler.

Nissan previously announced a deal with Cummins Inc. to supply a 5.0-liter V-8 diesel for the next-generation fullsize Titan pickups due in 2015. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, which already offers a diesel in its heavy-duty fullsize pickup trucks, is adding a similar option for its Ram half-ton trucks.