The Nissan Frontier is a dinosaur, but it had one big thing going for it – bargain basement pricing.

The 2019 Frontier started at $19,290 and that made it the cheapest pickup in America.

Fast forward to 2020 and the Frontier receives an all-new powertrain that consists of a 3.8-liter V6 engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Those are significant upgrades, but pricing now starts at $26,790.

Also Read: 2020 Nissan Frontier Keeps Last Year’s Looks, But Gets Next Year’s 3.8L V6 

That’s an increase of $7,500 but there’s more going on than meets the eye. The 2019 Frontier came standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produced a modest 152 hp (113 kW / 154 PS) and 171 lb-ft (232 Nm) of torque. The model was also equipped with a six-speed manual, while the optional five-speed automatic raised the base price $23,360.

The 2020 Frontier, on the other hand, is available exclusively with the 3.8-liter V6 that develops 310 hp (231 kW / 314 PS) and 281 lb-ft (381 Nm) of torque. For comparison, the cheapest 2019 Frontier with a V6 started at $25,920 and it produced 261 hp (195 kW / 265 PS) and 281 lb-ft (381 Nm) of torque.

Given that, Nissan says the average price increase is under $2,000 compared to the 2019 model. That makes things more palatable but if you’re in the market for an affordable pickup, look elsewhere.

Unfortunately, there aren’t many other changes for 2020. However, drivers will find additional standard equipment including a tilt steering wheel and power windows / locks. Other new items include a leather shift knob and a push button ignition.

As an added bonus, the previously optional Midnight Edition and Special Edition packages are now free on the Frontier Crew Cab SV. The former adds black exterior accents and 18-inch gloss black wheels, while the latter has a satin chrome grille, a body color rear bumper and 18-inch aluminum wheels.

The 2020 Frontier will on sale in July, but customers might want to hold off as an all-new Frontier is right around the corner and it will use the same powertrain as the 2020 model.

Note: Prices exclude a destination and handling fee of $1,095