Santana Motors Reborn with the Nissan Frontier Pro: the First Plug-in Hybrid Pickup “Made in Jaen”

The historic Spanish brand is back with a model developed alongside Dongfeng — a plug-in hybrid pickup with over 400 hp, all-wheel drive, and up to 135 km of electric range.

The long-awaited return of Santana Motors is now a reality. The legendary automaker from Linares, once famous for building the iconic Land Rover Santana, is back in action through a new partnership with Zhengzhou Nissan, the Chinese arm of the Japanese manufacturer. The first result of this collaboration is the Nissan Frontier Pro, a plug-in hybrid pickup (PHEV) designed to blend power, technology, and efficiency — a truly global project with a proud Andalusian signature.

Over 400 hp and Zero Emissions: Power Meets Sustainability

The new Frontier Pro stands out for its advanced plug-in hybrid system, which combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor integrated into the transmission, delivering over 400 horsepower and a remarkable 800 Nm of torque. While the battery’s capacity and chemistry have not yet been disclosed, the manufacturer claims an electric-only range of 135 km under China’s CLTC cycle — roughly equivalent to just under 100 km on the WLTP European standard. Either way, it proudly earns the Zero Emissions badge, positioning it among the most technologically advanced pickups in its class.

Measuring 5.52 meters long, 1.96 meters wide, and 1.95 meters tall, the Frontier Pro exudes a rugged, modern presence. It rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/65 tires, reinforcing its off-road spirit. The powertrain includes all-wheel drive with low-range gearing (4Low), an electronically locking rear differential, and several driving modes — Pure Electric, Hybrid, Snow, and Performance. Notably, the model replaces the traditional solid rear axle with an independent multi-link rear suspension, improving comfort and handling precision.

Technically, this Chinese–Spanish pickup offers 231 mm of ground clearance, a 30º approach angle, and a 25º departure angle, making it a capable machine for both work and adventure. It also includes the innovative Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, allowing users to power external devices directly from the vehicle’s body with up to 6 kW of output — perfect for camping, outdoor work, or emergency use. Inside, the Frontier Pro introduces a 14.6-inch central touchscreen, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, and a sophisticated, high-tech atmosphere rarely seen in this segment. Optional features include heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, reinforcing Santana’s commitment to luxury and comfort without sacrificing its rugged DNA.

With this launch, Santana Motors not only revives its industrial legacy but also takes a bold step into the era of sustainable mobility. Built at the Stellantis Industrial Hub in Córdoba, the new Frontier Pro represents the reinvention of Spain’s automotive industry, uniting tradition, innovation, and a firm commitment to electrification.