TOOLED UP FOR SUCCESS
Ultra-competitive ute market sparks another update for Nissan’s workhorse
The frequently updated Nissan Navara shows how important dual-cab utes have become. Originally launched as the “NP300” back in 2015, Nissan’s popular ute benefits from its fifth update. This year’s models have a new look anchored by a fresh grille, bonnet, headlamps and bumper at the front end. There are also tweaks to the wheel arches, rear bumper and brake lights.
Essentially mechanically identical to last year’s Navara, the new-look version has an updated cabin with a new steering wheel, infotainment system and dashboard, plus driver aids that bring it closer to segment leaders.
Nissan dropped less profitable bare-bones models usually found on rental fleets, but there are still more than 20 variants in the Navara family split across three body styles — single cab, king cab and four-door dual cab.
The entry-level Navara SL priced from $49,490 drive-away in dual-cab automatic form comes with seven airbags as standard, as well as driver aids such as auto emergency braking, forward collision warning and driver attention alert. The basic car also has a reversing camera, hill descent control and an 8-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Navara SL models have a single-turbo 2.3litre turbo diesel engine with 120kW and 403Nm, but higher grade variants get a twinturbo engine with 140kW and 450Nm.
Mid-grade Navara ST variants priced $3000 upstream add the more powerful engine and off-road driving modes, a 360degree camera with moving object detection designed to help prevent drivers from running over kids or pets, plus blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning. Pitched toward private buyers, the high-grade Navara ST-X has 18-inch alloys, a chrome sports bar, plastic tub liner and clever hooks for the cargo area. Satnav and smart keys are also nice to have, while a sunroof and heated leather seats with eight-way driver adjustment add $2000 to the bill.