TOOLED UP FOR SUCCESS

A new Navara PRO-4X model replaces the Navara N-Trek in the range.

Focusing on cosmetic enhancements, the PRO-4X follows the trend for tough-looking models such as the Ford Ranger Wildtrak and Toyota HiLux Rugged X with black treatments for the sports bar, roof rails and fender flares, plus dark treatments for the door handles, side steps and grille.

You also get 17-inch wheels with Yokohama all-terrain tyres that should be a better bet offroad than the standard rubber. That’s not a bad deal for $2360 more than the Navara ST-X.

Impressively, every model in the range has a maximum payload of at least 1000 kilograms, which isn’t always the case in this segment.

A successor to the Navara Warrior is likely to build on its appeal with chunkier tyres, exterior graphics and beefed-up suspension.

Nissan hasn’t officially announced that a second-gen Warrior is on the way, but its soldout status and halo effect on the rest of the range should mean a new model isn’t far away.

We had a brief drive of the Navara in highgrade ST-X trim.

The limited test in Victoria showed there is little change to the driving experience between 2020 and 2021 Navara models — Nissan has already improved the suspension set-up as a result of local tuning programs.

It remains one of the more comfortable choices in the segment, particularly with a light-to-medium load in the tray.

The sporty new steering wheel is a winner, as you’re less likely to honk the horn accidentally — a frequent occurrence in the old model. A new infotainment screen looks dated until you plug your phone in, and the choice of USB-A or USB-C power is nice to see.

The addition of auto emergency braking and other driver aids should help secure commercial and private sales. The next item on the job sheet might be a tweak to its engine, which feels less than punchy compared to the updated Toyota HiLux, 10-speed Ford Ranger and VW Amarok V6.