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The new, locally-built Navara is set to go on sale in June, offering a wider variety of bakkies than before.
In anticipation of the first vehicles to leave Nissan's Rosslyn plant near Pretoria, the brand has released pricing and added that the 'order books are open'.
Having previously been imported from Spain, the locally-produced Navara will be offered in two body styles - single cab and double cab.
The engine range has been completely revamped to include a petrol-powered base variant (118kW/233Nm), and a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel that’s offered in two output levels; a ‘mid-output’ 2.5 turbo-diesel (120kW/403Nm), and a range-topping version matching the outgoing twin-turbo 2.3-litre unit's outputs of 140kW and 450Nm.
The 2.5 petrol motor, as well as the 'midoutput' 2.5 turbo-diesel are paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, while Nissan’s seven-speed automatic transmission is only available in the 140kW double cab models.
Depending on the model grade in question, buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.
Of the new Navara range, Nissan says, 'We are confident that the significant technical changes implemented across our extensive line-up will deliver the ultimate customer experience, with enhanced ride comfort, load carrying capacity and a powertrain selected specifically for the SA market'.
Changes include a payload which is up 100kg, a step on the rear bumper and easylift tail gate, a more refined suspension and less engine noise, and additional safety and luxury features.
Autodealer will review the new Navara as soon as the first units arrive at Nissan in Empangeni.
In the meantime, Navara enthusiasts can explore the finer details like spec and pricing of the 17-model range on the brand's website.