7 April 2016
Whilst driving the Navara, I thought about how much more comfortable the ride was in comparison to the last Ute I drove from a manufacturer beginning with T. Its handling definitely felt more like a car; it rode over speed bumps with ease. However, when pushed it felt like the front suspension bottomed out easily, so not sure how it would affect the off-road feel.
Our test model was a double cab ST-X which was covered in leather and it offered plenty of room and comfort. The heated front seats have improved spinal support, helping to reduce fatigue during long drives or long waits in the case of Auckland traffic. The seats distribute body pressure on the seating surface through the middle section in the folding seat back, helping to promote a ‘neutral’ posture to reduce spinal and muscle pressure. Who would have thought there would be so much science involved in creating a seat?
The tech part
The top range ST-X has a 7” colour touch display with Sat Nav, while the ST model has a 5” colour display, and the DX and RX grade has a 4” screen. The ST-X has a sunroof, climate A/C, Intelligent key with remote keyless entry, push button start and rear interior lights. A remote sliding rear glass rear window is found on all models except the DX, which allows easy reach access into the tub and also increases ventilation when needed. There are 3x 12volt power sockets to power and charge your devices, and there’s also a fourth weather proof socket in the rear tub should you need it.
Super safe
7 airbags cushion the interior, including a knee airbag on the driver’s side. Pedestrians are even taken into account as the NP300 utilises an energy absorbing bonnet to minimise injury. The LED headlights - available on the ST and ST-X models – offer a longer life, are more energy efficient and improve visibility. DRL’s are standard, with the LEDs available on only the two top grades and auto on/off twilight detecting lights included on all double cab Utes.
The new generation Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Brake Limited Slip Differential (BLSD), improves dynamic performance and safety. But is doesn’t stop there, the ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Control, Brake Assist and Traction Control System also adds to this, and it’s available on all double cab Ute models. All of the Nissan grades now get the Bluetooth phone and audio streaming treatment, but the rear view camera is only included on the ST and ST-X models.
Around the outside
The signature Nissan V-motion front grille flows into the bonnet through to the guards, resulting in a smooth and dynamic character line. It has chrome window mouldings and the V-motion continues within the tailgate section to support the Nissan badge. The Navara’s strength lies within its fully boxed ladder frame design and rigid construction, where high-tensile strength steel is applied in strategic areas. The rear suspension now benefits from the switch to a 5-link setup, providing better handling, ride, comfort and off-road capability.
There are three engines and two types of transmission on offer with NP300. The top of the range model is powered by a twin-turbo, 2.3L four-cylinder DOHC (double overhead camshaft) diesel unit. This pumps out 140 kW and it offers a fuel economy of 6.3 L/100km. Towing is also taken care of with 450Nm of torque. You also have the option of a single turbo diesel version of the same engine, offering 120kW and 403 Nm of torque. If you prefer petrol engines, there’s a 2.5L DOHC unit, which is also used in Nissan’s X-Trail and Altima vehicles; however this is only available in the NP300 2wd DX double cab. The petrol engine Navara produces 122 kW and 238 Nm of torque, so it’s not ideal if your main aim is to tow. Transmissions come in the form of a six-speed manual and seven-speed auto transmission, offering a balance between acceleration and fuel economy, as well as delivering exceptional usability and reliability. All diesel grades also carry a 3.5 ton braked towing capacity.
Pricing
There are a total of 11 double cab grades on offer. The base model DX 2wd double cab is available from $31,990, whilst the top of the range ST-X 4wd diesel double cab is priced from $64,990.