Introduced back in 2014, the third-generation Nissan Navara has enjoyed a long run. But after more than a decade on sale, the D23 iteration has finally bowed out to make way for its successor. Indeed, Nissan has officially pulled the covers off the fourth generation, ushering in a new chapter for the brand’s popular pick-up.
The brand-new Navara shares its underpinnings with the current-generation Mitsubishi Triton. As a result, in terms of size, the box-fresh Navara’s bodywork has grown slightly, measuring 5 320 mm in length and 1 865 mm in width. This makes it 60 mm longer and 10 mm wider than the D23 iteration. The wheelbase is marginally (by 20 mm) shorter, though — 3 130 mm versus the D23’s 3 150 mm.
At launch, a single engine option will be available: a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder twin-turbocharged diesel, which produces 150 kW and 470 N.m of torque. This represents gains of 10 kW and 20 N.m over what the previous-generation Navara’s 2.5-litre single-turbo oil-burner churned out. Power is sent to all four corners.
A notable first for the Navara is the adoption of electric power steering. (As a reminder, the new, ninth-generation Toyota Hilux also ditches its predecessor’s hydraulic steering setup for electric assistance.) Nissan also says improvements to the suspension setup, aimed at boosting both ride comfort and off-road composure, have been made.
The box-fresh Navara introduces seven selectable driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sand, Mud, Gravel, Snow and Rock. While official fuel consumption figures haven’t yet been confirmed, Nissan says the newcomer will be more economical at the pumps than the previous model, which has a claimed average fuel consumption of 8.1 L/100 km.
Despite the updates, the Navara’s core workhorse credentials remain unchanged, with its braked towing capacity pegged at 3 500 kg and payload capacity rated at 1 000 kg.
Stepping inside, the cabin gains welcome tech upgrades. A 9.0-inch, touch-enabled infotainment system with smartphone mirroring takes centre stage. The latter item also relays video feed from the 360-degree camera system. Safety and driver assistance features now include “intelligent” cruise control, lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition.