Nissan Navara - How it beats its rivals?

The current model of Nissan Navara on sale in the Malaysian market is in its third generation. It was back in 1997 when Nissan introduced the Navara for the first time. Since then, this pickup has gained knowledge and expertise to be a multi-purpose vehicle. The latest Navara isn’t just a pickup but is also a well-built off-roader. Here are some of the features that help it beat its rivals single-handedly.

Rugged and stylish looks-

Gone are those days when pickups used to have boring, dull, and unlively aesthetics. The Nissan Navara is a handsome-looking vehicle. The front features a distinctive V-grille with a mix of chrome and black. The headlights get LED DRLs which enhance the overall style quotient of the vehicle. The bumper is nice and big; designed to suit Navara’s large dimensions.

The load bay gate at the rear features a slight V-indentation in the middle, probably, to give it a similar appearance to that of the front grille. There’s also a rear spoiler located at the top of the load bay gate. This has been included to improve overall aerodynamics for best performance.

The Navara’s high ground clearance gives it a dominating road presence, and its large wheel arches add to its masculinity. Also, the roof-rails depict its ready-to-go-anywhere nature. Nissan also provides various optional accessories package that further enhances the overall styling of the pickup.

Power-packed engine-

To make the Navara a capable pickup-cum-off roader, Nissan has provided it with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine. This unit has been tuned to produce 163 PS of max power at 3,600 revs and generates a peak torque of 403 Nm at as low as 2,000 revs. This makes it a breeze to drive without any hindrance irrespective of the load it is carrying or the terrain it is being driven on.

There are two transmission options - a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed auto with manual mode. Both the units are very well tuned to deliver the optimal performance and efficiency at all times depending on the driving style. They send the power to all the four wheels.

Brilliant suspension setup-

Nissan has made sure that the Navara doesn’t fail to tackle any hardcore obstacles that it faces during one of your exciting off-road trail driving. At the front, you’ll find the usual double wishbone suspension setup, but it’s the rear where things have been made interesting. Nissan went ahead to replace the traditional leaf spring suspension setup with the new multi-link system. This not only makes the Navara a competitive off-roader, but it also helps in improving the ride comfort and handling.

High ground clearance-

The minimum ground clearance of the Navara differs from variant to variant. The least you get is 215 mm, and the max is 230 mm. This high ground clearance lets you enjoy the ride and not worry about getting the underbody scraped by some obstacle on your path. This really helps in making the Navara a better off-roader. Yes, the wheels on this pickup are a bit undersized, but you do get an option for going for the 18-inch ones in the top-end model.

High-end interior-

Okay, the interior of the Navara might not be the most luxurious place to be in and it also doesn’t need a cabin with overloaded luxury. It’s a pickup and most of the time it would be used for work purposes. Just like Nissan didn’t compromise with the looks of the Navara because it’s a pickup, it made sure that the interior is properly done, too.

The design of the dashboard is such that everything is easily accessible by the driver. The steering wheel has got a few mounted controls. Behind it is a large instrument cluster that features a 5-inch Advanced Driver Assist Display (ADAD).

There are a host of features like auto dimming rear view mirror, dual zone auto climate control, rear air-con vents, 5-inch infotainment system, etc. There’s ample amount of room for the front occupants. The front seats are inspired from zero gravity concept. They are built in a unique shape and structure that provides continuous support from hips to shoulders, and hence, are very comfortable. Also, the raised driving position gives you a confidence while handling this large vehicle. The space at the rear depends on the type of cabin you go with, but it should still be sufficient and wouldn’t be a deal breaker.

Overall, the cabin has been very well designed. It is very car-like in nature which is a good thing.

Safety features-

The Navara boasts off its 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating. The features that made it possible include dual airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS), etc.

All these reasons make the Nissan Navara one of the perfect pickup in the market. If there are some features you like about it, mention it in the comment section.