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Question of the Day: Main reasons you wouldn't get an EV?
The Nissan NP300 Navara Thread
- Thread starter FiestaST
- Start date
FiestaST
Honorary Master
DRIVEN: New Nissan Navara ready to fist-fight Ranger, Hilux
After what’s been described as “long overdue”, the all-new Nissan Navara finally arrived in South Africa.
And just to make sure that it is a product that can compete with and against the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, Nissan reworked the Navara and altered it for the South African market.
Long story short, we’re in for a head banger in the bakkie market!
That suspension, though!
The suspension setup on the new Navara is surely the bakkie’s best attribute. Other bakkies, like the aforementioned Hilux and Ranger, as well as the Mitsubishi Triton, make use of a conventional leaf spring suspension setup at the rear.
The 2017 Navara ditches this setup and adopts a five-link coil suspension - a first for a volume-selling bakkie.
The application of this setup not only gives the bakkie a smoother ride quality, but it makes the Navara more adaptable to various road surfaces. Plus, it’s 20kg lighter than the conventional leaf spring. At the front the bakkie uses an independent doube-wishbone setup.
The coil suspension “calms” the rear of the bakkie, which 1) improves handling and 2) makes it a lot comfier for rear passengers. It also gives the driver more confidence to push the bakkie deeper into its limits because it feels planted. Even on gravel roads where bakkies’ suspension can succumb to the frustrating, pothole-infested roads, the Navara kept going.
Despite being 176kg lighter than the previous Navara, at 2910kg the new bakkie weighs quite heavy on the suspension. But thanks to this suspension setup it rarely feels like it. The Navara steers nicely, there is almost no body-roll to speak of and it all culminates in an enjoyable driving experience for all passengers.
Smaller engine, bigger punch
Nissan ditched the old Navara’s 2.5-litre diesel engine for a newer, smaller 2.3-litre unit with two turbos bolted on. The result is 140kW/450Nm, the latter available from 1500-2500rpm. The engine’s power delivery is almost instantaneous and the accompanying surge verges on being addictive.
Compared, for example, to the Triton’s 2.4-litre diesel engine (which we had on test recently), the Navara’s engine sounds a bit too rough and grunty. Whether it is at idle or at speeds, the diesel clutter will make itself heard. But punch-for-punch this engine is top of its segment, despite the noise.
Two gearboxes are available: a six-speed manual and a seven-speed automatic. The auto ‘box is far more orientated to the lifestyle side than the manual. It has no problem dancing solo through the ratios, but is slow to react when flooring the accelerator. It seems as if the gearbox hesitates as to which lower gear to hook before racing up the rev range.
But when cruising along at a leisurely pace the ‘box will not have any issues choosing the right gear at any given moment. This unit is then also the one to go for if off-road adventures are your forte.
The manual gearbox is the more engaging one. It also seems to be the best application to get the best out of the engine. According to Nissan it is more fuel efficient than the auto (6.5l vs. 7.0l/100km), and it is better suited to lugging the 3-ton behemoth around in a more “lively” manner. Notably, though, the travel between the gears is just a tad too big.
Both boxes have strong and low points, but deciding on one will depend on the bakkie’s use to its prospective owner(s).
At launch only three models will be on offer, all double-cabs: one in SE trim and two in LE. The SE is only available with the manual gearbox, whereas the LE can be had with either gearbox.
Nissan SA says that the single cabs will be coming to market towards the end of the year, but it is still looking into the viability of the King cab to the South African market.
Tricks the 2017 Navara has up its sleeve include hill start assist (HSA), hill descent control (HDC), aircon vents for rear passengers, and keyless entry/start on LE trim models. While across the entire range standard spec include a reverse camera, 3D navigation, a de-mister for the rear window, as well as a button to open and close the rear window electronically.
Service intervals are every 15 000km and the service plan runs for three-years or 90 000km. The warranty is valid for six years or 150 000km.
The range:
2.3-litre 4x4 SE Double Cab MT - R514 900
2.3-litre 4x4 LE Double Cab MT - R565 900
2.3-litre 4x4 LE Double Cab AT - R597 900
Is it worth it?
It’s been ten long years since the first Navara was launched in SA and hopefully it won’t be that long before the next one arrives. But this bakkie is a revelation. It shows that bakkies are, and can be, proper leisure vehicles - taking families on holiday in great comfort. The biggest selling point will be the utilisation of the rear suspension setup and it undoubtedly gives the Navara the edge over all other bakkies on sale in SA today.
Depending on what your needs are, the Navara is most likely to fulfill it without any issues.
How South Africa will react to the Navara's arrival remains to be seen, but this is above and beyond the direction future bakkies will be heading in.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_a...ara-ready-to-fist-fight-ranger-hilux-20170315
After what’s been described as “long overdue”, the all-new Nissan Navara finally arrived in South Africa.
And just to make sure that it is a product that can compete with and against the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, Nissan reworked the Navara and altered it for the South African market.
Long story short, we’re in for a head banger in the bakkie market!
That suspension, though!
The suspension setup on the new Navara is surely the bakkie’s best attribute. Other bakkies, like the aforementioned Hilux and Ranger, as well as the Mitsubishi Triton, make use of a conventional leaf spring suspension setup at the rear.
The 2017 Navara ditches this setup and adopts a five-link coil suspension - a first for a volume-selling bakkie.
The application of this setup not only gives the bakkie a smoother ride quality, but it makes the Navara more adaptable to various road surfaces. Plus, it’s 20kg lighter than the conventional leaf spring. At the front the bakkie uses an independent doube-wishbone setup.
The coil suspension “calms” the rear of the bakkie, which 1) improves handling and 2) makes it a lot comfier for rear passengers. It also gives the driver more confidence to push the bakkie deeper into its limits because it feels planted. Even on gravel roads where bakkies’ suspension can succumb to the frustrating, pothole-infested roads, the Navara kept going.
Despite being 176kg lighter than the previous Navara, at 2910kg the new bakkie weighs quite heavy on the suspension. But thanks to this suspension setup it rarely feels like it. The Navara steers nicely, there is almost no body-roll to speak of and it all culminates in an enjoyable driving experience for all passengers.
Smaller engine, bigger punch
Nissan ditched the old Navara’s 2.5-litre diesel engine for a newer, smaller 2.3-litre unit with two turbos bolted on. The result is 140kW/450Nm, the latter available from 1500-2500rpm. The engine’s power delivery is almost instantaneous and the accompanying surge verges on being addictive.
Compared, for example, to the Triton’s 2.4-litre diesel engine (which we had on test recently), the Navara’s engine sounds a bit too rough and grunty. Whether it is at idle or at speeds, the diesel clutter will make itself heard. But punch-for-punch this engine is top of its segment, despite the noise.
Two gearboxes are available: a six-speed manual and a seven-speed automatic. The auto ‘box is far more orientated to the lifestyle side than the manual. It has no problem dancing solo through the ratios, but is slow to react when flooring the accelerator. It seems as if the gearbox hesitates as to which lower gear to hook before racing up the rev range.
But when cruising along at a leisurely pace the ‘box will not have any issues choosing the right gear at any given moment. This unit is then also the one to go for if off-road adventures are your forte.
The manual gearbox is the more engaging one. It also seems to be the best application to get the best out of the engine. According to Nissan it is more fuel efficient than the auto (6.5l vs. 7.0l/100km), and it is better suited to lugging the 3-ton behemoth around in a more “lively” manner. Notably, though, the travel between the gears is just a tad too big.
Both boxes have strong and low points, but deciding on one will depend on the bakkie’s use to its prospective owner(s).
At launch only three models will be on offer, all double-cabs: one in SE trim and two in LE. The SE is only available with the manual gearbox, whereas the LE can be had with either gearbox.
Nissan SA says that the single cabs will be coming to market towards the end of the year, but it is still looking into the viability of the King cab to the South African market.
Tricks the 2017 Navara has up its sleeve include hill start assist (HSA), hill descent control (HDC), aircon vents for rear passengers, and keyless entry/start on LE trim models. While across the entire range standard spec include a reverse camera, 3D navigation, a de-mister for the rear window, as well as a button to open and close the rear window electronically.
Service intervals are every 15 000km and the service plan runs for three-years or 90 000km. The warranty is valid for six years or 150 000km.
The range:
2.3-litre 4x4 SE Double Cab MT - R514 900
2.3-litre 4x4 LE Double Cab MT - R565 900
2.3-litre 4x4 LE Double Cab AT - R597 900
Is it worth it?
It’s been ten long years since the first Navara was launched in SA and hopefully it won’t be that long before the next one arrives. But this bakkie is a revelation. It shows that bakkies are, and can be, proper leisure vehicles - taking families on holiday in great comfort. The biggest selling point will be the utilisation of the rear suspension setup and it undoubtedly gives the Navara the edge over all other bakkies on sale in SA today.
Depending on what your needs are, the Navara is most likely to fulfill it without any issues.
How South Africa will react to the Navara's arrival remains to be seen, but this is above and beyond the direction future bakkies will be heading in.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_a...ara-ready-to-fist-fight-ranger-hilux-20170315
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Driven: New Navara's soft in the right places
With South Africa’s leisure bakkie market already chock-a-block with choice – Hilux, Ranger, Amarok, KB, Triton, Fullback and BT-50 just to mention a few – Nissan’s all-new Navara has softly landed into this battlefield offering a unique selling point: five-link coil spring rear suspension.
The rear wheels are still connected by a solid rear axle instead of SUV-like independent suspension, but coils are designed to deliver a more comfortable ride than the bouncy leaf springs used in bakkies since Noah was a lad.
Does it work? Yes, quite effectively. On this week’s media launch in the Cape I drove Nissan’s new doublecab on rutted gravel roads, smooth highways, sand dunes and almost everything in between; and compared to leaf-sprung bakkies the Navara’s ride rocks the Richter scale to a lesser degree. The load bay will probably require some weight to bring the ride quite up to SUV levels, but even with an empty cargo box this Nissan is less kidney-shaking than the average bakkie.
Arriving initially in a trio of premium doublecab 4x4 models, the Navara range will by the end of this year be expanded with 4x2 versions, and next year with singlecab and cab-and-a-half derivatives. The long running, locally built NP 300 Hardbody will continue to sell alongside the Navara for the time being as a budget focussed offering, but there’s a good chance the imported Navara will also start being assembled at Nissan’s Rosslyn plant in the near future.
The new 2.3-litre turbodiesel engine powering this smoother-cruising Navara has plenty of hustle, with 140kW and 450Nm of easygoing grunt that made it equally adept at climbing steep sand dunes or whipping past long trucks. In the battle of the muscles the twin-turbo engine stacks up well against turbodiesel competitors like the 2.8-litre Hilux (130kW/450Nm), 3.2-litre Ford Ranger (147kW/470Nm), and 2.4-litre Triton (133kW/430Nm), while the new Navara’s 176kg lighter than its predecessor which gives it added spring in its step.
Nissan claims a fuel consumption of 6.5 and 7.0 litres for respectively the manual and auto; the vehicles I drove at the launch returned figures of 9.6 and 9.9.
It’s a rather gruff-sounding engine when the revs rise, but wind and road noise are well suppressed and Nissan has done a good job with this vehicle’s overall refinement.
The cabin moves closer to the SUV realms with its upmarket trimmings, even more so with the heated and power operated leather seats optionally available with the flagship LE model of the Navara (cloth seats come standard). The cabin’s impressively roomy and both the SE and LE derivatives are packed with modern features like navigation, cruise control, a touchscreen infotainment system, front and rear air vents, and a unique feature in the market segment: an electrically operated sliding window between the rear cabin and the load bay.
Seven airbags, ABS brakes and stability control are also common to both versions. The LE in addition comes with climate control instead of regular aircon, along with push-button engine start, roof rails, and 18” alloy wheels vs the SE’s 16” versions, amongst a handful of other extra features.
It’s a high level of spec that places the new Navara at the pricier end of the premium doublecab market (see prices below).
Underpinning all this luxury is a solid-feeling bakkie sitting atop a ladder-frame chassis that feels ready to do an honest day’s work lugging cargo and towing. At between 961kg and 1002kg depending on derivative the enlarged load bay can carry 200kg more than the old Navara, and it can pull a braked trailer weighing 3500kg.
Power’s sent to the wheels via either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission, both of which snicked through their gears unobtrusively.
All-wheel drive can be selected on the fly by a simple twist of a knob. The same knob engages low range, while the Navara’s offroad-tackling arsenal also includes a limited-slip differential that actively manages power delivery and wheel braking between the front and rear axles and between the left and right of the vehicle. The rear diff can also be locked. There were no axle-twisters or rock climbs on the launch route to test it all properly, but a trip through the inland sand dunes near Lambert’s Bay did show off the bakkie’s improved approach and departure angles (33 and 27.9 degrees respectively), and lofty 229mm ground clearance.
Hill start assist and hill descent control (in the LE version only) are also part of a package that make this the most offroad-capable Navara yet.
The Nissan has a best-in-class turning circle of 12.4 metres, a welcome feature in such a big vehicle, while a reversing camera further reduces the chances of nudging something on an offroad trail or in a parking lot.
The new Navara has laid down its marker with a class-beating ride quality, and signifies the next step in the evolution of double cabs from workhorses to work-capable luxury vehicles. The age of bakkie coil springs has arrived.
NISSAN NAVARA PRICES
2.3 DDTT 4x4 SE Double Cab manual – R514 900
2.3 DDTT 4x4 LE Double Cab manual – R565 900
2.3 DDT 4x4 LE Double Cab auto – R597 900
Includes 6-year/150 000km warranty and 3-year/90 000km service plan.
http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/driven-new-navaras-soft-in-the-right-places-8225360
With South Africa’s leisure bakkie market already chock-a-block with choice – Hilux, Ranger, Amarok, KB, Triton, Fullback and BT-50 just to mention a few – Nissan’s all-new Navara has softly landed into this battlefield offering a unique selling point: five-link coil spring rear suspension.
The rear wheels are still connected by a solid rear axle instead of SUV-like independent suspension, but coils are designed to deliver a more comfortable ride than the bouncy leaf springs used in bakkies since Noah was a lad.
Does it work? Yes, quite effectively. On this week’s media launch in the Cape I drove Nissan’s new doublecab on rutted gravel roads, smooth highways, sand dunes and almost everything in between; and compared to leaf-sprung bakkies the Navara’s ride rocks the Richter scale to a lesser degree. The load bay will probably require some weight to bring the ride quite up to SUV levels, but even with an empty cargo box this Nissan is less kidney-shaking than the average bakkie.
Arriving initially in a trio of premium doublecab 4x4 models, the Navara range will by the end of this year be expanded with 4x2 versions, and next year with singlecab and cab-and-a-half derivatives. The long running, locally built NP 300 Hardbody will continue to sell alongside the Navara for the time being as a budget focussed offering, but there’s a good chance the imported Navara will also start being assembled at Nissan’s Rosslyn plant in the near future.
The new 2.3-litre turbodiesel engine powering this smoother-cruising Navara has plenty of hustle, with 140kW and 450Nm of easygoing grunt that made it equally adept at climbing steep sand dunes or whipping past long trucks. In the battle of the muscles the twin-turbo engine stacks up well against turbodiesel competitors like the 2.8-litre Hilux (130kW/450Nm), 3.2-litre Ford Ranger (147kW/470Nm), and 2.4-litre Triton (133kW/430Nm), while the new Navara’s 176kg lighter than its predecessor which gives it added spring in its step.
Nissan claims a fuel consumption of 6.5 and 7.0 litres for respectively the manual and auto; the vehicles I drove at the launch returned figures of 9.6 and 9.9.
It’s a rather gruff-sounding engine when the revs rise, but wind and road noise are well suppressed and Nissan has done a good job with this vehicle’s overall refinement.
The cabin moves closer to the SUV realms with its upmarket trimmings, even more so with the heated and power operated leather seats optionally available with the flagship LE model of the Navara (cloth seats come standard). The cabin’s impressively roomy and both the SE and LE derivatives are packed with modern features like navigation, cruise control, a touchscreen infotainment system, front and rear air vents, and a unique feature in the market segment: an electrically operated sliding window between the rear cabin and the load bay.
Seven airbags, ABS brakes and stability control are also common to both versions. The LE in addition comes with climate control instead of regular aircon, along with push-button engine start, roof rails, and 18” alloy wheels vs the SE’s 16” versions, amongst a handful of other extra features.
It’s a high level of spec that places the new Navara at the pricier end of the premium doublecab market (see prices below).
Underpinning all this luxury is a solid-feeling bakkie sitting atop a ladder-frame chassis that feels ready to do an honest day’s work lugging cargo and towing. At between 961kg and 1002kg depending on derivative the enlarged load bay can carry 200kg more than the old Navara, and it can pull a braked trailer weighing 3500kg.
Power’s sent to the wheels via either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission, both of which snicked through their gears unobtrusively.
All-wheel drive can be selected on the fly by a simple twist of a knob. The same knob engages low range, while the Navara’s offroad-tackling arsenal also includes a limited-slip differential that actively manages power delivery and wheel braking between the front and rear axles and between the left and right of the vehicle. The rear diff can also be locked. There were no axle-twisters or rock climbs on the launch route to test it all properly, but a trip through the inland sand dunes near Lambert’s Bay did show off the bakkie’s improved approach and departure angles (33 and 27.9 degrees respectively), and lofty 229mm ground clearance.
Hill start assist and hill descent control (in the LE version only) are also part of a package that make this the most offroad-capable Navara yet.
The Nissan has a best-in-class turning circle of 12.4 metres, a welcome feature in such a big vehicle, while a reversing camera further reduces the chances of nudging something on an offroad trail or in a parking lot.
The new Navara has laid down its marker with a class-beating ride quality, and signifies the next step in the evolution of double cabs from workhorses to work-capable luxury vehicles. The age of bakkie coil springs has arrived.
NISSAN NAVARA PRICES
2.3 DDTT 4x4 SE Double Cab manual – R514 900
2.3 DDTT 4x4 LE Double Cab manual – R565 900
2.3 DDT 4x4 LE Double Cab auto – R597 900
Includes 6-year/150 000km warranty and 3-year/90 000km service plan.
http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/driven-new-navaras-soft-in-the-right-places-8225360
FiestaST
Honorary Master
What People Think of the New Nissan Navara
The new Nissan Navara is now in South Africa and its arrival has sparked vociferous debate on social media. We take a closer look at some of the banter!
There are few motoring topics that spark such widespread debate as bakkies do, particularly in South Africa. We love bakkies and people’s opinions on them are as diverse as those who express them.
The new Nissan Navara and it rivals dominant products such as the much-loved Toyota Hilux, Cars.co.za Consumer Award-winning Ford Ranger and the Volkswagen Amarok (facelift coming soon). There are other competent fringe players in the market though, vehicles such as the Isuzu KB, new Mitsubishi Triton and Fiat Fullback – they're all vying for the attention of bakkie-crazed buyers.
If there is one new double-cab bakkie that has the potential to disrupt the status quo, it’s the new Navara. The Navara comes to market with something that its rivals lack and that’s a 5-link coil rear suspension that, in our opinion, significantly improves ride comfort over its competitors. That’s an important point to take note of, especially if you are considering buying a leisure double-cab bakkie.
Meanwhile, the Navara’s 2.3-litre twin turbodiesel engine, despite its smaller capacity, is a strong performer too, offering 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque using either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic transmission, both of which are well matched to the engine.
Based on our experience of the new Navara thus far and considering where it sits in terms of price against the equivalent Hilux and Ranger, we think buyers will be silly to not consider it. We will have the new Navara on test soon, so look out for a thorough evaluation coming your way in the near future.
If you aren't convinced, take a look at how the new Nissan Navara stacks up against Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.
http://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/what-people-think-of-the-new-nissan-navara/43161/
The new Nissan Navara is now in South Africa and its arrival has sparked vociferous debate on social media. We take a closer look at some of the banter!
There are few motoring topics that spark such widespread debate as bakkies do, particularly in South Africa. We love bakkies and people’s opinions on them are as diverse as those who express them.
The new Nissan Navara and it rivals dominant products such as the much-loved Toyota Hilux, Cars.co.za Consumer Award-winning Ford Ranger and the Volkswagen Amarok (facelift coming soon). There are other competent fringe players in the market though, vehicles such as the Isuzu KB, new Mitsubishi Triton and Fiat Fullback – they're all vying for the attention of bakkie-crazed buyers.
If there is one new double-cab bakkie that has the potential to disrupt the status quo, it’s the new Navara. The Navara comes to market with something that its rivals lack and that’s a 5-link coil rear suspension that, in our opinion, significantly improves ride comfort over its competitors. That’s an important point to take note of, especially if you are considering buying a leisure double-cab bakkie.
Meanwhile, the Navara’s 2.3-litre twin turbodiesel engine, despite its smaller capacity, is a strong performer too, offering 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque using either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic transmission, both of which are well matched to the engine.
Based on our experience of the new Navara thus far and considering where it sits in terms of price against the equivalent Hilux and Ranger, we think buyers will be silly to not consider it. We will have the new Navara on test soon, so look out for a thorough evaluation coming your way in the near future.
If you aren't convinced, take a look at how the new Nissan Navara stacks up against Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.
http://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/what-people-think-of-the-new-nissan-navara/43161/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Butch looking yet smart-looking. Rear space is impressive & the rear power sliding window is handy.
Interior is a big step up from the old model.
Interior is a big step up from the old model.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
At last, nirvana is close at hand thanks to the new Navara
Nissan Navara 2.3D SE 4x4 DC
From R514 900
If you’re a bakkie addict like me, you’ve probably been jonesing for the new Nissan Navara to hit our shores.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with junkie speak, jonesing is literally “waiting for your fix”. The only thing that will alleviate the withdrawal symptoms, which often include nausea, anxiety and even sweating, is that hit.
No one would blame you for having the anticipatory shakes right now – the new Navara made its first appearance in Thailand in 2014, so we’ve been waiting for more than two years for it. Watching it become available in Europe last year just added to the aches and shakes.
The wait is finally over. As you read this, your local dealer is hopefully stocking up. The big question is, has the wait been worth it?
During the launch, which revved off at 5am in Durbanville, Cape Town, a large contingent of media dieselheads – diesel is the only derivative available locally so far – set off on an arduous 700km journey to test if the new Navara could make magic on tar, gravel, mountain passes and desert sand. Some much-needed Cape rain even added to the mix.
Rugged and capable
On a straight tar road, the new Navara’s 2.3 litre turbodiesel engine made pure magic, producing 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque in the six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic transmission derivatives.
As soon as we hit gravel and rougher off-road terrain, the first thing I noticed was how comfortable the drive was. Thanks to Nissan’s revolutionary in-class adoption of a five-link coil rear suspension (as opposed to traditional leaf springs), in conjunction with an independent double wishbone front setup, the drive is surprisingly smooth. But it was on the sand dunes of Lambert’s Bay that the Navara was really put to the test. With a diff lock standard in all three derivatives, best-in-class approach and departure angles, along with high levels of safety and driver assist tech, including hill start assist, hill descent control and shift on-the-fly 4x4, the rugged and supremely capable Navara came out to play.
In the looks and specs department, the Navara shines. The entry-level SE comes packed with standard fare, including 16-inch alloys, LED daytime running lamps, second-row privacy glass, a chrome-look grille, a leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel and cruise control. The top-of-the-range LE features 18-inch alloys, roof rails, the two-channel Utili-track loading system, push-button start/stop, dual-zone climate control and rear park-distance control.
With a claimed fuel consumption of 6.4 litres/100km and best-in-class carrying and tow capacity, plus a leading six-year/150 000km warranty, it’s going to be really hard to resist Navara nirvana.
Glamping
After almost eight hours of high-level driving, I was somewhat dismayed to hear that, instead of some s****y five-star hotel, we’d be camping. Camping! Were they insane? I needed some comfort, or at the very least a shower, for Nissan’s sake! But on arriving in Rhebokskloof in Paarl, it felt like I’d come across a mirage. This was no pitch-your-tent, sleeping bag, long-drop camp site – instead, a five-star setup unfolded. Forget common camping, we were glamping! It was luxury all the way – double beds swathed in cotton sheets, and personal showers and loos. I even had my own little charging point for my gadgets. The only thing tough about the accommodation was leaving.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_a...ose-at-hand-thanks-to-the-new-navara-20170329
Nissan Navara 2.3D SE 4x4 DC
From R514 900
If you’re a bakkie addict like me, you’ve probably been jonesing for the new Nissan Navara to hit our shores.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with junkie speak, jonesing is literally “waiting for your fix”. The only thing that will alleviate the withdrawal symptoms, which often include nausea, anxiety and even sweating, is that hit.
No one would blame you for having the anticipatory shakes right now – the new Navara made its first appearance in Thailand in 2014, so we’ve been waiting for more than two years for it. Watching it become available in Europe last year just added to the aches and shakes.
The wait is finally over. As you read this, your local dealer is hopefully stocking up. The big question is, has the wait been worth it?
During the launch, which revved off at 5am in Durbanville, Cape Town, a large contingent of media dieselheads – diesel is the only derivative available locally so far – set off on an arduous 700km journey to test if the new Navara could make magic on tar, gravel, mountain passes and desert sand. Some much-needed Cape rain even added to the mix.
Rugged and capable
On a straight tar road, the new Navara’s 2.3 litre turbodiesel engine made pure magic, producing 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque in the six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic transmission derivatives.
As soon as we hit gravel and rougher off-road terrain, the first thing I noticed was how comfortable the drive was. Thanks to Nissan’s revolutionary in-class adoption of a five-link coil rear suspension (as opposed to traditional leaf springs), in conjunction with an independent double wishbone front setup, the drive is surprisingly smooth. But it was on the sand dunes of Lambert’s Bay that the Navara was really put to the test. With a diff lock standard in all three derivatives, best-in-class approach and departure angles, along with high levels of safety and driver assist tech, including hill start assist, hill descent control and shift on-the-fly 4x4, the rugged and supremely capable Navara came out to play.
In the looks and specs department, the Navara shines. The entry-level SE comes packed with standard fare, including 16-inch alloys, LED daytime running lamps, second-row privacy glass, a chrome-look grille, a leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel and cruise control. The top-of-the-range LE features 18-inch alloys, roof rails, the two-channel Utili-track loading system, push-button start/stop, dual-zone climate control and rear park-distance control.
With a claimed fuel consumption of 6.4 litres/100km and best-in-class carrying and tow capacity, plus a leading six-year/150 000km warranty, it’s going to be really hard to resist Navara nirvana.
Glamping
After almost eight hours of high-level driving, I was somewhat dismayed to hear that, instead of some s****y five-star hotel, we’d be camping. Camping! Were they insane? I needed some comfort, or at the very least a shower, for Nissan’s sake! But on arriving in Rhebokskloof in Paarl, it felt like I’d come across a mirage. This was no pitch-your-tent, sleeping bag, long-drop camp site – instead, a five-star setup unfolded. Forget common camping, we were glamping! It was luxury all the way – double beds swathed in cotton sheets, and personal showers and loos. I even had my own little charging point for my gadgets. The only thing tough about the accommodation was leaving.
http://www.wheels24.co.za/OffRoad_a...ose-at-hand-thanks-to-the-new-navara-20170329
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Nissan Navara boasts 'largest ever' accessory range
Nissan South Africa has introduced what it bills as “the most comprehensive range of manufacturer-approved accessories yet available on a pick-up” with the launch of the new Navara.
According to the local arm of the Japanese automaker, some 67 approved accessories are already available, ranging from airbag-safe waterproof seat covers and cattle rails to LED lighting for the tow bar, off-road performance coil springs and 7-inch LED spotlights.
“Our accessory team worked alongside the approved supplier teams to prepare and validate the range of accessories in step with the local durability testing of the all-new Navara,” said Tony Minnie, head of aftersales at Nissan SA.
“This means that every single accessory is available from launch and is approved for fitment on the Nissan Navara,” he explained.
The accessories have been grouped into various applications, including cosmetic upgrades, off-road applicable upgrades and “functional” upgrades.
The cosmetic accessories include riveted fender flares, a black or alloy nudge bar and matching rear sportsbar, a wide range of decal kits and head- and taillamp surrounds. Then there’s a bonnet guard, tonneau cover and window visors with a matt black treatment.
The range of off-road-ready accessories, meanwhile, includes a heavy-duty steel rear bumper with high-lift jack points, as well as side steps with side rails that extend their protection across the front fenders to the new replacement bumper.
The bumper likewise adds high-lift jack points and fits flush to an underbody protection plate-kit. There is also the option of a winch with either a steel or synthetic cable and heavy duty recovery points.
Other accessories include canopies, a range of alloy wheels, rubberising (or a loadbox rubber mat), smash-and-grab tint, headlamps covers and Thule roof racks.
“In our preparation for the new Navara, we spent a great deal of time with Navara enthusiasts and have subsequently added some very special items to our canopy range,” said Minnie.
“Beside the two fibreglass canopy options, you can also specify a stainless-steel version and add items such as side gullwing doors, a roof mounted table, LED interior lighting and even a 3/4 or full kitchen unit,” Minnie said.
Nissan says all of its dealers have been “fully trained” on the fitment of these new accessories and that every dealer has been equipped with the tools required to ensure that fitments are done to manufacturer standards.
“Owners can have any single item fitted by a Nissan dealer and they will retain their vehicle warranty and receive a fitment and workmanship warranty for the accessories as well,” explained Minnie.
“These accessories were developed in partnership with some of the best off-road companies in the world, including Ironman 4×4, but they will only be available for fitment from an approved Nissan dealer.”
In addition, Nissan says it will offer a special launch kit in partnership with Ironman 4×4, which includes the replacement bumper, recovery points, underbody protection plates, a suspension upgrade, side steps (with additional side rails) and a steel rear bumper.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/nissan-navara-boasts-largest-ever-accessory-range/
Nissan South Africa has introduced what it bills as “the most comprehensive range of manufacturer-approved accessories yet available on a pick-up” with the launch of the new Navara.
According to the local arm of the Japanese automaker, some 67 approved accessories are already available, ranging from airbag-safe waterproof seat covers and cattle rails to LED lighting for the tow bar, off-road performance coil springs and 7-inch LED spotlights.
“Our accessory team worked alongside the approved supplier teams to prepare and validate the range of accessories in step with the local durability testing of the all-new Navara,” said Tony Minnie, head of aftersales at Nissan SA.
“This means that every single accessory is available from launch and is approved for fitment on the Nissan Navara,” he explained.
The accessories have been grouped into various applications, including cosmetic upgrades, off-road applicable upgrades and “functional” upgrades.
The cosmetic accessories include riveted fender flares, a black or alloy nudge bar and matching rear sportsbar, a wide range of decal kits and head- and taillamp surrounds. Then there’s a bonnet guard, tonneau cover and window visors with a matt black treatment.
The range of off-road-ready accessories, meanwhile, includes a heavy-duty steel rear bumper with high-lift jack points, as well as side steps with side rails that extend their protection across the front fenders to the new replacement bumper.
The bumper likewise adds high-lift jack points and fits flush to an underbody protection plate-kit. There is also the option of a winch with either a steel or synthetic cable and heavy duty recovery points.
Other accessories include canopies, a range of alloy wheels, rubberising (or a loadbox rubber mat), smash-and-grab tint, headlamps covers and Thule roof racks.
“In our preparation for the new Navara, we spent a great deal of time with Navara enthusiasts and have subsequently added some very special items to our canopy range,” said Minnie.
“Beside the two fibreglass canopy options, you can also specify a stainless-steel version and add items such as side gullwing doors, a roof mounted table, LED interior lighting and even a 3/4 or full kitchen unit,” Minnie said.
Nissan says all of its dealers have been “fully trained” on the fitment of these new accessories and that every dealer has been equipped with the tools required to ensure that fitments are done to manufacturer standards.
“Owners can have any single item fitted by a Nissan dealer and they will retain their vehicle warranty and receive a fitment and workmanship warranty for the accessories as well,” explained Minnie.
“These accessories were developed in partnership with some of the best off-road companies in the world, including Ironman 4×4, but they will only be available for fitment from an approved Nissan dealer.”
In addition, Nissan says it will offer a special launch kit in partnership with Ironman 4×4, which includes the replacement bumper, recovery points, underbody protection plates, a suspension upgrade, side steps (with additional side rails) and a steel rear bumper.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/nissan-navara-boasts-largest-ever-accessory-range/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
[video=youtube_share;hiaEffqIpus]https://youtu.be/hiaEffqIpus[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
NISSAN’S NISMO PLANS INCLUDE ‘PERFORMANCE’ BAKKIE
Last week, Nissan announced plans to expand its Nismo road car business, revealing that it would let its performance sub-brand loose on a “greater range of models”. And one of those models might just be a bakkie.
According to an Automotive News report, the Japanese automaker’s expanded Nismo line-up will include crossovers, minivans and even pickups.
“We see potential in the expansion of categories,” Takao Katagiri, CEO of Nissan Motorsports International, told the US publication.
While it’s perhaps too early to say, the brand’s focus on the US market might suggest that the pickup in question is the Titan (with a possible performance version to take on Ford’s F-150 Raptor), although various earlier reports suggest that Nissan has been working on a Nismo performance package for the Navara.
At the moment, the limited Nismo road car range focuses on sedans, coupés and hatchbacks, but Katagiri revealed to Automotive News that the sub-brand had plans to start working on “lifestyle vehicles”, too.
Last year, Nismo sold some 15 000 vehicles, but Katagiri said that the sub-brand would target an annual figure of 100 000 by the early 2020s.
“Demand for these types of [performance] cars is about five to 10 percent of every market. It’s the same all over the world,” he said.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/nissans-nismo-plans-include-performance-bakkie/
Last week, Nissan announced plans to expand its Nismo road car business, revealing that it would let its performance sub-brand loose on a “greater range of models”. And one of those models might just be a bakkie.
According to an Automotive News report, the Japanese automaker’s expanded Nismo line-up will include crossovers, minivans and even pickups.
“We see potential in the expansion of categories,” Takao Katagiri, CEO of Nissan Motorsports International, told the US publication.
While it’s perhaps too early to say, the brand’s focus on the US market might suggest that the pickup in question is the Titan (with a possible performance version to take on Ford’s F-150 Raptor), although various earlier reports suggest that Nissan has been working on a Nismo performance package for the Navara.
At the moment, the limited Nismo road car range focuses on sedans, coupés and hatchbacks, but Katagiri revealed to Automotive News that the sub-brand had plans to start working on “lifestyle vehicles”, too.
Last year, Nismo sold some 15 000 vehicles, but Katagiri said that the sub-brand would target an annual figure of 100 000 by the early 2020s.
“Demand for these types of [performance] cars is about five to 10 percent of every market. It’s the same all over the world,” he said.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/nissans-nismo-plans-include-performance-bakkie/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
RPM TV review of the new Navara
[video=youtube_share;sDtmHKCVkKE]https://youtu.be/sDtmHKCVkKE[/video]
[video=youtube_share;sDtmHKCVkKE]https://youtu.be/sDtmHKCVkKE[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW production in SA hit by supply issues – report
The BMW Group will reportedly halt production in South Africa and China – after doing the same in Leipzig in Germany – due to a supply issue.
According to Bloomberg, the German automaker is facing a shortage of steering parts from an unnamed Italian supplier.
The report added that production at Rosslyn and Shenyang was likely to “stop for a day” due to the issue. BMW spokesperson Michael Rebstock told the publication that production of the 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series and 4 Series would be affected.
We approached BMW South Africa for comment, and manager for group product communications Edward Makwana had the following to say:
“We can confirm that due to an interruption within the supply chain, the production of the BMW Group is currently facing irregularity with the delivery of some components,” Makwana told CARmag.co.za.
“This has led to a production stop at BMW Group Plant Leipzig in Germany. The purchase and production logistics divisions are currently working on a solution. We will update you on any further developments regarding BMW Group Plant Rosslyn and other production facilities,” he added.
Plant Rosslyn currently builds the 3 Series sedan, but announced a R6-billion injection in late 2015 to switch to production of the next-generation BMW X3.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/bmw-production-in-sa-hit-by-supply-issues-report/
The BMW Group will reportedly halt production in South Africa and China – after doing the same in Leipzig in Germany – due to a supply issue.
According to Bloomberg, the German automaker is facing a shortage of steering parts from an unnamed Italian supplier.
The report added that production at Rosslyn and Shenyang was likely to “stop for a day” due to the issue. BMW spokesperson Michael Rebstock told the publication that production of the 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series and 4 Series would be affected.
We approached BMW South Africa for comment, and manager for group product communications Edward Makwana had the following to say:
“We can confirm that due to an interruption within the supply chain, the production of the BMW Group is currently facing irregularity with the delivery of some components,” Makwana told CARmag.co.za.
“This has led to a production stop at BMW Group Plant Leipzig in Germany. The purchase and production logistics divisions are currently working on a solution. We will update you on any further developments regarding BMW Group Plant Rosslyn and other production facilities,” he added.
Plant Rosslyn currently builds the 3 Series sedan, but announced a R6-billion injection in late 2015 to switch to production of the next-generation BMW X3.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/bmw-production-in-sa-hit-by-supply-issues-report/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
NISSAN REVEALS ‘BEASTLY’ NEW NAVARA ATTACK BAKKIE
Nissan has revealed the new Navara (or Frontier, as it is known in South America) Attack concept at the 2017 Buenos Aires Auto Show, saying it was inspired by imposing “monster trucks”.
The Japanese automaker says the new model “sets the basis for a potential production version of the vehicle in the future”.
The Navara Attack is 40 mm higher than the production version, and its tyres are considerably larger (Yokohama Geolandar rubber, it seems), which Nissan says led its designers to name it “the beast”.
The double-cab bakkie is fitted with black-mask headlamps, running boards, collision bars and a luggage rack (which bear the name of the model), as well as grey mirror-cap. Oh, and a bold colour scheme, complete with in-your-face decals.
Inside, you’ll find added chrome plus some grey and red trim on the central panel, as well as black leather seats and red accents on the steering wheel and air-vents.
Under the bonnet, though, nothing has changed. The Navara concept is still powered by the brand’s 140 kW/450 N.m 2,3-litre turbodiesel engine, and retains its multilink rear suspension setup.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/nissan-reveals-beastly-new-navara-attack-bakkie/
Nissan has revealed the new Navara (or Frontier, as it is known in South America) Attack concept at the 2017 Buenos Aires Auto Show, saying it was inspired by imposing “monster trucks”.
The Japanese automaker says the new model “sets the basis for a potential production version of the vehicle in the future”.
The Navara Attack is 40 mm higher than the production version, and its tyres are considerably larger (Yokohama Geolandar rubber, it seems), which Nissan says led its designers to name it “the beast”.
The double-cab bakkie is fitted with black-mask headlamps, running boards, collision bars and a luggage rack (which bear the name of the model), as well as grey mirror-cap. Oh, and a bold colour scheme, complete with in-your-face decals.
Inside, you’ll find added chrome plus some grey and red trim on the central panel, as well as black leather seats and red accents on the steering wheel and air-vents.
Under the bonnet, though, nothing has changed. The Navara concept is still powered by the brand’s 140 kW/450 N.m 2,3-litre turbodiesel engine, and retains its multilink rear suspension setup.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/nissan-reveals-beastly-new-navara-attack-bakkie/
Jase
Executive Member
Those interior red accents and trim ... 
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Lol
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Nissan's Navara on steroids is a real beast
This in-your-face double cab beetle-crusher so impressed visitors to the Nissan Design Centre in Rio de Janeiro, where it was designed and built, that they nicknamed it “The Beast”, and that became the unofficial code-name for the project.
Officially, however, it’s the Frontier Attack Concept, created specifically for the Buenos Aires motor show, on this week – and Nissan Argentina is already saying that if the reaction from show visitors is positive enough, it could go into production.
It’s based on the NP300 Frontier bakkie (known as the Navara in SA and elsewhere), with the same 139kW, 2.3-litre turbodiesel four, rated at 450Nm from 1500-2500rpm, six-speed manual 'box and rigid rear axle with multilink rear suspension – a nice compromise between expensive independent rear suspension and tough but harsh-riding leaf springs.
But it rides 40mm higher than the standard Frontier on longer struts and oversized Yokohama mudplugger tyres, with a bigger roof – and a rugged roof rack on top of that – blacked out headlights, running boards, bash plate and roll bar.
And its provocative red and gloss black colour scheme is echoed inside, with grey trim elements on the centre console, taller seats with mixed black leather and fabric trim, and red flashes on the seats, steering wheel, dashboard and gear lever.
It has on-the-fly switchable all-wheel drive and low range, dynamic traction control and hill hold, as well as a new Infotainment system called Nissan Multi-App that includes GPS navigation and apps such Spotify, Bluetooth, music streaming system.xa and hi story, presented on a 16cm touchscreen.
Even if the Attack does go into production, it will be aimed specifically at the Latin American market, and is unlikely to be released in South Africa – but it would not be out of place if it were.
http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/nissans-navara-on-steroids-is-a-real-beast-9747570
This in-your-face double cab beetle-crusher so impressed visitors to the Nissan Design Centre in Rio de Janeiro, where it was designed and built, that they nicknamed it “The Beast”, and that became the unofficial code-name for the project.
Officially, however, it’s the Frontier Attack Concept, created specifically for the Buenos Aires motor show, on this week – and Nissan Argentina is already saying that if the reaction from show visitors is positive enough, it could go into production.
It’s based on the NP300 Frontier bakkie (known as the Navara in SA and elsewhere), with the same 139kW, 2.3-litre turbodiesel four, rated at 450Nm from 1500-2500rpm, six-speed manual 'box and rigid rear axle with multilink rear suspension – a nice compromise between expensive independent rear suspension and tough but harsh-riding leaf springs.
But it rides 40mm higher than the standard Frontier on longer struts and oversized Yokohama mudplugger tyres, with a bigger roof – and a rugged roof rack on top of that – blacked out headlights, running boards, bash plate and roll bar.
And its provocative red and gloss black colour scheme is echoed inside, with grey trim elements on the centre console, taller seats with mixed black leather and fabric trim, and red flashes on the seats, steering wheel, dashboard and gear lever.
It has on-the-fly switchable all-wheel drive and low range, dynamic traction control and hill hold, as well as a new Infotainment system called Nissan Multi-App that includes GPS navigation and apps such Spotify, Bluetooth, music streaming system.xa and hi story, presented on a 16cm touchscreen.
Even if the Attack does go into production, it will be aimed specifically at the Latin American market, and is unlikely to be released in South Africa – but it would not be out of place if it were.
http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/nissans-navara-on-steroids-is-a-real-beast-9747570
FiestaST
Honorary Master
It’s official: next-gen Navara, Triton to share parts
Ever since Nissan swooped in to acquire a 34% equity stake in Mitsubishi Motors last year – bringing the latter firmly into the Renault-Nissan alliance – there have been rumours that the next-generation versions of the respective manufacturers’ bakkies would share a platform.
And now that rumour has been confirmed.
Mitsubishi chief operations officer Trevor Mann told CarAdvice that he had already spoken to Renault-Nissan alliance chief Carlos Ghosn about the plans for the next-generation Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi Triton, which are both reportedly scheduled for arrival in about 2021.
So, what does this mean for the upcoming Triton?
“As far as what the customer sees, feels and touches, that will be Mitsubishi. The advantage of the alliance … obviously, it is component sharing, platform sharing, this type of thing. It’s a necessary element for the alliance, and for Mitsubishi,” Mann said, according to the Australian publication.
“What the body shape is, what the body style is, what the design will be, how it feels and drives will be uniquely engineered by Mitsubishi,” he added.
Does that mean the Triton (which has also spawned the Fiat Fullback) will end up being a Navara – which will also underpins the upcoming Mercedes-Benz X-Class and Renault Alaskan – underneath?
“What we would do is say, first of all, which is the best. So, we could be talking about powertrains, we could be talking about platforms. So which technically will we say is the best platform, technically which is best in terms of performance. And obviously from a cost point of view, which is the cheapest. We’ll make this balance between best and affordable,” Mann explained.
“What Mitsubishi wants as its key attributes for its pick-up will be engineered by Mitsubishi. What Nissan wants for its key attributes for its pick-up will be engineered by Nissan,” he said.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/its-official-next-gen-navara-triton-to-share-parts/
Ever since Nissan swooped in to acquire a 34% equity stake in Mitsubishi Motors last year – bringing the latter firmly into the Renault-Nissan alliance – there have been rumours that the next-generation versions of the respective manufacturers’ bakkies would share a platform.
And now that rumour has been confirmed.
Mitsubishi chief operations officer Trevor Mann told CarAdvice that he had already spoken to Renault-Nissan alliance chief Carlos Ghosn about the plans for the next-generation Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi Triton, which are both reportedly scheduled for arrival in about 2021.
So, what does this mean for the upcoming Triton?
“As far as what the customer sees, feels and touches, that will be Mitsubishi. The advantage of the alliance … obviously, it is component sharing, platform sharing, this type of thing. It’s a necessary element for the alliance, and for Mitsubishi,” Mann said, according to the Australian publication.
“What the body shape is, what the body style is, what the design will be, how it feels and drives will be uniquely engineered by Mitsubishi,” he added.
Does that mean the Triton (which has also spawned the Fiat Fullback) will end up being a Navara – which will also underpins the upcoming Mercedes-Benz X-Class and Renault Alaskan – underneath?
“What we would do is say, first of all, which is the best. So, we could be talking about powertrains, we could be talking about platforms. So which technically will we say is the best platform, technically which is best in terms of performance. And obviously from a cost point of view, which is the cheapest. We’ll make this balance between best and affordable,” Mann explained.
“What Mitsubishi wants as its key attributes for its pick-up will be engineered by Mitsubishi. What Nissan wants for its key attributes for its pick-up will be engineered by Nissan,” he said.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/its-official-next-gen-navara-triton-to-share-parts/