By NAKAMPE LEKWADU
AFTER shocking both the world and local markets with a brand-new design of the Navara double-cab in 2021, which rewrote design dynamics for South Africa’s favourite mode of motoring, Nissan has released the Navara single-cab bakkie.
While the double-cab version is more luxury lifestyle vehicle, the top of the range Nissan Navara 2.5D 4×4 single cab is built to be the most reliable workhorse under varied climatic conditions and terrain, paved or not.
Looking at the new single cab 4×4, it’s clear the Japanese automaker is looking far into the future of pick-up vans because the new Nissan single-cab is the replacement of the popular NP300 Hardbody.
Other four model variants, including the entry level and only petrol offer, the Nissan Navara 2.5P XE, do not look shabby or out of breath at all.
Stunner at work
The updated Navara single cab is line with the core design of new Navara range. However, since the single-cab is for work and no fancy frills, this workhorse therefore does come with smart specs such as LED headlights and taillights, alloy wheels on which the double-cab stand. Nevertheless, the single cab 4×4 remains a stunner despite its purpose. The cabin is devoid of fancy the infotainment touch display with smartphone compatibility for navigation. However, it uses super modern car radio with Bluetooth capability. The interior is also spacious and comfortable for both the driver and the passenger, even on bumpy roads, thanks to exceptional suspension engineering built into the Navara single cab 4×4.
Horsepower
The top of the range Nissan Navara 2.5D 4×4 is driven by a powerful 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine with outputs of 140 kW power and 450 Nm torque. The engine is paired to a 6-speed manual transmission and the bakkie boasts load capacity of 1,119kg. The combination of these attributes gives Navara single-cab quality drive for all occasions. The workhorse also has decent fuel consumption of 8.1L/100km.
All models have ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Brake Assist and Seatbelt Reminder, as well as Driver & Assistant Airbag.
Verdict
Good value for money overall, though at over half-million bucks, the prices of the top two models are bit steep if you are strictly looking for a workhorse you are not going to climb rocky hills with.
Pricing
Nissan Navara 2.5P XE – R344,900
Nissan Navara 2.5D XE – R379, 200
Nissan Navara 2.5D SE – R466,700
Nissan Navara 2.5D LE – R504,900
Nissan Navara 2.5D 4×4 – R541,200
