The latest Nissan Navara has arrived in New Zealand, marking 40 years since the model first hit our roads
The latest generation of the Nissan Navara has gone on sale across New Zealand, coinciding with 40 years since the model line first entered the market in December 1986.
The new ute range is offered in four Dual Cab 4×4 pick-up grades – SL, ST, ST-X and PRO-4X – aimed at buyers ranging from commercial operators to recreational users. All variants are powered by a 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain produces 150kW and 470Nm, representing modest increases in power and torque over the outgoing D23 model, while also delivering slightly improved fuel efficiency.
A key part of the vehicle’s development involved locally tuned suspension created with Melbourne-based engineering company Premcar. The suspension was developed specifically for Australian and New Zealand driving conditions, with extensive ride and handling evaluation conducted on sealed roads, gravel, corrugations and off-road terrain.
Rather than adopting a single suspension setup across the range, three different calibrations were developed to reflect typical use cases. The SL and ST grades are tuned with working loads in mind and use 17-inch wheels and heavy-duty rear springs designed to maintain stability when carrying tools or equipment.
The ST-X adopts a more balanced configuration intended for mixed use, including commuting and towing. It rides on 18-inch wheels with revised rear suspension aimed at improving ride comfort without reducing load capability.
At the top of the range, the PRO-4X combines 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tyres and suspension tuned for greater off-road articulation while maintaining stable on-road handling.
Across the range, the Navara retains a 3500kg braked towing capacity and payload capability exceeding one tonne. Ground clearance increases to 228mm, while approach and departure angles have also been slightly improved compared with the previous model.
Higher-specification variants introduce electronic power steering and an all-wheel-drive system with multiple terrain modes designed to adapt throttle, transmission and traction settings for different surfaces.