The new Nissan NP300 Navara finally opens its cards, with the company detailing the range that will be available to the European markets.

Nissan’s latest medium-duty pickup truck wants to set a new benchmark in its segment, offering a five-link rear suspension for crossover-like handling without compromising off-road capabilities and a new 2.3-litre dCi diesel engine, which is up to 24 per cent more efficient that the unit it replaces and is available in two different power guises.

The single-turbo version of the new 2.3-litre dCi engine makes 160hp/3.750rpm and 403Nm (297 lb ft)/1.500-2.500rpm while the more powerful, twin-turbo version makes 190hp/3.750rpm and 450Nm (331 lb ft)/1.500-2.500rpm. Customers can choose between two- or four-wheel drive and the option of a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic gearbox.

The new NP300 Navara features a 4-wheel drive system derived from the previous model, with the driver having a rotary dial to flick through its modes, including a 2WD one for the best fuel economy and on road handling and a mechanical diff-lock for the trickiest of the off-road situations.

New is the electronic limited slip differential which is triggered by the brakes in order to simulate the function of a mechanical unit. Other electronic driving aids include Hill Descent Control (HDC) which is a standard feature to all 4WD models and Hill Start Assist (HAS) which has been calibrated to meet the specific requirements and load carrying ability of the new NP300 Navara.

Payload ratings are over one tonne across the range, with the towing capacity rated at 3,500kg while the Double Cab’s bed is now 67mm longer than its predecessor offering a class-leading load bed length of 1,578mm. The King Cab’s load bed is 1,788mm long.

The overall shape of the new Nissan NP300 Navara features a 3,6% lower CdA figure than the previous model, thanks to the clever design features including a flexible bed seal that helps smooth the airflow over the area. The fully redesigned cabin offers a very similar experience with Nissan’s crossover models, offering more space and better quality materials than before.

Nissan takes great pride in the chassis of the new Navara as it is the first model in the segment to offer a five-link independent rear suspension thanks to which their new pickup truck offers “a vastly superior ride quality – especially when unladen – without compromising on payload ratings, towing capacity, durability or off-road performance.” The new independent rear suspension is offered in the Double Cab models.

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