Navara is here to stay and play

Top Revs recently had the opportunity to take the Nissan Navara 2.5D PRO-4X 4×4 double cab on an excursion to experience what makes it the perfect match for urban and rural off-roading.

Collecting the car from the Pupkewitz Nissan Dealer created a sense of expectation for what the latest model had to offer. Fully kitted with front and rear bumpers by the company’s Accessory Fitment Centre, the Navara also sported aftermarket accessories like a canopy, branded bonnet guards and roof rails to offer extra storage space when off-roading, as well as a set of all terrain tyres with fitted mag rims.

All these accessories gave the Navara an extra edge of adventure. However, it was the keyless entry and stop/start function that impressed in offering a sense of both luxury and safety, with no need to search one’s pocket or bag for the keys. One need only have the keys on you to open or start the vehicle.

The Navara is available in both 7-speed automatic or 6-speed manual gearbox, in a 2×4 or 4×4 version.

The car, though a 2024 model, still has some reliable and sentimental gadgets like the gear lever or stick, as some like to call it, unlike the gear shift dial or the short gear lever fitted in many modern vehicles.

The multi-functional leather covered steering wheel is another big plus in the Navara, offering a variety of functions like speed cruise, volume control for radio and telephone and control dials for the radio or information cluster.

Speed cruise is not only a luxury in modern cars, but in this case, easy to operate without ever taking one’s hands off the steering wheel or eyes off the road.

The cluster functions make driver navigation a breeze, indicating the street name and compass direction one is travelling in.

The Navara is also fitted with a state-of-the-art GPS and can be set to fit the driver’s personal preference. The GPS offers 3-D imaging (where this function is applicable) of a town or city, which adds to the ease of navigation in easily identifying certain buildings or landmarks. The GPS not only guides the driver to his or her destination, but will even warn of speed limits on various roads.

The infotainment system can be set to day/night mode to dim or brighten the display, reducing eye strain at night, while the camera functions aid safety when parking and driving in tight spaces.

When Top Revs engaged the 4WD function to 4-Low range, it assisted the driver to observe the terrain and any obstacles that may have caused damage to the vehicle. Even the 4WD selector knob is well placed on the central console.

Cabin space is sufficient for occupants and Nissan ensured there are charging and USB points for various personal electronic devices.

The interior speaks volumes in terms of quality and reliability, as expected from the brand. Even the big bold lettering in red on the steering wheel complements the interior.

When it comes to safety, the Navara offers dual frontal, side chest and head protecting airbags. Other safety features include electronic brake distribution, electronic stability control and emergency brake assist, among others.

The vehicle is not only soft on the eyes but also soft on your fuel budget, with a fuel cycle calculated at around 9,8 litres/100 km and fuel tank capacity of 80 litres, the vehicle can reach a distance of around 860km on a full tank.

The vehicle’s fuel economy was evident on a trip to Otjiwarongo and back after covering a distance of just over 540km, we still returned with a 230km range left, even with the added weight of off-road accessories.

The verdict? Impressive and comfortable.

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