Nissan Navara (2016 – 2022) Review
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Nissan Navara (2016 – 2022) At A Glance
3.5 tonne towing capacity, SUV-like comfort and refinement, one-tonne payload.
Rear legroom on king cab models is poor, some interior plastics feel cheap.
The refined and rugged Nissan Navara is the complete pick-up package. It’s smarty styled, practical and capable of hauling huge loads. The cabin might not be as plush as some of its rivals, but the Navara trumps the competition when it comes to comfort and ease of use.
The key to the Navara's superiority is found in its mechanical set-up, with double cab models using a five-link set-up with coil springs instead of the leaf sprung cart suspension that is commonly used. This means the bounce and wallow ride has been replaced with a smooth and rewarding drive that feels more akin to a family SUV than a commercial vehicle.
Traditionalists can still get the Navara with leaf suspension on king cab models, but this was phased out on new models in late-2019. This means all versions of the Navara now get fit multi-link rear suspension as standard.
The Navara can be specified with two-wheel or four-wheel drive and retains its workman like qualities by offering a one-tonne payload and using the same durable box chassis as before. All versions are powered by a 2.3-litre diesel engine, which is packed with torque and offered with either 160PS or 190PS, the latter with twin turbochargers. Updates to the Narava range in late-2019 saw the entry-level engine get a small increase in power (now 163PS) and more torque.
All Navaras are strong towing vehicles - pulling up to 3.5 tonnes - and benefit from lots of low-torque for shifting heavy loads. There's more than enough performance for the Navara to fulfil its work and family duties with a hushed motorway manner and responsive steering.
The interior is large and comfortable, with a spacious interior and commanding driving position. Higher spec models get a seven-inch touchscreen and navigation, while air conditioning, rear ventilation and a full-size spare wheel are all fitted at no extra cost across the range. Nissan also provides a five years/100,000 mile warranty, which is fully transferable.
Pick-up manufacturers are always keen to claim car-like qualities, but few manage to live up to the billing. However Nissan has set a new benchmark with the Navara by giving it similar handling and ride characteristics to a family SUV. As a result the Navara is easy to use, predictable to drive and comfortable for long trips. In our view it's the best pick-up on the market.
Read our off-road test - click here
Driven: Euro6 Nissan NavaraNow, with the Euro6 emission rules in force, Nissan has updated the Navara, with lower running costs, lower CO2 emissions and more equipment fitted as standard. |
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Driving the Nissan Navara (2016 – 2022)
The Nissan Navara scores highly for ride comfort and road handling, with most models getting five-link coil rear suspension as standard. This means the Navara is easier to drive than many other pick-ups, with the suspension upgrades eliminating the bumpy and wallowing ride that often makes them a challenge to drive unladen.
The Navara is available with two-wheel or four-wheel drive, with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or an optional seven-speed automatic. Power comes from a four-cylinder 2.3-litre diesel engine with either 160PS or 190PS, the latter achieved with twin turbochargers.
The 2.3 unit is actually a modified version of the NV400 engine, which means it’s well-suited to heavy duty load lugging with lots of torque, although the manual gearbox isn't the best with slow and notchy changes. Both versions of the 2.3-litre diesel pull well, with a respective 403Nm and 450Nm or torque from just 1500rpm, although neither feel particularly quick with performance fading as you approach 4500rpm.
Claimed fuel economy ranges from 44.9mpg for two-wheel drive to 44.1mpg for the four-wheel drive double cab models. CO2 emissions are also lower than the outgoing Navara, with manual versions emitting just 169g/km.
In mid-2016, Nissan introduced a Euro6 version of the 2.3-litre diesel, with lower running costs and reduced emissions. Claimed economy for two-wheel drive versions increased to 46.3mpg, while four-wheel drive versions were upgraded slightly to 44.8mpg. CO2 emissions for the Euro6 units start from 159g/km.
Most of the improvements in economy and emissions are gained from the use of AdBlue, with the 2.3 diesel using 17 litres for every 7145 miles. Filling the AdBlue tank is simple though, with the filler cap located next to the diesel tank flap; however, this pushes running costs up a little, with a typical 10 litre bottle of AdBlue costing £20.
In late-2019 the Navara was revised with the introduction of twin-turbocharging for the entry-level version of the 2.3 diesel. Power increased to 163PS while torque was uprated to 425Nm. Completing the powertrain improvements is an improved six-speed manual gearbox that features longer gear ratios and a shorter shift pattern, providing a less frequent and slicker gear selection.
On the road the Navara is a huge step forward over its leaf-sprung rivals, with a predictable and settled ride that remains stable in even the tightest of corners. The steering is also good, with lots of feedback that makes it easy to make mid-corner corrections. We also found the engine to be well-hushed at motorway speeds, although road and wind noise is notable owing to the Navara’s large wing mirrors and 18-inch wheels that are standard on most trim levels.
Like its predecessor, the latest Nissan is a competent off-roader and four-wheel drive versions will easily cope with rural farm tracks, muddy fields and wintery road conditions. Operating the various drive modes is simple with four-wheel drive, high and low ratios activated by a rotary button on the dashboard. The Navara is also an excellent tow vehicle, pulling up to 3.5 tonnes, which is almost one tonne more than the old model.
Nissan Navara (2016 – 2022) interior
The Nissan Navara is offered in two body-styles - king cab or double cab - and both can carry a one-tonne payload. King cab models are more work-focussed, with the smaller cab providing a 1788mm load bed that’s 200mm longer than the one found in the double cab. However, king cab models are effectively two-seater affairs, with a small set of bench seats located at the rear for occasional use.
In our view the double cab strikes the best balance for day-to-day usability, with a 3.5 tonne towing capacity and a one-tonne loadbay. The cabin is spacious with lots of head and leg room for up to four large adults and there is plenty of useful storage, with deep door pockets and a large cubby box.
The interior quality might not match the Volkswagen Amarok, but all Navara models get comfortable and supportive cloth seats that have been designed to provide better spinal support by wrapping around occupants and providing more contact between the seat surface and the body.
The simple cabin layout will feel familiar to pick-up drivers, as will the abundance of unpleasant hard plastics that cover the door trims and dashboard. However the Navara feels well bolted together and everything seems solid and built to last, with no gaps in the trim or worrying squeaks from the dashboard or plastic fittings.
The tailgate can be locked separately and sits flush with the loadbay when lowered, which makes it easy to load and slide large objects towards the rear. Tie points are also included as standard, but there's no protection for the rear window, although a guard can be added as an option.
The Navara is offered in five trims and entry-level models get all of the basics, with air conditioning and rear air circulation control, Bluetooth and a full-size spare wheel. Four-wheel drive is also standard on all double cab models, along with hill descent control, hill start assist and rear differential lock. Safety kit is also generous, with seven airbags and an autonomous braking system that will apply the brakes in the event of an accident.
In mid-2016 Nissan introduced the Euro6 version of the Navara, with improved levels of standard equipment. As a result these models offer better value, with base models getting cruise control, speed limiter, and steering wheel mounted audio controls as standard.
Model History
- August 2015: New Nissan Navara NP300 revealed
- November 2016: Euro 6 Navara launched
- January 2017: Nissan launches limited edition Navara Trek-1° pick-up
- May 2019: Navara wins Most Popular Pick-up at the Honest John Awards
- June 2019: Important 2019 updates for Navara
- July 2019: Further improvements announced for Nissan Navara.
- January 0001: *
August 2015
New Nissan Navara NP300 revealed
The vehicle is all-new, with a robust and tough chassis that introduces a host of new engineering features designed to further improve drivability and practicality.
The introduction of a five year or 100,000 mile manufacturer warranty with the new Navara is further testament to the vehicle’s credentials, and provides additional peace of mind for customers.
New technology includes an Around View Monitor and Forward Emergency Braking (FEB). Further safety and convenience features include Cruise Control, Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA), as well as keyless entry, a rearview camera and parking sensors.
Nissan has designed an all-new coil-sprung five-link rear suspension system for the Double Cab model, providing significantly improved ride comfort and handling, plus it is 20kg lighter than the previous layout.
The dashboard assembly has been redesigned, with a sculpted appearance that creates increased cabin space and a more open feel. Spinal Support front seats offer improved ergonomics, and have been engineered using technology inspired by NASA.
Additional features include dual-zone digital climate control, as well as a new rear cab ventilation and seat design.
The Navara’s new 2.3-litre dCi engine is available with two power output options - 160PS and 190PS, the range-topping version introduces twin turbocharging technology to the sector for the first time and delivers exceptionally low running costs and substantially reduced CO2 emissions.
The latest generation Navara NP300 launches with the choice of two or four-wheel drive and the option of a standard six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic gearbox. It has payload ratings in excess of one tonne across the range and a towing capacity of 3,500kg.
The new Double Cab’s load bed is 67mm longer than the previous model. The King Cab’s load bed measures 1,788mm in length.
November 2016
Euro 6 Navara launched
Claimed economy for the Euro6 Navara peaks at 46.3mpg for two-wheel drive versions and 44.8mpg for four-wheel drive models. CO2 emissions are lower too, starting from 1 59g/km. All models get cruise control, speed limiter, Bluetooth phone connectivity and steering wheel mounted audio controls as standard.
The Navara keeps its comprehensive five-year/100,000 miles warranty, one-tonne payload capacity and 3.5 tonne braked towing limit. The car-like, five-link coil rear suspension set-up is unchanged too, which means the Navara retains its excellent ride quality. However, the NP300 is dropped from the name, with Nissan claiming the letters and digits proved confusing for dealers.
January 2017
Nissan launches limited edition Navara Trek-1° pick-up
The double cab Navara Trek-1° is powered by a twin-turbo 2.3-litre diesel engine, with 160PS or 190PS. Both engines are linked to a six-speed manual gearbox and return an official 44.9mpg. A 190PS automatic is also available, although this cuts claimed economy to 41.0mpg. All models get four-wheel drive as standard.
Available with metallic black or pearl white paint, the Navara Trek-1° gets black roof mounted LED spotlights. black side bars and - yep, you've guessed it - black 18-inch six-spoke alloy wheels. The load bed also gets a lockable plastic load cover, finished in black. Or white, assuming you choose the pearl white paintwork.
Optional extras on the Trek-1° include leather seats, heated front seats and eight-way adjustment on the driver’s seat. A powered sunroof, tow bar, differential lock and full-sized spare wheel are also available.May 2019
Navara wins Most Popular Pick-up at the Honest John Awards
. Combining a one-tonne payload with a 3.5 tonne towing capacity, Nissan's pick-up is the most popular in its class.
“Cheaper to run, better equipped and more rewarding to drive than most of its rivals, the Nissan Navara has become the standard by which all other pick-ups should be judged," said Dan Powell, Editor of Honest John Vans.
"A favourite with our readers, the Navara provides a class-leading carrying and towing experience that makes it a dependable choice for operators who need a heavy duty 4x4 workhorse.”
June 2019
Important 2019 updates for Navara
The latest Navara receives several key changes. These including a new six- speed manual gearbox, revised alloy wheel designs, and the latest in-car connectivity.
Multi-link rear suspension has been added to the King Cab, making this feature standard on all models. At the same time critical utility vehicle features improve with an increase in braking performance, payload up by 46kg (dependent on model) and more torque available on the 163PS version. With a revised set-up, the rear posture is raised by 25mm. As a result, Navara’s payload also increases by up to 46kg, dependent on model.
The 163PS 2.3 dCi engine is now fitted with two turbo-chargers, similar to the higher powered 190PS version, to produce 425Nm of torque, up 22Nm from the previous version. Both outputs now conform to the forthcoming new Euro 6d-temp emission standard. Completing the powertrain improvements is an all-new six-speed manual gearbox that features longer gear ratios and a shorter shift pattern, providing a less frequent and slicker gear selection.
Safety has been improved with a reduced stopping distance along with a 40 per cent reduction in braking force. This has been accomplished by changing the rear drum brakes to discs and callipers along with larger front brake discs (+4mm) and an increase to the boosters size (+1”). Trailer Sway Assist is now incorporated into the whole range.
Exterior upgrades include new 17 and 18-inch alloy wheel designs and new black bezel inlays to the LED headlamps.
Inside the cab, fitted as standard from N-Connecta grade, is Nissan’s latest generation Nissan Connect entertainment system featuring an 8-inch touch screen and Apple Car Play, offers owners the latest in-car connected technology. New features include smartphone integration, with customers able to locate the vehicle, lock/unlock the vehicle, check vehicle health (fuel and fluid levels) and send their destination to the vehicle’s satnav ahead of departure.
- Tough: enhanced capability thanks to upgraded suspension and increased payload
- Smart: new on-board and in-app technologies delivered through NissanConnect infotainment system
- Efficient: Euro6D-temp twin-turbo engine mated to all-new manual transmission
- On sale now across Europe
July 2019
Further improvements announced for Nissan Navara.
Six speed manual transmission. Upgraded suspension for heavier payloads with Intelligent Trailer Sway Assist technology for towing. Rear disc brakes are now standard for improved stopping power.
The more efficient twin turbo 2.3 litre 4 cylinderengine offers fuel economy up to 40.9mpg (NEDC-back translation Combined Cycle) and emissions now starting from 182g CO 2 per km. Choice of two outputs offering 163PS/ 425Nm or 190PS respectively. The entry level engine also sees a 22Nm boost in torque to 425Nm. Engine features steel pistons and Diamond-Like Carbon Coating to piston rings, as well as a lower compression ratio of 15.1. Fuel injection pressure has increased from 2000 to 2200 bar with a new pump, for more precision and efficiency. Cooling system updated and a new exhaust system integrates Diesel Particle Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technologies.
All-new six speed manual transmission manufactured in Europe. Major improvement in ease of shifting and refinement thanks to cable operation, adoption of a shorter gear lever, enhanced synchronisation and reduced vibration. Also features a more conventional shift pattern, with reverse gear next to first, and new ratios for improved fuel efficiency and lower noise levels for highway driving. Also been further tuning of alternative 7-speed automatic with improvements to refinement and responsiveness.
The Navara features the second generation of the SUV-like 5-link coil spring rear suspension, providing better comfort and control without compromising capability. Improved comfort and control without compromising on load hauling. King Cab sees an increase in payload to 1,165kg (and Permissible Total Weight of 3,200kg). The Double Cab meanwhile sees a payload increase to 1,115kg – 1,180kg and a Permissible Total Weight of 3,250kg.
Front suspension modifications reduce steering effort, with lighter and more comfortable handling in low-speed manoeuvring. 25mm lift in rear suspension and 2-stage coil springs enhance the vehicle posture.
Front disc brakes now 320mm, with rear brakes now featuring 308mm discs in place of drums. As well as improved stopping distances, this has also enhanced pedal feel and fade resistance, reduced noise levels and makes it easier to obtain maximum performance, with a 40% reduction in pedal force required.
Intelligent Trailer Sway Assist anticipates trailer sway by detecting yaw in the vehicle and making minute corrections in individual wheel braking and torque reduction to bring the vehicle and trailer back under control. Intelligent Emergency Braking, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control and Intelligent Around View Monitor are again included.
Inside, new NissanConnect with Alliance In-Vehicle Connectivity (A-IVC). NissanConnect infotainment system allows customers to mirror their phone inside the cab, displayed on a new 8” high resolution clearer screen with multi-touch control and faster response times.
NissanConnect Services app, features telematics control unit and built-in 4G device that allows data to be shared without a separate phone connection. Embedded TomTom Maps combine with over-the-air updates to ensure mapping is accurate in real time, alongside live traffic information, 3D maps, weather information and Google Satellite and Street View. The app also includes remote horn and light control and remote vehicle locator. System is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Wheel size has also been increased from 16 to 17 inches on lower grades.
Higher grade models feature updated LED headlamps with a high gloss black inner shell.
Navara is built at the NMISA plant in Barcelona
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King Cab |
Double Cab |
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Engine |
Twin-turbo 2.3L Diesel – Euro 6D-TEMP |
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Output |
163PS / 120kW @ 3750 RPM 425 Nm @ 1500 RPM |
190PS / 140kW @ 3750 RPM 450Nm @ 1500 RPM |
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Transmission |
6 speed Manual |
6 speed manual |
6 speed manual 7 speed automatic |
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Front Suspension |
Double wishbone with stabilizer bar |
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Rear Suspension |
5 link - 2 nd generation with dual stage springs with stabilizer bar |
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Brakes Front/Rear |
Disc 320mm / Disc 308mm w/ ABS, BA, EBD, TCS, VDC and TSA 1 |
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Dimensions in mm |
L: 5210/5255 W: 1850 H: 1822-1826 |
L: 5280/5330 W:1850 H:1824-1828 (1855 w/ roof-rails) |
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Bed Floor Dimensions (mm) |
L: 1800 W: 1560 |
L: 1585 W: 1560 |
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Width between wheel arches: 1130 |
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Wheels/Tyres |
Steel 17” - 255/65 Alloy 17” – 255/65 Alloy 18” - 255/60 |
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Ground Clearance (mm) (depends on version) |
Front axle: 230 to 234 Rear axle: 219 to 223 Between axles: 238 to 242 |
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Wading depth (mm) |
600 |
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Max Payload (kg) |
1165 |
1180 |
1150 |
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Gross Vehicle Weight (kg) |
3200 |
3250 |
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Braked Trailer Capacity (kg) |
3500 |
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Seating Capacity: |
2+2 |
5 |
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Acceleration (0-62mph) secs |
12.5 |
11.2 |
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Max. Speed (mph) |
106 |
MT 184 (AT 180) |
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Fuel Consumption Combined (mpg)* |
40.9 |
MT 7.0 |
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CO 2 (g/km) combined* |
182-184 |
MT 184 (AT 194) |
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Warranty: |
5 Years / 100,000 miles |
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January 0001
*
Data shown using NEDC back-translation from WLTP
1 Anti-lock Braking System, Brake Assist, Electronic Brake Distribution, Traction Control System, Vehicle Dynamic Control (stability control) and Trailer Sway Assist
