When Nissan gave the Navara its scheduled mid-cycle refresh, it did so in a big way. Internally called a “Big Minor Change,” the refresh included the introduction of a high-performance version called the Pro-4X, as well as the revamping of the rest of the offerings. This refresh undoubtedly benefited the line’s mid-range the most, with more amenities shared with the Pro-4X as well as the extended warranty for the entire line. Currently available in 8 variants, there are four (4) 4×4, and four (4) 4×2 trims to choose from. And while most are drooling over the Pro-4X variant, not everyone can afford the price point. Luckily, the midrange variants surprisingly have a lot to offer.
A looker at any trim
At first glance, it is hard to miss that the new Navara is meaner and more angular. While the blacked-out grille with the red logo is exclusive to the hero trim, the rest of the pack still gets the enlarged grille in chrome with the letters N.A.V.A.R.A. front and center. The hood is taller, and the bumper and sump guard are also new. Save for the base unit, all variants are fitted with new quad projector LED headlamps that serve both an aesthetic and practical purpose. The same goes for the DRLs and front fog lamps.
Over at the back, the bed now has a higher tail end and was redesigned for carrying heavy loads. LED Taillights are fitted to VE trims and up, but the embossed Navara logo on the tailgate, Tailgate Assist, and an integrated bumper step are now standard.
True workhorse
The entire Navara line is fitted with Nissan’s powerful 2.5-liter YD25 4-cylinder engine. Depending on the trim and the transmission, the powerplant produces either 163 horsepower and 403Nm of torque in the case of the EL M/T 4×2 and VE M/T 4×2, or 190Ps (187.4hp) and 450Nm of torque for the rest of the trims that are mated to either a 7-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission.
Across the board, the new Navara’s frame has been reinforced and the rear suspension now has a progressive-rate coil spring that not only improved the ride comfort when traveling light but also when heavily laden. The VE range is fitted with all-season 255/65 R17 tires, and among all the variants, the Navara VE A/T has the highest rated payload capacity at 1,043 kilograms.
Creature comforts
Inside the cabin, the driver is greeted by a leather-wrapped steering wheel equipped with controls for hands-free calling and audio, the noticeably bigger 7-inch color TFT MID, as well as for cruise control for VE trims and higher. It still has the usual accessory and power ports, but with the addition of a USB-C port inside the center console box for faster charging.
Starting at the VE level, the head unit is upgraded to an 8-inch Nissan Advanced Display Audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that also serves as the display for the reverse camera. Also starting at that level, Nissan’s legendary air conditioning is courtesy of a Dual Zone Digital Climate Control System with rear air vents. Power steering, door locks, and mirrors are standard across the model range, as well as the Zero Gravity-type front seats and redesigned rear seats for better comfort and support.
Safety and tech
All variants get 6 airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Dynamics Control with 4-Wheel Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), and Hill Start Assist. Starting at the VE trim, it also comes with Nissan Intelligent Mobility features like Intelligent Emergency Braking (IEB) with Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW), Driver Attention Alert (DAA), and Hill Descent Control (HDC) for the VE 4×4 M/T.
Navara VE Genuine Accessories
For customers who wish to customize their Navaras, Nissan has an array of genuine accessories that come with a six-month or 10,000-kilometer limited warranty if installed by an authorized Nissan dealership. From fender garnishes to bed liners, exhaust pipe finishers, to door handle protectors, Nissan genuine accessories are custom-designed and crafted to fit your truck perfectly.
All 2021 Nissan Navara pickup trucks come with a 5-year / 150,000-kilometer mechanical and electrical warranty. For more information about the new Nissan Navara, visit https://www.nissan.ph/vehicles/new/np300-navara.html.
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Nissan Navara VE Genuine Accessories | Photos from Nissan Press