The public will be able to view the new Nissan NP300 Navara in full at roadshows starting next Thursday, but it appears the new pick-up truck is already making the rounds on the roads fully undisguised – as seen by reader Shawn Loong, who sent us these pictures. Thanks!
As you can see, this is the top-spec VL variant, which features LED projector headlights with boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. This particular unit is painted in the international hero Savanna Orange hue, which pretty much confirms it as one of the colours that will be offered here.
Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has confirmed provisional specs – the D23 NP300 will use an improved version of the current D40 Navara‘s YD25 2.5 litre diesel with common-rail direct injection and variable geometry turbocharging, producing 190 PS and 450 Nm. It’s mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual mode – a six-speed manual gearbox should also be on the cards, at least on lower-end variants.
Under the skin, the Malaysian-spec NP300 utilises a multi-link rear suspension with coil springs – a first for the pick-up segment – for improved ride comfort, although it retains a tough, durable solid rear axle.
Elsewhere, kit bandied about includes the ultra-comfortable zero gravity-inspired seats (first seen on the Teana), keyless entry, push-button ignition, a multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone automatic climate control and rear seat air vents.
Safety-wise, the NP300 Navara will feature Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), traction control, four-wheel Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). In certain markets, the truck is available with up to seven airbags (including one for the driver’s knee), so here’s hoping we’ll get the whole lot too, at least on higher-end models.
As mentioned, interested members of the public will be able to take a closer look at the NP300 Navara soon, as it will be on display at Nissan roadshows around the country from October 15 to November 22. They can also visit the official website to register their interest and receive a test drive invite, as well as view Nissan’s pick-up heritage stretching back 80 years.
Of course, we’re plenty familiar with the Nissan NP300 Navara; last year, we not only covered the international launch in Bangkok, but also drove the truck in Chiang Mai – you can read on how it fared here. As always, we’ll update you with the latest information on Nissan’s new pick-up as soon as we have it.
