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2015 Nissan Navara

Tinashe Makichi Motoring
Nissan last week unveiled the 2015 Nissan Navara at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair.

The Navara bears styling hints from the newest Nissan models and it is expected to hold its own in the local market.

The Nissan design team focused on delivering a sportier and more emotional expression on the NP300 Navara, while maintaining Nissan’s distinctive design DNA. The overall effect was outstanding as it boasts of a modern well designed exterior look which is fluid and catchy than the rigid shape of the outgoing model.

The interior is more car like than before, taking a firm aim at the other leisure bakkies that have emerged since the Navara was first launched.

Nissan Navara 2015 boasts of an unbelievable infotainment system that sits at the center of the dash which boasts of a compass, navigation system, trip computer, alerts as well as maintenance reminders.

The vehicle is available with improved versions of Nissan’s 2,5 litre dual overhead camshaft four cylinder diesel engine and an improved variant of the 2,5 litre four cylinder petrol engine with up to 11 percent fuel saving over the previous model.

Speaking during the launch at the ZITF, Nissan Sub Saharan Africa general manager for sales and operations Liz Segal said Nissan is giving Zimbabweans a sneak peek of the new Nissan Navara, which has recently been launched in Europe.

“What’s great is that it doesn’t lose any of its off-road ability, durability and load capacity. Rather it combines these renowned features with a striking interior and exterior look, as well as a raft of innovative and affordable in-car technology that is unique to the pick-up market.

“The Navara is already a popular pickup model in our light commercial vehicle range in Zimbabwe. In line with our commitment to match product with environment, we’re hoping to launch the new made-for-Africa version in Zimbabwe later this year,” said Mrs Segal. She said the new Navara has been described as setting a new benchmark in the one-ton pickup sector and has already won the 2016 International Pickup Award for being a workhorse.

“Our reputation is also rising in Africa. In a 2015 ‘Brand Africa 100’ survey, Nissan jumped 62 places to become third most admired auto brand in Africa and one of the most improved brands overall. It is no secret, of course, that many businesses are focused on Africa’s growth potential.

“Many of Africa’s economies continue to show steady growth, even amid the current economic challenges. The auto industry is tapping into the social and economic factors that are creating demand for mobility on the continent,” she said.

As the custodian of the Nissan brand in Zimbabwe she said the company’s partners have a tailored offering for this market.

“Our pickup range is a stalwart here, as it is in many African countries. Everyone is familiar with our NP300 Hardbody, half-ton NP200 and one tonne Nissan Navara.”

She said a focus of Nissan’s Africa growth plan and indeed Zimbabwe is to highlight other product ranges, many of which are coming into their own as driving conditions in many countries improve.

Nissan’s plans include the pioneering crossover range, as well as our sports utility and passenger vehicle ranges.

Other vehicles showcased at the Trade Fair include Zimbabwe’s favourite the NP300 pickup, the Sentra sedan as well as two in the crossover range, the Nissan Qashqai and X-Trail.