Another significant introduction is the arrival of an SE model powered by a 144hp version of the familiar 2.5-litre dCi diesel engine. This engine, first seen in the fleet-oriented XE version launched last year, delivers 215g/km of CO2 with a combined fuel economy of 8.2l/100 kms.
SE equipment provides a number of enhancements over the XE model, with automatic air conditioning and a combined CD tuner with Bluetooth connectivity being the principal benefits.
Additional SE specs include side airbags, chrome front grille, cruise control with speed limiter and driver seat height adjustment. Other standard features are remote central locking, front fog lamps, side steps, rear headrests and heated door mirrors.
XE, SE and top LE versions are also all available with a 190hp version of the dCi engine, while the top of the range LE models – accounting for around 10% of all Navara sales – are also available with the 3.0L V6 diesel coupled to Nissan's advanced seven-speed automatic gearbox.
A Special Version of the LE V6 goes further by adding leather/alcantara trim, 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome touches and a steel bar at the front for added protection.
High and low ratio modes provide greater levels of traction whether on or off-road. A rear differential lock – which operates only in low ratio four-wheel drive – provides further help should a rear wheel lose traction on slippery surfaces. Control is via a rotary switch conveniently located on the centre console.
‘The provision of VDC across the entire Navara range is an important bonus for all Navara drivers, while the arrival of the new 144hp SE version will have significant appeal to fleet operators and owner/drivers alike,’ said Sebastien Viet, chief marketing manager Nissan LCV BU.