Posted by Group1 Nissan on 28 Oct 2024
New Nissan Bakkies Launch
South Africa has always had a deep-seated love affair with the bakkie. Whether it’s navigating the rugged terrain of the Cederberg or hauling heavy loads across the Karoo, bakkies are an integral part of our way of life. With that said, competition in the local bakkie market is fierce, and Nissan is stepping up its game.
The recent addition of two new models to the Navara range – the entry-level XE and mid-range LE – shows that Nissan is ready to take on the big players, and we couldn’t be more excited.
Nissan’s journey with the Navara in South Africa dates back to 2017 when the model first landed on our shores as an import. Since then, it has become one of the most reliable and versatile bakkies on the market, particularly after a major facelift in 2021. But it’s more than just cosmetic changes. The investment of R3 billion into Nissan’s Rosslyn plant near Pretoria has firmly rooted the Navara’s legacy as a “built in Africa for Africa” vehicle.
The production shift to South Africa not only created jobs and boosted the local economy but also ensured that the Navara range could be finely tuned to meet the demands of African landscapes. And with these two new models, Nissan is aiming directly at the heart of South Africa’s bakkie culture.
The introduction of the entry-level XE and mid-range LE expands the Navara range to a total of 14 derivatives, giving South Africans even more options to suit their bakkie needs. Let’s start with the XE, which is offered in both 4×2 and 4×4 variants.
One of the key differences here is the switch to rear leaf springs – a departure from the coil-spring suspension found in higher-end models. This change allows for an improved load capacity, making the XE ideal for heavy-duty work. Whether you’re involved in commercial applications like mining or need a workhorse for tougher jobs, the XE has you covered. With a load capacity of 1,148kg (in 4×2) and 1,067kg (in 4×4), this bakkie means business.
Under the hood, the XE boasts a 2.5-litre single-turbo diesel engine that delivers 120kW and 403Nm of torque. While it’s only available in a six-speed manual transmission, this powertrain provides more than enough grunt for the toughest tasks, making it a strong contender against rivals like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.
The LE, on the other hand, offers a more premium experience without compromising on performance. Equipped with the same engine but tuned to a higher output (140kW and 450Nm), the LE offers both power and sophistication. It’s available in automatic and manual options, ensuring flexibility for those who want a bit more convenience on the road.
The LE models also come with enhanced features, including the updated Nissan badge, which first appeared on the latest Nissan Patrol, adding a fresh and modern touch to the range.
Both the XE and LE come with a host of standard features that are sure to impress. For bakkie enthusiasts who value practicality, the XE offers essentials like central locking, air conditioning, electric windows, and side mirrors, as well as a sliding rear window for easy access to the load bin. It’s also equipped with modern safety features such as stability control, trailer sway control, and two airbags.
The LE ups the ante with additional luxury features, including steering-mounted controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and the all-important high-definition monitor in the Pro-X variants, which provides a bird’s-eye view when parking or driving off-road.
For those who spend their weekends off the beaten track, the XE’s impressive ground clearance, approach, departure, and breakover angles are the same as its coil-spring siblings, ensuring that even the toughest trails in the Drakensberg or Namaqualand are no match for this bakkie.
Nissan’s commitment to the bakkie market doesn’t stop here. While the new XE and LE models are undoubtedly exciting additions to the Navara line-up, Nissan has even bigger plans in store. With the recent discontinuation of the NP200 and NP300 ranges, all eyes are on the future, and Nissan has already teased the arrival of a half-tonne bakkie in 2027. This new model is set to fill the gap left by the NP200, which enjoyed years of dominance in the half-tonne segment.
As Nissan continues to innovate and push boundaries in the local market, it’s clear that the Navara is a bakkie that’s not only built for today’s challenges but also ready to tackle the future.
The addition of the XE and LE to the Nissan Navara range marks an exciting chapter for bakkie lovers in South Africa. Whether you’re looking for a capable workhorse or a more refined yet powerful double cab, these new models offer something for everyone.
Ready to see for yourself what the hype is about? Book a test drive today using the handy form at the top of this page and experience firsthand why the Navara is one of the best bakkies on the market. The SA bakkie war is heating up, and Nissan is ready to take on all challengers!
The post Nissan Adds Two New Models To Compete In The SA Bakkie War appeared first on Nissan Blog at Group1.
Posted by Group1 Nissan on 02 Aug 2024
A new Nissan Navara is being unveiled!
Excitement is brewing among bakkie enthusiasts and Nissan fans as whispers of the next-generation Navara begin to surface. At Group1 Nissan, we are thrilled to share the promising developments from Nissan’s research and development teams, promising a bolder, more capable Navara.
While the exact launch dates in South Africa are still under wraps, we’re eager to give you a sneak peek into what might be in store. Let’s dive into the latest insights on this upcoming powerhouse.
The current Navara has been a stalwart in the Nissan lineup, known for its reliability and ruggedness. However, some users noted challenges with the coil-spring rear suspension, particularly under heavy loads.
Addressing these concerns, Nissan’s Senior Vice-President and Chief Planning Officer for the AMIEO region, Francois Bailly, hinted at significant improvements in the new model. Expect a shift to a more robust leaf-spring suspension system, similar to the much-lauded system of the latest Mitsubishi Triton. This upgrade promises not only better load-handling capabilities but also enhanced overall ride comfort.
Power enthusiasts will be keen to know that the next Navara is set to receive an upgrade in its powertrain. While the current model boasts a respectable 2.3-litre twin-turbocharged engine, the upcoming version is expected to sport a more potent 2.4-litre twin-turbo-diesel engine. This engine delivers an impressive 150kW and 470Nm of torque, offering a significant boost over its predecessor. This makes the new Navara not just a workhorse but also a capable performer on and off the road.
As with any new vehicle launch, technology and safety are at the forefront. The next Navara is anticipated to include an array of advanced safety features under Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility suite. This might include forward-collision warning, emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Additionally, the integration of Nissan’s Intelligent Around View Monitor, which uses multiple cameras to provide a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings, will be a boon for those who often navigate tricky off-road terrains or urban environments.
While traditional internal combustion engines remain a staple, Nissan is also exploring electrification for its new lineup. Although no official announcements have been made regarding an all-electric Navara, the possibility of a plug-in hybrid version is on the horizon. This move aligns with Nissan’s broader strategy to embrace sustainable technologies, catering to a growing demand for greener vehicles without compromising performance.
The anticipation for the next-generation Navara is palpable, and while we eagerly await more concrete details and a possible launch window, one thing is clear: this bakkie is set to redefine expectations. As Nissan continues to refine and perfect its offerings, we at Group1 Nissan are committed to keeping you informed and excited about what’s coming next.
To stay up-to-date with the latest news, developments, and possible launch dates for the new Navara, be sure to follow Group1 Nissan on Facebook. We’ll keep you in the loop with all things Nissan, including exclusive previews, updates, and more! The next chapter in the Navara’s story is unfolding, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Stay tuned!
The post The NEW Navara Is Being Unveiled: Here Is What We Know! appeared first on Nissan Blog at Group1.
Posted by Group1 Nissan on 25 Jun 2024
The Nissan Navara Single Cab vs Nissan NP200: Is It Time To Switch Up?
For years, the Nissan NP200 has been one of South Africa’s best-selling vehicles, especially popular with South African bakkie enthusiasts, particularly in the half-ton segment. Its ruggedness, reliability, and affordability have made it a staple on our roads. However, with the NP200’s recent discontinuation, a gap has been left in the market.
Enter the Nissan Navara Single Cab, a compelling solution that promises to fill the void left by the NP200’s departure. This robust and capable bakkie not only upholds Nissan’s reputation for durability but also offers a range of strengths that make it an attractive option for former NP200 owners. We look at the Nissan Navara as a worthy alternative to the Nissan NP200.
While the Navara Single Cab XE comes at a higher price point than the NP200, it offers a significant upgrade in terms of power, performance, and capability. The Nissan Navara range has a heavy-duty independent double-wishbone with stabiliser front suspension and a 5-link coil spring rear suspension which offers superior off and on-road performance. With its robust ladder frame construction and sturdy chassis, the Navara Single Cab is built to tackle even the most demanding conditions. In addition to this, it has a generous ground clearance of 208 to 209mm and a 6.4m turning circle.
Upgrading from the NP200’s modest 1.6-litre engine, the Nissan Navara Single Cab boasts a potent 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. With 118kW of power and an impressive 233Nm of torque, the Navara delivers a substantial performance boost, making it an ideal choice for those with demanding commercial applications or a desire for more hauling and towing capability.
While the NP200 was renowned for its generous 800kg payload capacity, the Nissan Navara Single Cab continues this tradition with its load-carrying capacity ranging between 980kg to 1086kg. Whether you’re transporting tools, equipment, or materials, the Navara’s robust design and impressive payload capacity ensure you can get the job done efficiently.
Stepping into the Navara Single Cab, former NP200 owners will be greeted by a more modern and comfortable interior. From ergonomic seating to intuitive infotainment systems, the Navara offers a level of convenience and technology that elevates the driving experience. Additionally, advanced safety features like ABS, EBD, and airbags are available, providing peace of mind on the road.
While the Navara Single Cab excels as a hardworking workhorse, it’s also a versatile vehicle with off-road capabilities, ample space, and impressive towing capacity. Former NP200 owners will appreciate the Navara’s unyielding toughness, ensuring it can tackle any task with ease.
As mentioned before the Nissan Navara does come in at a higher price than the Nissan NP200 but considering that it is a substantial upgrade in performance and style, this is a given. In addition, the Navara has considerable long-term value thanks to its robust construction and excellent resale value, with lower maintenance costs due to its durability.
The Navara is larger than the NP200, which could be a concern for tight urban spaces. However, the Nissan Navara is equipped with the latest technology and safety features like cameras that give you a 360-degree overhead view and an Around View Monitor, which creates a ‘bird’s-eye view’ of the vehicle’s surroundings, displayed on the infotainment screen. The Nissan Navara’s intelligent cameras are also able to detect moving objects around the vehicle, making it easier and safer to park with confidence.
Here is a comparison of the specifications of the two vehicles:
Nissan NP200 | Nissan Navara 2.5 single cab XE Fast Facts |
---|---|
Engine: 1.6-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine | Engine: 2.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine |
Transmission: 5-speed manual | Transmission: 6-speed manual |
Power: 64kW | Power: 118kW |
Torque: 128Nm | Torque: 233Nm |
Fuel Consumption: 8.1 L/100km | Fuel Consumption: 7.2 L/100km |
Dimensions: Overall Length: 4,499mm Overall Width: 1,735mm Overall Height: 1,554mm Wheelbase: 2,905mm Ground Clearance: 177mm |
Dimensions: (Could differ based on model) Overall height: 1,780mm Overall length: 5,210mm Overall width: 1,850mm Wheelbase: 3,150mm Ground Clearance: 209mm |
Payload Capacity: 800kgs | Payload Capacity: 980kg to 1086kg |
Towing Capacity: 650kgs | Towing Capacity: 3500kgs |
For loyal NP200 owners who have come to rely on the dependable performance and capabilities of their trusty bakkie, the prospect of transitioning to a new vehicle can be daunting.
To make the transition as smooth as possible, Group1 Nissan offers a range of financing options and potential trade-in deals that can help ease the process. By working with Group1 Nissan’s financial experts, you can explore competitive rates and flexible payment plans that suit your budget and requirements.
You can also customise your Nissan Navara Single Cab to your needs by adding on accessories. Whether you’re looking to enhance your bakkie’s cargo-carrying capabilities with a sturdy canopy or toolbox, or you have a thirst for adventure and seek off-road upgrades, Nissan’s extensive lineup of accessories ensures that your Navara can be tailored to your specific needs.
The discontinuation of the beloved Nissan NP200 has left a void in the market, but the Navara Single Cab stands ready to fill that gap as a worthy and capable successor. With its robust construction, impressive power and performance, substantial payload capacity, and modern amenities, the Navara Single Cab promises to not only meet but exceed the expectations of former NP200 owners.
To truly appreciate the capabilities of the Nissan Navara Single Cab, we encourage you to visit your nearest Group1 Nissan dealership and experience it firsthand by booking a test drive.
For those who have relied on the NP200 for years, the Navara Single Cab represents a new chapter – one filled with enhanced performance, capability, and peace of mind.
The post Is The Nissan Navara A Good Alternative For The NP200? appeared first on Nissan Blog at Group1.
Posted by Group1 Nissan on 11 Jun 2024
Daring Africa: Nissan’s Epic Cross-Country Journey
The Daring Africa 2024 expedition has been an extraordinary adventure, and we’re excited to bring you up to speed on the latest thrilling chapter of this journey. As a proud dealer of the Nissan Navara and X-Trail, we can’t wait to share the remarkable feats this vehicle has achieved across the wild and diverse African landscapes. Buckle up and join us as we dive into the heart-pounding highlights of the expedition as it makes its way toward its penultimate stop in Egypt.
Our adventure began in Rosslyn, South Africa, and has since carved a path through Mozambique’s vibrant Maputo, journeyed inland to the awe-inspiring Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe, and made a thrilling stop in Harare. From there, the expedition continued into Zambia, navigating the majestic Kariba Dam before heading east through the breathtaking Luangwa Valley to reach Malawi. With the thrill of adventure fueling their journey, the team forged ahead into Tanzania’s northern wilds, ultimately arriving in Kenya.
Daring Africa: Nissan’s Epic Cross-Country Journey
As the Daring Africa convoy roared into Nairobi, they were greeted with open arms by executives from Nissan Kenya and local media at the iconic Nairobi National Park. This was followed by an engaging event at Nissan Kenya’s cutting-edge showroom, where the media and selected clients had the chance to interact with the expedition crew. The highlight of this leg was an exclusive 4×4 driving experience, offering participants the adrenaline-pumping opportunity to test the power and versatility of the Nissan Navara and the X-Trail firsthand.
Kenya’s rugged terrains were the perfect proving ground for showcasing the Nissan Navara’s off-road prowess. The convoy’s journey through the hills outside Nairobi was a true testament to the vehicle’s durability and performance.
Daring Africa: Nissan’s Epic Cross-Country Journey
Tim Jaques, CEO of Motus Africa, joined the media on this off-road adventure, emphasising the Navara’s exceptional reliability. “The fact that the team drove their unmodified Navaras from Rosslyn to Kenya without a single mechanical issue or even a flat tire is remarkable,” said Jaques.
Daring Africa 2024 is more than just an expedition; it’s a celebration of Nissan’s rich heritage and legacy in Africa. The expedition not only highlights the Navara’s rugged excellence but also underscores Nissan’s commitment to Africa, with vehicles designed, built, and driven by Africans.
Maciej Klenkiewicz, Managing Director of Nissan South Africa and Independent Markets Africa, expressed pride in the journey. “We set out to celebrate our African footprint and our 60-year-old light commercial vehicle (LCV) legacy on the continent through this incredible vehicle,” he said.
Daring Africa: Nissan’s Epic Cross-Country Journey
The journey has been a thrilling platform for both the Navara and the X-Trail, proving their mettle in diverse and challenging conditions. The X-Trail, launched in South Africa last April and in Egypt last August, ran alongside the Navara convoy, showcasing its versatility as a daring family car.
Ramy Mohareb, Nissan’s Head of Communications and Public Relations, described the journey as “epic,” emphasising the importance of renewing old relationships and forging new ones on this adventure. “We have been able to dream to dare because we have a vehicle that allows us to do just that,” he said.
Next time, we’ll follow the Daring Africa 2024 expedition to Egypt for its final leg, where excitement reaches a fever pitch. This last chapter will formally link Nissan’s African LCV manufacturing hub in South Africa with its passenger vehicle manufacturing facility in Egypt. The journey so far has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and we eagerly anticipate the epic adventures that await in Egypt.
Stay tuned as we continue to follow the Nissan Navara and the daring adventurers. The heart of Africa still holds many secrets, and the journey is far from over!
Daring Africa: Nissan’s Epic Cross-Country Journey
Feeling inspired by the Daring Africa expedition? Experience the thrill and reliability of the Nissan Navara for yourself. Visit your nearest Group1 Nissan branch and take the Navara for a test drive. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Navara is built to conquer it all. Embrace the spirit of adventure and start your journey today.
The post Catching Up With Daring Africa: Nissan Navara’s Epic Journey Concluded appeared first on Nissan Blog at Group1.
Posted by Group1 Nissan on 26 Apr 2022
The Nissan Navara and NP200 single cab bakkies are made to WORK
Are you searching for a commercial bakkie that combines equal measures of style, practicality, reliability and affordability? Look no further than the range of Nissan single cab bakkies as it offers everything a business needs, regardless of size or type. From the Navara to the NP200, both Nissan single cab bakkies are immensely popular, especially among people who know their vehicle might be used as a workhorse and experience a harder-than-normal life.
While the Nissan Navara single cab is a little more basic than the double cab alternatives, it is extremely hard-working, practical and loaded with added extras. With a proud history of building reliable vehicles on the edge of innovation, the Nissan Navara continues to shine, as a commercial or personal vehicle.
Built tough, and local, the Nissan Navara range of bakkies gets heavy-duty independent double-wishbone with stabiliser front suspension and 5-link coil spring rear suspension for superior off and on-road performance. The fully boxed ladder frame construction means added strength and, ultimately, more capability. That, combined with a generous ground clearance of 208 to 209 mm, a 6.4 m turning circle and superior approach and departure angles, the Navara is ready for anything.
Since commercial vehicles rely on power, economy and practicality, the Nissan Navara single cab offers all of that and more. Under the bonnet is a choice of a petrol engine or three variants with a 2.5-litre Intercooled Turbodiesel engine, all paired with a responsive manual gearbox. Here are the engine specifications:
In terms of payload and towing capacity, Nissan SC bakkies – like the Navara – are leading from the front. Model-dependent, the range of Nissan Navara single cab bakkies can carry between 1,065 and 1,144 kg. They have impressive towing figures of 750 kg unbraked and 1,588 kg braked capacity for the petrol version and 3,500 kg for the diesel models.
The load box is also sizeable, measuring 2,353 x 1,560 which means you can use the single cab Navara to deliver building supplies to a site or transport other types of goods to nearly any destination. For those far-reaching locations, you have the option to choose the SE or LE variants with 4WD.
The Nissan Navara offers business customers great value for money with low running costs, competitive parts pricing, respectable fuel efficiency and strong after-sales service. Intervals are set at 15,000 km where all new models come standard with a 6-years/ 90,000 km service plan and a 6-year/ 150,000 km warranty.
The Nissan NP200 is part of the range of impressive Nissan SC bakkies and few can offer the same value as this small, versatile, tough and reliable commercial vehicle. It certainly needs no introduction as it officially replaced the iconic Nissan 1400 in 2008 with tremendous success. Like the Nissan 1400 stalwart, the NP200 is also manufactured in Rosslyn, outside of Pretoria.
It shares the same platform and engines as the previous generation Renault Sandero and Renault Logan along with many other compact Nissan, Renault and Dacia vehicles. This means it has ample power, good fuel economy and comfortable ride quality. The NP200 is available in the following variants:
The NP200 has established itself as one of the most popular Nissan SC bakkies due to its immense reliability, affordability and the fact it can transport a wide variety of items in its rubberised load bay. The sizeable load box measures 1,807 x 1,374 x 535 m which equates to a total volume of 1,26m³.
The max payload is an impressive 800 kg, a braked towing capacity of 650 kg and with 177 mm of ground clearance, the Nissan NP200 can carry just about anything with relative ease and comfort. It’s no surprise that this range of Nissan SC bakkies is becoming a more common sight in South Africa and lives up to its reputation of being a tough, versatile and affordable workhorse.
To showcase just how affordable, the NP200 is often a winner in the Kinsey Report as the cheapest in the A, B and C segments in terms of parts pricing. This includes general maintenance items such as air filters, oil filters, pollen filters, spark plugs, brake pads, wiper blades, brake discs, cambelt/timing chain, clutch kits, shock absorbers, body panels, bumpers, wheels and glass among many others.
With so many options on offer at such good prices, isn’t it time you took a closer look at the range of Nissan SC bakkies? You can also book a test drive and experience the Navara SC or the NP200 for yourself. Alternatively, you can buy a used Nissan NP200 or used Nissan Navara single cab, to get all the workhorse you need, at a lower price.
The post Nissan SC Bakkies Make Light Work Of Any Task appeared first on Nissan Blog at Group1.