Nissan Navara Review

Nissan Interstar sits in the medium panel van section. Similar to rivals Nissan have added a few additional touches to differentiate including a parking sensor. Choice of three wheelbases and roof heights giving flexibility.

It is expected today's pick-ups are a joy to drive and we expect comfort and an enhanced driving experience, for starters the seats are lower than I expected and the floor is high making it awkward to get in a comfy position. The steering wheel adjustor went down but not up and the seats were un-comfy, I got out cramped and numb. Heater takes a bit of warming up but a strange button marked heat revs up the engine and blows hot air into the cabin, a strange invention but handy and very chitty, chitty bank bang. Spec includes CD player, stylish roll over bar, alloy wheels and roof bars enhancing the fact this is a lifestyle vehicle as well as work horse.The 2.5 litre engine started well before clattering, and shuddering in true diesel fashion. It does have power though and has an impressive 3000 kg towing limit which outshines its rivals. Available as Standard Cab, Double Cab and King Cab all with the 2.5 liter engine TD in standard and Di in Double and King. Rear wheel drive is the standard option and an extra stick shift alongside the gearlever selects the four wheel drive options. A capable off roader we bounced around mud and hills with no problems, the correct tyres are essential for main usage. Steering feels solid but the height and width of the bonnet cause problems when trying to manoeuvre in tight spaces. On road the suspension was surprisingly good and held the road well hardly feeling small bumps.The load bay is practical and robust with large hooks high up on the sides at each corner to tie down any load with a wide tailgate to make loading easier. The load capacity of the pickup will carry over a tonne. The single cab will carry the biggest payload of 1120 kgs while the Double Cab has 1070 kgs and the Double Cab's 1110 kgs.

Verdict :
The Navara is stylish and passes the lifestyle test; it's also incredibly tough and sturdy with a powerful engine underneath the large bonnet.

For :
Powerful technology
Excellent 4x4
Roomy cabin

Against :
Awkward seating
Poor visibility

Overall : 3
Handling : 4
Comfort : 3
Quality : 4
Performance : 4
Reliability : 3
Practicality : 3
Cost : 3
Value : 3
Stereo : 2