46 finweek 15 August 2019 http://www.fin24.com/finweekBy Glenda Williamsd
ouble-cabs used to be rare
beasts, compared with
the single-cab variety.
But whether single-cab
or double-cab, bakkies were no-frills,
no-fuss workhorses and their owners
were predominantly farmers and small
businesses.
There are a lot more frills nowadays.
And an increasing number of double-
cab owners are sporting suits and ties
rather than vellies. The double-cab
bakkie has evolved as a premium family
car and leisure vehicle. Its continuing
popularity is assuring it a place among
the country’s top-selling vehicles.
So, when Nissan launched its Navara
Stealth, I was eager to get behind the
wheel. The double-cab leisure bakkie –
currently imported into the country – will
start coming off the local production line
in late 2020 together with the rest of the
Navara model line-up (see sidebar).
This premium double-cab is available
in 4×2 and 4×4 configuration with eitherNissan’s beefed-up bakkie
Nissan’s edgy looking Navara Stealth – soon to be manufactured locally – blends toughness with luxury.
manual or automatic transmission. All
models come with a robust 2.3-litre
twin-turbo diesel engine.
finweek found much to like in
the Navara Stealth two-wheel drive,
7-speed automatic.Outer view
Modelled on the Nissan Navara luxury
edition, the new Nissan Navara Stealth
has been the recipient of design
updates – albeit cosmetic – that make
this premium double-cab even more
rugged and distinctive-looking.
There’s little chrome detailing on
this macho bakkie. Black trim is the
order of the day, featuring on the grille,
roll-bar, roof rails, antennae, alloy
wheels and mudflaps. Fog lights, LED
headlights and daytime running lights
feature on its face. Chunky wheel
arches, rear spoiler and dollops of
orange accents on the front bumper,
side mirrors and side steps, contribute
to a very handsome bakkie.Double-cab comfort
Orange accents continue in the cabin, the
Stealth’s exceptionally comfortable and
form-fitting seats featuring black leather
side bolsters with orange stitching and
orange and black patterned fabric inserts.
This rugged four-door on- and off-
roader is spacious, able to comfortably
accommodate five with good leg- and
headroom. The crisp cabin is uncluttered
and well-constructed with simple
instrumentation and switchgear, durable
plastic trim and chrome accents. Leather
also makes an appearance on the steering
wheel, gear lever and handbrake.
No premium vehicle would be complete
without the vast array of infotainment
offerings, and the Stealth does not
disappoint. Standard fare includes a
touchscreen colour display, navigation, CD
player and radio with six speakers, USB
connectivity and Bluetooth hands-free
phone system, cruise control, drive-assist
display and rearview mirror with electric
anti-dazzle and compass.on the money motoring
Nissan's double-cab leisure bakkie, the Navara Stealth, is currently
imported. It will be coming off the local production line in late
2020, along with the rest of the Navara model line-up.