class, both when unladen and laden. In
towing conditions it rarely needed overriding,
the digital smarts almost always choosing
the best gear for conditions, as it does when
it is unladen. The engine-gearbox combo
delivered a reasonable but not remarkable
17.4L/100km over the course of the tow test,
while our unladen economy figures settled
at 8.5L/100km.
The work Nissan has done on the
suspension has definitely paid dividends,
with the car riding quite nicely when unladen
(firm but far from brutal), and demonstrating
impressive stability and steering accuracy
when towing. The Navara settles quickly
after hitting larger undulations, the dampers
swiftly controlling the suspension oscillation
and limiting the tendency to pitch. The
steering also continues to provide a good
sense of directional stability, something that
can go out the window on some utes with a
decent load out the back.
Braking was exemplary, thanks in part to
the factory supplied Redarc Tow Pro Elite V2,
which worked flawlessly, as always. the bottom line
In summary, Nissan’s Navara Series III
enhancements have added a useful array of
safety and convenience features to one of
Australia’s more popular utes. The changes
stop short of being a truly comprehensive
overhaul, but they serve the purpose they’re
designed for: to keep the Navara competitive
amidst a fast-moving pack of rivals.
What’s most pleasing is to see Nissan
acknowledging that Australian driving
conditions are unique, and putting the
engineering effort behind it to improve the
Navara in a number of key areas. As a result,
we are comfortable in saying this thirdupdate
to the current generation Navara, whichwas
launched in 2015, is easily the best yet.
It’s a ‘Buy’ from us.FROM TOP The 2.3L intercooled twin turbodiesel
offers a solid 140kW of power at 3750rpm; there's
a choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed autoTHE CARAVAN YOU WANT IS NOW EASIER TO FIND tradervs.com.au^125
NISSAN NAVARA ST-X
Dual Cab Series III REVIEW