2018 Nissan Navara Review

The Nissan Navara has built a formidable brand in the Kenyan market over the years owing to its excellent towing capacity, versatility, and off-road capability. In other markets, it is sold as Nissan Frontier or Nissan NP300. The Navara is named after the Navarra region of northern Spain. As much as it is a highly rated pick-up, it is up against the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-MAX, VW Amarok, Nissan Hardbody, Mitsubishi L200 and Mazda BT-50.

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Detailed Review

2018 Nissan Navara front and side view

2018 Nissan Navara front and side view

The first generation Navara, designated D22, was produced from 1997 to 2004. The second generation of the Navara, known as the D40, went into production in 2004 and lasted until 2014. Nissan Navara is now in its third generation. Following the advent of the D23, which was only available with 4-cylinder engines, the D40 was only available with the V6 and automatic transmission.

The 2018 Nissan Navara comes with three engine options: a 2.5 L QR25DE (Petrol), a 2.3 L YS23DDTT (Diesel), and a 2.5 L YD25DDTi, all of which are mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission.

2018 Nissan Navara Grades

  1. DX (4×2)- This grade comes with an engine immobilizer, cruise control, mobile phone connectivity, and power steering.
  2. RX (4×2)- This grade has an AUX/USB input socket, electronic brake force distribution, anti-lock braking, and hill descent control.
  3. RX (4×4)- This grade boasts a brake assist, keyless entry, LED daytime running lights, trip computer, and power windows.
  4. DX (4×4)- This grade features an active brake limited slip, a digital clock, a 12-volt power outlet, and a central locking remote control.
  5. SL Silverline Edition (4×4)- This grade is fitted with a multi-function control screen, an alarm system, and a leather steering wheel.
  6. ST (4×4)- This grade is equipped with a parking distance control rear, dusk-sensing headlights, child seat anchor points, and vehicle stability control.
  7. ST-X (4×2)-  This grade comes with a rear privacy glass, a Radio CD with 6 speakers, chrome interior door handles, and side steps.
  8. ST (4×2)- This grade has 18-inch alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, chrome exterior door handles, and an alloy sports bar.
  9. SL (4×4)- This grade boasts satellite navigation, a reversing camera, chrome exterior door handles, intermittent wipers, and a start/stop button.
  10. ST-X (4×4)- This grade features a body-colored front bumper, chrome front grille, illuminated door sill panels, and body-colored wheel arch flares.
  11. ST N SPORT (Special Edition)- This grade is fitted with an active brake limited slip, a digital clock, a 12-volt power outlet, and a central locking remote control.
  12. ST-XN- BLACK SPORT EDITION- This grade is equipped with  18-inch alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, chrome exterior door handles, and an alloy sports bar.
  13. ST-X (4×4) (LT+SR)- This grade boasts a brake assist, keyless entry, LED daytime running lights, trip computer, and power windows.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Nissan Navara has a simple and straightforward cabin. There is plenty of legroom and headroom in the first row and the seats can be reclined to a comfortable posture. The second row provides enough headroom and knee room, but taller passengers may feel a little bit cramped.

2018 Nissan Navara first row

2018 Nissan Navara first row

2018 Nissan Navara second row

2018 Nissan Navara second row

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Nissan Navara encompasses a number of storage compartments that hold or store items such as documents, drinks, keys, and other items. The first row includes two cup holders, a center console, a glove box, and door pockets. The second row has two cup holders and door pockets.

Boot Space

The 2018 Nissan Navara boasts a wide load capacity that can haul several consignments at the same time.

Exterior

The 2018 Nissan Navara is distinguished by a masculine and robust exterior design. The front end sports a chrome-accented grille with the Nissan emblem. The headlights and fog lights lend it a modern flair. The side profile is characterized by muscular wheel arches and prominent character lines that run along the length of the body.  Running boards are included to help people board and exit the vehicle. Roof rails can be added to make the automobile more appealing.

The rear end is dominated by a wide tailgate and a chrome-accented bumper. Tail lights, turn signals, and a tow bar can also be spotted.

 

2018 Nissan Navara front view

2018 Nissan Navara front view

2018 Nissan Navara front and side view

2018 Nissan Navara front and side view

2018 Nissan Navara rear and side view

2018 Nissan Navara rear and side view

 

2018 Nissan Navara rear view

2018 Nissan Navara rear view

2018 Nissan Navara Safety Features

The 2018 Nissan Navara features multiple airbags, an anti-locking braking system, electronic brake force distribution, Hill descent control, Hill Start Assist, and stability control.

2018 Nissan Navara Fuel Consumption

2018 Nissan Navara 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 13.2 km/l on average

2018 Nissan Navara 2.3 L diesel engine consumption- 14.0 km/l on average

2018 Nissan Navara 2.5 L diesel engine consumption- 13.7 km/l on average

2018 Nissan Navara Acceleration

2018 Nissan Navara 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.7 secs

2018 Nissan Navara 2.3 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.2 secs

2018 Nissan Navara 2.5 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.0 secs

The 2018 Nissan Navara Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Nissan Navara has a ground clearance of 9.0 inches.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts are affordable and widely available in Kenya. Body parts are also reasonably priced. However, availability varies from town to town.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Nissan Navara provides a stable and pleasant ride. The Navara is an accomplished off-roader, yet it does not sacrifice on-road stability and handling. It has a well-tuned suspension system that balances comfort and handling by absorbing bumps while maintaining road stability.

Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering is standard on the 2018 Navara, providing precise and responsive steering. It also boasts a four-wheel drive (4WD) system, which improves traction and stability in off-road conditions. Its approach and departure angles enable it to cruise easily in off-road conditions.

The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and good acceleration.  Anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, and hill descent control are some of the features incorporated in this vehicle to enhance its stability.

2018 Nissan Navara cluster meter

2018 Nissan Navara cluster meter

2018 Nissan Navara manual gear shift

2018 Nissan Navara manual gear shift

Reliability

The 2018 Nissan Navara is regarded as a reliable pickup truck. It has a high ground clearance, allowing it to easily cruise through off-road terrain without any risk of compromising its body components.

However, it is not without drawbacks, just like any other vehicle. The most prevalent faults cited by Navara owners include timing chain failures, malfunctioning clutches, and faulty transmission coolers. To avoid having such problems, regular repair and maintenance are essential.

Refer to the Nissan Navara buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Average

Nissan Navara Competitors:  Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-MAX, VW Amarok, Nissan Hardbody, Mitsubishi L200, and Mazda BT-50.

 What we like about the 2018 Nissan Navara

Off-road capability

Excellent towing capacity

What we dont

Some variants are very costly

Conclusion

The 2018 Nissan Navara is a versatile and reliable pickup truck with excellent off-road capability. Despite its ability to transport tons of cargo, it is an excellent choice for urban commuters. Those on a tight budget may be unable to afford it due to its high purchase price.

2018 Nissan Navara side view

2018 Nissan Navara side view

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