Nissan SA has made its Navara double cab bakkie more attainable, with the release of two new specification levels (XE and SE) and is now also offering a Navara King Cab.

Along with the model realignment, the whole range has been treated to subtle cosmetic enhancements.

The three model variants making up the new line-up will be badged LE (top), SE (mid), and XE (entry) respectively. The new range is still offered with a choice of two engines, namely the 385Nm of the 4-litre petrol V6, and 403Nm (or 356Nm in 4x2 guise) 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine.

The new King Cab is only offered in XE specification. In this model, the useful secure stowage space behind the front seats can be fully utilised thanks to rearward-opening ?suicide doors? on both sides providing easy, unimpeded access for any larger objects you might carry. It also has the largest loadbed in its class, according to Nissan.

This new XE spec Navara rides on 16? alloys, and still features upmarket niceties such as colour coded body mouldings, a front-loading CD player for entertainment, electric mirrors and windows, and air-con. It also boasts the only six-speed manual gearbox in the class.

Driver and occupant safety remain imperative, and the Navara XE boasts driver and passenger airbags as well as ABS and EBD for effective, stable braking performance on any surface.

The mid-range Navara SE strikes the strongest balance between an upmarket ambience and value-oriented ideals, adding back some of the more luxurious items compared to the XE derivative.

Aesthetically, the SE moves closer to the fully-loaded LE models again with the inclusion of that signature roof rail, as well as Nissan?s unique Utili-Track loading system, which allows for maximum flexibility in securing items stacked into the loadbox.

The SE also boasts foglamps, chrome-clad powered side mirrors, and a handy side step, while the interior is more upmarket thanks to a more powerful, 6-speaker audio system and leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear lever. Cruise-control also comes standard on the SE model, which is available only in double cab configuration.

Finally, the range-topping LE models feature stylish 17? alloy wheels while inside, everything (from luxury seats to charcoal cabin materials) exudes a premium, prestige finish. The flashy chrome gilding of the Navara it replaces has been matured for an even more commanding presence, and these details are now highlighted in gunmetal grey instead.

These aesthetic upgrades extend from nose to tail, and include the trademark Navara grille; oversized side mirrors; exterior door handles; sidesteps and roof-rails ? completed by the new rear bumper treatment. Rear passengers get the benefit of three, three-point safety belts rather than the conventional two-point lap belt of competitive models. Entertainment is upgraded to a six-CD shuttle system with the convenience of an integrated Bluetooth phone system.

Further details enhance the practicality and outright desirability of the Navara, such as the useful storage components tucked beneath the rear seats, and the classy under-mirror light pool which greets the owner and highlights any potential barriers to entry which may otherwise be concealed on dark evenings.

A six-speed manual gearbox is the standard equipment, with the option of a five-speed automatic transmission on the diesel-powered 4x2 model.

Pricing

Navara 4x2:
2.5dCi 4X2 XE K/C: R279 900
2.5dCi 4X2 XE D/C: R293 900
2.5dCi 4X2 SE D/C: R318 900
2.5dCi 4x2 LE D/C: R334 900
4.0 V6 4x2 D/C: R334 900
2.5dCi 4x2 LE D/C (AT): R344 900

Navara 4x4:
2.5dCi 4X4 XE K/C: R320 900
2.5dCi 4X4 XE D/C: R334 900
2.5dCi 4X4 SE D/C: R359 900
2.5dCi 4x4 LE D/C: R375 900 4.0 V6 4x4 D/C: R375 900