By Steve & Tamami Laser
Nissan is in the midst of a product renaissance, called “Nissan Next,” that brings to market a wide array of new models. We’ve reported on the upcoming Ariya EV all-electric crossover, and the Z Proto that highlights the direction of the next Z sports car. Now, Nissan has revealed the next-generation Navara pickup, also known as the Frontier in some markets.
Nissan says that production of the new Navara will begin in Thailand and go on sale there in December, followed by ASEAN and Australian markets. It will also be built in Mexico, where it’s called Frontier, and sold there and in South American markets. However, this is not the same vehicle as the U.S. market Frontier (which is also expected to be revamped soon).
Navara receives a bold new look with more athletic and rugged styling. Up front is a new grille flanked by new LED headlights with quad projector lights. The Navara name is embossed on the top of the grille. The model lineup runs from work truck, to the sporty new PRO-4X (above), to premium utility with chrome accents.
The new Navara PRO-4X is dressed with a black grille, front bumper, door handles, roof rack and running boards. It also features unique orange-red accents, a hue said to be inspired by magma, on the grille, wheels, mirror caps, Nissan logo, and inside the cabin.
Rear styling continues the sporty theme with signature LED taillights. Also included is a new rear step bumper, along with side step finishers. Navara offers an array of exterior colors, with Orange Brown and a new shade of gray developed for PRO-4X.
Navara PRO-4X rides on 17-inch black alloy wheels wrapped with all-terrain tires. The new lineup gains a strengthened rear axle, greater payload capacities, and more cargo bed volume. A new steering rack is said to enhance maneuverability and steering response. Powertrain choices have not yet been announced.
Inside, Navara offers a new 7-inch high resolution TFT screen, and available 8-inch navigation system. Also available is an Intelligent Around View Monitor with off-road view, allowing the driver to check obstacles around the truck at lower speeds, when using four-wheel drive.
Rear seat comfort is improved with upgraded seat cushions and seat back shapes, plus a rear armrest with built-in cupholders. Fabric and leather-trimmed seats, that vary by model, are offered in black, gray, and light gray.
A new Nissan Connect infotainment system enables drivers to connect their smartphone and use features such as Bluetooth, voice recognition, and navigation.
Navara offers the latest Nissan 360 safety shield features, including Intelligent Forward Collision Warning and Emergency Braking, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Lane Intervention, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Trailer Sway Control. Rain-sensing wipers and auto-folding mirrors are also available.
Note: Vehicle features, specifications, and launch timing for international market models is preliminary and subject to change without notice
News source and photos courtesy of Nissan Motor Corp., and Nissan Motor Thailand Co., Ltd.
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