New Nissan Bakkies Launch
South Africa has always had a deep-seated love affair with the bakkie. Whether it’s navigating the rugged terrain of the Cederberg or hauling heavy loads across the Karoo, bakkies are an integral part of our way of life. With that said, competition in the local bakkie market is fierce, and Nissan is stepping up its game.
The recent addition of two new models to the Navara range – the entry-level XE and mid-range LE – shows that Nissan is ready to take on the big players, and we couldn’t be more excited.
A Legacy Built for Africa
Nissan’s journey with the Navara in South Africa dates back to 2017 when the model first landed on our shores as an import. Since then, it has become one of the most reliable and versatile bakkies on the market, particularly after a major facelift in 2021. But it’s more than just cosmetic changes. The investment of R3 billion into Nissan’s Rosslyn plant near Pretoria has firmly rooted the Navara’s legacy as a “built in Africa for Africa” vehicle.
The production shift to South Africa not only created jobs and boosted the local economy but also ensured that the Navara range could be finely tuned to meet the demands of African landscapes. And with these two new models, Nissan is aiming directly at the heart of South Africa’s bakkie culture.
What’s New? Meet the XE and LE
The introduction of the entry-level XE and mid-range LE expands the Navara range to a total of 14 derivatives, giving South Africans even more options to suit their bakkie needs. Let’s start with the XE, which is offered in both 4×2 and 4×4 variants.
One of the key differences here is the switch to rear leaf springs – a departure from the coil-spring suspension found in higher-end models. This change allows for an improved load capacity, making the XE ideal for heavy-duty work. Whether you’re involved in commercial applications like mining or need a workhorse for tougher jobs, the XE has you covered. With a load capacity of 1,148kg (in 4×2) and 1,067kg (in 4×4), this bakkie means business.
Under the hood, the XE boasts a 2.5-litre single-turbo diesel engine that delivers 120kW and 403Nm of torque. While it’s only available in a six-speed manual transmission, this powertrain provides more than enough grunt for the toughest tasks, making it a strong contender against rivals like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.
The LE, on the other hand, offers a more premium experience without compromising on performance. Equipped with the same engine but tuned to a higher output (140kW and 450Nm), the LE offers both power and sophistication. It’s available in automatic and manual options, ensuring flexibility for those who want a bit more convenience on the road.
The LE models also come with enhanced features, including the updated Nissan badge, which first appeared on the latest Nissan Patrol, adding a fresh and modern touch to the range.
Packed with Amazing Features
Both the XE and LE come with a host of standard features that are sure to impress. For bakkie enthusiasts who value practicality, the XE offers essentials like central locking, air conditioning, electric windows, and side mirrors, as well as a sliding rear window for easy access to the load bin. It’s also equipped with modern safety features such as stability control, trailer sway control, and two airbags.
The LE ups the ante with additional luxury features, including steering-mounted controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and the all-important high-definition monitor in the Pro-X variants, which provides a bird’s-eye view when parking or driving off-road.
For those who spend their weekends off the beaten track, the XE’s impressive ground clearance, approach, departure, and breakover angles are the same as its coil-spring siblings, ensuring that even the toughest trails in the Drakensberg or Namaqualand are no match for this bakkie.
Looking To The (Very Bright!) Future
Nissan’s commitment to the bakkie market doesn’t stop here. While the new XE and LE models are undoubtedly exciting additions to the Navara line-up, Nissan has even bigger plans in store. With the recent discontinuation of the NP200 and NP300 ranges, all eyes are on the future, and Nissan has already teased the arrival of a half-tonne bakkie in 2027. This new model is set to fill the gap left by the NP200, which enjoyed years of dominance in the half-tonne segment.
As Nissan continues to innovate and push boundaries in the local market, it’s clear that the Navara is a bakkie that’s not only built for today’s challenges but also ready to tackle the future.
Book Your Test Drive Today!
The addition of the XE and LE to the Nissan Navara range marks an exciting chapter for bakkie lovers in South Africa. Whether you’re looking for a capable workhorse or a more refined yet powerful double cab, these new models offer something for everyone.
Ready to see for yourself what the hype is about? Book a test drive today using the handy form at the top of this page and experience firsthand why the Navara is one of the best bakkies on the market. The SA bakkie war is heating up, and Nissan is ready to take on all challengers!
