The Nissan Navara has long been a key player in the local bakkie segment, and in recent years, the brand has made a concerted effort to elevate both its capability and its refinement. The current Navara PRO-4X 4×4 sits as the flagship Double Cab derivative, aimed at buyers who want off-road ability without sacrificing everyday comfort and style.
Engine & performance
Powering the PRO-4X is Nissan’s 2.5-Litre DDTi TurboDiesel Engine, producing 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a 7-Speed Automatic Transmission, which shifts smoothly in most driving scenarios.
On the road, the Navara delivers a relaxed, flexible driving experience. The engine pulls confidently from low revs, making it well suited for towing and load-carrying. Overtaking at highway speeds is handled with ease, and while it’s not the most powerful bakkie in its class, it feels well matched to the vehicle’s intended role.
Off-road, the Navara’s Shift-On-The-Fly 4×4 System, Hill Descent Control, and Rear Differential Lock provide solid capability when the going gets tough. The suspension setup, which was locally tuned for our market, impresses with its ability to soak up rough terrain while keeping the cabin relatively composed.
Ride & handling
One of the standout characteristics of this latest Navara is its ride quality. The rear Five-Link Coil-Spring Suspension — a rarity in this segment — contributes to a more comfortable and planted feel, whether the vehicle is empty or loaded.
Around town and on longer journeys, the Navara PRO-4X feels composed and confidence-inspiring, with good steering feel for a double cab of this size.
Interior & comfort
The PRO-4X comes well equipped, with Leather-Trimmed Seats, Heated Front Seats, a Multi-Function Steering Wheel, and a large 8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 7-Inch Digital Instrument Cluster adds to the modern feel of the cabin.
Practical touches include plenty of storage compartments, Rear Air Vents for back seat passengers, and a spacious load bay. The overall cabin design is functional and robust, though not the most premium in terms of material quality — a fair trade-off considering the Navara’s positioning as a rugged lifestyle bakkie.
Exterior styling
Visually, the PRO-4X makes a bold statement. Black Detailing on the Grille, Roof Rails, Door Handles, Mirrors, and 18-Inch Alloy Wheels gives it a distinctive, purposeful look. Red Accents and PRO-4X Badging further differentiate it from standard models.
It’s a design that leans into the adventure-ready persona of the Navara, and one that will appeal to buyers wanting a bakkie that looks as tough as it performs.
Safety & technology
Standard Safety Equipment is comprehensive, including Seven Airbags, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a 360-Degree Around View Monitor — a real plus when navigating tight urban spaces or technical off-road sections.
Verdict
The Nissan Navara PRO-4X 4×4 strikes a strong balance between rugged utility and modern convenience. It’s a bakkie that can handle proper off-roading and workhorse duties while delivering a comfortable driving experience in daily use.
While the cabin materials may not match some of the more premium offerings in the segment, the Navara’s value, locally tuned ride, and distinctive styling make it a compelling option — particularly for buyers who want a double cab that can double as both a family vehicle and a weekend adventure tool.
Pricing for the Nissan Navara Pro-4X starts at R844,000.
