The All-New Nissan Navara: Bold, Capable, but Still Out of Reach for Africa
Built on Triton foundations yet shaped with unmistakable Nissan character, the all-new D27 generation Navara ushers in a bold new era for the brand’s iconic workhorse — just not for African roads, at least not yet.
A New Chapter for Nissan’s Workhorse
After more than a decade, Nissan has finally lifted the curtain on the D27 generation Navara — a complete redesign that marks a monumental shift for the brand. Developed as part of the Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance, the new Navara shares its underpinnings with the latest Mitsubishi Triton, representing a deeper level of collaboration than ever before.
Unfortunately for fans in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and across the continent, the new model won’t be arriving anytime soon. African markets will continue with the current D23 Navara, built at Nissan’s Rosslyn plant in Pretoria. A significant update is reportedly planned for 2026, but the next-generation bakkie remains firmly out of reach for now.
Shared Foundations, Distinct Identity
At the heart of the D27’s redesign lies Mitsubishi’s new ladder-frame chassis, drivetrain, and powertrain — a robust setup also found beneath the sixth-generation Triton. Despite sharing key hardware, Nissan’s engineers were keen to ensure the Navara retained its own character.
Power comes from Mitsubishi’s 2.4-litre bi-turbodiesel engine (4N16), producing a punchy 150 kW and 470 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a wide-ratio six-speed automatic transmission. Official fuel economy stands at 7.7 L/100 km. Nissan claims to have reworked the engine mapping and transmission tuning to deliver a uniquely Nissan-like driving experience, with a focus on smoother power delivery and refined throttle response.
In terms of dimensions, the new Navara measures 5,320 mm long — almost identical to the Triton — but differentiates itself through Nissan’s bold design language. The result is a muscular, squared-off profile that reflects a balance between rugged practicality and modern sophistication.
Off-Road Confidence, Simplified
The D27 Navara introduces two advanced four-wheel-drive systems designed to make off-roading both simpler and more confidence-inspiring. The first, dubbed Easy 4WD, can automatically shift between two- and four-wheel drive modes and includes an electronic rear differential lock for improved traction. The second, Super 4WD, delivers full-time high-range four-wheel drive via an open centre differential, ensuring optimal grip across diverse terrain without sacrificing on-road composure.
To ensure the bakkie performs equally well with or without a payload, Nissan collaborated with Australian engineering specialists Premcar to fine-tune the suspension system. The result, Nissan says, is a “compliant and comfortable ride, both unladen and fully loaded.”
Performance-minded drivers will also appreciate the D27’s strong utility credentials: a 3,500 kg braked towing capacity and a maximum payload of around 1,000 kg. That places it firmly within the top tier of one-tonne bakkies.
Refined and Tech-Savvy Interior
Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that blends durability with modern comfort. A 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes centre stage, offering smartphone connectivity and wireless charging on mid- and high-grade trims. The overall cabin architecture echoes that of the Triton but with meaningful aesthetic and ergonomic tweaks.
Nissan has reworked the dashboard layout, textures, and trim finishes to achieve a cleaner, more businesslike look. In the top-spec Pro-4X variant, contrasting materials and robust off-road touches add a premium yet utilitarian flair.
The Warrior Returns
Among the highlights of the unveiling was the Navara PRO-4X Warrior Concept — a collaboration once again with Premcar. Building on the Pro-4X foundation, the Warrior gains a lifted suspension, wider track, 32.2-inch all-terrain tyres, and heavy-duty off-road protection including multi-stage bash plates and front overriders.
This flagship variant is designed to square off against hardcore rivals such as the Ford Ranger Raptor and Isuzu D-Max AT35, offering enthusiasts a rugged, trail-ready bakkie without compromising comfort or refinement.
Africa on Hold
For now, Nissan South Africa has confirmed that the D27 Navara won’t be introduced to local markets in the foreseeable future. Production of the current D23 Navara will continue at Rosslyn, which continues to serve as the production hub for Africa.
Despite its age, the D23 remains competitive — with sales in South Africa climbing 6% year-on-year in 2024 to reach 4,874 units. However, uncertainty looms over the plant’s future. A Reuters report from May 2025 suggested Rosslyn is one of several facilities under review for potential closure within two years.
Until further clarity emerges, or until the promised 2026 facelift arrives, African customers will have to make do with the familiar D23 lineup.
Final Thoughts
The D27 generation Nissan Navara represents the next great leap for the brand — bigger, sharper, more connected, and more capable than ever before. Blending Japanese engineering precision, Australian tuning expertise, and Mitsubishi’s mechanical foundation, it’s a confident statement about the future of the one-tonne bakkie.
For buyers in Australia and New Zealand, it signals the dawn of a new era. But for Africa’s loyal Nissan community, the wait continues. The D27 may be the most advanced Navara yet — but for now, it remains a tantalising glimpse of what’s still to come.
A New Chapter for Nissan’s Workhorse
After more than a decade, Nissan has finally lifted the curtain on the D27 generation Navara — a complete redesign that marks a monumental shift for the brand. Developed as part of the Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance, the new Navara shares its underpinnings with the latest Mitsubishi Triton, representing a deeper level of collaboration than ever before.
Unfortunately for fans in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and across the continent, the new model won’t be arriving anytime soon. African markets will continue with the current D23 Navara, built at Nissan’s Rosslyn plant in Pretoria. A significant update is reportedly planned for 2026, but the next-generation bakkie remains firmly out of reach for now.
Shared Foundations, Distinct Identity
At the heart of the D27’s redesign lies Mitsubishi’s new ladder-frame chassis, drivetrain, and powertrain — a robust setup also found beneath the sixth-generation Triton. Despite sharing key hardware, Nissan’s engineers were keen to ensure the Navara retained its own character.
Power comes from Mitsubishi’s 2.4-litre bi-turbodiesel engine (4N16), producing a punchy 150 kW and 470 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a wide-ratio six-speed automatic transmission. Official fuel economy stands at 7.7 L/100 km. Nissan claims to have reworked the engine mapping and transmission tuning to deliver a uniquely Nissan-like driving experience, with a focus on smoother power delivery and refined throttle response.
In terms of dimensions, the new Navara measures 5,320 mm long — almost identical to the Triton — but differentiates itself through Nissan’s bold design language. The result is a muscular, squared-off profile that reflects a balance between rugged practicality and modern sophistication.
Off-Road Confidence, Simplified
The D27 Navara introduces two advanced four-wheel-drive systems designed to make off-roading both simpler and more confidence-inspiring. The first, dubbed Easy 4WD, can automatically shift between two- and four-wheel drive modes and includes an electronic rear differential lock for improved traction. The second, Super 4WD, delivers full-time high-range four-wheel drive via an open centre differential, ensuring optimal grip across diverse terrain without sacrificing on-road composure.
To ensure the bakkie performs equally well with or without a payload, Nissan collaborated with Australian engineering specialists Premcar to fine-tune the suspension system. The result, Nissan says, is a “compliant and comfortable ride, both unladen and fully loaded.”
Performance-minded drivers will also appreciate the D27’s strong utility credentials: a 3,500 kg braked towing capacity and a maximum payload of around 1,000 kg. That places it firmly within the top tier of one-tonne bakkies.
Refined and Tech-Savvy Interior
Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that blends durability with modern comfort. A 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes centre stage, offering smartphone connectivity and wireless charging on mid- and high-grade trims. The overall cabin architecture echoes that of the Triton but with meaningful aesthetic and ergonomic tweaks.
Nissan has reworked the dashboard layout, textures, and trim finishes to achieve a cleaner, more businesslike look. In the top-spec Pro-4X variant, contrasting materials and robust off-road touches add a premium yet utilitarian flair.
The Warrior Returns
Among the highlights of the unveiling was the Navara PRO-4X Warrior Concept — a collaboration once again with Premcar. Building on the Pro-4X foundation, the Warrior gains a lifted suspension, wider track, 32.2-inch all-terrain tyres, and heavy-duty off-road protection including multi-stage bash plates and front overriders.
This flagship variant is designed to square off against hardcore rivals such as the Ford Ranger Raptor and Isuzu D-Max AT35, offering enthusiasts a rugged, trail-ready bakkie without compromising comfort or refinement.
Africa on Hold
For now, Nissan South Africa has confirmed that the D27 Navara won’t be introduced to local markets in the foreseeable future. Production of the current D23 Navara will continue at Rosslyn, which continues to serve as the production hub for Africa.
Despite its age, the D23 remains competitive — with sales in South Africa climbing 6% year-on-year in 2024 to reach 4,874 units. However, uncertainty looms over the plant’s future. A Reuters report from May 2025 suggested Rosslyn is one of several facilities under review for potential closure within two years.
Until further clarity emerges, or until the promised 2026 facelift arrives, African customers will have to make do with the familiar D23 lineup.
Final Thoughts
The D27 generation Nissan Navara represents the next great leap for the brand — bigger, sharper, more connected, and more capable than ever before. Blending Japanese engineering precision, Australian tuning expertise, and Mitsubishi’s mechanical foundation, it’s a confident statement about the future of the one-tonne bakkie.
For buyers in Australia and New Zealand, it signals the dawn of a new era. But for Africa’s loyal Nissan community, the wait continues. The D27 may be the most advanced Navara yet — but for now, it remains a tantalising glimpse of what’s still to come.
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