The new-generation Nissan Navara Pro-4X has been unveiled in Australia. The model is scheduled to go on sale in that market only at the end of the first quarter of 2026, raising questions about the prospects of local production.
If you have an inkling you’ve seen this shape before, you’d be correct. The new model’s design reveals the outline of the Mitsubishi Triton, a result of being a part of the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi alliance. The Nissan twin with the boldest front end yet of the range that debuted back in 1986 separates itself with a Nissan signature V-motion grille and three-part intake openings outlined in orange and C-shaped headlamps.
Inside, the spacious cabin offers a seven-inch colour TFT instrument cluster and a nine-inch infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
The powertrain is a 2.4l turbodiesel engine producing a maximum output of 150 kW and 470 Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Nissan said it’s designed for delivering both the capability required for heavy-duty tasks and excellent fuel efficiency of 7.7l/100 km.
Driver assistance systems include cruise control, lane departure warning, emergency lane-keeping and a speed limiter. A newly adopted electric power steering (EPS) system enhances manoeuvrability and enables superior handling while an advanced 4WD system with diff-locks and shifting to two-wheel drive on command is fitted standard on all models.
The suspension is optimised specifically for Oceania’s driving environment to be stable over any type of road surface.
South Africa market conundrum
There are no plans to introduce the newly shown model in this market according to official Nissan South Africa communication. Sales of the new Navara start in 2026 but for Oceania markets initially, however, local and African market production of the outgoing Navara model continues at the company’s Rosslyn plant in Pretoria.
We asked the company to provide context and future plans for customers regarding the present model but our questions remained unanswered by the time of publication.
The Mitsubishi Triton that the new Nissan Navara is based on is built in Thailand and has a robust base with good build quality and exceptional off-road driving prowess. They share everything except the frontal styling.
Asked whether the new badge-engineering tie-up is being considered in the country, Mitsubishi South Africa’s out-going MD Thato Magasa said no formal talks have taken place between Nissan South Africa and Motus, the official importer of the Japanese brand’s products.
“We would find expression among 4x4 enthusiasts, which may not be the case for Nissan. We’d focus on growing our base through models like the Triton Super High Power derivatives launching next year, and not necessarily through a Nissan bakkie,” said the Mitsubishi head.
