Wheels Galore

Nissan's latest Navara double cab arrived late on a bakkie battlefield dominated by Ford and Toyota. Despite high tech and a trick suspension, it's not attracting the sales it deserves. Will the addition of a 4x2 option extend its appeal?

Bakkies and the Nissan brand are almost synonymous. The venerable Hardbody has been a consistently popular player in the workhorse segment, despite being decidedly long in the tooth.

And let’s not forget that the first-generation Navara pioneered the big-and-bold, luxury double cab segment, long before Toyota and Ford started emulating the trend.

Since then, though, Nissan appears to have lost ground. First, Ford took the initiative, transforming its humdrum Ranger into a desirable muscle machine that’s seen many a Golf GTI traded in for the beefy double cab.

It took Toyota a while to retaliate, but when it finally arrived, the latest Hilux rose to the challenge. At the luxury double cab end of the range, it too offers a well-priced mix of attitude and amenities.

A telling factor has been the Nissan’s late arrival. It was only launched in 2017, long after Ford and Toyota had unleashed their newest offerings. And even then, it was offered in 4×4 form only, leaving those buyers happy to settle for a less expensive, more economical 4×2 model out in the cold.

That shortcoming was addressed by the arrival of several 4×2 variants earlier in 2018. The most affordable Navara 4×2 now comes in at a cool R66k lessthan the 4×4 version with the same specification level.

At least the Navara’s flagship LE model includes almost every conceivable bell and whistle as standard. In fact, the Navara’s list of kit will make most luxury models seem rather under-endowed.

There’s not enough space to list every item, but considering this is still a double cab bakkie, the likes of remote keyless entry, park distance control with reverse and 360-degree cameras, dual-zone climate control, eight-way adjustable electric seats, a touchscreen-based infotainment system and full-blown satnav come as a welcome surprise.

Other highlights include cruise control, LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, front, side and curtain airbags, ABS brakes, stability and traction control, child-proof door locks and IsoFix child seat mounts. Not bad for a pick-up …

The leather seats are optional, but add to a cabin execution that’s as smart and accessible as any high-end sedan or SUV. The touchscreen display dominates the centre stack, and allows user-friendly access to the audio, Bluetooth, telephony and satnav systems.

The instrument binnacle is home to a pair of large, round dials for speed and rev count, split by a digital trip computer with scrollable information on distance, average speed, and fuel consumption. Finishes and materials are classy, with just enough chrome to look upmarket without becoming too blingy.

The Navara is a big double cab, and so there’s plenty of interior space, front and rear. The rear bench seat will seat three with width to spare, and legroom is pretty good, too.

The load box can swallow more than 1,100 litres of cargo, with a maximum payload of 1,030kg. The downside is security – you need to either install a canopy or a lockable load box lid to keep your valuable luggage or cargo safe. That’s a shortcoming all bakkie owners have to live with.

In double cab terms, the Navara is a handsome machine, steering a believable path between function and glamour. The alloy wheels, brushed aluminium side steps, ornamental roof rails and chrome bits add some eye candy to an otherwise practical, function-driven shape.

An odd detail is the spoiler extending from the top edge of the load box, much like the rooftop spoiler on a hatchback. I’m not convinced that it has any practical value, despite claims that it improves aerodynamics.

More pertinent but effectively invisible is the Navara’s rear suspension, featuring an independent, five-link coil-sprung configuration that’s unique in the bakkie context.

Traditionalists may be concerned that Nissan is prioritising ride comfort over load carrying ability, but in practice, the rear suspension finds a good balance between firmness and refinement.

Another bone of contention is the Navara’s drivetrain, and specifically the power unit. Nissan has opted for a new-generation, smaller-capacity diesel engine equipped with a pair of turbochargers.

This bi-turbo arrangement should theoretically prevent turbo lag, while the 2.3-litre engine capacity promises enhanced efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. On paper, the 140kW maximum output and 450Nm of torque is right up there with the best, topped only by the Ranger’s much bigger 3.2-litre mill.

More importantly, the Navara 4×2 has plenty of grunt in practice. It gets off the mark without any sign of lag-induced hesitation, and the engine piles on the revs with an enthusiasm often lacking in the turbodiesel context.

The seven-speed auto gearbox is a good match for the engine, ensuring it’s always on song and finding a good compromise between responsive tractability and relaxed cruising.

Even so, Nissan’s claimed fuel consumption will require a highly disciplined right foot. I only managed 11.2 litres/100km, while the factory figure is an optimistic 6.8 litres/100km.

It’s not unreasonable to expect the Navara 4×2 to be tasked with off-road duties on a regular basis, despite being rear wheel-driven only. After all, it still has an impressive 229mm ground clearance, rugged running gear and a traction control system that uses the brakes to act like a limited slip differential.

It’s certainly more than competent on gravel and even slightly rougher terrain, as long as you maintain momentum and don’t attempt ridiculous gradients. But the lack of low range and a mechanical diff lock (a puzzling omission) limit it’s all-terrain capabilities.

On the plus side, the absence of a transfer case and 4×4 drive makes for a lighter kerb mass and reduced drivetrain drag, which will benefit overall efficiency and running costs. All that low-down torque should ensure effortless towing, too.

The Nissan Navara deserves to be taken more seriously because it’s well built, achieves impressive ride and comfort levels, and offers a spacious, well-appointed cabin. Even in 4×2 trim, it’s rugged enough to head off the beaten track – at least up to a point – and it retains the workhorse versatility that’s made double cabs such a popular choice.

While not exactly cheap, the pricing is competitive, especially if you’re prepared to forsake some of the extras of the LE model for the still well-stocked SE version. In fact, the Navara 4×2 SE Manual, available at Group 1 Nissan, offers the best bang for the buck in the range – and value is the most powerful sales motivator of all.

PROS

A well balanced double cab package that deserves more success.

CONS

SE models offer more bang for the buck.

VITAL STATS

Article source: https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2018-06-21-nissan-navara-2-3d-4x2-double-cab-unsung-hero/#.WzUIyS97Gkc

The Nissan Micra’s massive transformation is set to impress…

The Nissan Micra, a popular model in South Africa’s hatchback segment, has undergone a massive transformation and last week we got to meet it in the metal. With a big leap forward in terms of design, we’re almost certain that the all-new Micra is going to make a big impression on those looking for a trendy, eye-catching and dynamic small car.

It goes without saying that it only takes one glance at the new Micra to notice its more modern and striking exterior design. Of course, this comes with a more expensive price tag than the old Micra, but if you consider how much bang is offered for your buck, it’s a strong contender in its class.

Expressive exterior design

The new Micra’s exterior is eye-catching to say the least. Bold character lines on its sculpted body give it an athletic and dynamic appearance and we love how this translates and adapts to trendy urban environments.

A sloping roofline, black B and C-pillars that create a floating roof effect, and discrete door handles in the C-pillar for rear passengers are just some of these ‘on trend’ features.

We also love the new Micra’s attractive rear styling, with striking new boomerang-shaped light clusters and a sculpted bumper below them. It sits high on its haunches with a sports-style rear roof spoiler and its carbon-look bumper that hides the car’s exhaust pipe.

The Visia model comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels while the Acenta adds 16-inch alloys and the Acenta Plus has 17-inch alloy wheels.

Six new Nissan Micra colours are available to choose from and our favourite has to be Nissan’s Marketing Launch Colour, Energy Orange, which complements its vibrant exterior beautifully!

Attention to detail in a ergonomically friendly cabin

Inside, the new Micra boasts comfortable and convenient features, as well as a a number of safety systems as standard, while interior design has been modernised to match its exterior.

For me, what really stands out is that everything you come into contact with in the cabin feels rather high-class. It’s also easy to get comfortable with a rake/reach adjustable steering-wheel as standard, coupled with adjustable seats to accommodate even the tallest of drivers. Back support in the front seats is a pleasure while Nissan paid special attention to decrease driver discomfort and fatigue on long journeys.

Even at the back, things remain rather cosy. I always like to spend time seated at the back of a car while on launches, not forgetting that many of our readers are in the market for family cars, or perhaps, a small car with lots of space in the rear for those clunky child seats. Let me say that I was able to easily catch some zzz’s in the new Micra’s roomy rear, thanks to its extended width which contributes to enhanced elbow space, shoulder and knee room.

Speaking of those looking for spacious small cars, those who enjoy weekends away with the kids will appreciate the new Micra’s competitive boot capacity of 300 litres, which can be expanded to 1004 litres when you fold the back seats down. There’s loads of additional storage space around the cabin for cups, keys and phones, and particularly worth noting is its large cubby hole, which I haven’t come across in a while – I actually managed to store my entire handbag in there!

Connectivity

Back in the front, a 7-inch touchscreen colour display on the Acenta and Acenta Plus is easy to use. Although the actual screen resolution and quality could do with a bit of an upgrade (it’s a bit grainy and dull), it provides the driver with access to features such as music, messages and maps through Apple CarPlay in addition to the MP3, USB and Bluetooth in the Visia model.

Safety for you and your family

Every new Nissan Micra comes with six airbags as standard, plus seat belt warnings and seat belt height adjustment for the front and rear. Isofix child seat anchor points in the rear are also standard as well as in the front passenger seat. Electronic safety systems include Vehicle Dynamic Control, Anti-locking Braking System, Electronic Brake force Distribution and Hill Start Assist.

Driving the new Nissan Micra

In and around Cape Town during the launch, we got plenty of driving time with the new Micra on various terrains in urban and rural environments. We drove the mid-range Acenta model, but all three models offer the same engine: the 66kW, 140 N.m. turbo-charged petrol engine.

As an all-rounder, the new Micra is pretty impressive to drive, especially in and around the city. In terms of suspension, it does a good job at dealing with bumps on the road, and when you’re on the highway the new Micra feels superbly stable – it’s as though you’re driving a much bigger car. It also benefits from a remarkably quiet cabin – there’s not much wind noise, which is great when you’re driving at high speeds in a very windy Cape Town! Limited noise levels in the cabin is all thanks to Nissan’s enhanced noise isolation technology that has been engineered into the car. Nissan notes that it’s designed to allow the driver to hear the engine response, but stay isolated from other noises, such as those generated by the tyres on the road.

Light brakes, easy steering and a smooth-shifting gearstick are a real pleasure when maneuvering in the city.

Conclusion

As far as transformations go, the new Micra has to be right up there, with the likes of the Ford Fiesta Volkswagen Polo to compete with. We think consumers will enjoy its trendy design and easy-to-handle driving dynamics.

Pricing

The new Nissan Micra is covered by Nissan Assured and comes with a 6-year/150,000km warranty; a 3-year/90,000km service plan; and 24/7 roadside assistance.

Test drive one at your nearest Group 1 Nissan Dealership or view the Nissan Micra here for more information.

Whoever said that a half-ton bakkie injected with a generous dose of youth and modern edginess couldn’t deliver on safety, clearly didn’t test drive the NP200 bakkie. The 21st century equivalent of a well-bred workhorse, the Nissan NP200 for sale, is a testimony to what great design can achieve when your safety is a priority.

Delivering on Trust

In life there are no guarantees; the plans we make can be cancelled, the dreams we secretly hold could be forgotten in life’s hustle and bustle. With the Nissan NP200 bakkie for sale you will have steadfast reliability, your family will have trusted security – with Nissan you have a drive you can count on; you have peace of mind.

No matter the kind of life you lead, whether you’re an entrepreneur off to make your next big delivery, a lover of the great outdoors or you simply enjoy the rugged feel of being behind the wheel of a bakkie, the NP200 has everything you’ll need to feel protected.

Ready for Action

With Nissan you don’t have to keep your guard up, we do it for you with the Nissan safety shield. From the Anti-Lock Braking System, two airbags, a collapsible steering column and the Nissan DataDoT Anti-Theft Identification System, you and your passengers will be protected against unexpected events.

The Nissan NP200 bakkie doesn’t just take you places, it gets you there safely.

Test drive a Nissan NP200 for sale at a Group 1 Nissan dealership near you.

While the local press release had no accompanying pictures, and nor did it confirm that this is the same Micra Active that we’re getting, it certainly implies this with phrases like “great value for money" and “competitively priced" while also harping on the low running costs.

The Micra is certainly a cut-price contender in its home market. While Import duties will ensure that the Micra Active won’t be as cheap on local soil, based on a comparison of Indian prices we would deduce that it should undercut cars like the Toyota Etios and Suzuki Swift by a reasonable margin, while (logically) still costing more than the Datsun Go.

All Indian-market versions are fitted with air conditioning, power steering and a driver’s airbag. There are three grade levels, in which the fancier ones add audio systems, remote central locking and ABS brakes. Local specifications have yet to be confirmed, but Nissan SA's release did state that it will come standard with a three-year/90 000km service plan and six-year/150 000km warranty.

The Micra Active also has a new interior that appears to be shared with the facelifted Micra that was never released in South Africa.

Yet where does the ‘Active’ leave the all-new (and very pretty we must add), Clio-based Micra that’s built in France? Yes, the one pictured below:

This funky looking newcomer is certainly positioned at a much higher level. Find the Nissan Micra Active for sale at a Group 1 Nissan dealership near you! Test drive the Micra Active and experience what the Micra Active offers, even on a budget!

Article source: https://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/905484-Nissan-SA-to-launch-refreshed-better-value-Micra

The 2018 Nissan Murano is finally here and you can check it out right here on our lot at Arlington Nissan! The Murano has been one of Nissan’s most popular models over the past couple of years with its spacious interior, stylish design and solid fuel-efficiency, but what’s new about it for the 2018 year?

Since Nissan released a 2017.5 edition of the Murano (essentially an update halfway through 2017), most of the changes for the 2018 edition see available options and features becoming standard. The goal in this is to give drivers, even more, bang for their buck when they get the Nissan Murano for sale as compared to earlier years.

Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning are now standard on all trim levels. A new center console design is also standard on all trims that will make for easier access to storage. Also, a new 8.0-inch NissanConnect touchscreen system with Navigation and smartphone integration apps like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on all trims as well.

Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are now standard features on the SV trims, while the SL trim adds the hands-free power liftgate and adaptive cruise control. The Platinum trim, the highest trim, has all the same features standard on the SL and adds 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and heated and cooled front seats among other features. Also, a dual-panel moonroof is standard on the Platinum trim.

Where Can I Test Drive the 2018 Nissan Murano in Arlington Heights?

Luckily for you, you don’t have to search far to get your hands on a Nissan Murano! Arlington Nissan, located right here in Arlington Heights, has a wide selection of available Nissan Murano you can test-drive!

If you’d like to learn more about the Nissan Murano for sale or schedule a test drive, contact a Group 1 Nissan dealership today! Find out why the Nissan Murano is the perfect car for you!

Article source: https://www.arlingtonnissan.com/blog/whats-new-in-the-2018-nissan-murano/

1. SINGLE CAB

Featuring a larger 2220mm load box, the 2-door, 2-passenger Single Cab models are perfect for when your cargo is king. Available in Base, Mid and High-RIDER grades.

2. DOUBLE CAB

With 4 doors, seating for 5 and a 1425mm load box, Double Cab High-RIDER models are designed to deliver both cargo and crew in comfort and style.

NP200 – Reliable and Durable

The used Nissan NP200 range picks up where its predecessor left off, bringing a modern edge and youthful energy to our rugged and versatile line-up. It boasts the largest interior cabin space in its class, along with plenty of versatile storage options so you can take everything you need along for the ride. Storage areas such as the glove box, door bins and drink holders under the central console are logically arranged, so everyday items are always within easy reach. The NP200 also offers a full 300 litres of storage space behind the seats to accommodate anything else you might need for a weekend getaway. With three engine choices – an 8-valve petrol engine, 16-valve petrol engine, or our standard-setting K9K turbo diesel – the NP200 delivers the power you need to get the job done.

Storage areas such as the glove box, door bins and drink holders under the central console are logically arranged, so everyday items are always within easy reach. The NP200 also offers a full 300 litres of storage space behind the seats to accommodate anything else you might need for a weekend getaway. With three engine choices – an 8-valve petrol engine, 16-valve petrol engine, or our standard-setting K9K turbo diesel – the NP200 delivers the power you need to get the job done.

With three engine choices – an 8-valve petrol engine, 16-valve petrol engine, or our standard-setting K9K turbo diesel – the NP200 delivers the power you need to get the job done.

NP200 ICE

The Nissan NP200 ICE Special Edition combines the time-tested, go-anywhere ruggedness of the Nissan NP200 half-ton bakkie with the individuality and extreme coolness of ICE style and accessories.

Whether you’re working hard, playing hard or just looking really, really good, the Nissan NP200 ICE gets the job done.

At Group 1 Nissan we make it our priority to offer you a professional service that will leave you completely satisfied and driving off in the car of your dreams! Find a used Nissan NP200 for sale at a Group 1 Nissan dealership near you. Book and test drive a new or used Nissan NP200.

Cities are busy, confusing and sometimes even scary places when it comes to driving and parking especially larger vehicles. Luckily there are enough affordable, comfortable and safe city cars to choose from if you live or work in an urban environment.

In case you were wondering what actually qualifies as a city car, here’s a definition from Wikipedia: “A city car (also known as urban car or a mini) is a small car designed to be used primarily in urban areas and conurbations."

A hatchback is a typical city car, but some coupés and small SUVs can pleasantly surprise when it comes to being compact and efficient, without compromising on style.

Let’s take a look at some of the best city cars in South Africa in terms of affordability. In no particular order we have:

1. Fiat 500 – The Fiat 500 is stylish with its new interior and safe with seven airbags.

2. Toyota Aygo X Grill – The new Aygo is attractive, safe and fuel-efficient.

3. Hyundai i10 – This hatch is safe and feature-packed while offering great fuel consumption.

4. Nissan Micra – The Micra is modern, thoughtful and conveniently adaptable.

5. Kia Picanto – The affordable and safe Picanto remains an affordable, popular city car.

6. Chery J2 – Chery’s economical yet powerful J2 model offers value for money.

7. Tata Bolt – The Bolt is a sporty performer with fun, convenient features.

8. VW up! – The new VW up! is fresh and fun with great standard features.

9. Chevrolet Spark – The Spark is a safe, fuel-efficient and affordable city car.

10. Mazda2 – The Mazda2 is stylish and agile with great fuel economy.

11. Renault Sandero – The entry-level Renault Sandero boasts great standard features.

12. Honda Brio – The Honda Brio is a simple, safe hatchback, great for city driving and living.

13. Suzuki – The new and improved Suzuki Swift is a sporty, dynamic and fuel-efficient hatch.

14. Citroen C1 – The ergonomic Citroen C1 has great technologies and optimised running costs.

15. Peugeot 208 5-Door – The new Peugeot 208 is efficient, elegant and advanced.

There are plenty of other city cars to choose from, but this list should give you an idea of all the options out there. Contact reliable dealerships, like Nissan Johannesburg, for more information on these cars for sale and test drive them all if you like ;).