AIMS: New 550Nm diesel for Nissan Navara, Pathfinder

Nissan has today announced its new generation V6 turbodiesel engine will be offered in the new range topping Navara ST-X 550 and Pathfinder Ti 500 models from early next year.

Utilising the latest direct-injection technology, the 3.0-litre mill develops a class-leading 170kW/550Nm, with maximum torque available from a low 1750rpm. Developed in conjunction with Alliance partner Renault, the new engine meets strict new Euro 5 emissions requirements while also offering excellent fuel economy. Nissan claims the engine's combined average is 9.5L/100km.

The new engine, code-named V9X, was first revealed the Geneva Motor Show this March after a four-year development program and is fabricated from state-of-the-art Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI). The block lighter and more rigid than both traditional cast-iron and aluminium units.

The engine also features a 65-degree vee angle which, Nissan says, offers an excellent compromise between crankshaft balancing, crankshaft and cylinder-block reliability and engine packaging. It also allows enough space for the single turbocharger to be neatly mounted in the valley.

The combustion chamber design has been optimised to improve the balance between emission levels and fuel efficiency. Compression ratio has been lowered to 16:1 (convetnional diesels are much higher) to benefit not just economy and emissions but also noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), while internal engine friction is reduced by the use of ultra smooth components such as the micro-finished forged steel used for the crankshaft.

Class-leading levels of torque and highly competitive specific power outputs are delivered thanks to the adoption of a comparatively large single turbocharger, an intercooler and the use of the latest generation of Bosch common-rail fuel injection. This system incorporates piezo injectors and operates at 1800 bar.

Peak torque of 550 Nm is achieved from as low as 1700rpm trough to 2500rpm. A hefty 500 Nm is available from 1500rpm. Idle speed is an exceptionally low 650rpm.

With the new engine Pathfinder's braked towing capacity is 3500kg with Navara having a 3000kg limit.

To achieve Euro 5 compliance, the engineers opted for an overcooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system, which reduces NOx emissions. The system incorporates an integrated exhaust gas by-pass in the EGR cooler that quickly helps to achieve the optimum temperature after start up so that the full cooling capacity can be used. This features a low temperature water circuit for the EGR cooler to reduce still further the temperature of the exhaust gas and lower carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions.

Equally significant is the treatment of the tailpipe emissions. The system comprises a metallic oxidation catalytic converter offering lower pressure loss compared to a ceramic system and an exothermic catalyst and a catalytic diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the same container. The latter arrangement works in conjunction with a seventh fuel injector that is positioned in the exhaust. This is activated while the particulate filter is being regenerated - a process of which the driver is completely unaware - but significantly means the opportunity for unburnt fuel to pollute the engine oil is removed. It also allows the filter to be regenerated in low-load conditions, such as idling, and therefore achieves a high efficiency level under all driving conditions. It also helps stretch oil change intervals to as much as 20,000 km for most customers.

The new '550' badged models also receive Nissan's new seven-speed automatic transmission.

A greater feature list also joins the new model range with Pathfinder Ti models adding rear privacy glass, auto headlights, sunroof wind deflector, rain-sensing wipers, smoked bonnet protector, side moulding and V6 badges, rear fog lamps and body coloured heated door mirrors on the outside, while inside, an upgraded DVD player features additional functionality, a nine-speaker audio system and an anti-theft alarm.

For the Nissan Navara ST-X 550, the additional equipment list comprises a tub liner, satin black sportsbar with LED high level brake light, a hard tonneau cover complete with remote central locking, smoked bonnet protector, front fog lights, headlamp washers, privacy glass, side mouldings and V6 badges.

"This exceptional engine sets new standards for the class, producing an iconic flagship model for both Navara and Pathfinder with unbeatable performance and refinement," said CEO of Nissan Motor Company Australia, Dan Thompson.

"With the Navara we have a pinnacle dual cab ute that is untouchable in terms of outright torque, while the Pathfinder now has a premium, refined engine that is the envy of the class. Both set significantly enhanced performance benchmarks that rivals will struggle to approach. It is one of Nissan Australia's cornerstone products aimed at giving us No.1 importer status in the medium term.

"The new engine, gearbox and additional equipment mean these two exclusive models represent the jewel in the crown for both the Nissan Pathfinder and Navara ranges. The high levels of performance and luxury features will also appeal to customers of prestige and luxury vehicles, while retaining traditional Nissan levels of affordability," he stated.

Pricing for the new Nissan Navara ST-X 550 and Pathfinder Ti 550 will be announced closer to the vehicles' launch in January.

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