Nissan Navara ST-X 2015 Long-term review - 1

Nissan Navara ST-X
Long-Term Test (Introduction)

The Nissan NP300-series Navara range is topped by the ST-X dual-cab, the latest vehicle to undergo our long-term test regime. Over the next few months we will sample the seven-speed automatic, five-seater ute over a range of surfaces and conditions, comparing it to its direct opposition in the process. Powered by a smaller 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel producing 140kW/450Nm the $54,490 (plus on-road costs) is more efficient than before at 7.0L/100km combined and can tow up to 3500kg (braked).

Long-Term Tests
motoring.com.au aims to make your choice of vehicle easier. Our Editorial section does this via our mix of news, international and local launch reviews as well as our seven-day tests.

From time to time we also take the opportunity to spend more time in a vehicle. These longer-term tests can be as short as a couple of weeks, but more recently we've settled on a six-month period as indicative of 'normal' ownership.

Long-term tests give our staff writers and contributors a chance to get to know a car as an owner would. While the car is with us, we pay for fuel, pay for the servicing and generally use and live with the car as a new owner would.

We believe long-term tests give car buyers an added insight into the vehicle on test, but also the qualities behind the brand and nameplate. The extended period also allows us to touch base with the dealer networks in question.

It comes as no surprise that manufacturers tend to have a love-hate relationship with long-term tests. Six months is plenty long enough to fall out of love with the latest and greatest, and start to nitpick – just like real owners do.

Nissan Navara ST-X
Our fiery red Nissan Navara ST-X dual-cab immediately stands out in the motoring.com.au carpark, though the colour forms only a part of that equation: this beast is big, and immediately poses an underground carpark problem as a result.

Swap a city car park for a worksite, however, and the latest Navara, here in the top-spec ST-X auto form (priced at $54,490, plus ORCs) makes more sense. And despite its ominous size, under-body improvements and increased comfort and efficiency give the NP300-series Navara more duality than its predecessor.

The last of the D40-series, previous-gen Navaras used an impressively grunty 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6. It produced 170kW and 550Nm of torque. In seven-speed auto form, it cost $57,890; over $3000 more than the current ST-X dualie.

It did, however, consume significantly more fuel, a claimed 9.3L/100km on the combined cycle.

The NP300's new 2.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel generates 140kW and 450Nm, in the ballpark against its key opponents, but well off its high-spec predecessor. Peak power is produced at a 3750rpm with torque maximised from 1500-2500rpm.

Countering this is the new donk's increased efficiency. It's claimed combined fuel economy is an impressive 7.0L/100km in 'our' ST-X auto. The six-speed manual is better still, achieving a car-like 6.5L/100km. Opting for a clutch pedal also saves $2500 off the initial purchase price.

Other NP300 key measurements include a 3500kg (braked) towing capacity, a 930kg payload, 1130mm width between the cargo bed's wheel arches and 1503mm floor length. The fuel tank holds 80 litres of diesel.

Under the modernised, yet still tough, utility body – complete with the 'V-Motion' corporate front-end treatment – there's independent double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear. Power steering is a standard and though the Navara's front braking is achieved via a ventilated disc, the rear retains a drum brake layout.

Navara ST-X equipment levels have been well advanced in the new model's advent. It rides on 18-inch alloys with 255/60-series rubber and a full-size (matching) alloy spare. The exterior is also enhanced with LED projector headlights and heated, power door mirrors with integrated LED indicators.

There's also a sports alloy roll bar mounted behind the cabin with high-mounted stop light, privacy glass to second row and rear window (which also slides open electrically) and a lockable tailgate.

Stepping up into the Navara ST-X cabin presents a marked step-change. An 'intelligent' keyless entry system opens to a five-seat cabin with push-button start.

The seats themselves are leather-appointed, with seat heating to the front pews as well as eight-way electric adjustment for the driver (though the front-row passenger makes to do with manual adjustment).

There's six-speaker audio with Bluetooth streaming, operated via a 7.0-inch colour touchscreen that also features satellite navigation and a reversing camera (there's also rear parking sensors).

Dual-zone climate control, with additional vents to the rear, is welcome [Ed: especially as more buyers seek dual-cab utes as a family recreational vehicle] and small touches such as the auto anti-dazzle interior mirror further highlight an interior package that could hold its own against many passenger vehicles.

Safety is also enhanced, with front to rear curtain airbags fitted throughout the Navara range. There are front and side airbags fitted for the driver and front passenger. A driver's knee bag is also included.

Traction control, anti-lock brakes and stability control are included, as are hill-start assist, hill-descent control and a locking rear differential. Nissan has not forsaken the Navara's revered off-road capability, either, and that is only enhanced by the active limited-slip brake control. Tackling tough terrain is also easier thanks to 32.4-degree approach and 26.7-degree departure angles, and a 2.717 ratio low-range transfer case.

A three-year/100,000km warranty is standard, with roadside assist available at no extra cost during the warranty period. Capped-price servicing is available for the first six years or 120,000km, whichever comes first. This places the service interval at a strong 20,000km.

Initial impressions are of a substantial, versatile utility which remains a little on the large side to be used as a city dweller with much regularity. Having said that, steering effort – along with the reversing camera and sat-nav – assist in the Navara's on-road life.

The diesel engine sounds harsh at idle and under load, though quietens down appreciably at highway speeds, using the overdriven seventh gear of the smooth-shifting autobox to maximum advantage. To be honest, it's not a particularly accelerative lump, either; I'd take the extra lug of the previous 550 variant and sacrifice some economy.

Of course the Navara rides solidly, but its lockable tray is hard-wearing and it easily survived a run to the local tip filled to the brim with rubbish.

More detailed aspects of Navara 'ownership' will be explored in the coming months... Stay tuned!

2015 Nissan Navara ST-X pricing and specifications:
Price: $54,490 (as tested, plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
Output: 140kW/450Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed automatic
Fuel: 7.0L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 186g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

What we liked:
>> Better to drive than before
>> Improved efficiency
>> Capable off-road

Not so much:
>> NVH lagging behind rivals
>> Ride quality also lagging
>> Lacks grunt of 550 variant