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CM tests the latest version of the Nissan Navara and is surprised by how far its 3-litre engine can go
Competition among pick-ups is heating up. and the established Japanese hierarchy will be worried that their products will not only lose ground to rivals - such as Volkswagen's Amarok and the new Ford Ranger -but will also begin to look dated. An all-new Navara was launched in 2005. but was refreshed in 2010 with a mild makeover and some mechanical tweaks. We tested this new model last year (21 October 20 10) in the shape of a 188hp, 2.5-litre, four-cylinder double cab. We found that the changes inside and out made the 2010 Navara a more sophisticated vehicle, which continued to offer a balanced blend to suit practical business requirements as well as lifestyle needs. Upgrades to the engine line-up over the previous model range meant that the October test vehicle produced an impressive 188hp and a whopping 450Nm of torque. However, despite it being the second most powerful engine available in the pick-up market, it was still only the second most powerful model in the Navara line-up. and the 231 hp V6 Outlaw remained untested - until now.
Productivity
With over a tonne of payload being pulled around by a 3-litre engine, we weren't expecting the Navara to impress us too much at the pumps. However, a fully loaded fuel economy lest saw the V6 engine return a commendable 31.9mpg, while the unladen journey saw it record 30.2mpg.
Power and fuel aside, the Navara also handles up to 1 .090kg of weight, and is capable of accommodating up to 2.36m^sup 2^ of payload across its rear deck. Restraining loads is often a problem in pick-ups. which is usually exacerbated when off-road....