Photos by Ulysses Ang

Not to be outdone and outgunned in the pick-up race, Nissan Philippines invited a couple of journalists to preview the all-new 2015 NP300 Navara at the 31st Thailand Motor Expo 2014. Although the X-Trail is the main highlight of Nissan Thailand’s pavilion (it’s the venue for the Thai market’s launch), Filipino eyes looked straight towards the striking NP300 Navara which shared the stage with Nissan’s premium compact crossover.

The 2015 Nissan NP300 Navara has a bold and sleek exterior that commands attention with its trademark V-shaped grille taking center stage. New LED headlights with LED daytime running lights create a lasting impression even at night. At the back, the NP300 Navara has a functional built-in tailgate spoiler that improves aerodynamic performance by reducing drag. Higher-end models get beefy 255/60R18 tires.


Underneath the 2015 NP300 Navara is a full-length, fully-boxed frame for enhanced performance and torsional stiffness on- and off-road. The steel double wishbone front suspension and overslung rigid leaf-spring suspension also contribute to a smoother ride. Making sure it has ample traction in any terrain, the NP300 Navara gets a shift-on-the-fly 4x4 system, Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS), hill descent control, and hill start assist. In terms of powertrain, the all-new NP300 Navara gets a 2.5-liter YD25DDTi available in two tunes: 190 horsepower at 3,600 rpm / 450 Nm at 2,000 rpm or 163 horsepower at 3,600 rpm / 403 Nm at 2,000 rpm. All engines promise 19 percent better fuel efficiency thanks to various improvements including a class-leading 7-speed automatic transmission. All engines are now rated to Euro-4 standard.

Inside, comfort is assured thanks to Nissan’s Spinal-Support for the driver’s seat. Available with 8-way power adjustment, it improves driver comfort by providing better support. The NP300 Navara also comes with dual-zone climate control with rear vents, and an automatic dimming rear view mirror among the long list of standard equipment. Other key tech features include a push start engine start/stop, Bluetooth hands-free, multi-function display, and satellite controls on the steering wheel. Safety features include dual airbags and even Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), and a rear view monitor.



The all-new 2015 Nissan NP300 Navara is expected to arrive in the Philippines in the first quarter of 2015.