Island Life Magazine Ltd February / March 2016 | Page 56

MOTORING NISSAN: NP300 Navara T here’s a new kid on the block from Nissan – in the shape of its new generation, one-tonne pickup, the NP300 Navara. This new workhorse of a model is a thoughtfully updated version of the previous incarnation, with a tough and extremely robust chassis that enhances both driveability and practicality. It also delivers a whole new level of comfort, with features that add car-like refinement and style. And, for ultimate peace of mind, the NP300 tops off the package with a whopping five- year or 100,000 miles warranty. Inside the cab you’ll find AVM (around view monitor) and FEB (forward emergency braking), both highly-acclaimed crossover features. To enhance the driving experience Nissan has also introduced eLSD (electronic Limited Slip Differential), which improves cornering balance and gives the vehicle a much more secure feel all round. You also have the usual bag of goodies such as Cruise Control, Hill Descent and Hill Start Assist, all of which have been uniquely designed for the new NP300. The dashboard has been re-designed 56 www.visitilife.com from the ground up, to give much more cabin space and a more open feel. Even the front seats are more ergonomic, thanks to having been inspired by space age technology used by NASA. On the outside of the vehicle you can see that the body has been re-styled to be the most aerodynamic to date. Little adjustments here and there, together with a new tailgate spoiler, make this the most efficient pickup vehicle yet. The NP300 is available with four trim levels, Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta and Tenka. All models come with seven airbags, electronic braking distribution, hill start assist, cruise control and power windows. Powering the NP300 is a new 2.3-litre dCI engine, which is 24 per cent more efficient than the unit it replaces, and is being hailed as the cleanest and most economical in its sector. There are two power options available, 120kW or 140kW, and the range--topping version introduces twin turbo-charging technology, a first for Nissan. The latest model launches with a choice of two or four wheel drive, and the