It's Nissan's Nirvana

Nissan struck gold when it introduced its rugged Navara bakkie into Mzansi a few years back. South African lifestyle buyers have always been fascinated with American trucks and with the Navara, Nissan offered the ideal bakkie for those who in the past contemplated importing either a GMC or a Bronco.

But with import duty and barely available service back-up, many would-be buyers simply put those trucks at the back of their minds and made do with what this country h ad to offer.

The arrival of the Navara was met with glee and those who bought them discovered a magnificent vehicle that had all the features they required; was reasonably easy on the pocket and looked fresh.

Soon you couldn't go anywhere without spotting a Navara and later the pimping bug bit hard. Lowered and louvered Navaras started popping up everywhere.

A pre-owned version should put a smile on an owner's face - the Nissan is well proven and wear and tear is likely to be minimal as owners treasure them with their lives. Expect features such as air-con, power steering, a disc/radio combo, remote steering controls and electric front seats on high spec models.

The initial Navaras were available in two engine and transmission choices. There is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder diesel and a 4.0-litre petrol V6 variant. Gearboxes are either 6-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Avoid the V6.

It's a ravenous beast that admittedly sounds fantastic but can be a pain in the pocket. The diesel is the better bet, in either 4x2 or 4x4 mode. Its torquey engine makes light work of freeway cruising and returns impressive fuel economy.

If you choose the 4x4 variant, don't bother with the hard-core off-road stuff. It's too low and long. Also note, the turning circle is horrendous.

But overall, it makes a wonderful buy if your applications are more lifestyle orientated. Three- or four-year old models should cost between R240000 and R300000 depending on mileage.

NISSAN NAVARA

We like:

Its sleek shape, reputable reliability, fair fuel economy and the 12 beverage holders.

We Don't:

Rear doors and the lost space when the rear seats are propped up.

Avoid:

E-gear models. The electronics had a tendency to go haywire for no reason. Stick to the manuals.