Peak torque of 550Nm is on tap from the V6 across a 1,700rpm-to-2,500rpm plateau, while a useful 500Nm is available from 1,500rpm. Idling speed is a remarkably-low 650rpm, and without excessive vibration and noise says Nissan.
The existing 2.5-litre four-cylinder dCi diesel hasn’t been forgotten either, with an 11 per cent/19hp boost in power to a pretty generous 190hp. Torque is up by 11 per cent too, by a healthy 47Nm to 450Nm, but CO2 emissions are down by 40g/km, to 224g/km.
The engine changes form part of a mid-term revamp for Navara. Externally it gets a new bonnet, a revised front grille and a new bumper assembly. The latter adds 80mm to the vehicle’s overall length.
Internally the bins in the doors can now accommodate an A3 map book as well as a one-litre bottle of water. Navara fans will also spot new switchgear and seat fabric, changed door trims, chrome highlights and reworked dials.
The options list now includes 18in alloy wheels and Electronic Stability Programme is newly available too. Options for the interior include a Nissan Connect Premium touch-screen satellite navigation system, a Bose sound system and a rear view camera.
With a 65-degree vee angle, the Euro-5-compliant V6 engine features a compacted graphite iron block. It offers all the benefits of cast iron, including high levels of stiffness and noise absorption, without the weight penalty.
Admittedly the 3.0-litre’s block is heavier than one made from pure alloy, but with compacted graphite iron there is no need to add stiffening ribs or extra sound deadening material. As a consequence the weight gain is comparatively modest.
A large single turbocharger sits within the angle of the vee and the Bosch common rail fuel injection system with its piezo injectors operates at a pressure of 1,800 bar. Also fitted are an overcooled exhaust gas recirculation system which helps to reduce harmful NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions along with a particulate trap.