KUALA LUMPUR: Bookings are open for the new Nissan NP300 Navara 2.5-litre pick-up truck which packs more power and cabin comforts.
Estimated price tags are RM85,000 (single cab); RM95,000 (E grade); RM104,000 (SE manual); RM109,000 (SE auto); RM115,000 (V grade) and RM125,000 (VL grade).
Its first-in-class features include a rear spoiler, LED headlamp with daytime running light, multi-link rear suspension, seven-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, rear air-conditioning vents, and zero gravity inspired seats.
"It is still the mother trucker with best power and torque in the 2.5-litre segment," said Edaran Tan Chong Motor senior manager (product planning) Kang Hean Lee at a media preview at Tan Chong Motor Assemblies in Segambut.
Only the top VL grade's 2.5-litre engine is tuned with a maximum power of 190ps at 3,600rpm and torque of 450Nm at 2,000rpm.
The other variants have the same engine, but is tuned with lower power ratings of 163ps at 3,600rpm and torque of 403Nm at 2,000rpm for better fuel economy.
Only the top three grades have the seven-speed automatic transmission while the rest have a six-speed manual.
Except for the single cab which has rear leaf springs, all NP300 Navara double cab variants have a five-link rear suspension that provides better comfort, handling and stability.
"We believe its first-in-class multi-link rear suspension is a game changer. With today's dynamic and versatile lifestyles, consumers want a tough, strong and robust pick-up which also has the comfort and versatility of a passenger vehicle," said Tan Chong Motor executive director Christopher Tan.
"Based on our engagements with customers and fleet owners, 70% of double-cab pick-up owners use their vehicles mainly for leisure. And, we still offer the single-cab for those who prefer rear leaf springs," said Tan.
Features exclusive to the top VL grade include LED headlamps with daytime running lights, roof rails, leather seats, a powered driver's seat and 255/60 R18 tyres.
Other variants get halogen lights and 16-inch wheels.
Depending on variant, the NP300 Navara can come with intelligent key with push-start ignition, as well as a five-inch display with radio, USB connectivity, rear view camera and six speakers.
All variants have shift-on-the-fly 4x4, which allows switching between 2WD and 4WD (4H) modes with a twist of a dial at speeds of up to 100kph.
As for safety features, all variants have dual front airbags.
Only the top four variants get ABS (anti-lock braking system), EBD (electronic brake force distribution), brake assist (BA), VDC (vehicle dynamic control), TCS (traction control system), ABLS (active brake limited slip), HDC (hill descent control) and HSA (hill start assist).
The NP300 Navara is offered in four colours, namely Savanna Orange, Tungsten Silver, Diamond Black and Brilliant White.
Test drive carnivals will be held at Edaran Tan Chong Motor showrooms from November 14 till 22, 2015.
