Nissan Navara PRO-4X Review

The Nissan Navara is one New Zealand’s most popular one-tonne utes. The top range PRO-4X model features a 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, a six-speed automatic transmission and unique styling elements. The new model feels like it can handle anything from work and family duties to weekend adventures without any fuss. 

The Nissan Navara has always had a loyal following in New Zealand, but this new generation could mark a major shift. For the first time, the Navara has been co-developed with Mitsubishi and is based almost entirely on the Triton.

The latest Navara moves away from Nissan’s traditional in-house engineering approach and now shares its ladder-frame chassis, twin-turbo diesel engine, and much of its bodywork with its Mitsubishi sibling.

There are four models in the new Navara range: SL ($54,690), ST ($57,690), ST-X ($62,690) and PRO-4X ($67,690). We spent a week with the top-tier PRO-4X, which Nissan pitches as the lifestyle-focused flagship model. 

The PRO-4X leans heavily into its visual character. Compared with the rest of the Navara range, it gets darker exterior details, black 17-inch alloys wrapped in all-terrain tyres, flared wheel arches and signature ‘Lava Red’ accents dotted throughout. It’s a popular look that Kiwi buyers welcome, especially as utes continue to double as both work and weekend lifestyle vehicles.

Inside, the PRO-4X gets leather-accented trim with red stitching and heated seats, giving the cabin more of an SUV feel than a traditional workhorse vibe. Helped by clean horizontal lines running across the dashboard, it also feels more refined and modern than the previous Navara.

The driver’s display keeps the familiar blend of analogue-style dials and digital centre screen, but the cabin now features a nine-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Under the bonnet sits a 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox and 4WD drivetrain. The twin-turbo setup produces 150kW and 470Nm, giving it strong low-end pull, and makes the Navara well suited for carrying heavy loads and towing.

As expected, the Navara offers a 3,500kg braked towing capacity. The cargo tray has grown slightly, now measuring 1,555mm long, while the 1,000kg payload is retained. That keeps it practical for both tradies and leisure users. 

Safety is a strong suit, with a 5-star ANCAP rating and a comprehensive suite of driver-assist systems standard across the range. However, the driver attention warning is particularly sensitive,  and was quick to chime in even when simply turning to check the mirrors. The safety kit also includes adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera. 

If there is one area where the new Navara PRO-4X really stands out, it’s ride quality. With input from Premcar, the suspension has been developed and tuned specifically for New Zealand roads, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all setup.

One standout detail is the use of internal rebound springs in the front dampers, which is a rare feature in this segment and immediately noticeable on the road. Unladen, the Navara feels controlled and stable at higher speeds, with body roll building gradually rather than suddenly.

In real-world terms, that means better stability on bumpy roads and a smoother ride over uneven urban surfaces – two things Kiwi drivers deal with regularly. Compared with many rivals, the Navara feels less 'busy' over rough surfaces and more settled at highway speeds.

The PRO-4X backs up its rugged styling with serious hardware. It uses Nissan’s Super 4WD system with a Torsen centre differential, allowing it to run in full-time all-wheel drive on sealed surfaces – a major advantage over part-time systems in mixed conditions.

There’s also a full suite of terrain modes, including Mud, Sand and Rock, plus low-range gearing, hill descent control and a locking rear diff. We did not get the chance to properly test these off-road, but it is reassuring to see the hardware fitted.

Ground clearance sits at 228mm, with approach and departure angles of 30.4 and 22.8 degrees respectively, giving the Navara genuine off-road ability straight from the showroom.

At $67,690 plus ORC for the Navara PRO-4X, its biggest strength is not outright power or flashy features, but its balance. The new model delivers a much more cohesive package than previous versions, and the tuned suspension gives it a genuine edge in ride comfort and real-world usability.

It may not completely dethrone the segment leaders, but it no longer feels like it is chasing them. For buyers wanting a ute that can handle work, family activities and weekend adventures without making the daily commute feel like a compromise, the Navara PRO-4X is easily the most convincing version Nissan has produced to date.