MOTORING NEWS - Nissan South Africa celebrated this year's Nampo Harvest Show with a wide range of its pick-ups, crossovers and even an extreme sports car on display.
But as it behoves the country's biggest agricultural show, the brand-new Nissan NP300 Hardbody Double Cab took centre stage. The new model replaces the 2,4 petrol double cab and 2,5 4x4 single cab.
The new version introduces Nissan's tough and reliable 2,5 TDI four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine to the 4x4 double cab range, creating a new flagship model.
The engine delivers 98kW and 304Nm of torque and is one of Nissan's most popular engines thanks to its extreme durability, ease of servicing and low fuel consumption.
"The new Nissan NP300 2,5 TDI 4x4 Double Cab is perhaps the best proof of our close relationship with the agricultural community," says Xavier Gobille, managing director for sales, marketing and after sales at Nissan Group of Africa. The model was created after we received feedback from farmers and dealers in rural communities on the need for a diesel-powered off-road capable NP300 double cab. We obliged with this vehicle, which has been thoroughly tested and which we will introduce across South Africa, Namibia and other neighbouring countries in July."
Nissan showed its upcoming all-new Micra in Bothaville for the first time.
The new NP300 was fitted with a range of additional luxuries to create the Rogue Special Edition. The luxuries include black alloy wheels, Rogue decals, black embroidered leather seats and a plush carpet set.
The Rogue NP300 will also be equipped with an upgraded audio system with integrated Bluetooth connectivity and satellite navigation.
Nissan's NP300 is a perennial bestseller, especially to specialist industries such as farming, mining and the South African Police Service.
The Nissan Navara at Nampo.
It is known for its robust build quality and low cost of ownership and is the class leader in the annual Kinsey Report for the cost of repairs and servicing.
"While the new model will be welcomed by farmers, we are sure it will also find favour with budget-conscious families and outdoor enthusiasts. It is by no means a stripped-down bakkie as it features ample specification levels. Yet it will be one of the most affordable 4x4-model double cabs in the market when it is launched," says Gobille.
Nissan showcased its entire range of pick-ups at Nampo, including the new Navara 4x2 double cab, the best-selling NP200 and the heavy-duty Patrol Pickup.
Nissan also used the widely attended Nampo show to showcase its brand-new Nissan Micra, which will be introduced in South Africa in June 2018.
The Nissan NP300 Hardbody 2,5 TDI 4x4 Double Cab with Rogue accessory package on display at the recent Nampo Agricultural Show in the Free State.
The new Nissan Micra and flagship Hardbody set the tone for an impressive display at the show, which also showed visitors a range of other segment-leading products. These included the Nissan X-Trail and Qashqai, that are world leaders in the crossover market, the new V8 Nissan Patrol and the highly popular Nissan R35 GT-R, which created and dominates the market for affordable, everyday supercars.
"We remain committed to the farming community through our network of rural and small-town dealers and our participation in various national and local agricultural forums. We look forward to returning next year," says Gobille.
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