Setting their sights

By Colin Windell

 

Nissan is going big at the Grain SA Nampo show in Bothaville and introducing a new flagship for its NP300 bakkie range in the form of the 2.5 TDI four-cylinder 4x4 Double Cab.

The turbo-diesel engine delivers 98 kW and 304 Nm of torque and Xavier Gobille, Managing Director for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales at Nissan Group of Africa, says: “The new Nissan NP300 2.5 TDI 4x4 Double Cab is perhaps the best proof of our close relationship with the agricultural community. 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 the NP300 2.5TDI 4x4 Double Cab, which has been thoroughly tested and which we will introduce across South Africa, Namibia and other neighbouring countries in July this year.”

The new NP300 2.5TDI 4x4 Double Cab takes centre stage at the Nampo Show, where it has been 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 best-seller, especially to specialist industries such as farming, mining and the South African Police Service. It is known for its robust build quality and low cost of ownership and is the low-cost 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 will showcase its entire range of pick-ups at Nampo, including the new Navara 4x2 double cab, the best-selling NP200 and the heavy-duty Patrol Pick-Up. The latter will be on display in a very large sandpit, where children can play in the sand while their parents walk around the show.

Aside from its range of pick-ups, which is the largest of any manufacturer in South Africa, Nissan will also showcase its recently upgraded Nissan X-Trail and its popular Qashqai. It has also created a special Performance Corner, which will have a brutal Nissan GT-R and the recently upgraded Nissan 370Z on display, complete with radio-controlled replicas of both cars that guests can race around the stand.

The NAMPO Harvest Day Festival will take place near Bothaville in the Free State from May 15, 2018.