Nissan, which has been in the news lately for a lot less than the right reasons, is hoping the relaunch of its South African-manufactured Navara Stealth, marking its return after an absence of nearly six years, will turn the tide of negative publicity
The new Stealth variant aims to build on the Navara foundation, presenting a sharper and more assertive design tailored for drivers seeking enhanced presence from their double-cab. Positioned as a powerful option, it targets those requiring a bakkie adept at weekday urban commutes, weekend hauling duties over highways and challenging terrain and weekend social gatherings.
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“Despite its name, the Stealth isn’t subtle or quiet by any means. Although it trades the striking chrome of the Navara for a bold matte and gloss black accents, its road presence is far too daring to miss,” stated Maciej Klenkiewicz, Country Director for Nissan South Africa and Independent Markets Africa (IMA). He added, “A Navara Stealth driver is someone particularly drawn to the power and precision of a masterfully engineered bakkie yet still wants to arrive in a vehicle that turns heads.”
Visually, the Stealth features a deep black finish applied to the roof rails, grille, mirror caps, door handles and side steps, complementing the Stealth signature on the doors and tailgate. Elements like a nudge bar, sports bar, and 17-inch alloy wheels contribute to its character. Inside, a refinished cabin includes all-black leather-trimmed seats, door panels, and arm rests. Technology includes a configurable touch infotainment screen supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, feeding sound through six speakers, alongside front and rear USB-C ports for faster device charging.
Mechanically, the Stealth retains the Navara range’s five-link rear suspension system with coil springs – a feature distinguishing it from traditional leaf spring setups. Recalibrated dampers with faster rebound recovery are designed to allow the rear suspension to return to its normal position more swiftly after compression, aiming to improve comfort and handling, potentially reducing fatigue on longer journeys or rough surfaces.
Power comes from a 2,5-litre DDTi diesel engine, delivering 140 kW and 450 Nm through a seven-speed gearbox. Peak torque is available at 2 000 r/min, with maximum power reached at 3 600 r/min. Combined with an 80-litre fuel tank, Nissan highlights the engine's efficiency, suggesting the Stealth can traverse significant distances, like crossing the Karoo on a single tank.
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The Stealth's production at Nissan's Rosslyn plant underscores the facility’s adaptability in manufacturing derivatives specifically for the African market without impacting production line speed. This flexibility aims to align output closely with customer demand and supports the pursuit of new export opportunities in West and East Africa.
“The Navara Stealth again demonstrates Nissan’s long-term dedication to the African market," said Jordi Vila, President of Nissan Africa. "As part of our comprehensive product strategy, we've recently introduced several key models across the continent, including the Navara to Egypt and the New Magnite to Morocco.
Joining the Warrior and PRO-4X, the Stealth's launch represents another milestone in the roll-out of a pipeline of products tailored for African customers."
Vila concluded, “Africa remains a bakkie-focused continent, with evolving demand for resilient 4x4s and 4x2s capable of handling challenging road conditions. As Nissan expands globally and refines current offerings, the Stealth signifies our commitment to meeting customer requirements at every turn.” The Stealth is positioned as a head-turning, capable addition to Nissan's African bakkie lineup.”
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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