The Nissan Navara has been around since 2017, but should you consider it as a used buy on SA’s second-hand market in 2025?
The Nissan Navara (D23 generation) has been a prominent fixture in the South African market since its initial arrival as an import in 2017. Its defining characteristic upon introduction was the pioneering use of an SUV-like coil-spring rear suspension setup in the double-cab segment, a design choice intended to offer superior ride quality and refinement. This initial phase set the groundwork for a significant shift in June 2021, when a heavily updated version, featuring a substantial facelift and numerous technical improvements, began local production at Nissan’s facility in Rosslyn, South Africa. This strategic move positioned the Navara as “built in Africa for Africa”, tailoring it more specifically to local conditions and preferences.
A rundown on the Nissan Navara
The D23-series Navara in South Africa is best understood through its two distinct phases: the pre-facelift models sold between 2017 and 2021, and the facelifted, locally-produced models available from 2021 to present. In its initial, imported phase, the Navara featured a 2.3-litre, four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine. This engine delivered 140 kW and 450 N.m of torque, and was paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission. Drivetrain options included both 4×2 (rear-wheel drive) and 4×4 (four-wheel drive) configurations, the latter equipped with low-range gearing and a locking rear differential to manage South Africa’s diverse terrains.
In 2021, Nissan made a strategic decision to streamline the powertrain offerings when the facelifted model arrived. The engine lineup shifted to a reliable (but older) 2.5-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine (DDTi). This engine was made available in two states of tune: a mid-output version generating 120 kW and 403 N.m of torque, and a high-output version producing 140 kW and 450 N.m of torque. The latter was primarily used in double-cabs and higher-spec models, available with either a six-speed manual or the seven-speed automatic transmission.
The 2021 facelift introduced comprehensive updates, including a more aggressive appearance with a prominent “V-motion” grille and C-shaped LED headlamps. Under the skin, the five-link coil rear suspension system, which had been a talking point since 2017, was refined. The chassis frame was reinforced, and the load bay was deepened and lengthened – increasing the overall load capacity to over a tonne on some variants. Inside, the cabin received a modern overhaul with a new steering wheel, an updated instrument cluster featuring a 7.0-inch TFT display, and a contemporary 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Related: 2025 Nissan Navara Stealth Review
What to look out for when buying a used Nissan Navara
- Service history: A complete, well-documented service history is non-negotiable. Scrutinise records for evidence of regular oil and filter changes. This is vital for the longevity of the diesel engines, particularly concerning components like the timing chain and crankshaft assembly.
- Chassis condition: Inspect the undercarriage and chassis rails for any signs of rust, cracks, or impact damage.
- Transmission: For the manual transmission, listen for clutch shudder or vibrations when driving. This can indicate wear on the dual-mass flywheel. For automatic models, check the fluid level and condition (it should be a clear reddish colour, not dark or smelling burnt). Also, pay attention to any harsh or delayed shifts when test driving a unit.
- Suspension: The coil-spring rear suspension is a key feature, but it can wear out faster if constantly subjected to heavy loads or harsh corrugated roads. Check for any sagging at the rear, uneven ride height, or unusual clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps.
- Engine & turbocharger: The 2.3-litre twin-turbo is a complex unit. Check for any persistent blue smoke from the exhaust (indicating oil burning) or unusual whistling or grinding noises that might suggest turbocharger issues. The 2.5-litre engine in the newer models is generally considered robust, but the same checks apply.
Which one to get?
For someone needing a genuine workhorse, the locally-produced 2.5 DDTi XE or SE single-cab models represent excellent value. If you want a bakkie that balances daily family and leisure use with occasional light work or towing, the facelifted double-cab models (post-2021) offer a significantly improved experience. Off-roading enthusiasts should focus their search on any 4×4 double-cab model, ideally a Pro-4X or a standard high-spec variant with the locking rear differential and low-range gearing.
For the budget-conscious buyer, the pre-facelift, 2017-2020 double-cabs can be found at significantly lower price points in the used market. They still provide that smooth, unique coil-spring ride and strong performance from the 2.3-litre twin-turbo engine. Ultimately, the post-2021 locally-produced 2.5-litre models provide a more complete, refined package, and come with a more extensive new-vehicle warranty (a six-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty and a six-year/90 000 km service plan), making them a slightly more secure investment for peace of mind.
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