2026 Nissan Navara Debuts, Channeling Mitsubishi Heritage
Nissan this week broadened its badge strategy by unveiling a Navara built on a Triton-derived platform. The mid-size truck closely mirrors the latest-generation Mitsubishi Triton that debuted in 2023.
Platform sharing is common in this segment. Ford Ranger and VW Amarok share their underpinnings, the previous Navara connected with the Renault Alaskan and Mercedes X-Class, and in China the Dongfeng Rich 6 is effectively a Navara wearing a different badge. This approach helps cut development time and costs in a highly competitive market.
Beyond badge swapping, Nissan collaborated with Premcar in Australia to fine‑tune the suspension for a wide range of tasks—from city driving to off‑road use, towing, and carrying a full payload.
Styling leans on the Triton origin but with its own character. The Navara adopts a rugged look and a front end that nods to the classic D21 Navara, while the distinctive C‑shape light signature sets it apart from its donor model.
2026 Navara: Variants and Capabilities
The lineup centers on the PRO-4X, with entry grades offering fewer off‑road bits. A rugged Warrior concept from Premcar, based on the PRO-4X, features a raised suspension, 17‑inch wheels wrapped in 32‑inch tires, beefier fenders, extra underbody protection, and additional driving lamps.
The flagship tow rating stands at 3,500 kg (7,716 lb) with a wider track and lava‑red accents and bold Warrior badging inside and out.
Powertrain and Drivetrain
In Australia, Navaras are powered by a 2.4‑liter turbo‑diesel delivering 201 hp and 470 Nm of torque, paired with a six‑speed automatic. The lower trims offer an electronic rear differential lock and an Easy 4WD system that engages four‑wheel drive when needed.
Moving up to the ST‑X and PRO‑4X grades brings a more advanced Super 4WD system with a Torsen limited‑slip differential and a choice of seven drive modes: Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand, and Rock. All variants use electric power steering.
Payload capacity varies by grade, ranging from roughly 950 to 1,047 kg, with the shown model currently being a double‑cab configuration.
Inside, the cabin mirrors the Triton influence, with a Mitsubishi badge on the steering wheel, a standard nine‑inch touchscreen, and a seven‑inch digital gauge cluster flanked by analog dials. Physical controls remain for quick operation on the move.
Safety tech is comprehensive, including adaptive cruise control, automatic headlights, traffic sign recognition, blind‑spot monitoring with lane‑change assist, emergency lane assist, and an emergency function to prevent unintended acceleration if the wrong pedal is pressed.
Nissan plans to bring the Navara to Australia and New Zealand in the first quarter of next year.
Note: A gallery below highlights the donor vehicle, the Mitsubishi Triton.
