New Nissan Navara Relies on Mitsubishi to Compete with Hilux and Ranger | Carscoops

      Nissan aims to demonstrate that the new Navara is more than just a Mitsubishi Triton with a different exterior.

      The 2026 Nissan Navara is built on the foundation of the Mitsubishi Triton.

      It showcases unique design features and a suspension tuned locally by Premcar.

      Sales will commence in Australia and New Zealand in the first quarter of 2026.

      Nissan has finally unveiled one of several new Navara pickup models designed for diverse global markets. Introduced in Australia, this latest generation boasts a tougher, more dynamic look while sharing much of its core engineering with the Mitsubishi Triton.

      The company is banking on distinct styling elements and a locally customized suspension developed in partnership with Australian engineering firm Premcar to give the Navara a unique identity. The objective is to differentiate it from its Mitsubishi counterpart and enhance its standing in the highly competitive midsize pickup segment.

      The exterior's standout feature is the entirely redesigned front end. The angular grille is flanked by Patrol-style LED headlights and a robust bumper inspired by bull bars.

      The greenhouse and body panels on the side are mainly taken from the Mitsubishi Triton that debuted in 2023, but the taillights feature Nissan-specific LED designs.

      At its launch, Nissan presented various trims, including the mid-tier ST-X and the high-end Pro-4X. The latter boldly displays its character with Lava Red accents, flared wheel arches, a sports bar, and dark alloy wheels.

      A comprehensive array of accessories will also be available, such as a steel bull bar, a canopy, a snorkel, and tonneau covers, enabling owners to customize the truck to their specifications.

      The show also featured a surprise appearance of a concept for the upcoming Navara Warrior by Premcar, which will be the top model focusing on off-road capabilities.

      This concept included an off-road bumper with integrated lighting, enhanced underbody protection, 17-inch beadlock-style wheels fitted with 32.2-inch all-terrain tires, and a modified suspension that increases the ride height by 14 mm (0.6 inches).

      Inside, the cabin draws heavily from the Triton but features Nissan-specific accents and branding to maintain as much distinction as possible considering the constraints.

      The dashboard includes a new 9-inch infotainment system, along with updated driver-assistance features and more rear seat legroom. In the Pro-4X trim, the interior is upgraded with leather upholstery featuring red stitching and accents.

      As previously mentioned, the pickup utilizes the ladder-frame chassis of the Mitsubishi Triton. It is the first Navara to integrate electric power steering, bringing it in line with competitors. Additionally, it features a custom suspension developed in Australia by Premcar.

      Under the hood, there is a recognizable 2.4-liter biturbo diesel engine that produces up to 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 470 Nm (346.7 lb-ft) of torque. Compared to its predecessor, this engine offers increased power and torque while also enhancing fuel efficiency to an average consumption of 7.7 lt/100km (30.5 MPG).

      The entry-level Navara will come equipped with an “Easy 4WD” system featuring automatic operation and a standard electronic rear differential lock. The ST-X and Pro-4X versions will upgrade to a Super 4WD system that includes a lockable center differential and selectable drive modes, similar to the Mitsubishi Super Select 4WD-II system.

      Towing capacity remains at 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) while maximum payload ranges from 950 to 1,047 kg (2,094–2,308 lbs), aligning it with expected industry standards for the segment.

      Nissan plans to launch the new Navara in Australia and New Zealand in the first quarter of 2026, with pricing details to follow nearer the release date. Upon its sale, it will encounter familiar competitors, such as the recently redesigned Toyota Hilux and the refreshed Ford Ranger, which continue to dominate sales in Australia.

      Collaborations between manufacturers are common in this segment. Mechanical partnerships have turned the market into a shared workshop, with the Ford Ranger and VW Amarok working together, and the Mazda BT-50 sharing its platform with the Isuzu D-Max.

      Now, Nissan and Mitsubishi are entering the landscape, focusing on reducing development costs while expanding their market reach. Notably, the new pickup truck for Australia and New Zealand is entirely different from the Navara sold in South America, the Frontier available in North America, and China’s Frontier Pro.

      Despite targeting similar audiences, each variation has been independently developed, highlighting that regional requirements still influence how a pickup is designed.