At grand launch event at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Nissan Philippines, Inc. (NPI) rolled out their latest generation pick-up in the 2015 Nissan NP300 Navara, a model that represents 80 years of trucking heritage for the brand.

“Everyday at Nissan, we challenge ourselves with possibility to make good products even better,” said Mr. Antonio Zara, Nissan Philippines, Inc. President and Managing Director. “Trucks are definitely tough, that is a given, but what sets us apart is that we redefined 'tough' and we equipped it with innovation that makes it 'smart'.”

The new third generation NP300 Navara is a complete redesign over its predecessor, as it features an all new design with an upscale look as highlighted by the large chrome V-motion grille, the high tech headlamps with LED projectors, masculine design elements such as the character lines, fender flares and stance, among others.

The 2015 NP300 Navara has also grown in all respects, as Nissan's new pick-up (VL 4x4 variant) now measures 5255mm long (previous: 5230mm), 1850mm wide (previous: 1795mm) and 1840mm tall (previous: 1780mm). The wheelbase has changed to 3150mm (previous: 3200mm). The Philippine-spec truck bed measures in at 1503mm x 1560mm x 474mm.

Being a double cab only model for the Philippine market, the 2015 NP300 Navara has space for 5 people, all with a high level of legroom, space, and creature comforts for retail customers. Some of the features for the top-of-the-line models include push button ignition, 18 inch wheels, automatic LED headlamps, cruise control, steering wheel audio controls, an electrochromic rear-view mirror, a 5.0” display audio system, Bluetooth and advanced safety features like traction control, dual airbags, among others.

Powering the all new Nissan Navara is the YD25 DDTi; a 2.5 liter high output variable turbo diesel engine. In the EL 4x4, EL Calibre and standard variants, the YD25 DDTi is rated to produce 163 PS at 3600 rpm and 403 Newton meters of torque at 2000 rpm. In the top spec VL 4x4 variants, the YD25 DDTi is tuned to make 190 PS at 3600 rom and 450 Newton meters at 2000 rpm. Automatic versions get a 7-speed auto gearbox while other variants get a 6-speed manual.

What's unique about the NP300 Navara is that it is the only truck currently in the Philippine market to be offered with a 5-link rear suspension with coil springs (not leaf springs) for improved comfort over any terrain or surface. All variants get the 5-link rear suspension.

“The all-new NP300 Navara is the truck that will make you proud no matter what the situation, be it a rough road drive or a relaxed cruise in the city,” continued Mr. Antonio Zara in a press statement.

NPI is looking to sell around 300 to 400 units of the NP300 Navara and are looking at getting back into the top 3 for the pickup segment. The brand is also looking to further improve its market share with a 40% sales volume increase by the end of the 2015 fiscal year.

The new generation 2015 NP300 Navara is manufactured at Nissan's new facility in Thailand and the research and development team was led by Chief Vehicle Engineer Takashi Fukui. It will be offered in Savanna Orange, Alpine White, Galaxy Black and Brilliant Silver and will have 7 variants:

2015 Nissan NP300 Navara 4x2 6MT PhP 898,000

2015 Nissan NP300 Navara 4x2 Calibre 6MT PhP 938,000

2015 Nissan NP300 Navara 4x2 EL Calibre 6MT PhP 1,038,000

2015 Nissan NP300 Navara 4x2 EL Calibre 7AT PhP 1,108,000

2015 Nissan NP300 Navara 4x4 EL 6MT PhP 1,256,000

2015 Nissan NP300 Navara 4x4 VL 6MT PhP 1,421,000

2015 Nissan NP300 Navara 4x4 VL 7AT PhP 1,490,000

Prices are still introductory. Nissan dealers nationwide can now accept reservations The first customers will officially get their units starting February 20, 2015.