Review
Competition in the UK’s pick-up market is likely to intensify in 2017, as several brands enter the segment for the first time. Fiat has just launched its Fullback, Renault is introducing the Alaskan and waiting in the wings is the Mercedes-Benz X-Class, the first premium brand pick-up.
The new entrants have lifestyle buyers in their sights as much as tradespeople and agricultural workers, as pick-ups bring tax benefits for certain customers. For company directors, pick-ups that are purchased by a business are eligible for writing off against capital allowances much quicker than company cars. Because LCVs qualify as plant and machinery, the purchase cost can usually be written off in the first year, and company car drivers choosing these behemoths incur lower benefit-in-kind tax, as we detailed in our previous report.
Over the years, Navara and its rivals, as detailed below, have built a reputation for access-all-areas ability. An off-road excursion in coastal Norfolk and fording the River Ise was enough to convince me of the Nissan’s capabilities. Yet analysis of its specifications alongside its rivals shows it is one of the segment leaders, but not outright champion in all crucial aspects.
| Nissan Navara Tekna | Ford Ranger Wildtrack | Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian | VW Amarok Aventura | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground clearance (mm) | 224 | 229 | 205 | 192 |
| Approach angle (degrees) | 32 | 28 | 30 | 29.5 |
| Departure angle (degrees) | 25 | 28 | 22 | 18 |
| Breakover angle (degrees) | 22.2 | 25 | 24 | 15.6 |
| Wading depth (mm) | 600 | 800 | 500 | 500 |
| Max payload (kg) | 1,054 | 1,011 | 1,045 | 1,112 |
| Towing capacity (tonnes) | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.1 | 3.1 |
An award-winning journalist and editor, with two decades of experience covering the motor retail industry, and accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) plus the National Council for the Training of Journalist (NCTJ)
As editor of AM since 2016, Tim is responsible for its media content, planning and production across AM's multiple channels, including the website, digital reports, webinars, social media and the editorial content of AM's events, Automotive Management Live and the AM Awards. His focus is on interviewing senior leaders of franchised dealer groups and motor manufacturer national sales companies to examine latest developments in UK motor retail.
Factsheet
Price: £31,590 incl VAT and options
Engine: 2.3-litre 190PS
Transmission: 6sp manual
Performance: 0-62mph 10.8secs, 114mph top speed
Efficiency: 44.1mpg; 169g/km CO2
Start mileage: 1,307
Current mileage: 3,031
