Bucket Seat: Nissan Navara

When it comes to the double cab bakkie, I'm still skeptical about it being used as a daily drive. I believe all vehicles have their purpose and a bakkie shouldn't be a family car unless the said family is quite into outdoor activities and will be making use of the bin quite often. With this in mind, my next vehicle that came in for testing was the Nissan Navara. Now while this car has been getting attention in the motoring world a lot over the past few months, it was actually due to it sharing its underpinnings with the Mercedes-Benz X-Class. What many fail to grasp is that these two bakkies are completely different apart from a few minor things but soon as you hear that it's built on a similar platform, all logic goes out the window for any argument but even so, if the X-Class was almost similar to the Navara, why would that be a bad thing? Nissan have been building bakkies for decades now and their Hardbody's (apart from the latest NCAP safety ratings) have achieved legendary status in the market, so if you're going to want to build a bakkie, Nissan are the right people to talk to. So given this time with the Navara, I wanted to see what was "so bad" about it. 

DESIGN

With the double cab being very popular in the market, design is one of the main aspects that sway the buyer. The Navara certainly looks the part and has matured a lot since its previous generation. There's nice lines and flares to the body which add to that aggressive nature, bits of chrome to give it that luxury feel and its raised appropriately to give it a good stance. The headlights and front grille draw your attention first, with the hood slopped in at an angle, which is the first I've see in a bakkie design, this improves visibility from the driver seat of the front end. The side profile is pretty attractive too, with the rear passenger window having a more pronounced chamfer at the end, the roof racks and side step add to this as well as the chrome finished door handles. Over to the back, I love what they've done with the angled lip to the bin, gives an element of sportiness to the van, if I have to be over critical, I'd say the rear lights could have been a bit better and maybe throw in some LED's there but again, that's me being over critical. The interior of the van is quite nicely laid out as well. with much of the outside design flowing in the inside. The materials are of good quality and generally a nice place to be in. 

PERFORMANCE

What every bakkie ultimately boils down to, is performance, they're meant to be work horses so pointless having the looks but not the performance to back. The Navar comes fitting with a twin-turbo diesel motor which doesn't take much to get it going, as I soon discovered by taking it on the open road. Even with it's massive size and weight, the 2.3L engine delivers 450Nm of torque, combined with the 7-speed automatic gear box with timeous changes make getting up to speed effortless. Nissan claim their new improved turbo diesel generates more power and torque than their old engine and also has a 27% fuel saving, making it super efficient. I did a  lot of mixed driving with the Navara and I can vouch for it, getting close to 700km in the week with it and still have a decent range of over 100km when handed back. While it's performance on tar was impressive, I took the Navara out on some dirt road driving and it really was at home there as well. The large tyres gripping the loose gravel as I navigated some of the sugar can trails up Durban's North coast, kicking up a trail of dust as I meandered my way through to God knows where, I was having way too much fun to realise where I was going. 

COMFORT

A big gripe of mine is the comfort on these double cab bakkies, with many choosing it to use as a family car, I feel the rear passengers get the raw deal. Having sat in the back of a Hardbody, it isn't the most spacious place in the world and very cramped for someone like me, however, not the case with the Navara. There is ample room at the back, when I say ample I don't mean like S-Class vibes but bigger than your average double cab and a long journey won't result in your legs getting pins and needles. Over in the front, the dash is laid out quite well and doesn't sit too low, which allows for decent leg room for both the drive and the front passenger. The cabin's temperature is maintained by a aicron, unfortunately not climate control though. Ride quality on the Navara is superb, with it using a coil rear suspension which you would fine on larger SUV's. The heavy-duty 5-link coil rear suspension when compared to the traditional rear leaf suspension absorbs more of the bumps. 

VERDICT

Overall, the Navara as a double cab bakkie is pretty impressive and while it isn't on the NAMSA top 2 selling list it is worth the price tag. There are a few things that could be improved on, especially on the interior but with upcoming models in Nissan already adding these items to their portfolio, it would be  long till it's adapted to the Navara. I still don't see this as a family vehicle though, it is one of the more luxury looking bakkies out there but it's just not practical in my honest opinion but as I said in my introduction, if you're the type of family that is into outdoor activities and make use of the features in one, then by all means the Navara is worth the look. The fuel economy and engine performance seriously is impressive for a vehicle of this size and you can see why Mercedes-Benz chose this particular van to share it's underpinnings with. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	2.3L Twin-Turbo Diesel
Gear Box	7 Speed Automatic
Power	140kW
Torque	450Nm
Emissions Level	Euro 5
Economy	6.5 L/100km
Price	R 484,900

Bucket Seat: Nissan Micra

The Nissan Micra was first launched in South Africa in the early 2000's, controversial in design but appealing in price and offering. It was Nissan's 3rd generation of the model but it would be the introduction of it to the local market and everything about the car was a bit odd, from the design, to even the advertising catch phrase "do you speak Micra?". Regardless, sales were pretty decent for the odd bubble shaped automobile as many were spotted on the road, the next generation Micra saw changes made that made the car look a bit more normal to the consumer but it still maintained that bubble like shape but by then it didn't seem too odd to see on the road as many other European budget hatch backs had infiltrated their way into the country and the Nissan Micra had some competition but competition is always healthy right? And it's with that the all new 5th generation Micra which was launched this year in SA has not only grown but gained a lot in terms of advancements and offerings, I was behind the wheel of one for a week and here's some of my experiences with the all-new Micra. 

DESIGN

First thing's first, wow, Nissan, wow, you guys knocked it out the park with this one. From a something that used to look like a fishbowl to this, really took some guts and balls but you guys pulled it off and it works 100%.  The design of the new Micra is clean and edgy, I love the way the cars lines are focused in the front where they come together are the nose a move outwards to wrap around the rest of the car. There are elements of various other models in their range, with some hints of GTR here and there, put in playfully of-course. The car has gotten a more sporty nature, with it's flares and stance, the colour offerings in the palette also emphasize this. If Nissan were to make a sporty version of the Micra, they need not have to do much to the overall design as this one really does looks like it has some venom to it. The year of the car features the rear lights almost in a C shape which follows the contours of the car and the rear window transitions to the side with the black pillar. On the inside, it's more of the same good looks, the interior layout just works well, there's a lot of attention to detail when it comes to the materials and textures but overall it gives this hatch a premium feel and look. 

PERFORMANCE

Seems like the high cost of fuel is forcing manufactures to break the molds in engine displacement as the Micra features a 0.9L Turbo. This engine definitely doesn't feel like a 0.9 when you're running around town in it. It's zippy, the engine has a lovely tone to it and most importantly it feels solid.  Efficiency on this engine is superb, with me achieving close to their claimed combined driving average of 5.1L/100km. Driving the Acenta Turbo variant of the Micra, the engine pushes our 66kW with a maximum torque output of 140Nm. Handling on the Micra is precise and smooth, just like the brochure says, its almost like a point and shoot, the car goes well in a straight line but doesn't fluster when a few bends get thrown at it. The body structure is stiff and hugs the ground well, making the ride feel very secure. 

COMFORT

The Micra has grown a lot from the previous generation and that means more space in the cabin. While the older model had the driver position much higher, the new Micra's driving position is lower and very driver-centric with the low center of gravity. The seats are big and comfy, also come in dual tones of colour and some awesome swatches to choose form. The multiple array of textures and material in the cabin really give the car a premium feel, I love the addition of leather to the dash around the infotainment screen and extends over to the front passenger. The side panels around the gear selector are also covered in leather and are reminiscent of the GTR . The car comes with standard air condition dials but are neatly laid out just below the radio. I found the infotainment screen really easy to use and pairing with my smart phone was also very simple. Moving to the rear, while not the biggest, there was sufficient space for people to sit in comfort. 

TECHNOLOGY

The Micra comes with Nissan's Intelligent Mobility system, which has the advanced drive assist display that is designed to keep the driver focused on the road ahead of him with minimal distractions from the phone. The high definition 5" TFT display brings you all the information you require when hooked up to Apple Car Play, this also doubles up with voice control via Siri. Unfortunately I don't think the system was geared up for Android Auto but with it not being officially available for SA use, that shouldn't be a major issue as the bluetooth connectivity worked just as well. 

VERDICT

Overall, this is a superb re-introduction if I could say that, to the market of the Micra. While the previous models were not every bodies cup of tea, this new model will certainly have heads turning for all the right reason and you don't even need to "speak Micra" to understand it. There are various styling packs available for the Micra, like different paint designs with decals and colour options for the rims. In our tough times with the ever inflating petrol price, the Micra is a welcomed addition in the market of hatchbacks. Whether you're navigating your way through traffic or hitting the open road, you definitely won't be disappointed in the new Micra, it delivers a perfect balance no matter what style driver you are, it certainly is one of the better packaged cars on the market and it's improved looks will certainly play a big part in gaining more interest. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	0.9L 3 cylinder Turbo
Gear Box	5 Speed Manual
Power	66kW
Torque	140Nm
0-100km	12.1 seconds
Economy	5.1 L/100km
Price	R 242 900

 Pictures by @mvrc1988

Bucket Seat: Nissan Qashqai - 1.5dCI Acenta Plus

When it comes to Japanese cars, the one thing that screams out is reliability, but over the years that's the only thing that that it sort of stood for but each brand set to abolish this myth by creating at least one car that would capture even the purist motorist, Nissan undoubtedly created a car in which it's legacy lives on till today in the GTR, the car has legendary status amongst petrol heads world over and has earned respect from even the toughest critic. The latest derivative, the R35 still torments supercars with its brute power and limitless modifications that could be made to it to tame the best that Europe has to offer, it is with that history I welcome the latest brand to offer their vehicles for review to the blog, Nissan South Africa. 

First up, the all new Nissan Qashqai, with the compact SUV market in SA being one of the fastest growing sectors in the industry, the Qashqai has done relatively well in terms of sales from it's first generation in the early 2000's and while Nissan's design cues were quirky, the overall vehicle still was worth every cent of purchase. It gave the consumer what they wanted, comfort, a higher ride height, lots of space and a good range of engines which were light on fuel and easy to maintain. Fast forward to 2018 and much of it remains the same, as they say, if it ain't broke don't fix it but they have done some cool things to make it a bit more enjoyable for the end user as I found out in my week with the all new Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCI Acenta.

DESIGN

As mentioned, the first Qashqai's design was quite quirky, almost looked like a Pokemon Ball, but then again they did have that horrid Micra back then as well but this current generation Qashqai is very easy on the eye. The level of detail on the exterior had me very impressed, with the lovely contrasts, the smooth lines, bits of chrome, it's large 19" dual tone rims and those arrowed LED day time running lights in front which point inwards towards the shiny Nissan badge, almost as if to tell others, "see, I'm a Nissan". The ride height has been lifted just a bit to give it a more SUV look, the curves on the car make it look sleek and agile and it's overall stance just is very nice to look at. On the inside, everything was well laid out, from the front to the back, good materials used on the interior also helps give it that luxury look and feel. 

PERFORMANCE

For me, I couldn't stop raving about that engine, with the EU C02 emissions being a big thing we're going to be seeing a lot more of these smaller engines coming in our cars. Many said to me a 1.5 surely wont be substantial for a car of this size, then I'd take them for a spin and ask for their opinion after that, they were just as astounded as I was when I first drove it. While the motor pushes out just over 80kW, it still is mighty punchy with that torque helping you off the line and still hangs around for the tough bits like going up hills and around sharp corners. I got the manual transmission which after driving autos for a few weeks did need a small adjustment from myself. The first real drive I took the Qashqai on was through 1 hour and 35 minutes, bumper to bumper traffic for 5km. Now in horror traffic like that, the last gearbox you would want is a manual as your left leg would be working overtime on that clutch. Thankfully the Qashqai comes standard with an electronic hand brake with auto hold which did relieve the discomfort a bit. Steering, really good on the vehicle, with a sharp turning circle, the sporty D shape wheel does make navigating the Qashqai quite fun. The claim fuel consumption is 4.2L per 100km, which I oddly enough got quite close to, this  car sips fuel, I honestly think I could have gotten over 1000km on a tank, it was that light!

COMFORT

Being a smaller brother to the X-Trail, the Qashqai still has some good room for 5 adults, and this was put to the test a few times, heck I even chucked 4 at the back once! The front passengers have the option of heated or cooling seats which was a nice added bonus and the dual climate control aircon is always a winner to avoid fighting with the missus. The seats were not full leather, then again most seats which offer cooling are a mix but I must say there were bloody comfortable! The beauty with cars like this has to be the luggage compartment, while the Qashqau's boot space is quite generous, dropping the rear seats does give you enough room to load just about anything in the back. 

TECHNOLOGY 

Nissan say this new Qashqai is "City Proof", many might be asking what the hell does that mean? I know I asked the same question but I soon found out. The car features NIM, Nissan Intelligent Mobility, which they say is next level technology to warm you of your surroundings. Well it might not be something new to drivers of the more luxury European cars, but for it being in a car like the Qashqai is pretty impressive. Basically its a monitoring  system which warns you of any dangers while you're driving, so if the car in front of you all of a sudden jams his breaks, and in some instances will break for you, blind spot warning, and so on. My car didn't come with the fancy LCD screen which gave you a surround view with cameras but you can get it as an optional extra. It comes with most of the usual bells and whistles, bluetooth audio and telephone, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel and auto off to help you save even more fuel. 

VERDICT

Overall, I simply cannot fault this car, okay if I have to be picky, the gear shifter is oddly higher than normal but seriously it is a great car and while it might still stick to that stigma of Japanese cars, it's one that you know you will have piece of mind with. I'd hate to say who this car is ideal for because it could be perfect for anyone, a family, an adventurer, a normal person with a 9-5 who spends most of his time in traffic. It's a great versatile option and with the ever increasing fuel price, this is a delight to many as you won't have to visit the fueling station that often. I would have loved to have had the full tech pack with the screen just to see what is available on there but if you're looking for something that's plain and simple and that looks good, and most importantly well priced, this is your car. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5 litre dCI
Gear Box	6 Speed Manual
Power	81kW
Torque	260Nm
Top Speed	182km/h (electronically governed)
Economy	4.2 L/100km
Price	R421,900