As a family of five with a taste for weekend adventures, we've been putting the 2024 Nissan Navara Pro-4X through its paces for the past six months. Here's our real-world experience with this rugged dual-cab ute:
On-Road Performance
The 2.3L twin-turbo diesel engine (140kW/450Nm) provides adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising. While not the most powerful in its class, it offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. We're averaging about 9.5L/100km in mixed driving. The coil-spring rear suspension is a standout feature, providing a noticeably smoother ride compared to leaf-sprung rivals. This makes the Navara more comfortable for family trips and school runs.
Off-Road Capability
The Pro-4X really shines when the pavement ends. Standard features like the rear diff lock, hill descent control, and all-terrain tires have given us confidence on beach trips and forest trails. The 360-degree camera is particularly useful for navigating tight spots.
Interior and Practicality
While not as spacious as some competitors, the cabin comfortably fits our family of five for shorter trips. The leather-appointed seats are durable and easy to clean after muddy adventures. The 8-inch touchscreen feels a bit dated, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration work well. We appreciate the inclusion of rear air vents for keeping the kids comfortable. The tub liner and Utili-track system have been great for securing cargo on camping trips and hardware store runs.
Safety
The comprehensive suite of driver assistance features provides peace of mind, especially the blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert when maneuvering in busy parking lots.
Pros:
- Comfortable ride for a ute
- Capable off-road performance
- Practical tub with Utili-track system
- Good fuel efficiency for its class
Cons:
- Infotainment system feels dated
- Not as spacious in the rear as some rivals
- Engine could use more power for towing
Overall, the 2024 Nissan Navara Pro-4X has proven to be a versatile family vehicle, capably handling both the school run and weekend adventures. While it may not lead the class in power or technology, its blend of comfort, capability, and practicality make it a solid choice for active families.
