Nissan is taking performance of its ‘tough and smart’ pickup to a new extreme with the launch of the Navara OFF-ROADER AT32. It is the first time a Navara has been developed with a partner brand for pan-European markets. The newcomer has made its motor show debut at The Commercial Vehicle Show at The NEC, Birmingham.

Nissan says the Navara OFF-ROADER AT32 is the most capable Navara ever. Standard features include bespoke suspension that increases ride height by 20mm, full protection of key underbody components and larger off-road tyres. For the ultimate performance, optional extras include a snorkel to improve wading depth and a front differential locker.

The vehicle is engineered by Arctic Trucks, the highly respected Icelandic company which specialises in building 4WD vehicles to take on the world’s harshest terrains. AT stands for Arctic Trucks and 32 represents the diameter of each off-road tyre in inches. The Navara OFF-ROADER AT32 enhancements are available on different combinations of the Navara Double Cab.

Visually, the most substantial upgrade is to the Navara’s suspension, which has been raised to optimise performance and create additional ground clearance. That is now 243mm, compared with 223mm on the standard Navara. Maximum approach angle has been increased to 35° (up from 30.4°), while breakover angle is now 24° (up from 22.2°).

Other obvious enhancements include the dramatic wheel arch extensions, designed to amplify the new taller stance and offer greater protection of the bodywork during extreme off-roading. Hidden from view are underbody protection plates covering the engine, transmission, propeller and fuel tank.

The 17-inch alloys are designed by Arctic Trucks, while the 32-inch tyres have been selected specifically to improve off-road traction while maintaining excellent on-road performance. Such a large tyre diameter allows the driver to reduce the pressure to further boost traction, for example, in soft sand or snow.

With 20mm extra ground clearance and larger tyres, overall vehicle height is increased by 40mm.

For customers seeking the ultimate in off-road ability, a snorkel and front differential lock are available as optional extras.

The snorkel is attached to the A-pillar and will boost wading depth to 800mm – 200mm more than the standard Navara. It will also improve the air intake and protect the engine from heavy dust and water ingress. The front differential locker, working in tandem with the standard Navara’s rear differential locker, will provide the best possible traction on every type of surface.

The new features will complement the Navara’s on-board suite of advanced technologies. Standard equipment includes Hill Start Assist, Hill Decent Control, Intelligent Emergency Braking and Intelligent Around View Monitor.

As with every Nissan LCV, the N comes with a five-year / 100,000 miles warranty, plus Arctic Trucks’ five-year warranty on the new components.

Alex Smith, Managing Director, Nissan GB, said: “The Nissan Navara OFF-ROADER AT32 is the most capable Navara we’ve ever sold, and the CV Show is the perfect location for its debut. We believe the mix of enhanced off-road ability and upgraded exterior features will appeal to a new audience of both professional and recreational pickup customers.”