Nissan expects its Navara will extend its popularity in 2012 with a revised model range, significant equipment upgrades and even better value.

A key change to the D40 range is the increased availability of Nissan’s class-leading 550Nm, 170kW V6 turbo-diesel engine in more models.

An ST-X Dual Cab 4X4 Navara with the 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel and seven-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode is new to the Navara model range for 2012.

The 2012 Navara ST-X 550 4X4 is now equipped with leather trim, satellite-navigation and hard drive, Bose audio and a reversing camera.

The top-selling Navara D40 ST Dual Cab 4X4 has also been upgraded with a more powerful 2.5-litre four-cylinder 450Nm, 140kW diesel engine, standard 17 inch alloy wheels, five-channel Utili Track and comes with six airbags.

Both V6-engined models and the D40 ST Dual Cab have a braked-trailer towing rating of 3000 kilograms.

All 2012 D40 four and six cylinder diesel Navara models are now equipped with Nissan’s Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and three-point seat belts for all passengers while the D40 Dual Cab 4X4 Navara has received an ANCAP 4-star rating, underscoring the increased active and passive safety measures for 2012.

The Navara RX Single Cab moves from bench to bucket seats and gets a carpeted instead of vinyl floor, with standard rubber mats.

“Despite the recent arrival of several newcomers in this highly competitive segment, Navara has comfortably maintained its popularity and market position,” Nissan Australia’s managing director and CEO Dan Thompson said. “Navara is one of Nissan Australia’s cornerstone products aimed at giving us No.1 importer status, with the new Navara ST-X V6 turbo-diesel, the enhanced D40 Dual Cab 4X4 and keener pricing, we have new and sharper tools to maintain this momentum.”