V9X. The name of Nissan’s new diesel engine might be innocuous, but it heralds a profound change in the local double cab and SUV markets. You see, this new V6 diesel powerplant not only moves the Pathfinder into the upper echelons of its segment, but makes the Navara the most powerful diesel double cab South Africa has ever seen.
Of course, the Navara is already the most powerful diesel bakkie in the country. The current 2.5 dCi LE offers 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque.
But the new V9X engine places the Navara light years ahead of its competition. A V6 oilburner that generates 170 kW of power, quite literally, shifts expectations in this segment. Suddenly all other double cabs seem a bit underpowered.
Even more impressively, all this power is available from very low down on the rev counter. Peak torque is achieved from as low as 1 700 r/min and is available all the way to 2 500 r/min. Around 500 Nm is accessible from 1 500 r/min. Maximum power is achieved at 3 750 r/min.
Predictably, all this power results in some very impressive performance figures. Thanks to the V9X, the V6 Navara and Pathfinder will charge from zero to 100 km/h in around nine seconds and reach top speeds approaching 200 km/h. Somewhat surprisingly, however, the V9X is quite frugal when it comes to fuel consumption. According to Nissan, the engine requires only 9,5 litres of diesel per 100km and produces CO2 emissions of 250 g/km.
MODEL LINE-UPS
Power comes at a (hefty) price. The V9X engine is spectacular, but it is also expensive. Two versions of the diesel V6 Navara are available. The first retails for R508 400, while the second, pricier model will set you back R533 400. Why the price difference? Well, the second version boasts Nissan’s Premium Connect Infotainment System, which has a satellite navigation system with hard drive, Bose sound system, seven-inch VGA touch screen, DVD player, iPod connectivity, reverse camera and Bluetooth audio streaming.
Apart from that, though, they’re the same. Both models sport comfort features like cruise control, satellite controls on the steering wheel, speed-sensing wipers and climate control.
The Pathfinder will also be available in two versions. And as with the Navara, the only real difference between them will be the infotainment system. The model with this system will sell for R644 900, while the one without it will cost R619 900.
All V9X engines will be mated to an automatic, seven-speed transmission.
PRICES
Navara 3.0dCi LE V9X R508 400
Navara 3.0dCi LE V9X (Infotainment) R533 400
Pathfinder 3.0dCi LE V9X R619 900
Pathfinder 3.0dCi LE V9X (Infotainment) R644 900