Nissan expands its locally-made Warrior model line-up. Here’s what buyers can expect from the new SL variant.
Update: Pricing and specifications for the Navara SL Warrior have been announced.
The success of Nissan’s Navara Pro-4X Warrior program has led to the local production line expanding to create a new, lower-cost entry model that will ensure supply can stay close to demand. Nissan says it will soon announce pricing and specifications for the model.
Nissan won’t quote exact figures but said that it has done very well with its locally-initiated Warrior program that currently sees the Navara Pro-4x fitted with a suspension lift, improved ride and handling components, and additional elements by Melbourne’s Premcar engineering. “We can’t wait to show you what Premcar has been working on,” says Nissan Australia Managing Director, Adam Paterson. “With a comprehensive list of equipment as well as its tough, aggressive look, the Navara SL Warrior will not only expand the program’s appeal, but also its accessibility,”
Like most manufacturers, Nissan is finding that supply constraints (due to things like semi-conductor shortages) are restricting the flow of models into customers’ hands. Enter the new Navara SL Warrior.
Like the Pro-4X Warrior, buyers can expect much of the same important components fitted such as an upgrade to suspension (for a total 42mm lift), 32-inch Cooper Discoverer all-terrain tyres on unique 17-inch black alloys, an upgraded rear tow bar that accommodates a full-size spare, and some (but perhaps not all the same) decals outside and Warrior emblems inside. What will be different, however, is that the hoopless bar of the Pro-4X will be changed for a hooped version which is all black (rather than colour-coded to the body paint and with a red bashplate underneath, as per Nissan’s provided drawing).
So far, Nissan has only shown one sketch and a picture of the rear quarter panel, but Automotive Daily has rendered a more accurate image (above, albeit with a snorkel and winch that likely won’t be standard) of what to expect.
All of the work on the design and engineering is carried out by Premcar and fitment, including the lifted suspension and upgraded absorber/spring package with new bump stops, happens on a specially-created production line at Premcar’s Epping location.
While the new Warrior brings upgrades to the SL, the SL model itself is a significant step down from the Pro-4X which the current Warrior is based on, so expect to miss out on things like leather quilted interior upholstery, carpet floors, sports bars and cargo rails in the tub, and there will be lower-lumen halogens headlamps instead of LED. However, we do expect an LED lightbar in the black bullbar for bright highbeams. And this should all be expected in a supply-driven equation such as this – things like LED headlights require semi-conductors that are in short supply.
The new Navara SL Warrior also gives buyers a more affordable option, with the Pro-4X Warrior starting at $67,490 before on-road costs. The SL should be a good $10-15k cheaper.
“I’m thrilled to announce the expansion of the Warrior program, developed in collaboration with Premcar, which has proven immensely popular in Australia,” says Paterson.
“With the Navara SL Warrior by Premcar, a new and more accessible entry point will join the Warrior family, ensuring even more customers can experience the world’s toughest Navara for themselves.
“Our collaboration with Premcar is guided by the development of vehicles that are perfectly suited to Australian customers and conditions.”
Alex Rae