Nissan to Launch Facelift Navara in South Africa
The refreshed D23 Navara arrives in South Africa on 20 November 2026, transitioning to Thai imports.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Trucks
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Nissan will debut the facelifted D23 Navara in South Africa on 20 November 2026. The updated pickup will shift from local production to being imported from the manufacturer's facility in Thailand.
Why it matters
This launch marks a strategic shift for Nissan South Africa, as the company transitions its bakkie supply chain from local assembly to international imports.
The D23 Navara retains its 140kW and 450Nm 2.5-litre YD25DDTI turbodiesel engine paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The updated line-up will feature three trim levels: the SE Plus, LE Plus, and Pro-4X.
The players
Nissan
Nissan is a major global Japanese automotive manufacturer that produces a wide range of passenger vehicles and commercial trucks.
Nissan South Africa
This is the regional subsidiary of the parent company responsible for the distribution and sales of vehicles within the South African market.
The details
The new D23 Navara features an updated exterior with a redesigned front-end, a fresh grille, and distinct E-shape light clusters. The range has been streamlined, with Nissan dropping the XE, SE, Stealth, Pro-2X, and Pro-4X Warrior trim options.
Timeline
March 2025: Nissan released the first teaser image of the D23.
July 2026: Nissan South Africa discussed local market adaptations.
September 2026: The line-up was announced at the Tekton launch.
20 November 2026: South African premiere and announcement of pricing.
Roadmap
The move to source the Navara from Thailand follows the cessation of local manufacturing operations at the Rosslyn facility. This strategy reflects a broader trend among automotive brands to consolidate global production hubs for high-volume pickups.
Prospective buyers can expect the new Navara to be available in three specific trim levels, though final pricing remains forthcoming. Drivers should note that the vehicle will be arriving as an import, marking a change from previously locally produced units.
The takeaway
The transition to a Thai-imported Navara indicates a structural change in how Nissan serves the local bakkie market. Potential buyers should monitor the 20 November 2026 pricing announcement to understand how this shift impacts the final cost to the consumer.
What happens next
Official pricing and detailed specifications for the three available trim levels will be announced on 20 November 2026.
Further reading
For more information on the latest pickup models, visit the Trucks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Citizen.
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