Enjoy two of Nissan’s hardiest bakkies
The Nissan NP300, although perhaps somewhat long in the tooth, is still considered one of the toughest one-ton workhorses in the marketplace. December 2013 saw the 25th anniversary of this “Hardbody” as it it fondly referred to by its many owners.
Built locally at Nissan South Africa’s Rosslyn manufacturing plant in Pretoria, the “Hardbody” badge was applied to NP300 to engage with the agricultural, construction, mining and SMME sectors within South Africa as well as across borders.
NP300 Hardbody product manager at Nissan South Africa, Vishaan Naidoo says the Hardbody range is an expression of the proud heritage and proven capability which the nameplate has in the country. Available in single- or double-cab body styles, the Nissan NP300 Hardbody comes with tried and tested diesel as well as petrol power plants. turbocharged diesel engine and 4×2 drivetrains.
The Hardbody Silver Anniversary additions includes many value-added extras and comes with a class-leading six-year/ 150 000km warranty.
The other workhorse in the Nissan offering which received a facelift in 2014 is of course the Patrol.
Despite is sharper looks, and even after 60 years on the market, it is still one of the most rugged and authentically looking bakkies available. Its all-terrain suspension, impressive torque delivery and superior off-road performance offers reassuring confidence in the roughest of conditions and challenges. “It gets the job done,” says Nissan. The 3.0-litre 4×4 five-speed is powered by a 16-valve diesel engine producing 110kW and 371Nm and its widespread torque availability makes it an excellent all-rounder for both leisure and work environments.
The drive system offers no less than three manually activated modes depending on conditions. Its rear differential (standard) and manual hub locks makes it unstoppable in all conditions. Add to this a wider rear track, flexible leaf springs with a longer stroke and you have impressive stability in the most challenging conditions. It does not lack luxury, comfort or safety features either.
When was the last time you had a look at any one of these two bakkies?
