In a country where road conditions can go from smooth to rough in a matter of minutes, the kind of vehicle you drive is more than a status symbol, it’s a survival tool. Ghana’s love affair with pickups has long been defined by the dominance of the Toyota Hilux. But with the 2025 Navara, Nissan is making a bold claim that it has built something stronger, smarter, and more suited to African roads than ever before.
This new-generation Navara is no longer the underdog. With major investments in African manufacturing and testing, Nissan is not just trying to appeal to the market, they’re clearly building for it.
Engine Performance and Driving Power
The Navara comes fitted with a 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine capable of delivering up to 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque. That means when you’re heading up the steep hills of Aburi or carrying a full load across untarred farm tracks in the Northern Region, there’s enough torque to handle it with ease. Drivers can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission, both of which shift smoothly and deliver power with minimal lag. What this translates to on Ghanaian roads is a confident drive whether you’re cruising the highway from Tema to Takoradi or pulling a trailer through Kumasi’s unpredictable roadways.
Suspension and Ride Quality
Perhaps the most significant mechanical upgrade is the Navara’s rear suspension. Instead of the traditional leaf springs most pickups rely on, Nissan has opted for a multi-link suspension with coil springs. It’s a rare move in this segment, and one that makes a big difference on uneven roads. The ride is more composed, body roll is reduced, and passengers—especially in the rear—will immediately feel the smoother experience.
This system comes into its own on the kinds of backroads and pothole-dotted city routes that characterize much of Ghana’s transport network. The Navara absorbs shocks that would otherwise rattle occupants or damage the vehicle’s undercarriage.
Interior Comfort and Cabin Design
The inside of the 2025 Navara feels more like a well-appointed SUV than a bare-bones work truck. Nissan has improved cabin quietness with better insulation, and the materials throughout the interior strike a balance between durability and comfort. If you’re a contractor in muddy boots or a business exec shuttling between meetings, it feels right at home.
The centerpiece of the dash is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 7-inch digital driver display adds a modern touch, displaying real-time vehicle data and customizable trip info. Dual-zone climate control and rear air vents are welcome additions for long drives.
Payload and Towing Capacity
This is where the Navara earns its “workhorse” title. The 2025 model can carry a payload of up to 1,200 kg and tow as much as 3.5 tonnes. That’s plenty for most agricultural, industrial, and commercial uses in Ghana. Whether you’re transporting produce to the market, hauling cement to a building site, or towing a boat to a lake for the weekend, the Navara delivers consistently. Its strengthened chassis and cargo box are built to take punishment without compromising comfort inside the cabin. The load bed is also spacious and durable, with integrated tie-down hooks that make securing loads easier and safer.
Safety and Off-Road Technology
The Navara is loaded with intelligent safety features that prove their worth. Standard safety tech includes Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control, making steep inclines and declines manageable even when the roads are wet or loose. One of the standout additions is the Around View Monitor, a 360-degree camera system that helps drivers see all around the truck, which is incredibly helpful in busy markets, city parking, or navigating tight farm roads.Other driver-assist systems like Trailer Sway Control and Intelligent Emergency Braking offer added confidence, especially for drivers who are constantly hauling or traversing high-traffic areas.
Fuel Economy and Cost Efficiency
Fuel economy is always a concern, especially with diesel prices fluctuations. The 2025 Navara manages a commendable average of 7.0 to 7.5 litres per 100 kilometers. In local terms, that’s about 13 to 15 kilometers per litre, impressive for a 4×4 of this size and power. This efficiency means fewer trips to the fuel station, which adds up to big savings over time, particularly for business owners managing a fleet.
Pricing and Availability in Ghana
With the 2025 Navara now available through Japan Motors and other Nissan dealerships across Ghana, pricing starts from around GHS 380,000 for base trims and climbs to about GHS 470,000 for premium variants with full tech and off-road packages. These figures place it competitively within the segment, especially when factoring in its advanced safety features, superior comfort, and African-specific engineering. It’s also reassuring that local servicing and parts availability are on the rise, thanks to Nissan’s growing footprint on the continent. After-sales support is crucial, and this model’s growing popularity means you’re not likely to be left stranded for parts or service.
Ghana’s New Road King?
The 2025 Nissan Navara is not just a worthy alternative to the Toyota Hilux, it’s a legitimate rival, and in many respects, a better all-rounder for Ghanaian conditions. From its African-built DNA to its rugged yet refined driving dynamics, this is a pickup that feels tailor-made for Ghana’s roads and lifestyle. It has the power that Ghanaian drivers need every day. Whether you’re running a business, managing a farm, or simply need a vehicle that won’t back down from a challenge, the Navara deserves a test drive.
