2008 Nissan Navara D22 range

The line-up receives Nissan's new 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. There will be a choice of four-wheel drive dual cab and single cab models, as well as a two-wheel drive single cab for those not in need of off-road capability.

You might be thinking, well that doesn't look that new! And you're right, the only exterior change is the addition of a bonnet scoop for the new intercooled turbo-diesel engine.

The intercooled YD25 turbo-diesel engine produces 98kW at 3600rpm and 304Nm of torque from 2000rpm - this is down from the previous generation's 3.0-litre diesel that managed 110kW and 314Nm, although that was noticeably thirstier. In comparison the Navara D40's powerplant makes 126kW and 401Nm.

The new diesel engine is a 16-valve, double overhead cam with second-generation common rail technology for lower emissions and improved fuel economy. Nissan has also installed a variable nozzle turbocharger as well as a brand new balancer system for better refinement.

The added intercooler sits ahead of the radiator, allowing for better air intake and hence more power at lower range. The compression ratio is now 16.5 to 1.

As with the majority of the latest Diesel engines on offer from the Japanese, the D22's fuel economy is impressive. The 4x2 single cab drinks only 7.3L/100km, while the 4x4 single cab makes do with 9.1L/100km and the 4x4 dual cab ST-R comes in at 9.2L/100km.

Suspension is taken care of by double-wishbone and an anti-roll bar at the front, with the back-end riding on a solid rear axle with leaf springs and a limited slip differential. Towing capacity is 1500kg (braked) for the 4x2 and 2800kg (braked) for the 4x4.

The single 4x2 variant gets the basic essentials, with power steering, single in-dash CD player, air conditioning, dual front airbags and ABS as standard. Moving up, the 4x4 line-up starts with a base single cab DX from $30,690. An additional $500 will get you dual front airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners (highly recommended).

Going up to the dual cab ST-R variant, buyers will receive, in addition to the single cab equipment, standard dual front airbags with ABS, an alloy sports bar, side steps, front bucket seats and 16-inch alloy wheels.