What’s new
Our first chance to test the top-spec, user-chooser Navara dubbed Aventura with a fastback-style aero top to cover the pick-up bay.
Excellent
Luxury car levels of goodies including satnav, Bluetooth phone connection, powered and heated mirrors, cruise control and auto lights and wipers. It’s powerful too.
Good
Looks are spot-on, and the aero top disguises the pick-up roots well. The driving experience is class-leading and you can even order an automatic version if you want. The 174PS diesel is relatively refined too.
Average
Rear visibility isn’t as bad as you first think, but it’s still worse than most cars.
Poor
Brakes are spongy and don’t really inspire confidence, especially in such a big machine.
Verdict
The best pick-up on sale is the closest you’ll come to a car for kit, driving experience and interior quality, and still only pay commercial vehicle benefit-in-kind tax rates.
