2026 Nissan Navara ST
By Lorenzo Bianchi March 18, 2026
Adds carpet flooring, privacy glass, and upgraded cabin features.
Retains 2.4L bi-turbo diesel with 150kW and 470Nm.
Premcar-tuned suspension calibrated for loaded work use.
Familiar Navara design with subtle upgrades
The 2026 Nissan Navara ST doesn’t attempt to reinvent the ute’s visual identity. The shape remains recognisable, carrying over the same balanced proportions seen across the new D27 range. It’s a design built around function first.
Up front, the V-strut shield dominates the fascia, referencing the aftermarket bull-bar look that’s become part of Australian ute culture. It’s paired with the three-slot grille detail, a quiet nod to older Navara models. The lighting signature is sharper than before, with C-shaped LED elements wrapping around the headlamp units, giving the front end a more defined presence.
There’s no exaggeration here. The ST keeps things measured, avoiding oversized trim or unnecessary contrast. It sits comfortably within the range, neither stripped back nor overtly styled.
Proportions remain focused on real-world usability
Like the rest of the new Navara lineup, the ST maintains proportions that prioritise practicality. The wheelbase and cabin positioning support both load carrying and passenger space without leaning too far in either direction.
The cargo tray sees a slight increase in usable space, now measuring 1555mm in length with 1135mm between the arches. It’s a modest change, but one that improves everyday usability when dealing with tools, materials, or larger items.
Ground clearance rises to 228mm, while approach and departure angles have been improved. These aren’t headline numbers, but they contribute to a ute that feels more capable without needing to advertise it loudly.
Interior shifts toward everyday comfort
Where the Navara ST separates itself from the entry SL is inside. The cabin feels more suited to daily use, especially for drivers spending long hours behind the wheel.
Carpet flooring replaces the SL’s vinyl setup, immediately softening the interior. A leather-accented steering wheel, privacy glass, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror add to the sense of refinement. These are small changes individually, but together they shift the experience.
The layout itself remains straightforward. A nine-inch touchscreen handles infotainment, supported by a seven-inch digital driver display. Built-in navigation is standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.
Rear passengers aren’t overlooked either. Dedicated USB ports and improved legroom — up by 42mm compared to the previous generation — make the second row more usable for longer trips.
Bi turbo diesel carries over with improved output
Under the bonnet, the Navara ST shares the same 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel engine used across the range. Output stands at 150kW and 470Nm, with torque available low in the rev range.
The focus isn’t performance in the traditional sense. It’s about consistency. maintaining speed on inclines, pulling away under load, and performing towing tasks without strain. That strategy is supported by the six-speed automatic transmission, which has gearing appropriate for both highway cruising and low-speed control.
Fuel consumption is rated at 7.7L/100km combined, a slight improvement over the previous generation.
Built for towing and daily work demands
The Navara ST retains the core capability expected in this segment. A 3500kg braked towing capacity is standard, alongside a payload exceeding 1000kg.
It uses Nissan’s Easy 4WD system with dual-range transfer, offering straightforward control when conditions demand extra traction. An electronic locking rear differential is also standard, reinforcing its off-road and worksite ability.
Suspension tuning plays a key role here. Developed by Premcar, the ST’s setup is calibrated with a loaded tray in mind. It’s designed to feel stable and composed when carrying tools or materials, rather than optimised purely for unladen comfort.
Positioned as the sensible compromise
The Navara ST is positioned between the more lifestyle-focused ST-X and the work-focused Navara SL in the new Navara lineup. Without straying too far from its main goal, it provides comfort where it matters.
Against rivals like the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger, the approach is familiar. Keep the fundamentals strong, refine the areas that affect daily use, and avoid unnecessary complication.
It doesn’t try to stand out. It focuses on being usable, consistent, and slightly more comfortable than before.