2025 4x4 Ute of the Year: Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior wins Best Adventure ute

The Navara PRO‑4X Warrior was a surprise package in this year’s test; although, in truth, it shouldn’t have been.

Previous testing of the now ageing and soon‑to‑be‑superseded D23 Navara has shown it to be an excellent all‑rounder, one you can confidently take straight from the showroom to the trails. By teaming up with Melbourne‑based engineering specialists Premcar, Nissan has transformed what might otherwise have been a mid‑pack performer into a ute that all our judges genuinely enjoyed driving.

What sets the Warrior apart is how seamlessly Nissan and Premcar have combined proven D23 reliability with targeted off-road upgrades. The bespoke suspension raises ride height and improves articulation, underbody protection shields vulnerable components, and all-terrain tyres on custom wheels ensure the ute is ready for rough tracks straight from the showroom.

JUMP AHEAD

• Key highlights
• Premcar upgrades
• How it drives and tows
• Specs
• Interior
• Verdict

Key highlights

When it comes to what makes the Navara PRO‑4X Warrior stand out, it’s the combination of rugged upgrades and proven Nissan engineering:

• 2.3‑litre bi‑turbo diesel engine, 140kW/450Nm
• Seven‑speed automatic transmission
• Premcar suspension upgrades with extra ground clearance
• Underbody protection and steel front bumper
• Cooper all‑terrain tyres on bespoke Warrior wheels
• Bush‑ready straight from the showroom
• Functional, durable interior for touring and work

Bush‑ready upgrades by Premcar

It’s the modifications that Premcar makes to the Navara PRO‑4X to create the Warrior that set it apart from every other ute in this test.

Suspension components were specifically developed for the Warrior, transforming the chassis while adding extra ground clearance. Additional underbody protection helps prevent damage when that clearance eventually runs out. A steel front bumper adds further protection, while the fitment of Cooper all‑terrain tyres on bespoke Warrior wheels ensures it rolls straight out of the showroom with bush‑ready rubber.

“Premcar has done all the mods I’d normally do to a 4×4 for outback touring; and they’ve done a better job than I would have,” said Dave Morley. “The Warrior is ready to do a lap of the country straight out of the box.”

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How it drives: On- and off‑road

The Warrior’s 2.3‑litre bi‑turbo diesel engine delivers 140kW and 450Nm.

Modest by class standards, the twin‑turbo setup gives a broad torque band, helping the ute move confidently across highways, dirt tracks, and rugged terrain. Its seven‑speed automatic transmission pairs perfectly with the engine, offering smooth shifts whether cruising or crawling.

Off‑road, the Warrior feels planted and confident. The Premcar suspension absorbs bumps and ruts, while the increased ride height and underbody protection allow it to tackle uneven trails with minimal fuss. For a D23 chassis, it punches well above its weight compared with newer, larger competitors.

“One of my favourite rigs off-road also does well when hooked up – just don’t expect to tow a massive load as its kerb weight (2298kg in auto) and low GCM (5910kg) means when you hook up its max tow capacity, you are left with only 112kg before you cap out on your GCM,” said Tim van Duyl of its towing prowess.

“That being said, the suspension is magic. Premcar’s use of progressive-rate springs that stiffen as load is added has fixed the towing issues found in the regular Navara for a trailer like we had, with around 150kg of ball weight and 2000kg total weight.”

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Being an older model, the D23 Navara is a little smaller than newer utes like the Ranger, Tasman and Terron 9, but front occupants still enjoy good space and comfort. The rear seat, however, is best suited to smaller passengers or shorter trips.

The dashboard shows the Navara’s age, with its smaller screen, dated design, and limited feature set, yet the cabin remains functional for touring or work. While it may lack the bells and whistles of newer competitors, the interior is durable, practical and easy to live with, reflecting the Navara’s utilitarian roots.

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Why it won Best Adventure 4WD

The fact that the Warrior performed so well against newer and larger competitors is a testament to the success of the Nissan‑Premcar collaboration:

• Bush‑ready straight from the showroom – Premcar suspension, underbody protection, steel bumper, and all‑terrain tyres.
• Engine and drivetrain balance – 2.3L twin‑turbo with 140 kW / 450 Nm, seven‑speed auto, broad torque band.
• Proven D23 reliability – Handles rough terrain and long drives with confidence.

Yes, it’s older and smaller than some rivals, and the interior is dated, but for buyers seeking a ready‑to‑go off‑road ute with proven reliability, the Warrior offers more capability and enjoyment than its age would suggest.

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