Nissan has introduced a Series II upgrade for its Navara one-tonne utility, introducing a host of detail changes in the first major update since the NP300 series was launched in June 2015.

Headlining the overhaul is an improved suspension for all dual cab versions, which is a direct response to customer and dealer feedback on the Navara’s suspension set-up – in particular, its unique five-link coil-sprung rear set-up.

The Japanese manufacturer undertook specific testing in Australia and has subsequently included new front and rear shock absorbers, new rear coil springs and rear rebound dampers. The company claims the dual cabs now offer more refined ride and handling characteristics, with improved lateral stability as well as enhanced handling when carrying loads – all good news for tradies.

With Series II, Nissan Australia has also added a new ‘SL’ model grade that is specifically targeted at tradespeople. It sits below the mid-series ST grade in 4×4 dual cab guise but still features the 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel engine producing 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque, combining with either a six-speed manual (with which it offers a class-leading 6.5L/100km economy) or seven-speed automatic transmission.

Priced from $43,990 plus on-road costs for the manual or $46,490 for the auto – $3000 cheaper than the ST – the SL 4×4 twin-cab diesel has 16-inch steel wheels (with 255/70R16 tyres), flared wheel arches (giving it a ‘wide body’ look), vinyl flooring, a reversing camera and NissanConnect smartphone app functionality.

Other specification changes for the wider Navara Series II include satellite navigation added to all ST dual cab grades (adding $1000 to the bottom line), vinyl flooring replacing carpet in RX twin and single cab lines, and removal of the fold-out floor-level cup holder for rear seat passengers in the dual cabs – all actions that have stemmed from customer and dealer feedback, Nissan says.

The total Navara line-up – spanning single, king and dual cab body styles – now stretches to more than 30 variants with the addition of the SL grade, plus an auto option being added to the RX 4×4 dual cab chassis. A sunroof is also now offered as an optional feature (for $1000) on ST-X dual cabs, whereas previously it was standard.