Is the new "Navara" the end of Nissan?

A little while back i did a short opinion piece on Instagram questioning the current state of affairs at Nissan.

A historic brand that dates back to 1911, it possesses legendary nameplates across all forms of motoring. From the rock solid GQ Patrol (or Safari to some) through to the V8-Supercar-slaying R32 GTR. The latter was such a formidable weapon it forced changes to Australia's penultimate racing series, but not before the equally legendary Jim Richards gave a rowdy Bathurst crowd a memorable spray.

It was also the core subject of my short video, with news of Nissan electric-converting a clean example to display at the Tokyo Auto Salon. To the unititated, Tokyo Auto Salon is an annual event where the latest and greatest from the Japanese motoring world showcase their wares. It's known for an aftermarket influence, with wild creations from Veilside, Liberty Walk, HKS and others proudly displayed to an international fanbase.

My commentary at the time, almost 12 months ago now, expressed grave concern for Nissan's focus. Because EV converting a GTR was a silly move in itself in my humble opinion, but to then display it at this type of event reeks of leadership with no respect for the brand, nor knowledge of the market that has made it what it is today.

It was all the more startling given just months earlier, the mainstream media reported failed tri-partite discussions between Honda, Nissan and Mitsubishi. These discussions stemmed from an existential desire to pool resources and help each brand survive.

Fast forward to last week and the launch of the "all new" Nissan "Navara". Born of a partnership with Mitsubishi, it became the subject of countless memes across socials, all casting shade on the "Triton with a Nissan face".

2026 Nissan Navara (top) and Mitsubishi Triton (below)

Side panels and interiors are identical, let alone what's underneath. The headline, as far as I can tell, is a throwback design element to the front grill and adjusted dampers. Even mainstream motoring media couldn't hold back the laughter, publishing written and video updates from the launch "mistakenly" calling it a Triton. It's been a long time since real badge engineering has been a thing in Australia; the infamous Commodore/Lexcen comes to mind.

How could a model as important as a dual cab ute could be such a miss? I say miss, simply because i've reviewed the Triton, and whilst it has it's place in the market, it doesn't really move the needle. That's not to say its bad, it's just, meh.

The Navara was never a front runner, but it provided for a solid vehicle on and offroad, with a strong patronage in 4x4 circles. Yes, the last one copped some flack for the rear suspension setup and bendy chassis, but at least it was its own vehicle. It was a Nissan, designed and built as Nissan wanted it to be.

Based on VFACTs numbers, the Navara is the second biggest seller for the brand, trailing the X-trail and ahead of the Patrol. It peaked in 2024, but is on track to end lower for 2025. On the flip side, YTD, the Triton has outsold the Navara to the tune of almost 100%.

Interestingly the X-trail is also a result of the Mits-San relationship, but the Outlander outsells it. It should too, because having reviewed both, my preference based on the interior and suspension tune was the Mitsi. To be clear, I'm not against the idea of partnership - it allows for a pooling of funds and better outcomes for each brand.

What i am against is a seemingly lazy attempt, especially give all the hype in the lead-up. I dont think Nissan want to alienate people - look at the Patrol and the resounding success that represents internationally.

It points to a couple of things in my humble opinion. It could be an exacerbation of my earlier point around focus - which is likely. But the more important and likely situation is that there simple wasn't any money left to do the Navara justice.

Which brings me back to my point - why on earth would you spend money ruining a legend like the R32 GTR, when you're on your knee's already? Where is the focus?

Why desecrate a legend when your brand is on its knees?

I fear it's simply too late. As I mentioned earlier, sales are slipping, and all things point to upcoming doom and gloom. I would certainly hope to see an uplift in sales to reflect the Triton's numbers, even if it is just in part.

Otherwise, it would seem everything rests on the upcoming Patrol.