#42 Nissan NP200 – The right tool for a business

Nissan has one of the most comprehensive commercial vehicle line-ups on the market as well as a reputation for reliability and rugged ability. Recently added to that list is the Nissan NP200 pick-up. The pick-up is the replacement for the legendary Datsun 1200 pick-up. Though the Nissan NP200 is classified as a half-tonner it is in fact closer to a one-tonner with an 800kg payload capacity. With the largest payload in its class the Nissan NP200 stands out as the sensible choice among its competitors.

Nissan NP200 pick-up

Design

Designed to address the needs of both business users and private motorists looking for a practical leisure vehicle, the Nissan NP200 offers a modern and robust interior. Materials for the dashboard, door panels and upholstery, are strong and durable, an important consideration whether its application is work or play.

Front look 

Appealing to young business owners, dynamic entrepreneurs and outdoor adventurers, the Nissan NP200 is a great alternative to the competition. The purposeful stance of the Nissan NP200 is further boosted by the body colour bumpers as well as tinted glass all round. The vehicle is fitted with 15-inch steel wheels with a full size spare wheel.

Datsun 1200 pick-up 

Practicality

The load bed comes as standard with a protective surround that prevents damage to the bodywork during loading operations, and easily resists loads of up to 100kg. The tailgate is designed with safety and durability in mind and will resist loads of up to 300kg when open – a feature normally only found on larger pick-ups. The bed floor, sides and cabin partition are corrosion-proofed. A maximum load length of more than 1.8 metres and a maximum load width of 1.37 metres provide optimal flexibility for loading a wide variety of items. There are no less than 16 anchor points, for safe fastening of any load. There are four fasteners on the bed surround on either side of the vehicle, two hooks on the safety hoop with load restraint, and six rings on the load bed floor.

Spacious load bay 

Performance

The Nissan NP200 is propelled by a 1,598cc petrol power plant developing a peak power output of 64 kW (85hp) at 5,500rpm and a torque peak of 128 Nm at 3,000rpm. The first three gear ratios are short, resulting in impressive acceleration from pull away and at low speeds when heavily loaded. The two remaining ratios are tailored to provide comfort and fuel efficiency. The Nissan NP200 suspension has been designed with passenger car-like comfort in mind resulting in a smooth, balanced response under all circumstances. The front suspension comprises a MacPherson layout, with wishbone arm and non-damped cradle and a front anti-roll bar. The reinforced rear suspension uses an H-type torsion beam, plus coil springs and extended-travel vertical dampers perfectly suited to Kenyan road conditions. Stopping power comes courtesy of disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear.

Cockpit 

Comforts

The Nissan NP200 is not without innovation. The high quality appeal offers the luxury and the aesthetic styling normally found in passenger vehicles while ensuring that the practicality and versatility that is consistent with a pick-up is not compromised. Excellent front and rear visibility, partnered with a commanding driving position as well as advanced ergonomics, make the cabin environment comfortable and user friendly.

Seating for two 

Extensive stowage areas are littered throughout the cabin with a glove box, door bins and cup holders all easily at hand. A sizeable stowage compartment behind the seat is easily accessible by tipping the driver’s seat forward. Two interior hooks on the rear bulkhead provide a place for one to hang work clothes while there is also a net for holding small objects in the middle of the partition, behind the seats. The rear window is fitted as standard with a double-barred partition than can be reinforced with a safety hoop with load restraint in order to protect the cabin against load intrusion from any heavy or dangerous objects loaded on the load bed.

Rear design 

Verdict

The NP 200 pick-up offers class leading space and load area, a solid backing from Nissan, and feeling of driving a regular car – a great option for any small business looking for a utility vehicle.