Nissan has unveiled the new NP300 Navara pick-up, which will make its European debut at the Frankfurt Motorshow on 15 September.

The new truck features an updated interior and exterior, along with a new 2.3-litre dCi engine and an attractive five year or 100,000 mile warranty. Ride and handling are also improved, while the load bed and towing capacity remain amongst the best-in-class.

Here are the main highlights, plus some pictures.

Engine: New 2.3-litre dCi diesel offered with a choice of 160PS or 190PS power outputs. Nissan says the new engine is up to 24% more efficient than the unit it repalces. The 190PS version uses twin-turbo technology, for the first time in the pick-up sector.

The new model will launch with the choice of two or four-wheel drive and the option of a standard six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic gearbox.

Ride and handling: Nissan was targeting a ride experience more like that of a Crossover (SUV/car) and has introduced a new five-link rear suspension for double cab models which the firm says provides significantly improved ride plus weighs 20kg less.

The new NP300 Navara should offer improved ride and handling, according to Nissan.

Safety: A range of new safety systems are available, including Forward Emergency Braking and Nissan’s Around View Monitor. Hill Descent Control, Cruise Control and Hill Start Assist are also on offer, along with parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

Payload & towing: The NP300 Navara has a towing capacity of 3,500kg and payload ratings of at least 1,000kg across the range.

The load bed has also got slightly larger and is 67mm longer than the outgoing model. Nissan claims that this provides a sector-best load length of 1,578mm for the double cab model.

Interior & styling: On the outside, changes include a new grill and boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, with the goal being a “rugged yet sporty overall style”. In other words, this is aimed at leisure buyers as well as those in need of a workhorse.

Inside the new Nissan NP300 Navara

Similar changes are evident inside, where the redesigned dashboard increases cabin space. Front seats offer improved back support and Nissan says have been engineered using “technology inspried by NASA”.

Additional features include dual-zone digital climate control, as well as a new rear cab ventilation and seat design, to provide a more comfortable travelling environment for passengers.

The NP300 Navara will make its European debut at the Frankfurt Motorshow on 15 September, with details of trim levels, prices and country launches to follow.