The Nissan NP200 is the kind of pickup that sneaks up on you. It’s unassuming at first glance, but akin to discovering a rugby player can dance ballet – you’re in for a pleasant surprise! Often in the shadows of the gargantuan bakkies like Toyota’s Hilux and Ford’s Ranger, the NP200 offers a fresh take in a market saturated with hulking brutes.
Sure, the NP200 might seem like an everyday utility vehicle, but delve deeper, and you’ll find a workhorse with the heart of an athlete. Now that the NP200 has been discontinued in the local market, gone are the half-tonners in South Africa. Grab one in good condition – while you can!
Why Nissan NP200?
Hold up! Before you gallop off towards larger pickups, give the Nissan NP200 its due diligence. Why? Well, it’s the perfect blend of practicality and affordability. With its compact size yet robust capacity, the NP200 is more than just a utility vehicle; it’s the darling of many South African businesses and urbanites alike.
Did you know the NP200 has solid roots stemming from the Nissan 1400 bakkie legacy? As a nation, we’ve got a soft spot for that old champ, and the NP200 carries that torch forward with pride and pizzazz.
Demystifying the Nissan NP200
Don’t let its compact size fool you. The NP200, although not a colossus like some of its peers, is packed with features that make it stand tall. With a payload capacity that belies its size, it’s the David in a world of Goliaths.
It might not sport the roaring engines of some high-spec bakkies, but with a range of efficient petrol engines and a reliable diesel variant, it offers just the right balance of power and fuel efficiency for urban utility. A generous load box, well-designed cab, and standard safety features make it an excellent choice for business and leisure.
What’s Brewing Underneath?
The NP200 is driven by either a 1.6-litre petrol engine, available in different power outputs, or a 1.5-litre dCi diesel variant. These engines ensure the bakkie isn’t thirsty, yet it remains peppy for city driving. Whether you’re hauling tools to a job site or surfboards to the beach, this Nissan has got you covered.
Potential Hiccups?
While the NP200 has won the hearts of many South Africans, as with any vehicle, there are things you might want to keep an eye on:
- Suspension: Given its workhorse nature, the suspension can take a beating, especially if it’s been heavily loaded frequently.
- Gearbox: Check for smooth gear changes, especially in models that have seen a lot of urban driving.
- Load Box: Given it’s a pickup, always inspect the load box for excessive wear or damage.
- Rust: Essential for coastal buyers, check for signs of rust, particularly underneath and around the wheel arches.
- Cooling System: Some owners have reported radiator and water pump issues. Check for coolant leaks and ensure the vehicle doesn’t overheat on a test drive.
Maintenance Musings
- General Servicing: The NP200 is known for its affordability, and this extends to its service costs, making it a popular choice among small business owners.
- Spare Parts: Being a Nissan, parts availability is generally good and priced reasonably.
- Tyres: Given its dual-purpose nature, opting for all-terrain tyres can be a good choice.
- Fuel Efficiency: Particularly in the diesel variant, the NP200 offers commendable fuel efficiency for a bakkie.
- Resale Value: The NP200 tends to retain a decent resale value, given its popularity in the urban pickup market.
Dive into the Online World
If you’re serious about getting an NP200, make sure to tap into the vast reservoir of owner forums and online communities dedicated to this Nissan stalwart. They can provide insights, advice, and shared experiences that can be invaluable in making an informed decision.
Value Proposition
It’s hard to argue against the NP200 when you consider its affordability, combined with its proven track record. As a used buy, it offers excellent value, especially if you’re looking for a nimble city bakkie with a decent payload capacity.
Before Taking the Plunge
The Pre-Purchase Inspection When buying a used Nissan NP200, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is crucial.
Start with a visual inspection, looking for signs of accident damage, rust, or other body issues. Check the service history to ensure regular maintenance has been carried out. Key areas to focus on during a mechanical check are the suspension components, brakes, engine performance, and transmission. A thorough pre-purchase inspection can give you invaluable insight into a used NP200’s condition and potentially save you from unexpected repair costs down the line.
Here are key areas you should pay attention to:
- Exterior and Bodywork: Look for any signs of accident damage, rust, or mismatched paint, which may indicate previous repairs. Pay particular attention to the undercarriage for any signs of damage. Remember to check the condition of the tyres for tread depth and even wear.
- Interior and Equipment: Check the condition of the upholstery, dashboard, and all controls. Ensure all electrical systems work, including windows, locks, lights, wipers, and the infotainment system. Check for any warning lights on the dashboard.
- Under the Hood: Inspect the engine for any leaks, odd noises, or visible damage. Check the condition of belts and hoses. Look at the state of the engine oil – it should not be overly dirty or have a milky colour, which can indicate coolant leaking into the oil.
- Transmission and Drivetrain: If the car has an automatic transmission, there should be no hard shifting during the test drive. For manual transmissions, the clutch should engage and disengage smoothly. Listen for any unusual noises.
- Suspension and Steering: The car should drive straight without pulling to one side. When you’re driving over bumps, listen for any unusual noises. The steering should feel responsive without any excessive play.
- Service History: A comprehensive service history can give you peace of mind about the vehicle’s maintenance. Be cautious of a car with missing service records.
- Professional Inspection: Even if the car looks great and seems to drive well, getting a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic is a good idea. They can put the car on a lift, check for hidden damage, and thoroughly examine the Swift Sport.
- Documents: Ensure that the vehicle’s paperwork is in order. This includes registration documents, a service book, and a Roadworthy Certificate. The VIN number on the vehicle should match the one on the paperwork. Performing a pre-purchase inspection might seem like a lot of work, but it’s an essential step in the used car buying process. This inspection can help you avoid vehicles with potential problems and give you more confidence in your purchase decision.
Which Engine: Petrol 1.6 or Diesel 1.5?
Ah, the age-old petrol vs. diesel debate. The Nissan NP200, like many vehicles, offers both petrol and diesel engine options. Choosing between the two often comes down to your driving habits, budget, and personal preferences. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of both the petrol and diesel engines for the Nissan NP200:
Petrol 1.6:
Pros:
- Initial Cost: Petrol engines generally have a lower upfront cost than their diesel counterparts.
- Refinement: Petrol engines tend to be quieter and offer smoother acceleration.
- Maintenance: Petrol engines can sometimes have lower maintenance costs, especially in the short term.
- Fuel Availability: In some regions, petrol is more widely available than diesel.
- Emissions: Petrol engines emit less nitrogen oxide and particulates than diesel, which can be a consideration in urban areas or regions with strict emission regulations.
Cons:
- Fuel Economy: Petrol engines tend to be less fuel-efficient than diesel, especially on the highway.
- Torque: Petrol engines usually offer less torque compared to diesel, which can matter if you’re often hauling or towing heavy loads.
Diesel 1.5:
Pros:
- Fuel Economy: Diesel engines are generally more fuel-efficient than petrol, especially during highway driving.
- Torque: Diesel engines excel in torque, which can be especially helpful for tasks like towing or carrying heavy loads.
- Longevity: With proper maintenance, diesel engines can often outlast petrol ones.
- Resale Value: In certain markets, diesel vehicles tend to hold their value better because of the perceived longevity and fuel efficiency.
- Cost-Effective: Despite diesel fuel sometimes being more expensive than petrol, the better fuel economy can offset the cost difference in the long run, especially for those who drive long distances.
Cons:
- Initial Cost: Diesel engines usually come with a higher upfront cost.
- Maintenance: In the long run, diesel engines can be more expensive to maintain. Components such as turbochargers or diesel particulate filters can be costly to replace.
- Noise and Vibration: Diesel engines can be noisier and generate more vibrations than petrol engines.
- Emissions: Diesel engines emit more nitrogen oxide and particulates than petrol. However, modern diesel vehicles have improved emission controls to mitigate this.
Which one to choose for the Nissan NP200?
- Daily Driving in Urban Areas: If most of your driving is short trips around town, the petrol 1.6 might be a better choice. Diesel engines are more efficient over longer drives and can have issues (like a clogged diesel particulate filter) if they’re only used for short trips.
- Hauling and Towing: If you’re planning on using your NP200 for heavy-duty tasks frequently, the torque from the diesel 1.5 engine can be beneficial.
- Budget Concerns: If you’re sensitive to upfront costs, the petrol engine usually has a lower initial purchase price. However, if you’re more concerned with long-term running costs and drive a lot, the fuel efficiency of the diesel might save you money over time.
- Environmental Concerns: If you’re concerned about emissions, the petrol engine emits fewer nitrogen oxides and particulates. However, carbon dioxide emissions are often lower in diesel engines due to better fuel economy.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It depends on your driving habits, the tasks you’ll use the vehicle for, your budget, and even personal preferences. Both engines have their merits, and both can serve well in the Nissan NP200. Assess your needs and preferences, then choose the one that aligns best with them.
Final Word
The Nissan NP200, in essence, is a throwback to when pickups were simple, unpretentious, and got the job done. It doesn’t shout, but it speaks volumes through its performance. For those looking for a compact bakkie that’s as comfortable on city streets as it is hauling a load, the NP200 deserves a spot on your shortlist.
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