The new model (pcitured), due to go on sale in the UK in August, boasts not only a fresh ‘don’t-mess-with-me’ exterior but also has a 2.5-litre common rail diesel engine pumping out 174bhp, making it by far the most powerful vehicle in its sector.

The new model will be around £1,000 more expensive than the outgoing one but promises to bring passenger car qualities to the utility market.

It will be available in two formats – double cab and king cab – and is 265mm longer than the old Pickup.

In the rear, the new Navara boasts class-leading loadspace and the king cab will even hold 8ftx4ft sheets of plywood.

The part-time four wheel drive system can be altered from high to low ratios via a rotary dial on the dash.

Under the bonnet goes the four cylinder 2.5-litre second generation common rail diesel powerplant seen in the Nissan Pathfinder. It offers 174bhp and a massive 297lb-ft of torque.

There will also be a choice of six-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox.

The more utilitarian Pickup will continue alongside the Navara for the time being.

Also on the Nissan stand was the new Primastar minibus, offering nine seats on a short wheelbase format. The 1.9-litre diesel engine offers 100bhp and standard equipment includes ABS brakes, remote central locking, driver’s airbag and an alarm and immobiliser.