Nissan Hardbody
By 
Dirk van der Westhuizen | Published 1 November 2009
Nissan Hardbody 3.3 V6 4x4, 2004 Model, R120 000 (second-hand)
A bakkie in the hand is worth two in the showroom… Dirk van der Westhuizen bought his father-in-law’s Nissan 4x4.
I bought the Nissan Hardbody in June 2009, when it had 70 000 km on the clock (most of which was driven on tar roads). We have since travelled more than 12 000 km in it - some of which has been on gravel roads, including in the Cederberg and Swartberg.
Why did you buy a Nissan?
What has impressed you about the Nissan?
The small creature comforts - like the electric windows and air conditioning. The seats are comfortable and offer good back support. I’m also impressed with its off-road abilities. I haven’t put it in 4x4 mode often, but what I have experienced is excellent. Other guys I spoke to said its 4x4 capabilities give you peace of mind on difficult routes.
I’m planning to do a 4x4 driving course so I can use the vehicle to its full potential.
How does the bakkie fare on the open road?
You’d hardly call it a touring vehicle. I previously owned an Audi A4, and I’m still getting used to driving a bakkie. I try to stick to the 120 km/h speed limit, but it takes willpower! It cruises comfortably at around 140 km/h. It’s a pleasure to be able to put your foot down if you want to pass another vehicle. It has so much power that you don’t even need to gear down.
It handles well on gravel, except when the road is badly corrugated. Because the suspension is hard, the bakkie tends to buck and you have to hang on and concentrate to keep it on the road. We take it slowly in situations like this. In any event, it’s nice to take it easy and enjoy the scenery.
Is there enough space in the cab?
Yes, it’s definitely roomier inside than the Ford Ranger and Mitsubishi Triton I looked at. The rear seat has enough legroom for passengers to sit comfortably on a long journey.
What’s the fuel consumption like?
It’s a bit thirstier than I expected. The average fuel consumption up to now is about 12,8 ℓ/100 km.
Your wife’s opinion?
Initially she was sceptical, especially about the fuel consumption. But now I think she almost likes it more than I do!
Would you recommend it?
Yes, definitely. It’s big, strong and built to last. It offers better value for money than a new Chinese bakkie. It’s also reasonably cheap to maintain. Just look at what Nissan achieves in rallies nowadays. That says a lot about the product.
Have you modified the bakkie in any way?
I’ve already started planning a purpose-made canopy so we can go camping in the bush. The guys who know and can drive 4x4s have good things to say about Old Man Emu suspension, which apparently makes it even better off-road. I’d like to have that fitted, because I bought the bakkie for those more difficult routes.
Vital stats
Engine: 3275 cc, V6
Clearance: 220 mm
Fuel tank: 84 litres
4x4 specs: Rear diff lock
Top speed: 174 km/h
Output & torque: 125 kW@4800 rpm
265 Nm@3600 rpm
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