NISSAN fits its proven five-speed manual transmission with two-speed manual transfer case to its 4x4 Navaras.

Boasting double-cone synchronisers on second and third gear, the well-spaced ratios are a good match for the ZD30's engine torque and power characteristics - though with all that torque you need to shift quickly on the way up to manage the revs.

The diesel engine revs low around town, operating between 2000rpm and 3000rpm with short times spent at 3500rpm, so any transmission noise is concealed by the growl of the diesel detonation knock.

The 4x4 models use a manual-shift, aluminium-housed transfer case to drive the rear and front differentials. The transfer case is standard configuration and offers 2H, 4H, N and 4L. Shifting in and out of 4H can be done on the move, though the front axles are controlled by free-wheeling hubs which must be engaged manually.

Gear ratios are for the ST-R 4x4 are: first - 3.580, second - 2.077, third - 1.360, fourth - 1.000, fifth - 0.760 and reverse - 3.636. Final drive ratio is 4.375.

Gear ratios differ for 4x4 petrol and 4x2 models. Automatic transmission is available in single-cab/chassis petrol 4x2 and dual-cab petrol utility 4x2 models only.