NISSAN's tough guy pick-up truck, the Navara, is set to get even more rough and tumble capability as a result of the Japanese maker's collaboration with one of the world's leading all-terrain vehicle specialists.

It is the first time a Navara has been developed with a partner brand for European markets and it's designed to make the respected pick-up even tougher when the rough gets going.

Unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham, the Navara Off-Roader AT32 is the most capable Navara ever. Standard features include bespoke suspension that increases ride height by 20mm, full protection of key underbody components and larger off-road tyres.

Maximum approach angle has been increased to 35° (up from 30.4°), while breakover angle is now 24° (up from 22.2°). With 20mm extra ground clearance and larger tyres, overall vehicle height is increased by 40mm.

For ultimate off-road performance, optional extras include a snorkel which improves wading depth by 200mm and a front differential lock to provide the best possible traction on every type of surface.

The vehicle is engineered by Arctic Trucks, the highly respected Icelandic company which specialises in building four wheel drive vehicles to take on the world's harshest terrains. AT stands for Arctic Trucks and 32 represents the diameter of each off-road tyre in inches.

Other obvious enhancements include dramatic wheel arch extensions, designed to amplify the new taller stance and offer greater protection of the bodywork during extreme off-roading. Hidden from view are underbody protection plates covering the engine, transmission, prop shaft and fuel tank.

The 17-inch alloys are designed by Arctic Trucks, while the 32-inch tyres have been selected specifically to improve off-road traction while maintaining excellent on-road performance. Such a large tyre diameter allows the driver to reduce the pressure to further boost traction, for example, in soft sand or snow.

As with the mainstream Navara, standard equipment includes hill start assist, hill decent control, intelligent emergency braking and intelligent around view monitor.

Alex Smith, managing director, Nissan GB, says: "We believe the mix of enhanced off-road ability and upgraded exterior features will appeal to a new audience of both professional and recreational pickup customers."