Which 2021 Nissan Navara variant should you buy? [Comparison Guide]

Updated Mar 13, 2023 | Same topic: Which Car Variant to Buy?

The updated 2021 Navara gets more equipment. 

Nissan Philippines has revealed the Nissan Navara 2021. And as we’ve seen so far, this mid-cycle facelift offers a lot to those looking for a comfortable, good-looking, but also a tough pickup truck. It’s still the same third-gen D23 model, but Nissan has given it a lot of technological updates. 

Like many entrants to the ever-competitive Philippine truck market, the Nissan Navara has a lot of variants, eight to be exact. So, which one is the right one for you? Just how different are they from each other? We’ll answer that for your benefit as a future pickup truck buyer.  

Note though that Nissan won’t be releasing the 2021 Navara’s official prices until the said models digital launch on March 21.

2021 Nissan Navara PRO-4X Quick Drive Review: Facelift and more? | Philkotse Philippines

2021 Nissan Navara Variants: Exterior 

Size-wise, the Navara variants have some differences. In terms of length, it’s all uniform on all variants at 5,260 mm. When it comes to width however, the top-spec Pro-4X is the widest at 1,875 mm, while the rest of the variants have a 1,850 mm width.

There are also variations in height. The VL 4x4 is the tallest at 1,860 mm, followed by the Pro-4X at 1,855 mm, the VL 4x2 at 1,845 mm, and the VE 4x4 at 1,825 mm. The shortest in height is the entry-level VE variants with a height of 1,810 mm. 

A picture of the Nissan Navara Pro-4X at Paoay Sand dunes

The 2021 Nissan Navara Pro-4X

Ground clearance is also different across the Navara’s variant lineup. The Pro-4X and the VL 4x4 have 220 mm, the VL 4x2 has 225 mm, the VE has 220 mm, and the EL has the most ground clearance at 245 mm.  

Moving on to wheels, the Pro-4X uses a 17-inch black-colored alloy set wrapped with all-terrain tires. The VL has all-season tires and 18-inch alloy wheels. The VE also uses all-season tires but uses 17-inch alloys instead. The EL in turn uses a 17-inch set of steel wheels.

>>> Related: 2021 Nissan Navara Quick Drive Review: Utility and comfort

A picture of the 2021 Nissan Navara VE at Okada Manila

The 2021 Nissan Navara VE with accessories

Looks-wise, the Navara Pro-4X stands out with its black-themed trim pieces. It also comes with orange accents found on its over-fenders and on its lower bumper. The rest in turn features a combination of chrome trim pieces, and body color parts.  

When it comes to exterior equipment, it’s a bit more uniform. The Pro-4X, VL, and VE variants are all equipped with quad LED projector lamps, LED front foglamps, LED daytime running lamps, LED taillights, and a side-step board. The Pro-4X and VL however, do come with rain-sensing wipers. The EL on the other hand is the simplest Navara variant. It uses halogen headlamps, and it lacks DRLs and fog lamps. Lastly, only the Pro-4X and the VL are equipped with roof rails. 

A picture of the Navara VL variant at Okada Manila

The 2021 Nissan Navara VL variant

>>> Related: 2021 Nissan Navara debuts: Complete details, specs, photos, & pricing

2021 Nissan Navara Variants: Interior 

Inside, the Pro-4X uses Zero Gravity Type seats with manual adjustment. It does have unique Pro-4X stitching and interior details. The VL however, also has the same type of leather seats without the accent stitching, but the one for the driver is electronically adjustable, and has a lumbar function. The rest of the variant lineup meanwhile, also gets Zero Gravity type seats with manual adjustment and are wrapped in fabric. 

For on-board entertainment, all variants except for the entry-level EL, are given an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The said screen is linked to six speakers, and it’s also capable of handling Bluetooth streaming and calling, and it can also connect via USB, and Aux. 

A picture of the interior of the Nissan Navara Pro-4X

Inside the Nissan Navara Pro-4X

The EL, on the other hand, has a simpler 2-DIN head unit with four speakers but it does have Bluetooth. 

For comfort, all variants except the EL gets a dual-zone automatic climate control system with rear vents. The EL in turn utilizes a manual air-conditioning system that also has rear vents.  

For driver amenities, cruise control and a push to start button is present on the Pro-4X, VL, and VE. Only the Pro-4X and VL however comes equipped with a keyless entry system.

>>> Related: 2021 Nissan Navara Old vs New: Spot the differences

2021 Nissan Navara Variants: Engine and performance 

The 2021 Navara still uses the 2.5-liter YD25 inline-4 turbodiesel engine. On the Pro-4X, VL, and VE variants, the said engine can make up to 190 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. On the entry-level EL, the said engine makes less power at 163 horsepower and 403 Nm of torque.  

A picture of the 2021 Navara's engine

The 2021 Navara's 2.5-liter YD25 inline-4 turbodiesel engine

For transmission, the Navara gets a seven-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode, or a six-speed manual transmission. The Pro-4X only gets the automatic gearbox, while the entry-level is only available with the aforementioned manual gearbox.

The VL on the other hand has both transmissions for both 4x4 and 4x2 versions, whereas the VL 4x2 only has the seven-speed automatic gearbox, and the VE 4x4 in turn is only available with the manual gearbox.

Moving on to drivetrains, the Pro-4X, the VL, and the VE can be had with a 4x4 drivetrain. These also come with multiple drive modes namely the standard 4x2 mode, a 4x4 low mode and a 4x4 high mode. The VL and VE are also available with a 4x2 drivetrain, but the entry-level EL is only available with a 4x2.

>>> Related: Nissan Navara gets up to P120K cash discount this month

2021 Nissan Navara Variants: Safety 

When it comes to safety, Nissan has found a way to provide more variants with the Nissan Intelligent Mobility safety suite. The Pro-4X and the VL variants are both equipped with the said system. For those unaware, this safety suite includes hill start assist and hill descent control, moving object detection, an around-view monitor, high beam assist, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, blind-spot warning, driver attention alert, and the intelligent emergency braking system. Note though that the VL 4x2 variant lacks the off-road monitor function, and it also doesn’t have hill descent control. 

Standard on all 2021 Navara variants are dual front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags. Also equipped on the entire variant lineup are anti-lock braking with electronic brake assist, ISOFIX tethering points, and an anti-theft system. However, only the Pro-4X and VL come with parking sensors. 

2021 Nissan Navara Variants: Price

2021 Nissan Navara Variants 
Price 
Navara EL 2.5 4x2 MT 
Php 1,149,000 
Navara VE Calibre 2.5 4x2 MT 
Php 1,369,000 
Navara VE Calibre 2.5 4x2 AT 
Php 1,459,000 
Navara VE 2.5 4x4 MT 
Php 1,499,000 
Navara VL Calibre 2.5 4x2 AT 
Php 1,599,000 
Navara VL 2.5 4x4 MT 
Php 1,699,000 
Navara VL 2.5 4x4 AT 
Php 1,779,000 
Navara Pro-4X 2.5 4x4 AT 
Php 1,849,000 

>>> Wait for Nissan Navara promos here or Promotions of all Nissan car

2021 Nissan Navara Variants: Conclusion 

With the 2021 update, we’re of the opinion that choosing a Navara variant is much easier. This is especially true if choosing one to function as a family car. Its passive safety has been updated significantly with more airbags, and is available as a standard on all variants. Even the Nissan Intelligent Mobility suite is now standard on three variants. There are some slight variances, but these will definitely attract a lot of takers. 

A picture of the side of the 2021 Navara

The 2021 Nissan Navara from the side. Check out those wheels

More Navara trims also have better off-road capability, utility, and practicality. Even the touchscreen is now available on more variants.  

Speaking of off-roading though, the Pro-4X is definitely geared toward this out of the factory. Sure, there are other 4x4 trims, but the top-spec Pro-4X already comes ready with all-terrain tires plus the off-road monitor.  

The VL trims, on the other hand, range from off-road capable to luxurious and classy, while the VE is a more comfortable but utilitarian pickup truck. The entry-level EL is of course the most work-oriented variant of the Navara, but it does get some creature comforts that many would appreciate. 

For more updates on the Nissan Navara, stay posted here on Philkotse.com

Know more about Nissan Navara 2024

Nissan Navara

The Nissan Navara is a pickup truck that is available in the Philippines. Nissan Navara 2025 Philippines price starting from Php 1,115,000 to Php 1,865,000. This price range is covered within the truck's nine variants, with the PRO-4X as the most expensive Navara. Under the hood, the Japanese pickup is powered by a 2.5-liter YD25DDTi inline-4 DOHC turbodiesel engine. Depending on the variant, the horsepower ranges from 161 to 190, while the torque in newton meters varies from 403 to 450. Either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission is paired to the engine.

Dimensions-wise, the Navara spans 5,260 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,855 mm in height, with the wheelbase rated at 3,150 mm. In addition, the bed dimensions (L x W x H x H) are 1,470 mm long, 1,495 mm wide, and 470 mm and 520 mm in height. Locally, this pickup truck competes against the likes of the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Mitsubishi Strada.

Nissan Navara Launch

The Nissan Navara got its name from a region in Northern Spain, the Navarre. Its first-generation model was released in 1997 and got a facelift in 2000, while the second generation was unveiled in 2004 featuring a redesigned compact body with the Nissan F-Alpha platform.

And now, Nissan Philippines introduced the facelifted model of the third-generation model of the midsize pickup truck this 2025. The Japanese carmaker adds the new top-of-the-line variant called PRO-4X which comes with exclusive exterior and interior details that can separate it from its competitors in terms of styling. Nissan's truck currently competes against the Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max, Ford Ranger, among others.

Nissan Navara Exterior

The biggest visual change on the 2025 Navara is found on the front end. It gains a larger grille, a more angular front bumper, and a new pair of quad LED headlights. Looking at the new front end, especially on the top-spec Pro-4X, reminds us of the Nissan Titan for the American market. Other front fascia changes include the new headlamps are the new, daytime running lamps, which assume a futuristic, angular design

Nissan Navara front view

2025 Nissan Navara facelift

Moving on towards the rear, the midsize pickup truck gains a more modern-looking tailgate. The taillights feature a revamped design that features a C-shaped LED lighting element. In terms of style, the Pro-4X is clearly the most imposing with its black-colored grille and trim pieces. For an additional splash of color, this trim also receives orange accents found on the over-fenders, as well as the faux-recovery hooks on the plastic skid plate.

Nissan Navara Interior

When the facelift model was introduced in the Philippines, much of the interior remained the same as compared to the outgoing model. The door cards are a combination of soft and hard surfaces, but the dashboard is still mostly made out of textured, sturdy plastic. Zero gravity-type seats are installed in the cabin with the VL and PRO-4X variants utilizing leather, while the lower-trim VE and EL variants come with fabric.

Nissan Navara interior view

Interior view of the Nissan Navara

Standard features in the 2025 Nissan Navara include two cupholders and bottle holders each in the front and the rear, four USB ports for charging, high type meter with a 7-inch color TFT display (except for the base EL variant only), an armrest for the rear passengers, and door pockets in the front and rear.

Technology & Safety Features

All variants except the entry-level EL come with a dual-zone automatic air-conditioning system with rear vents. The Pro-4X, VL, and VE also get an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, Aux-in, and USB connectivity. For the aforementioned variants, the infotainment system is linked to six speakers for entertainment while cruising down Philippines roads. Meanwhile, the EL variant gets the 2-DIN with four speakers.

Nissan Navara infotainment screen

The 8-inch infotainment screen

Standard on all trim levels of the Nissan Navara is six airbags. This includes dual front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags. Also standard across all trims are vehicle dynamic control, anti-lock braking with electronic brake-force distribution, ISOFIX child seat tethers, speed-sensing door locks, a car alarm, and an engine immobilizer.  

Platform & Chassis

The Nissan Navara is manufactured using a rigid body-on-frame structure and the Nissan F-Alpha Platform (D23). A 4x4 and 4x2 drivetrain version is available locally. For suspension, it is built with an independent Double Wishbone paired with a coil spring and stabilizer bar at the front, and a five-link coil spring with a stabilizer at the back. Braking is assisted by ventilated discs at the front and drums at the rear.

Nissan Navara rear view

It is built for the off-road

We happen to put the Japanese car brand's pickup truck to the test by driving it on the famous Paoay Sand Dunes in the Philippines. The truck's stability and control are outstanding, especially with the use of its 4x4 system complemented with a differential lock for seamlessly riding through steep and uneven roads.

Engine & Drivetrain

Making its return for the Nissan Navara Philippines’s midcycle refresh is the 2.5-liter YD25 inline-4 turbodiesel engine. Of note, there are two tunes for this engine. For all the variants except the EL, the said engine can make up to 190 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, while the EL’s 2.5-liter mill makes a bit less at 163 horsepower and 403 Nm of torque. It can be paired to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic (with a manual mode) transmission.

Nissan Navara engine view

Ready to take on road challenges

Available colors for the Nissan Navara are Galaxy Black, Fiery Red, Stealth Pearl Gray, Aspen Pearl White, Forged Metallic Copper, Lunar Metallic Gray, Brilliant Silver, and Alpine White.

One can say that the Nissan Navara leads the segment in terms of suspension against the likes of the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux thanks to its coil spring setup.

Nissan Navara 2025 Price List

 Variants Price
Nissan Navara 2.5 EL MT 4x2 ₱1,115,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 VE Calibre MT 4x2 ₱1,320,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 VE Calibre AT 4x2 ₱1,410,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 VE MT 4x4 ₱1,460,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 VL Calibre AT 4x2 ₱1,560,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 VL Calibre AT 4x2 (Aspen Pearl White) ₱1,575,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 Calibre-X AT 4x2 ₱1,630,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 Calibre-X AT 4x2 (Aspen Pearl) ₱1,645,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 VL MT 4x4 (Aspen Pearl White) ₱1,660,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 VL AT 4x4 ₱1,740,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 VL AT 4x4 (Aspen Pearl White) ₱1,755,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 PRO-4X AT 4x4 ₱1,850,000
Nissan Navara 2.5 PRO-4X AT 4x4 (Aspen Pearl White) ₱1,865,000

Nissan Navara Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Tough powertrain

  • Uses coil springs for the front and rear

  • Nissan Intelligent Mobility

Cons

  • No available cab & chassis configuration

  • Mid-spec VL wheels look odd

  • Bedliner is not standard even in PRO-4X

 

Nissan Navara FAQs

1. What are the overall dimensions of the Nissan Navara?

Its length comes standard as 5,255mm long across the range. However, its width and height vary depending on the variant.

2. Does the Nissan Navara offer a spacious interior?

Yes, a roomy interior is a plus point of the Navara. The pickup offers a wide head and legroom for 5 fully-grown people.

3. Is the Nissan Navara a reliable pickup truck?

Yes, the Navara has spanned through over 20 years of production. It comes equipped with a very reliable engine, as well as a very robust chassis.

4. How much does the Nissan Navara 2025 cost?

The Nissan Navara costs approximately Php 1,115,000 to Php 1,865,000 depending on the variants.

5. In terms of safety features, how many airbags do all the variants of the Nissan Navara 2023 have?

All the variants of the Nissan Navara are equipped with 6 airbags.

₱ 1,071,000 - ₱ 1,811,000

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Cesar G.B. Miguel

Cesar G.B. Miguel

Author

Cesar Guiderone B. Miguel was born and raised in Iligan City, Lanao Del Norte. He graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in English degree from Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology. He previously worked as a freelance writer for various websites, as a member of the Iligan City Disaster Risk Reduction Management's training staff, and as a medical sales representative.

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