Which 2020 Nissan Navara variant should you buy? [Comparison Guide]

Updated Oct 28, 2022 | Same topic: Which Car Variant to Buy?

Confused by all the Navara variants? Then let this guide help you.

Like most of its rivals, the Nissan Navara has been around for a very long time. Its first-generation D22 series was introduced back in 1997, and its current D23 third-generation version has been around since 2014. But despite the Navara’s long production runs, its current version is popular around the world for a good reason. It offers a very reliable engine, as well as a very robust chassis.

Like most popular pickup truck models in the Philippines, the Navara currently has a surprising amount of variants. So this begs the question: which one is the right Navara to buy? To answer that, let’s compare its variants against each other in terms of specifications.

Nissan Navara Variants: Dimensions

When it comes to dimensions, the Navara’s variants have three subsets, each with slight variances. The VL variants, which include the VL N-Warrior, VL Sport edition, the 4x4 VL 7AT, and the 4x4 VL 6MT measures 5,255mm long, 1,850mm wide, and 1,840mm high. The EL Calibre 4x2 7 AT, 4x2 EL Calibre 6MT, and the 4x2 Calibre MT has the same length and width but is shorter by 15mm at 1,825mm. The EL Calibre N-Warrior and the EL Calibre Sport, however, come even shorter with a 1,789mm height.

A picture of the Navara parked over rough terrain

The most popular Navara color, for some reason, is orange. And yeah, we think it suits the Navara well

And lastly, the 2.5 4x2 6MT is 5,230mm long, 1790mm wide, and 1760mm high. All the variants have the same wheelbase length. All the Navara’s variants also come with an identically sized cargo bed, which measures 1,503mm long, 1560mm wide, and 474mm in height.

The VL as well as the VL N-Warrior, VL Sport, and EL Calibre variants come with a 245mm ground clearance. All Navara variants under the EL trim have 243 mm, while the entry-level variant Calibre gets a slightly lower 238mm ground clearance. The 4x2 6MT base Navara gets the least at 203mm.

When it comes to exterior design, the N-Warrior comes on top when ruggedness is concerned. It comes with a different looking over rider and skid plate, a sports roll bar, and a different set of 18-inch wheels. The top-of-the-line VL Sport Edition, however, is the most subtle of the bunch with its quiet-looking gun metal side steps and rear bumper, as well as it’s sleek but angular front fascia.

A picture of the Navara N-Warrior going off-road

Wanna look tough on and off the road? Then get an N-Warrior

The N-Warrior, as well as the VL and VL Sport variants, has automatic LED headlamps with a “follow-me-home” function. The EL, EL Calibre, Calibre, and the base model gets a simpler but still effective halogen multi-reflector headlights. The only Navara variant that doesn’t come with a side-step board and a rear window defroster is the 4x2 6MT Navara base variant.

>>> Related: Nissan Navara accessories Philippines: Do I need to add one and what to buy?

Nissan Navara Variants: Interior

As for driving amenities, the entire Navara variant lineup is equipped with manually tilt-adjustable steering column. Only the N-Warrior, the VL Sport, and VL variants are equipped with a steering wheel with button controls for cruise control, and hands-free calling. Those variants are also the only ones that are equipped with the Nissan Intelligent keyless entry system, a push to start button, a 3D TFT color display, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a compass, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar function.

A picture of the Navara's dashboard and steering wheel

Even the dashboard looks like it can withstand a beating

In terms of on-board entertainment, the N-Warrior, the VL Sport and the other VL variants have an eight-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, Aux, and iPod connectivity. The rest of the other variants come with a 2-DIN entertainment system that comes with USB/iPod/Aux connectivity, a radio tuner, and MP3 player, and a CD player. All variants, however, are equipped with a six-speaker setup.

Useful amenities like six cup holders, a 12-volt power outlet, rear and front accessory sockets, and a soft-touch armrest are standard on all Navara variants. Only the 4x2 Calibre 6MT and the base 4x2 6MT are equipped with a dial-type manual AC system with rear ventilation. The rest comes with a manual, push-type AC with rear vents.

>>> Click here to get a full list of new and used Nissan Navara for sale in the Philippines

Nissan Navara Variants: Engine and Performance

When it comes to variations to transmission-drivetrain combinations, the Nissan Navara is the most extensive pickup truck model in the Philippine market. The VL Navarra Variants all come with a 4x4 drivetrain and a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic with manual mode. EL variants are equipped with 4x2 paired with the same transmission choices as the EL except for the 4x4 EL MT. Lastly, there are the two base models which only come with a 4x2 drivetrain and a six-speed manual.

A picture of the Navara on a city road during a rainy night

The YD25 engine of the Navara, apart from rough roads, is great for long distance travels

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

When it comes to engines, all the Navara variants are powered by the YD25 diesel engine. It’s an inline-4 with DOHC, and an intercooled variable turbocharger. For the VL variants, the YD25 is tuned to make more power at 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. On the other Navara variants from the EL to the base variants, however, the said engine is tuned to make 160 horsepower and 403 Nm of torque.

Nissan Navara Variants: Safety Equipment

When it comes to safety equipment, the VL Navara, including the Sport edition and the N-Warrior, the 4x4 EL 6MT, and the EL Calibre variants are equipped with the brilliant Nissan intelligent mobility safety suite. This of course includes an around-view monitor. However, only the 4x4 EL 6MT and up comes with hill-start assist and hill descent control.

All variants of the Navara do come standard with dual front airbags, ISOFIX, and a high mount stop light. The base Calibre and the most affordable 4x2 6MT Navara are the only ones that don't come with ABS with EBD and car alarm with engine immobilizer.

>>> Related: 2021 Nissan Navara: Expectations and what we know so far

Nissan Navara Variants: Pricing

Navara Variants
Price
Navara 4x2 6MT
Php 929,000
Navara 4x2 Calibre MT
Php 999,000
Navara 4x2 EL Calibre MT
Php 1,135,000
Navara 4x2 EL Calibre AT
Php 1,195,000
Navara 4x2 EL Calibre MT N-Warrior
Php 1,249,000
Navara 4x2 EL Calibre Sport Edition MT
Php 1,255,000
Navara 4x2 EL MT
Php 1,285,000
Navara 4x2 EL Calibre AT N-Warrior
Php 1,309,000
Navara 4x2 EL Calibre Sport Edition AT
Php 1,315,000
Navara 4x4 VL MT
Php 1,455,000
Navara 4x4 VL MT AT
Php 1,515,000
Navara 4x4 VL MT N-Warrior
Php 1,569,000
Navara 4x4 VL AT N-Warrior
Php 1,629,000
Navara 4x4 VL Sport Edition AT
Php 1,635,000

Nissan Navara Variants: Which one is right for you?

As you can see from the pricelist above, the Nissan Navara has one of the widest price ranges for a pickup truck model here in the Philippines. So yes, there’s definitely one for all budgets and for all purposes.

If you just want a utility vehicle that you can rely on to carry your business, then you’d want the Nissan Navara 4x2 MT base model. It’s cheap and reasonably comfortable. If you want to look macho on the highway without breaking your wallet, then we suggest going for the 4x2 EL Calibre MT as it looks great, while still having the practicality of the base model.

A picture of the VL Sport Edition Nissan Navara's rear end as it climbs a hill

The VL Sport Edition is the undisputed king of the Navara model lineup

For those wanting the cheapest 4x4 Navara you can take to the boonies, then there’s the 4x4 EL MT. If you have the cash and you want the best, then there’s the 4x4 VL Sport Edition, which looks great and can literally go anywhere.

So yes, there’s a Navara for everyone. What it lacks now however is something that can trade punches with the Raptor.

For more guides like this, keep reading 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 2024 Philippines price starting from Php 1,115,000 to Php 1,915,000. 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 2024. 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 HiluxIsuzu D-MaxFord Ranger, among others.

Nissan Navara Exterior

The biggest visual change on the 2024 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

2024 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 2024 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 Pros & Cons

 Pros Cons
 
  • Tough powertrain

  • Uses coil springs for the front and rear

  • Nissan Intelligent Mobility

 
  • 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 2024 cost?

The Nissan Navara costs approximately Php 1,115,000 to Php 1,915,000 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.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goridus.goridus

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