2021 Isuzu D-Max LT 4x2 vs Nissan Navara EL 4x2 Spec Sheet Comparison

As we’ve pointed out in several articles this month, the Philippines’ pickup truck wars are, well, picking up once again. This is due to the influx of pickup truck model updates being released in the first quarter of the year.  

Two of those are the all-new Isuzu D-Max, and the facelifted Nissan Navara. By now though, many are already familiar with their respective top-spec models. They’re all comfortable, they all look great, and they are filled to the brim with on-board safety. 

However, what about the base variants? How about the simpler, work-oriented ones that you’ll probably use for your business?  

To help you make your pick, let’s compare the D-Max and the Navara’s entry-level trims. This is the Navara EL 4x2 and the D-Max LT 4x2. Which of these two has the better specs?  

Do note that the D-Max also has a single-cab variant, but we’ll stick to comparing the said model’s entry-level double-cab model. 

So, which base-model pickup truck is better on paper? Let's find out 

When it comes to size, the Nissan Navara EL measures 5,260 mm long, 1,850 mm wide, and 1,810 in height. Moreover, it has a ground clearance of 220 mm, and a wheelbase length of 3,150 mm.  

Meanwhile, the D-Max LT is 5,285 mm long, 1,810 mm wide, and 1,695 in height. Its wheelbase is 3,125 mm in length, and it has a ground clearance of 195 mm. 

The Isuzu D-Max LT

As we can see from the numbers, the D-Max LT is longer, whereas the Navara EL is wider and taller. The latter also has a higher ground clearance, as well as a longer wheelbase. 

As variants that are more oriented towards utility, both are on the simpler side of the spectrum of their respective model’s exterior designs. Both however are equipped with multi-reflector halogen headlamps, halogen taillights, and black-colored door handles. The Navara EL however, does get power adjustable side mirrors, while the D-Max LT does not. The Navara EL also gets tailgate assist which makes the said part easier to handle. 

The 2021 Nissan Navara (VE model shown)

Lastly, the D-Max LT rides on a set of 15-inch steel wheels. The Navara EL in comparison has a larger set of 17-inch steel wheels. 
 

Inside, both the D-Max LT and Navara EL offer generous space for up to five occupants, including the driver. Both have fabric-covered seats and manual-type air-conditioning systems. The D-Max's rear seats however have a 60:40 split function. In turn, the Navara EL gets storage cubby holes under its rear seats, which also feature a flip-up armrest with cupholders. 

Their steering wheels are also kept simple with urethane covering. The wheel on the Navara EL can be adjusted for tilt, but the one on the D-Max LT is fixed. Both models also have conventional turn-key ignition systems.

 Moving on to on-board entertainment, the Navara EL gets a 2-DIN system capable of connecting via Bluetooth, USB, and Aux. It is also linked to a four-piece speaker system. 

Compare the interior of the Isuzu D-Max (left) and the Nissan Navara (right) using this slider. (Top-spec models shown)

In comparison, the D-Max LT is equipped with a 1-DIN system that also has Bluetooth, Aux-in, and USB connectivity. However, it has fewer audio speakers numbering at two. Moreover, the D-Max lacks a 12-volt accessory charger, while the Navara EL gets three. Both the Nissan and Isuzu-made trucks do get USB ports. 
 

The D-Max LT is propelled by the RZ4E-TC 1.9-liter inline-4 turbodiesel engine. At most, this mill can put out 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.

The D-Max LT's 1.9-liter inline-4 turbodiesel engine 

The Navara EL on the other hand uses the YD25 2.5-liter inline-4 turbodiesel engine. It can make up to 161 horsepower and 403 Nm of torque. It also has a rear-wheel drivetrain and a six-speed manual transmission.  

The Navara's 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine (top-spec model shown)

In terms of suspension setups, the D-Max LT uses double wishbones in front and a leaf spring-type suspension at the rear. The Navara EL in turn also uses a double wishbone front suspension, but instead of leaf springs, it has a multi-link suspension system supported by dual-rate coil springs. 

Safety-wise, both trucks are equipped with devices that one would expect from a modern vehicle. Both have anti-lock braking and ISOFIX child seat tethers. The Nissan-made truck however does get dual front airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags. In comparison, the D-Max LT only has dual front airbags.  

Moreover, the Navara EL also comes with a hill-start assist feature, speed-sensing door locks, a car alarm, as well as an engine immobilizer. The Isuzu-made pickup truck lacks these aforementioned features.
 

If we’re talking about price, then the D-Max LT 4x2 obviously has the advantage over the Navara EL. To be exact, the Isuzu-made truck is Php 162,000 cheaper. 

But then, the Navara EL just has more to offer in terms of on-board features. It has more speakers, more airbags, and its rear seat also has an armrest.  

There’s also a significant difference in power. From the specs, the Navara EL is the more powerful truck. This is of course crucial when it comes to towing and hauling heavy stuff. Do note however that the smaller 1.9-liter D-Max RZ4E-TC also has a reputation for being fuel-efficient. This of course is another consideration for businesses applications. 

As for reliability, we can’t quantify that from the specs alone. We do know though that Nissan's YD25 and Isuzu’s RZ4E-TC engines have already proven themselves in the market. After all, these engines have been used in their respective lineups for quite some time now. Moreover, both Isuzu and Nissan have a significant market presence in the Philippines. As such, aftersales for these two trucks can be easily accessed. 

So, did this comparison help you make your choice of truck? For more comparisons like this, keep it here on Philkotse.com.