Toyota Hilux vs Nissan Navara Philippines: Truck battle!

Without a doubt, Filipinos are very familiar with pick-up trucks, whether as a workhorse, a family hauler or an all-around lifestyle vehicle. Choosing a pick-up truck, however, can be daunting, with a wide selection of popular models right now in the Philippines. Two of those are currently leading the pack: the Toyota Hilux vs Nissan Navara.

Between two Japanese brands, which one has the more impressive spec sheet? Let’s find out with Philkotse.com!

Once again, Truck battle!

In terms of size, the top-spec Toyota Hilux Conquest is 80mm longer and 5 mm wider than the Navara's VL N-Warrior, although the latter sits 25 mm higher and has a longer wheelbase.

While looks are subjective, there are some design aspects of these two trucks that we feel practically everyone can agree on.

The Nissan Navara, for instance, clearly went for a modern yet tough look that resembles the 2019 Patrol Royale, especially the front fascia’s proportions and certain design elements.

The combination of white, orange and black makes the N-Warrior stand out, even among other Navara variants

The Toyota Hilux Conquest vaguely resembles the USDM 4Runner or even a mini Tacoma

Meanwhile, the Toyota Hilux clearly echoes the design characteristics of its stablemates that are built on the IMV platform, the Fortuner in particular. With the Hilux Conquest, its front end somewhat resembles the Toyota 4Runner.

The rear of the Navara N-Warrior. Note the blacked-out sport bar and wheels

Rearview of the Toyota Hilux Conquest...

>>> Refer to our full-scale review section to learn more about these two truck:

• Nissan Navara Philippines Review
• Toyota Hilux Philippines Review

While both of these trucks are sufficiently comfortable for four passengers and one driver, the Navara’s electronically adjustable driver seat is a boon for those who may have difficulty with adjusting manual seats. It also features cruise control, which is especially useful on long drives along endless stretches of road.

Toyota Hilux models are equipped with a 6-inch infotainment system, an inch larger than one on lower-specced Navara's. The Nissan truck's 2.5L 4x4 VL AT and the VL N-Warrior variants, however, come with an even bigger 8-inch advanced touchscreen that also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

So which do you think has a better interior?

In terms of power, the Hilux Conquest and the N-Warrior Navarra have similar power outputs. The 2.8-liter diesel on the Toyota makes 174 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, whereas the Navara's 2.5-liter mill makes a slightly higher 180 horsepower and the same amount of pull.

Expect the Nissan Navara 2019 to handle better and ride smoother on the road on account of its multi-link rear suspension. The Hilux, on the other hand, sports a really stiff but otherwise very robust leaf spring and rigid axle set-up, enabling it to carry very heavy loads even when the pavement ends. This means that the Hilux’s ride can be a bit jarring, especially on road bumps and rumble strips.

Nissan Navara N Warrior EL 4x2 AT -First look, early review -Philippines

2019 TOYOTA CONQUEST 4X2 A/T | NEBULA BLUE | COLOR APPRECIATION | QUICK VIEW WALK AROUND

>>> More car comparison for your reference: 

• Nissan Navara vs Ford Ranger
• Toyota Hilux vs Strada

The Toyota Hilux 2019 is well-equipped in terms of safety. With the exception of hill descent control and cruise control, the Hilux dominates the Navara with features such as trailer sway control, brake assist, traction control, and an array of side, curtain and knee airbags.

Toyota Hilux gets 5-star in the Crash test

The ace up the Navara's sleeve, however, is the Nissan Intelligent Mobility suite of safety features, especially on the VL N-Warrior. This driver assistance package includes a simulated 360-degree view provided by several exterior sensors and cameras, eliminating blind spots for a safer ride. 

>>> Related: Which 2020 Nissan Navara should you buy? [Philkotse Guide]

>>> Check out the Toyota Hilux price list in the Philippines

In terms of pricing, the Toyota Hilux and the Nissan Navara’s variants were really poised to compete against each other; even their two base variants are similarly priced. However, the Hilux comes with a cab and chassis variant, underscoring its role as a dependable workhorse. 

If you’re looking for a truck that really stands out in terms of styling and active safety tech while being supremely comfortable on the road, the Nissan Navara might be more to your liking. On the other hand, if you want a truck that has superior carrying and off-roading capabilities straight from the factory, the Toyota Hilux fits the bill.

With the recent reveal of Isuzu's new D-Max, however, watch out for our Nissan Navara vs Isuzu d-Max comparo in the future.

Does the Toyota Hilux Conquest catch your eye?

Or is the Nissan Navara N-Warrior more to your liking?

For more affordable deals from other brands, please check out our Car for sale section.