Looking for the perfect pickup truck? When it comes to this segment, two widely popular models usually come to mind: the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara. Both vehicles have a reputation for being all-around lifestyle pickup trucks that can easily transition from being a workhorse to being a family hauler. But which one is better for you? Let’s compare their spec sheets!
Interior
If you want your vehicle to have a spacious and neat layout, both the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara can make the grade. But while both vehicles boast of their luxurious interior, the answer to which of them is more superior comes down to your specific requirements. The biggest practicality perk of the Navara is the addition of its two ISOFIX attachment points, which means you can use it as a genuine family car with proper child restraints. But if you are after innovation and style, you will love how the Toyota Hilux gets the same dash treatment with the inclusion of an 8.0-inch touchscreen media system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also features a special cooling compartment for your drinks, making it ideal for long trips!
Exterior
If you take a look at both the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara, you will find that they almost come close exterior-wise. Navara Sport’s name is just fitting since it showcases nothing less of a sporty appearance—thanks to its grille, front skirt, and 18-inch alloy wheels. On the other hand, the Toyota Hilux boasts of its strong look with its massive radiator front grille, accented with thick chrome-slat bordering and chrome Toyota emblem. Add the 17-inch alloy to the picture and the athletic vibe of this pickup truck is complete.
Torque and Power
Well, the engines of both the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara are a perfect fit for an all-wheel drive system, but try driving them and you will discover a slight difference in their torque and power. Under the hood of the Toyota Hilux is a 2.8-liter engine while under that of the Navara is a 2.3-liter engine, giving it an advantage when it comes to fuel consumption. However, its smaller engine means the Navara needs to catch up on power! That brings us to its twin turbo system, which enables it to have a maximum torque of 450 Nm/rpm. Take note though that despite this system, the Navara is only capable of giving off 19ps, which is a way far cry from the 177ps of the Toyota Hilux.
Driving Experience
Ever tried driving on good city roads? If you drive both the Toyota Hilux and the Nissan Navara on such terrains, you will discover that the Navara is more capable of giving you a less bumpy drive, just as any SUV would! The Hilux, on the other hand, will afford you power. If you want to know why, try looking at the suspension of both vehicles—while the Navara’s multi-suspension lets you drive more comfortably and renders you more handling, the leaf spring suspension of Hilux lets you handle heavy loads better, although that makes it a bit shakier on the road.
Verdict
It is quite difficult to draw a wedge between the Toyota Hilux and the Nissan Navara since both of them are great vehicles, but the choice becomes easier if you know what specifically you are looking for. You see, the Navara offers better comfort but the Hilux offers more power. That means if you drive often in the city with less load, the Nissan Navara should be your go-to vehicle, but if you carry great loads and run on rough terrain often, then you’ll never go wrong with the Toyota Hilux.
