Nissan Navara: Know its alternatives

The pickup segment has flourished in recent times, not only in Malaysia but across the globe. Buyers have started to look pickups as more than just a commercial conveyance. Today, they are termed as everyday vehicles with great finesse and character.

The Nissan Navara is one of the leading players in the market. It is highly competitive in terms of design, efficiency, and convenience. On top of that, the pickup is exceptional on and off the road - thanks to its 2.5-litre power mill and optimised mechanical setup. Moreover, features like Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM) for a 360-degree bird-eye view and Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) for enhanced braking on slippery surfaces make the pickup even more desirable to buy.

Since the world is full of options, we have alternatives to the Nissan Navara that have the similar set of features and specifications and are available in the same price bracket. The following choices will not only help you compare the mains amongst the leading pickups but also help you make a wiser decision.

Ford Ranger

From the stable of the American automaker, first up is the Ford Ranger that’s known for refinement, power, and comfort. Available in 2.0- and 2.2-litre of engine options, the Ford Ranger is one of the hot favourites among the Malaysians. It comes with features like collision mitigation technology and lane correction that takes the competition game to an altogether new level.

Additionally, the Ranger has 6 airbags, lots of convenience and storage options, active cruise control and most importantly the 8-inch infotainment system with Ford Sync feature that makes life so much easier.

Toyota Hilux

Another contender that stands tall in the segment is the Toyota Hilux, which is legendary in itself. First due to the brand insignia it carries and second due to the amenities and features it offers. The feature segment is packed with some of the useful and practical features a pickup owner looks for. These include LED projector headlamps, dashcam, smart entry and start, multi-info instrument cluster, 7 airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and more.

In addition to some basic ones, the top-of-the-line Hilux comes with features like a 6.1-inch touchscreen display and an advanced digital video recorder. Not just that the Hilux also features cruise control and Downhill Assist Control (DAC). There are two engine options available, 2.4- and 2.8-litre.

Mitsubishi Triton

The Triton is available in two different engine options, 2.4- and 2.5-litre that produce appreciable performance figures regardless of road and driving conditions. What’s notable is that the Japanese product is high on style and features set. The Mitsubishi Triton comes with safety equipment that comprises of 7 SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, Active Stability with Traction Control (ASTC), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and electronic time and alarm control system.

Inside, the features galore continue with paddle shifters, push start button and keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, power adjustable seats for front occupants and touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay support.

Isuzu D-Max

Next up is the Isuzu D-Max. It is handsomely styled, incorporated with the standard as well as advanced features that do not fail to impress the buyers. Some notable features from its spec-sheet are projector headlamps, terrain command controller, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), front airbags, and Brake Assist (BA).

There are plenty of storage and comfort options available inside the cabin that make long journeys stress-free and joyous. Another highlight of its cabin is the touch-enabled audio system. On the mechanical front, it comes with the right combination of power mill, frame, and suspension units. There are two engine options that a customer can choose from, 2.5- and 3.0-litre.

Mazda BT-50

Last but not least, another alternative that comes to our minds is the Mazda BT-50 - simple, spacious and driver-friendly pickup. Based on the Ford Ranger T6, the Mazda BT-50 is capable of doing the job in the desired manner. Whether you choose it for commercial purposes or take it on the family picnics, the fun remains unaltered. The infotainment system with a small display offers you music streaming options that support USB, AUX, and Bluetooth modes.

There are two engine options to choose from, 2.2- and 3.2-litre, both offered with 4x4 drive system - a powerful offering for sure. On the safety front, it gets two front airbags, Brake Assist (BA), ABS with EBD, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).