Selecting the perfect off-road-ready truck can feel overwhelming, especially when comparing two formidable contenders: the Nissan Navara Pro-4X and the Toyota Prado VX.
Both vehicles boast impressive track records for performance and reliability, but the ultimate question remains: which one stands out as the true champion?
Fasten your seatbelt as we delve into their distinctive features, guiding you toward the ideal adventure companion for your journeys1
Table of Contents
Rugged Rivals: A Brief Introduction
Nissan Navara Pro-4X 2023
This mid-size pickup truck boasts a muscular stance and aggressive design, tailored for conquering tough terrain.
It comes equipped with a 2.3L twin-turbo diesel engine and off-road-focused features like skid plates, all-terrain tires, and hill descent control.
If you’re seeking an adventure companion that can handle rugged landscapes, the Nissan Navara Pro-4X is a formidable choice.
Toyota Prado VX 2023
This iconic SUV seamlessly blends comfort with capability, making it ideal for both on-road cruising and adventurous escapades.
The VX trim boasts a 2.8L diesel engine, a spacious seven-seater cabin, and a suite of advanced off-road technologies.
Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring rugged terrain, the Toyota Prado VX is your reliable companion for every journey.
Exterior and Interior Features
Nissan Navara Pro-4X 2023
The Nissan Navara Pro-4X radiates boldness through its blacked-out exterior accents, striking LED headlights, and an aggressive grille.
Step inside, and you’ll find comfortable cloth seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, and ample cargo space. However, it’s worth noting that the rear legroom might feel cramped for three adults.
Toyota Prado VX 2023
The Toyota Prado exudes sophistication with its sleek lines and elegant chrome accents. Its luxurious interior boasts leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a larger touchscreen display.
With three rows of seating, it comfortably accommodates both passengers and gear, making it an excellent choice for your journeys.
Performance Comparison
Engine Specifications
both the Nissan Navara and the Toyota Prado come equipped with robust diesel engines. Let’s break down their specifications:
Nissan Navara Pro-4X:
Engine: 2.3L twin-turbo diesel
Horsepower: 190 HP
Torque: 450 Nm
Toyota Prado VX:
Engine: 2.8L diesel
Horsepower: 200 HP
Torque: 500 Nm
Fuel Efficiency
Both the Nissan Navara and the Toyota Prado exhibit comparable combined fuel economy, averaging around 7.9 liters per 100 kilometers.
However, it’s essential to recognize that real-world mileage can fluctuate based on various factors, including driving conditions, cargo weight, and terrain.
So, when planning your adventures, consider these nuances to make an informed choice!
Off-road Capabilities
Traction Control
Both vehicles come equipped with advanced traction control systems, essential for navigating challenging terrains.
The Toyota Prado features the Multi-Terrain Select system, offering pre-set modes tailored for different surfaces.
The Nissan Navara employs sensors to automatically adjust traction, ensuring optimal grip.
Suspension
The Prado boasts a multi-link suspension, providing a comfortable ride both on and off-road.
The Navara, on the other hand, utilizes a coil spring suspension, which offers a stiffer ride but enhances articulation for tackling obstacles.
Ground Clearance
The Prado sits slightly higher with a ground clearance of 220mm.
The Navara maintains a ground clearance of 223mm.
Additionally, the Navara’s shorter wheelbase may provide better maneuverability on tight trails.
Driving Experience
On-road Performance
The Prado takes the lead in this category, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride due to its refined suspension and spacious cabin.
The Navara, while slightly stiffer on paved roads, compensates with its agile handling.
Off-road Adventure
Both trucks are formidable off-road machines.
The Prado shines with its advanced traction control and higher ground clearance.
Meanwhile, the Navara gains an edge in technical terrain due to its shorter wheelbase and stiffer suspension.
Safety Features
Nissan Navara Pro-4X 2023
Standard safety features include:
Intelligent emergency braking
Lane departure warning
Blind-spot monitoring
Higher trims offer advanced features such as:
Adaptive cruise control
Rear cross-traffic alert
Toyota Prado VX 2023
The Prado comes with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including:
Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
Lane departure warning
Adaptive cruise control
In higher trims, you’ll find additional safety enhancements like:
Surround-view cameras
Blind-spot monitoring
Accessories and Customization
Off-road Accessories
When it comes to off-road accessories, both the Nissan Navara Pro-4X and the Toyota Prado VX offer a plethora of options.
Whether you’re gearing up for rugged trails or wilderness exploration, consider adding these accessories to enhance your off-road experience:
Winches: A reliable winch can pull you out of sticky situations when traction fails.
Roof Racks: Perfect for carrying extra gear, camping supplies, or even kayaks.
Underbody Protection: Shield critical components from rocks, debris, and rough terrain.
Customization Options
The Toyota Prado takes the lead in factory-installed customization options:
Different Wheel Sizes: Choose the wheel size that suits your style and performance needs.
Interior Trim Packages: Personalize your cabin with various trim levels, from classic elegance to sporty accents.
Meanwhile, the Nissan Navara leans more on aftermarket options, allowing you to tailor your truck according to your preferences.
Cost of Ownership
Fuel Costs
As mentioned earlier, both trucks deliver similar combined fuel economy figures of around 7.9L/100km. However, real-world mileage can vary depending on driving habits, load, and terrain.
Depreciation
Historically, Toyota vehicles have indeed maintained their value better than Nissan vehicles. This trend often translates to lower depreciation costs for the Toyota Prado in the long run.
However, it’s essential to consider individual factors such as vehicle condition, mileage, and market dynamics when assessing depreciation
FAQ
What Nissan is equivalent to Prado?
Nissan Equivalent to Prado: The Nissan X-Trail is often compared to the Toyota Prado. Both are midsize SUVs with seven seats, but the X-Trail offers additional rear seats, making it a seven-seater.
Is Nissan patrol better than Prado?
Nissan Patrol vs. Prado: The Toyota Prado is known for its refinement and off-road capabilities, while the Nissan Patrol boasts a V8 engine and impressive payload capacity. It’s a close call, but the Prado edges out in terms of overall appeal.
Is Nissan Navara better than Toyota Hilux?
Nissan Navara vs. Toyota Hilux: The Nissan Navara and Toyota Hilux are both reliable pickups. The Navara offers a heavier payload capacity, while the Hilux is known for its power, stability, and durability.
Which is better Prado or Pajero?
Prado vs. Pajero: The Mitsubishi Pajero focuses more on off-road performance, while the Toyota Prado strikes a balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort. The Prado is the better compromise between the two.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Off-Road Champion
The Nissan Navara Pro-4X and the Toyota Prado VX indeed stand as compelling contenders in the off-road realm, each catering to distinct preferences and priorities.
For the adventure seeker:
Navara Pro-4X: If you crave a rugged companion for conquering technical trails, the Navara’s nimble handling, shorter wheelbase, and off-road-focused features might win you over. Its lower entry price and potentially lower fuel costs could also be enticing factors.
For the comfort-oriented explorer:
Prado VX: If you prioritize on-road refinement, a spacious and luxurious cabin, and advanced off-road technologies, the Prado VX should be on your shortlist. Its higher resale value and potentially lower insurance costs could also be appealing in the long run.