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Welcome to the new 2016 Nissan Navara NP300 Vs VW Amarok comparison. It’s been awhile since we’ve looked at the Amarok so decided to have another look and compare it the latest model since we’ve already driven it. The Amarok has be updated with the release of new model configurations and specification changes but nothing that stands out and it is now the oldest model in the ute class, regardless even when released it did not impress us, probably due to the state of the demo.
Nissan Navara Vs VW Amarok exterior: Each to their own in terms of looks. The Navara is a clearly a modern design and looks good. The Amarok despite its age still looks good from mid range trim onwards. However the Amarok does look bloated, size for the sake of size. However either truck is good looking.
Nissan Navara Vs VW Amarok interior: The Amarok’s interior is a nice place to be. However there are numerous design flaws starting with tiny glove box and slippery uncovered tray on the dash, 90’s inspired passenger material, smaller footwell space for the from and seemingly off centre steering. Overall seems to cater to private buyers than commercial buys. The Navara is a nicer place to be and doesn’t have any of those problems it’s interior design (finally). However the lack of space to mount CB radios and other comms is a concern in both models. Some say that is it more refined than the elderly Hilux, Navara etc.. but than it should be, however with the introduction of the new models that is not true.
Nissan Navara Vs VW Amarok technology: The Navara has a ton of new tech and the class leading twin turbo diesel option. Lots of safety systems, suspension options and low range gearbox and real 4WD technology. The Amarok is behind on tech and features, missing out on safety, 4WD gearbox, usable headlights at night and most of all engines that include the ridiculous same engine and tuned differently that cost extra – complete rip off. Likewise the claimed AWD system it may work in real life but two different versions – what’s the problem with just one good one? Boasting 8 gears is a fine but ‘fake’ considering VW has problems with its gearboxes and omitting that it doesn’t have low range. VW PR says the extra low gear means a weight saving and that most people don’t one – fair enough the gearbox is not made by VW but there’s no weight saving or fuel saving compared to the new Navara and street cred (for 2015) requires things like a separate gearbox, RRP indicates that there should be at least 2 separate gearboxes for the price difference. Perhaps VW should have promoted how durable it is rather than technicalities?
Nissan Navara Vs VW Amarok drive: Everyone seems to ‘rave’ about how well the Amarok handles but when we drove it all we can say is that it’s OK it still drives like truck. The Amarok did not not handle like a car when released in 2011. The standout out is indeed the smoother diesel engine that they should be commended for! Drive of the new Navara soon.
In there end the Nissan has caught up and overtaken the Amarok as expected. At least on the surface it does not really show which is good because any business buyer with some smarts will see through the PR spin. For example despite VW’s introduction of fixed price servicing it is still higher than the rest due to the omitted consumables like brake pads with discs and cam belt replacement but at least service is only once a year. For the private buyer who really doesn’t care about what they are paying for, the Amarok makes sense? Afterall, pricing is a concern with unreasonable prices for any model in the range. Who would pay for $43,000-66,000 for an under equipped ute with only bloggers driving sensible hatchbacks promoting it? The Navara is the better package and better value for money but most of all has street cred something that VW PR can’t buy.
| Nissan Navara NP300 | VW Amarok |
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| Engines | |
| YS23DDT IL4 Diesel DOHC 16V DI CR Single turbo 2.3 Litre (2298cc) Claimed 120Kw @ 3750 RPM Claimed 403Nm @ 1500 PM OR Twin Turbo 2.3 Litre (2298cc) Claimed 140Kw @ 3750 RPM Claimed 450Nm @ 1500 PM |
TDI420 and TDI400 2 Litre (1968cc) Diesel Twin Turbo DOHC 16V DI CR Claimed 132Kw @ 4000 RPM Claimed 420Nm @ 1750 RPM or Claimed 132Kw @ 4000 RPM Claimed 400Nm @ 1500 RPM |
| QR25DE IL4 Petrol DOHC 16V DI CR 2.5 Litre (2488cc) Claimed 122Kw @ 6000 RPM Claimed 238Nm @ 4000 PM |
TDI340 2 Litre (1968cc) Diesel DOHC 16 Valve with EFI DI CR Turbo charged with intercooler Claimed 90Kw @ 3750 RPM Claimed 340Nm @ 1750 RPMr |
| Weight | |
| From 1900kg Towing capacity up to 3500kg |
FROM 2047 Kg Towing capacity up to 2800kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 80 litres IL4 Petrol 9.7 lts per 100km IL4 Turbo Diesel 6.5 lts per 100km IL4 Twin Turbo Diesel 7 lts per 100km |
Up to 80 litres 420 Twin Turbo Diesel 8 lts per 100km |
| Other specifications | |
| 6 speed manual or 7 speed Auto Overall height/width 1800/1790 Overall length/wheelbase 5255/3150 Tray L1503 x W1560 x D474 mm Total payload capability 1034kg (Approx) NCAP safety rating ?/5 |
6 speed manual or 8 speed Auto Overall height/width 1835/1954 Overall length/wheelbase 5254/3095 Tray L1555 x W1222-1620 x D508 mm Total payload capability 500kg (Approx) NCAP safety rating 5/5 |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach 31′ Departure 25′ Breakover 21’xx Minimum ground clearance xxxmm Water Fording depth N/A Max Dual range Part-time 4×4 |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach 28 Departure 23 Breakover N/A Minimum ground clearance 429mm Water Fording depth 500mm Max All Wheel Drive or 2WD |
| Performance | |
| Pricing | |
| 2015 $26,490 – 54,490 AUD From $39,990 Dual Cab 4WD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing and specials accessories etc… |
2015 $32,990 – 65,290 AUD From $40,990 Dual Cab 4WD |