Here's a quick comparison between the Toyota Hilux and the D22 Nissan Navara or Frontier. The D22 Navara has been around for a long time (from the late 90's) and is a very popular commercial vehicle in many countries even in 2010 hence still manufactured.  See here for the newer D40 Nissan Navara Comparison

The D22 Navara may be old but it is a proven package meaning its reliability and other problems are well known which makes it a easy choice. It's much promoted ABN pricing also makes it very attractive to business operators who are also after a family friendly vehicle.  You can pack the kids up in the Navara, off to school then to work without any delay. Admittedly it applies to all the dual cab looks we are reviewing.

The D22 Navara may not be the most attractive car on the road with too much extra 'bling' (very SE Asian- if you've been there) but obviously its other features overcome any issues with the added cosmetics.

Specification comparison below!

D22 Nissan Navara
VS
Toyota Hilux

It is tough to compare what is an ancient design with the newest Hilux for obvious reasons but since one of us had one as a first car and basically drove it everywhere albeit very slowly. Why? it was the old model with a 2.7 litre diesel with a whole 64Kw at 4300rpm and 180Nm 2200rpm!  At least it didn't break down until the final years of its life - but that was years ago now the new one is much better.

The current D22 has much more power than the earlier versions and it really needed it. It is adequately powered in this presumably final version but clearly nowhere near the current Hilux. 

The interior design may look old but at least the materials are good quality and the seat trim which probably belongs in a sporty version of a car rather than ute adds appeal.

In all honestly there it's that much difference between any of the various utilities we've tried. Although each one so far had some feature which we found worth a second look. The Hilux for example with the new 5 speed auto is very 'zippy' and only the Triton with its AWD system impressed. The D22 Navara impresses for being 90% as good as the current competition for a noticeably lower price. 

Its age and well known problems have been presumably addressed in the current D22 so should be a safe choice. 

We are slightly biased due the past ownership issue so as a quick summary if you want a dual cab utility and can live with the 90's interior and bling everywhere the value for money D22 Navara is probably the choice for you.
 

Toyota Hilux
2010 FROM $44500-$56,000 AUD

D22 Nissan Navara
2010 $41,950 AUD or
around $31,000 for ABN holders