Selecting a Pickup Nissan Navara often begins with an analysis of the body dimensions - load capacity, off-road maneuverability, and comfort in urban conditions depend on them. But if the technical specifications indicate only dry numbers, then in practice it is important to understand how these parameters affect operation. For example, body length 1500 mm may seem ideal for transporting building materials, but will limit the possibilities for installing a camper or boat.
In this article we will look at all generations of Navara (from D22 up to date D23), we will compare the sizes of single- and double-row cabs, and also reveal the nuances that the manufacturer does not always mention. For example, why The actual length of the cargo compartment may differ from the rated length by 5–10 cm due to the shape of the wheel arches. You will also find practical advice on choosing a body for specific tasks - from farming to extreme off-roading.
Nissan Navara body dimensions by generation: from D22 to D23
Evolution Nissan Navara reflects global trends in the pickup truck market: with each generation the vehicle becomes larger and more comfortable, but at the same time loses cross-country ability due to increased overhangs. Let's look at the key body size changes in chronological order.
Generation D22 (1997–2014) - the most compact, with a minimum length of the loading platform (1485 mm in the version King Cab). This option is ideal for urban use, but is no longer available. D40 generation (2004–2015) received an extended base and body (up to 1510 mm), as well as options with a double cab. Finally, current generation D23 (since 2014) offers bodies up to 1585 mm long, but with a reduced width between the wheel arches - this limits the transport of wide loads.
- 📏 D22 (1997–2014): body length 1485–1500 mm, width 1470 mm. Suitable for narrow European roads.
- 🚙 D40 (2004–2015): length 1510–1585 mm, width 1560 mm. The first option is with a double cabin.
- 💪 D23 (2014–present): length 1585 mm, width 1560 mm, but narrowing between arches to 1100 mm.
- Compact (D22)
- Medium (D40)
- Modern (D23)
- I haven't decided yet
It is important to consider that Navara D23 actual useful body length may be less than stated due to protruding rear lights or spare wheel (depending on equipment). For example, in the version with Utilitrack System (fastening system) useful space is reduced by 3–5 cm.
Nissan Navara body size table (all modifications)
Below are the exact body dimensions for all modifications available on the Russian market Nissan Navara. Please note the difference between external body length (from side to side) and useful length (between the wheel arches).
| Model/Generation | Cabin type | Body length (mm) | Body width (mm) | Side height (mm) | Useful length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Navara D22 (1997–2014) | King Cab | 1485 | 1470 | 470 | 1200 |
| Navara D40 (2004–2015) | Double Cab | 1510 | 1560 | 480 | 1250 |
| Navara D23 (2014–present) | King Cab | 1585 | 1560 | 490 | 1280 |
| Navara D23 (2014–present) | Double Cab | 1585 | 1560 | 490 | 1100 |
| Navara NP300 (European version) | Double Cab | 1585 | 1560 | 490 | 1100 |
⚠️ Attention: For models with Utilitrack System (rails for securing cargo) the useful length is reduced by 30–50 mm due to protruding structural elements. Also, in some trim levels the spare wheel is located under the body, which reduces the side height to 400 mm.
For comparison: the main competitor - Toyota Hilux — useful body length in version Double Cab is 1520 mm, which is 400 mm more than Navara D23. This is critical if you plan to transport long loads (for example, boards or pipes).
Comparison of single-row (King Cab) and double-row (Double Cab) cabs
Choice between King Cab And Double Cab depends not only on the number of passengers, but also on weight distribution And cargo capacity. Single row cabin (King Cab) has a longer body (up to 1585 mm versus 1510 mm for Double Cab D40), but at the same time center of gravity shifted forward, which worsens off-road performance.
Double-row cab (Double Cab) reduces the length of the body, but increases the overall length of the car (up to 5330 mm versus 5045 mm for King Cab). This affects:
- 🅿️ Parking: Double Cab more difficult to place in a standard parking space (length 5.3 m vs 5.0 m).
- 🏗️ Load capacity: y King Cab it is 100–150 kg higher due to the lower weight of the cabin.
- 🛣️ Sustainability: Double Cab performs better at high speeds due to uniform mass distribution.
☑️ What is more important to you?
🔹 Advice: If you need maximum bed length but still need to carry 4-5 people, consider the King Cab And extended rear seats (optional +2 places in some trim levels). This is a compromise solution, but the back row will be uncomfortable for tall passengers.
Body volume and real load capacity: what is not written in the specifications
Manufacturer indicates maximum load capacity Nissan Navara within 1000–1100 kg, but in practice this parameter depends on:
- 🔧 Options: models with all-wheel drive (
4WD) have a lower load capacity due to the weight of the transfer case. - 🛢️ Fuel type: diesel versions (2.3 dCi) are heavier than gasoline ones, which reduces the payload by 50–80 kg.
- 🧰 Additional equipment: a winch, crankcase protection or bumpers reduce the load capacity by 100–150 kg.
⚠️ Attention: When loading the body to maximum weight the rear axle sags by 3–5 cm, which may result in the bumper touching an uneven surface. Solution - installation reinforced springs or air suspension.
Body volume is calculated using the formula:
Объём (м³) = Длина (м) × Ширина (м) × Высота бортов (м)For Navara D23 Double Cab:
1,1 м (длина) × 1,56 м (ширина) × 0,49 м (высота) = 0,85 м³ (850 литров)However actual volume is less due to the narrowing between the wheel arches. For example, a standard Euro pallet (1200×800 mm) will only fit across the body, occupying almost the entire width.
How to increase body volume?
To transport oversized cargo, owners install:
- Removable high sides (up to 800 mm).
- Tent roof or hard awning (increases the volume to 2.5 m³).
- Trailer with a cargo platform (requires registration with the traffic police).
Comparison with competitors: Hilux, Ranger, Amarok
To objectively assess body dimensions Nissan Navara, let's compare them with the main competitors in the class:
| Model | Body length (mm) | Useful length (mm) | Load capacity (kg) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Navara D23 | 1585 | 1100–1280 | 1000–1100 | Narrow space between arches (1100 mm) |
| Toyota Hilux (8th generation) | 1520–1650 | 1520 | 1050–1200 | Longest body in class |
| Ford Ranger | 1549–1650 | 1549 | 1150–1300 | High load capacity, but wide body (1560 mm) |
| Volkswagen Amarok | 1555–1693 | 1555 | 1100–1200 | The most voluminous body (up to 2.5 m³ with extension sides) |
🔹 Key Takeaway: Nissan Navara loses to competitors in terms of body length, but wins in compactness And cross-country ability thanks to the smaller wheelbase. If you need maximum load capacity, please pay attention to Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux.
When choosing between Navara And Hilux keep in mind that the Japanese have a higher secondary market for spare parts, but Navara better cabin sound insulation.
How to choose a body size for your tasks: practical advice
Decide on main use case pickup:
- 🏡 City/dacha: will do King Cab with a body 1485–1500 mm. Maneuverability is more important than load capacity.
- 🚜 Farming/Construction: needed Double Cab with an extended body (1585 mm) and reinforced suspension.
- 🏕️ Hiking/off-road: priority - King Cab with a short wheelbase and high ground clearance.
🔹 Checklist before purchasing:
☑️ Check the body before purchasing
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Navara D40 (2004–2015) check condition of the side members - in these models, the metal often rots in the places where the body is attached to the frame. Vehicles operated in northern regions are especially vulnerable.
If you need universal option, consider Navara D23 Double Cab with option Utilitrack System. It allows you to quickly attach bicycles, boats or construction equipment, but remember that this reduces the useful length of the body.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Navara body
Can I extend the body of a Navara myself?
Technically possible, but it would require re-registration with the traffic police like refurbishment. It is more practical to install trailer or extension sides (up to 800 mm), which does not require changes to the PTS. Please note that lengthening the body shifts the center of gravity and may impair handling.
Which body is better for off-roading: King Cab or Double Cab?
King Cab preferable thanks to:
- Short wheelbase (best departure/entry angle).
- Less weight (less risk of getting stuck).
However Double Cab more stable at high speeds on dirt roads. Optimal choice - King Cab with differential locks.
What is the maximum length of cargo that will fit in the back of the Navara D23?
B Double Cab - up to 1.8 m (if the cargo protrudes over the sides, but not more than 1 m behind according to traffic regulations). B King Cab - up to 2.2 m provided that the front of the load does not block the driver's view. To transport long cargo (for example, 6-meter pipes) you will need trailer.
How to protect the body from corrosion?
Recommendations:
- Apply anti-gravel protection on the thresholds and arches.
- Process the frame Movil or cannon fat.
- Install plastic fender liners for protection against sandblasting.
⚠️ Special attention - places where the body attaches to the frame (dirt accumulates there).
Can a Navara be fitted with a body from another pickup?
Theoretically yes, but it will require:
- Changes to frame fastenings (welding, strengthening).
- Re-registration with the traffic police as a constructive change.
In practice it is easier to buy Navara with the desired body or install removable cargo platform (for example, from Mitsubishi L200).