Choosing a pickup truck Nissan Navara, potential buyers are often faced with the question: what body size is optimal for their needs? Not only the load capacity and maneuverability, but also the comfort of operation in urban conditions depends on the dimensions. In this article we will analyze in detail all the parameters of the body - from length and width to the volume of the cargo compartment - and also compare models of different generations (D22, D40, NP300, D23).
We will pay special attention to practical aspects: how dimensions affect parking, what accessories help increase usable space, and why body length 1.5 m may be preferable to 1.8 m in a metropolitan area. You will also find unique data on actual body loading, taking into account the shape of the wheel arches - information that even official dealers rarely disclose.
Body dimensions Nissan Navara by generation: comparison table
Models Navara evolved not only in appearance, but also in body size. Below are the key parameters for the most popular versions available on the Russian market. Please note: the data is given for standard configurations without additional accessories (for example, awnings or side extensions).
| Generation | Body length, mm | Width (between arches), mm | Side height, mm | Cargo compartment volume, m³ | Load capacity, kg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D22 (1997–2004) | 1 520 / 1 850 | 1 120 | 420 | 0,7 / 0,9 | 950–1 100 |
| D40 (2005–2014) | 1 510 / 1 850 | 1 130 | 470 | 0,8 / 1,0 | 1 000–1 200 |
| NP300 (2015–2023) | 1 585 / 1 850 | 1 180 | 475 | 0,9 / 1,1 | 1 050–1 400 |
| D23 (2021–present) | 1 500 / 1 800 | 1 220 | 480 | 0,85 / 1,05 | 1 100–1 500 |
Interestingly, despite the increase in body width in NP300 And D23, usable width between wheel arches increased slightly - only 50–90 mm compared to D40. This is due to changes in suspension design and safety requirements. For example, in D23 the arches have become more voluminous, which has reduced the usable space for cargo with a wide track (for example, Euro pallets).
- 1.5 m (short)
- 1.8 m (long)
- It doesn’t matter, the main thing is the carrying capacity
- I haven't decided yet
Real capacity: what fits in the body Navara?
Technical specifications are great, but how do they translate into practice? Let's look at what cargo can be transported in the back Navara without the risk of damaging the car or breaking traffic rules. Important to remember: maximum load depends not only on volume, but also on weight distribution.
- 📦 Construction materials: a body 1.8 m long can accommodate up to 80 blocks of aerated concrete (600×200×300 mm) or 1.5 m³ of sand (with a side height of 470 mm). However, for bulk cargo it is recommended to use extension sides.
- 🚲 Sports equipment: 2–3 mountain bikes (unassembled) or 1 ATV (e.g. Yamaha Grizzly 700) provided the rear seat is removed.
- 🏡 Furniture and household appliances: washing machine (up to 60 cm deep) + refrigerator (up to 1.7 m high) or folding sofa (if you fold the backrest).
- 🌲 Gardening: up to 10 bags of soil (50 l each) or 15–20 seedlings with a lump of earth (with proper fixation).
Critical moment: load centering. If you are transporting long objects (for example, pipes or boards), their ends should not protrude more than 1 m beyond the dimensions of the body (according to Russian traffic regulations). Otherwise you will need "Bulky cargo" sign and special permission.
To transport long cargo (more than 3 m), use frame extension from official suppliers Nissan — it attaches to standard points and does not violate the warranty.
Short vs. long body: what to choose?
The choice between 1.5m and 1.8m bodies depends on your priorities. Let's analyze the pros and cons of each option based on owner reviews and technical data.
Body 1.5 m (King Cab / Double Cab)
Benefits:
- 🚗 Better maneuverability: the turning radius is 0.5–0.7 m smaller than that of the long-body version. Ideal for urban use.
- 🅿️ Easier to park: occupies a standard parking space (car length ~5.2 m versus ~5.5 m for the long version).
- 💰 Below cost: the price difference between a short and a long body can reach 150–200 thousand rubles.
Disadvantages:
- 📦 Limited volume: Oversized cargo will not fit into the body (for example, a sheet of plasterboard 2.5 × 1.2 m).
- 🔧 Less load capacity: at NP300 with a short body the maximum load is 100–150 kg lower.
Body 1.8 m (Double Cab)
Benefits:
- 🏗️ Versatility: Suitable for transporting construction materials, equipment and even small motorcycles.
- 🔄 Best Resale: Long bodies are in great demand on the secondary market.
Disadvantages:
- 🚪 Difficulties in the city: requires more space for turning and parking. Some underground parking lots may have restrictions.
- ⛽ Increased fuel consumption: due to greater weight and aerodynamic drag, consumption increases by 0.5–1 l/100 km.
If you transport passengers more often than cargo, choose King Cab with a short body - it is more compact and cheaper to maintain. Optimal for commercial use Double Cab with a body of 1.8 m.
How to increase the useful volume of the body: accessories and tuning
Even if the standard body dimensions do not suit you, they can be modified using official and third-party accessories. Let's consider proven solutions that will not violate the warranty or impair handling.
- 🔧 Extension sides: increase body height by 200–300 mm. Suitable for transporting bulk cargo (sand, crushed stone). Cost: from 15 thousand rubles.
- 🚛 Frame extension: allows you to transport loads up to 3 m long (for example, ladders or pipes). Important: requires registration with the traffic police.
- 📦 Organizers and boxes: plastic or aluminum boxes (for example, from Dee Zee) help to divide space and protect cargo from moisture.
- 🔒 Awnings and covers: protect cargo from rain and snow. Best models: Tonneau Cover (folding) or Roll-N-Lock (roll).
Warning: When installing accessories, make sure they are compatible with fastening system Nissan Utili-track (if it is included in your configuration). Some universal fasteners may damage the paintwork.
How to check accessory compatibility?
Before purchasing, check your vehicle's VIN against the dealer's database. For example, for NP300 2018 only accessories with markings are suitable B61-XXX, where XXX — part code. Check this information with the manager before ordering.
Comparison with competitors: Navara vs. Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200
To objectively assess body dimensions Navara, let's compare them with the main competitors in the pickup class. Please note: for some models, dimensions depend on the market (for example, Hilux shorter for Europe than for Australia).
| Model | Body length, mm | Width between arches, mm | Volume, m³ | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Navara NP300 | 1 585 / 1 850 | 1 180 | 0,9 / 1,1 | The widest body in the class, but low sides (475 mm). |
| Toyota Hilux (2023) | 1 520 / 1 800 | 1 120 | 0,8 / 1,0 | Already 60 mm, but higher than the side (500 mm). Better corrosion resistance. |
| Ford Ranger | 1 549 / 1 847 | 1 138 | 0,85 / 1,05 | The deepest body (510 mm), but lower load capacity (up to 1,000 kg). |
| Mitsubishi L200 | 1 520 / 1 780 | 1 100 | 0,75 / 0,95 | The shortest long body (1,780 mm), but the best handling. |
Conclusion: Navara benefits from the width of the body, which is convenient for transporting European pallets (1,200x800 mm). However, in terms of depth and height of the sides it is inferior Ford Ranger And Toyota Hilux. If you care maximum bulk cargo capacity, pay attention to a competitor with higher sides.
Compare actual width between arches (not overall body width)|
Check compatibility with required accessories|
Estimate turning radius (especially for the city)|
Specify the carrying capacity taking into account passengers -->
Common mistakes when loading a body and how to avoid them
Even experienced pickup truck owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to vehicle damage or fines. Here are the most common ones—and how to prevent them.
⚠️ Attention: Do not exceed maximum rear axle load (indicated in the PTS). For example, at Navara D23 this is 1,800 kg, but the actual load capacity of the body is only 1,100 kg. Excessive weight leads to suspension sagging and the risk of spring breakage.
- ❌ Uneven load distribution: if all the weight is concentrated at the rear, the front axle is unloaded, which reduces handling. Solution: Place heavy objects closer to the cab.
- ❌ Ignoring alignment: cargo protruding beyond the dimensions of the body by more than 1 m requires special permission. Solution: use
"Bulky cargo" sign(orange square with border). - ❌ Lack of fixation: Loose loads may move when braking. Solution: use belts with fastenings to Utili-track or steel cables.
- ❌ Overload when towing: If you are pulling a trailer, the total weight of the cargo in the bed and the trailer should not exceed maximum weight of the road train (for example 3,500 kg for NP300).
Useful life hack: check before traveling with cargo vehicle tilt angle. If the rear sag is more than 5 cm, the load is too heavy. In this case, part of the weight can be redistributed to the trailer or the load can be reduced.
FAQ: Answers to popular questions about the body Nissan Navara
Is it possible to install a body from NP300 on D40?
No, this is impossible without serious modifications to the frame. Body NP300 And D40 have different attachment points and geometry. In addition, at NP300 a multi-link rear suspension is used, and D40 - spring, which requires different loads.
How much weight can the body support? Navara D23 with an extension cord?
Officially Nissan We do not recommend exceeding the standard lifting capacity (1,100–1,500 kg) even with an extension. However, with even weight distribution and reinforced suspension (e.g. Old Man Emu) can be transported for short periods up to 1,800 kg. But this reduces the life of the frame and suspension.
Will it fit in the body? Navara (1.8 m) washing machine and refrigerator at the same time?
Yes, but with conditions:
- The refrigerator must be no more than 1.7 m high (otherwise it will not fit the height of the sides).
- Washing machine - up to 60 cm deep (to leave room for fixing).
- The load must be placed along the body, and not across.
To be safe, use anti-slip mats and belts.
What documents are needed to transport cargo protruding from the body?
If the load extends beyond the dimensions of the vehicle:
- up to 1 m is enough
sign "Large cargo"(according to GOST 24645-2012); - from 1 to 2 m - additionally required traffic police permit;
- more than 2 m - necessary patrol car escort.
The fine for the absence of a sign or permit is 500–1,500 rubles (Article 12.21 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation).
Is it possible to wash the body Navara high pressure apparatus?
Yes, but with caution:
- Keep the nozzle at least 30 cm away from the surface.
- Do not direct the jet at door seals And electrical wiring (especially in the headlight area).
- After washing, check the drain holes in the body (they are located under the rear lights) - if they are clogged, water will accumulate, causing corrosion.