2020 NISSAN NAVARA REVIEW

Detailed Review

The Nissan Navara has been a central part of Nissan’s global pickup lineup since the mid-1980s, earning a reputation for versatility, durability, and everyday usability. By 2020, the Navara (D23) was in its third year after receiving a major update in 2017, continuing to refine its balance of rugged workhorse ability and passenger comfort.

The Navara carries forward a bold, modern design defined by Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille, sculpted body lines, and sharp headlights, giving it a tough yet contemporary appearance. It strikes a balance between ruggedness and sophistication, appealing to both commercial operators and lifestyle buyers.

The 2020 model also benefits from its fully boxed ladder-frame chassis and Nissan’s unique multi-link rear suspension on higher trims, which delivers a smoother, more composed ride compared to traditional leaf springs, without sacrificing load capacity. Off-road capability remains a key strength, with features like selectable 4WD, hill descent control, and electronic locking differentials available on certain trims.

Thanks to its combination of proven toughness, innovative suspension, and Nissan’s long-standing reliability, the 2020 Navara stands as a strong contender in the midsize pickup class, appealing equally to hard-working users and those seeking a versatile everyday vehicle.

For those considering the Nissan Navara, available in single, king, and double cab configurations, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with insights on what to look out for when buying a used model and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

2020 Nissan Navara Grades (For Double Cabs)

RX / S / XE / SE
Entry-level trims focused on workhorse reliability and affordability. Found in markets such as Australia, Asia, and Africa, they feature steel wheels, vinyl or cloth interiors, manual air conditioning, and durable black bumpers. Engines include the 2.3L single-turbo diesel (160 hp) or 2.5L diesel/petrol in some regions.

ST / LE / SV / Mid-Spec Variants
Mid-level trims designed to balance practicality with added comfort. Common in markets like Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East, these models add alloy wheels, upgraded infotainment with touchscreen and Bluetooth, keyless entry, and more refined cabin finishes. Most come with the 2.3L twin-turbo diesel (187 hp) paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic.

ST-X / Tekna / SL / Higher-Mid Trims
These trims step into lifestyle territory with enhanced technology and driver assistance features. Standard equipment often includes 18” alloys, dual-zone climate control, leather accents, advanced infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and enhanced safety systems like around-view monitor (on some markets). Powered by the stronger 2.3L twin-turbo diesel with 4WD options.

Pro-4X / N-Trek / N-Warrior / Special Editions
Lifestyle- and off-road-focused trims with distinctive styling and premium touches. Features include blacked-out exterior details, leather seats, LED lighting, sports bars, roof rails, and unique alloy wheels. Off-road performance upgrades like all-terrain tires, rear diff lock, hill descent control, and tuned suspension are available depending on market. Powered by the top-spec 2.3L twin-turbo diesel with robust 4WD systems.

2020 Nissan Navara Grades (For Single Cab / King Cab)

Base / RX / XE
Workhorse trims designed for tough duty cycles such as farming, construction, and fleet use. Equipped with steel wheels, vinyl flooring, durable seating, manual windows, and minimal infotainment. Engines include the 2.3L single-turbo diesel or 2.5L diesel/petrol depending on the market.

Mid-Grade / SE / DX
Adds convenience features like power windows, central locking, and optional infotainment upgrades. Offers improved interior materials and sometimes body-colored bumpers. Commonly paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and selectable 4WD.

High Grade / ST / Tekna
Top-tier single cab and king cab variants featuring advanced infotainment, chrome trim, fog lights, and improved cabin refinement. Ideal for buyers who want both utility and everyday comfort. In markets like Africa, these trims are often sold with 4WD, the 2.3L twin-turbo diesel, manual A/C, ABS, and strong ground clearance for demanding work.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The interior of the 2020 Nissan Navara strikes a balance between toughness and passenger-friendly refinement, with improvements over earlier models aimed at boosting comfort and usability. The dashboard features Nissan’s clean, functional design with a centrally mounted 8.0-inch touchscreen on higher trims, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in most markets. While the lower grades emphasize durability with hard-wearing plastics, higher trims such as the ST-X, Tekna, and N-Trek feature upgraded materials, leather upholstery, and soft-touch surfaces that elevate cabin ambience.

Interior space in the Double Cab is competitive for the segment, with supportive front seats designed for long-distance comfort and good visibility. On premium trims, features like electrically adjustable driver’s seats and dual-zone climate control improve usability and convenience. Rear legroom is decent thanks to the Navara’s 3150 mm wheelbase—slightly longer than some rivals—which gives back-seat passengers a little more space. The rear bench remains upright but offers adequate comfort for two adults, with the middle seat being tighter, as is typical in midsize pickups.

Cabin Storage

The 2020 Navara provides a practical and versatile cabin environment with numerous storage options. Front occupants get large door pockets, dual cup holders, a deep center console box, and multiple charging outlets, including USB ports on higher trims. Some variants also feature a 12V power outlet inside the cabin for added convenience.

The glovebox is well sized, and additional small-item storage is available in the center stack. Rear passengers benefit from seatback map holders, door bins, and a fold-down armrest with cup holders on Double Cab models. Higher trims also include under-seat storage compartments in the back, useful for safely stowing tools, electronics, or valuables out of sight.

Folding the rear seats flat expands in-cabin storage, creating a secure space for gear, delicate equipment, or weather-sensitive items that are better kept inside rather than in the bed.

Bed Space

The 2020 Navara’s cargo bed is designed with both work and lifestyle use in mind, offering durability and practicality. In the Double Cab configuration, the bed length is approximately 1500 mm, with a width of about 1560 mm, providing generous space for tools, construction gear, or recreational equipment. Payload capacity varies by market and trim but typically ranges between 950 kg and 1,100 kg, ensuring the Navara remains a strong workhorse.

Higher trims often come with a factory-fitted bedliner to resist corrosion and scratches, while all variants include multiple tie-down hooks to help secure cargo. Optional features such as sports bars, tonneau covers, canopies, and bed dividers enhance versatility, making the Navara suitable for both professional use and leisure activities. While it doesn’t include integrated features like tailgate rulers, the tailgate itself is robust and easy to operate, with a rear bumper step available on certain trims or as an accessory for easier access.

The 2020 Single Cab Navara maximizes load-hauling capability, with its longer bed measuring around 2300 mm in length and 1560 mm in width. This makes it an ideal option for users needing to transport bulkier items, construction materials, or machinery that may not fit in a Double Cab bed. Payload capacity exceeds 1,200 kg in many configurations, supported by the Navara’s fully boxed ladder frame and reinforced rear suspension.

With multiple tie-down points, a flat bed floor, and available protective liners, the Single Cab Navara is purpose-built for commercial buyers who need dependable strength, capacity, and durability on a daily basis.

Exterior 

The 2020 Nissan Navara carries a muscular yet refined exterior design that reflects its dual role as both a hardworking pickup and a comfortable everyday vehicle. At the front, it features Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille finished in chrome or gloss black depending on the trim, flanked by sharp projector or LED headlamps that deliver excellent visibility and a modern look. Distinctive C-shaped LED daytime running lights give the Navara an assertive road presence, while integrated fog lamps and a skid plate in the lower bumper highlight its off-road readiness.

The sculpted bonnet with defined creases hints at the strength of the fully boxed ladder-frame chassis beneath, while the flared wheel arches emphasize toughness and capability. In profile, strong character lines flow from the front fenders through to the rear bed, giving the truck an athletic and purposeful stance. Ground clearance ranges between 215 and 230 mm depending on the variant, allowing the Navara to confidently tackle rugged terrain.

Practical exterior elements enhance everyday usability, such as durable side steps for easier cabin access, integrated roof rails for added versatility, and large door mirrors designed to withstand harsh environments. The bed itself is available with a factory-applied liner on many trims, featuring tie-down hooks that make securing loads simple and effective—ideal for both commercial use and lifestyle needs.

Higher-spec models like the ST-X, Tekna, N-Trek, and Pro-4X (depending on the market) bring distinctive styling upgrades to set them apart from work-focused trims. These include unique alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 18 inches, body-colored bumpers, dark chrome or gloss-black grille finishes, and blacked-out mirror caps and handles. Special editions such as the N-Trek and Pro-4X add sporty exterior details like contrasting decals, black overfenders, roof rails, and all-terrain tires, signaling a stronger off-road and lifestyle orientation.

Optional accessories expand the Navara’s versatility, including tonneau covers, sports bars, snorkels, roof racks, and canopies—allowing owners to tailor the pickup for work, recreation, or adventure. The overall design philosophy of the 2020 Navara is to combine toughness with everyday appeal, ensuring it resonates with both fleet buyers and private owners seeking a truck that looks as good as it performs.

Ground Clearance: approx. 8.5–9.0 inches (215–230 mm) depending on variant.

Safety Features

The 2020 Nissan Navara is built on a fully boxed high-strength steel ladder-frame chassis, engineered to deliver both durability and safety in demanding conditions. Across the range, standard equipment includes dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Hill Start Assist, and Trailer Sway Control. Side and curtain airbags are fitted on higher trims, improving occupant protection.

Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), available on premium trims in certain markets (such as Tekna and ST-X), include:

• Around View Monitor (360-degree camera system)

• Reverse Camera with Parking Sensors

• Blind Spot Monitoring

• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

• Hill Descent Control

• Automatic LED Headlights

By combining robust construction with modern electronic safety aids, the 2020 Navara offers a reassuring mix of passive and active safety, making it well-suited to both urban driving and challenging off-road or worksite environments.

2020 Nissan Navara Fuel Consumption

• The 2.3L single-turbo diesel engine consumes ~14.0 km/l on average

• The 2.3L twin-turbo diesel engine consumes ~12.5 km/l on average

• The 2.5L petrol engine (market-dependent) consumes ~9.0–9.5 km/l on average

2020 Nissan Navara Acceleration

• The 2.3L single-turbo diesel accelerates from 0–100 km/h in ~12.0 secs

• The 2.3L twin-turbo diesel accelerates from 0–100 km/h in ~10.8 secs

• The 2.5L petrol engine accelerates from 0–100 km/h in ~11.5 secs

Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 litres

2020 Nissan Navara Ground Clearance

The 2020 Nissan Navara has a ground clearance ranging from 215 mm to 230 mm (approx. 8.5–9.0 inches), depending on trim and market.

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Engine Oil, Oil Filter, Air Cleaner, Diesel Filter, etc.
Major Service: At 10,000 km. Requires Engine Oil, Oil Filter, Diesel Filter, Cabin Filter, ATF Oil/Filter, Front Brake Pads, and other scheduled replacements.

Spare Parts Availability, Cost & Where to Buy

Nissan maintains strong parts support across global markets, and the 2020 Navara benefits from this wide network. In Kenya and most African countries, service parts such as filters and brake pads are affordable and readily available through local dealers and independent suppliers. However, certain body panels and electronic components can be more expensive and are best sourced from official Nissan dealerships or trusted importers.

For service parts and body components, Visit: https://yokaspares.co.ke/

Stability and Handling

The 2020 Navara is praised for its composed ride quality, particularly in trims equipped with Nissan’s unique five-link rear coil suspension, which softens the ride compared to traditional leaf springs while still maintaining payload strength. On the road, steering is light enough for urban maneuverability but provides reassuring weight at higher speeds for highway stability.

Body control is well-managed for a midsize pickup, with predictable handling and minimal roll through corners. Whether carrying a load or driving unladen, the Navara feels stable and secure. Off-road, it delivers strong capability thanks to a robust 4×4 system, selectable drive modes, electronic rear differential lock, and hill descent control—making it suitable for both work and adventure.

Reliability

The Nissan Navara has built a solid reputation for dependability, particularly in its diesel-powered variants. The 2.3L twin-turbo diesel engine is widely regarded as efficient and durable when properly maintained, while the fully boxed ladder-frame chassis provides the structural toughness required for demanding use. Many owners report Navaras surpassing 250,000–300,000 km with routine servicing.

Its straightforward mechanical design, service-friendly components, and wide parts availability make it well-suited to both urban and remote conditions. Resale values are generally good, with higher trims like the ST-X, Tekna, and Pro-4X commanding stronger returns in the used market.

Resale Value: Good

2020 Nissan Navara Competitors:

The Navara competes in the midsize pickup segment with strong rivals such as:

• Toyota Hilux

• Ford Ranger

• Isuzu D-Max

• Mitsubishi L200 (Triton)

• Mazda BT-50

What we like about the 2020 Nissan Navara

• Comfortable ride quality with coil-sprung suspension on higher trims

• Strong diesel engine options with good fuel efficiency

• Practical and versatile cabin with modern tech in upper trims

• Robust 4×4 capability with advanced off-road features

• Solid reliability and wide global service support

What we don’t like

• Base trims feel more utilitarian compared to rivals

• Some interior plastics lack the premium feel of competitors

• Body parts and electronic spares can be costly at dealerships

Conclusion

The 2020 Nissan Navara offers an appealing mix of rugged toughness, modern comfort, and proven reliability in the midsize pickup market. With efficient and durable diesel engines, a well-balanced suspension setup, and a versatile cabin, it serves equally well as a workhorse and as a family-friendly everyday vehicle. Off-road capability, competitive fuel economy, and Nissan’s dependable build quality make it a strong alternative to rivals like the Hilux and Ranger.

For those interested in buying the Nissan Navara, available in single, king, and double cab configurations, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with details on what to look out for when buying a used one and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

If you are looking to import the Nissan Navara to Kenya, click here to fill out our contact form, and we will get back to you immediately, or email us directly via [email protected].

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