Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK 2020 Comparison Review

Toyota and Nissan have seemingly been in the Ute market for ever. Both have gone significantly upmarket in their products over the last few years. The HiLux Rogue and Navara N-TREK are examples. 

Especially Nissan with the N-TREK Warrior and Toyota with the HiLux Rugged X. These are the range topping vehicles. However sitting just below, and aimed at more a relaxed market, sits the Navara N-TREK and HiLux Rogue. More sophisticated offerings that add mostly bling to look good.

These two vehicles are so close in almost every aspect that choosing between them will probably come down to one or two personal factors. Each will provide fuss free motoring and have built enviable reputations for robust transport and excellent 4WD ability.

Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK Exterior

Both of these Utes are amongst the better looking Utes, especially with their additional bling. The Navara has a softer edge, especially the grill that has bonnet sways and a smoother appearance. HiLux follows the bold protruding grill design that came in a few years ago.

I like both.

HiLux Rogue is packed with some great accessory features on the exterior shell which included a rear bumper bar, tow bar, 18 inch black alloy “Rogue” wheels, a load rated sports bar, handy hard tonneau cover with a very well thought of tailgate dust sealing kit.

The back tub was lined with marine grade carpet which I was in two minds about, I appreciated the soft finish for putting more sensitive, fragile items in but didn’t think it was practical when I loaded in tools, timbers and miscellaneous equipment related to my job.

Navara N-TREK is all black. The additional bling includes all black 18 inch alloy wheels, fender flares, alloy sportsbar, lower body side decals – front and rear doors and rear tub, LED headlamp bezels, side steps with orange accent line, lower front fascia with orange accent line, rear vision mirror caps with orange accent line, rear bumper, front grille, front fog lamp surround, roof rails, door handles and N-TREK tailgate badge

Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK Interior

Internally the two Utes differ slightly. The Hilux Rogue is basically a SR5, which isn’t bad thing, with a few additions such as black perforated leather-accented seats, metallic black ornamentation, black roof headliner and front and rear carpet floor mats.

Perhaps the most visible difference is a new design instrument cluster with white illumination and orange needles.

In the HiLux you need the premium seating pack for the heated seats and leather trim on the SR5.

Navara N-TREK is also basically an ST-X with added bling such as leather accented seats, with orange fabric seat inserts, orange accent stitching on the seats, centre console, front door armrests and steering wheel, driver’s seat power adjustable with power lumber and heated front seats.

The main differences are the 8 inch touch screen on the Navara vs the 7 inch on the Rogue. Also the user interface on the Navara is better.

It should be noted that neither audio entertainment systems are what you would call class leading. Both could be updated.

I like the orange highlights in the Navara and the driver’s seat has an adjustable lumbar support in the N-TREK.  The HiLux also has reach adjustable steering wheel which is a benefit.

Otherwise in terms of space there doesn’t seem to be any discernible differences other than there seems to be a little more leg room in the rear of the N-TREK. Both have rear vents, and good head room.

Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK Engine and Drivetrain

In real world conditions, there is imperceptible differences between these two vehicles. Both can carry a large load and tow trailers without too much fuss. While they have the smaller diesel engines, the abundance of torque at low rpm means that they are suitable for hard work.

Navara has a seven speed AT while Rogue retains the standard six speed. Both have part time 4WD, with low range and diff locks. Both have shift on the fly ability. HiLux has the ability to select Power or Economy modes.

The difference in fuel economy is nothing really and is negated by a driver’s right boot. I preferred the transmission of the Navara as it seemed slightly smother.

Either vehicle is more than adequate for their intended purposes. Either vehicle will adequately perform for long periods as a work and recreational Ute.

Both cruised easily on the freeway and were easy to drive around town. Without a load the coil rear springs of the N-TREK definitely provide a more compliant ride, meaning its more comfortable. The HiLux can get a little bouncy when empty.

Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK Dimensions

For the most part, again there is little differences, but those that are can be deciding factors.

The Navara N-TREK has a greater GCM as well as a higher tow rating and payload and slightly better approach and departure angles. The HiLux has better wading depth but slightly lower ground clearance. N-TREK has slightly longer wheelbase which translates into slightly more room inside.

With regard to towing, remember if you exceed your vehicles tow ball rating or GCM then not only are you operating a potentially unsafe vehicle, but exceeding what the manufacturer states also voids your warranty and insurance.

Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK Safety

Both of these Utes have an ANCAP 5 Star safety rating. Yet they both lack certain safety features that are becoming standard as Ute develop. The safety leader the Holden Colorado, sadly is no longer, or won’t be soon, available.

Utes in general, as they move upmarket, need features like Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Indicators just to name a few.

Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK Warranty and Service

Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK Pricing

Toyota HiLux Rogue VS Nissan Navara N-TREK Conclusion

It is amazing just how close these two Utes are. We had two drivers that have driven both and each driver would be happy with either.

If I was forced to decide between them I would pick the Navara N-TREK simply because of the orange highlight interior features and slightly better user interface on the audio entertainment system.

However I would be happy with the HiLux. Personal preferences of looks and features will decide. I think that sums up exactly what the issue is with these two Utes.

Which one you buy will totally depend on what features you like and how it feels for you. They are so close in almost every aspect (except towing) that it’s almost impossible to differentiate them.

Pick either and you will be happy. It really comes down to personal preference. Looks, name badge, interior ambience etc.

You can make of the information what you will. The argument about which Ute is best depends on where in the product cycle the Ute is, what is important to you and how much money you have to spend.

It also depends on your history. There are buyers that will only buy a Toyota as are buyers that will only but a Nissan.

I hope you can use the information to assist you in your buying decision.