Renault Alaskan
| Company type | Vehicle model nameplate |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Datsun 720 (pickup) |
| Founded | 1985 |
| Headquarters | Barcelona (European manufacturing) , Spain |
Area served | Australia, New Zealand, Central and South America, Asia, Europe, South Africa, North America (as Frontier) |
| Products | Pickup trucks (D21, D22, D40, D23 series) |
The Nissan Navara nameplate encompasses several pickup truck models, including the D21, D22, D40, and D23 series. This range is distributed across regions such as Australia, New Zealand, Central and South America, Asia, Europe, and South Africa. In certain markets within the Americas and elsewhere, it is marketed under the names Nissan Frontier or Nissan NP300.
After more than ten years of the D21 model, Nissan launched the similarly sized D22, which was later succeeded by the larger mid-size D40 pickup. The D23 model replaced previous versions globally in 2014, except in the United States and Canada where the D41 Frontier was introduced in 2021 as the successor to the D40.
The designation "Navara" is derived from the Navarre region in Spain. European variants were manufactured at Nissan Motor Ibérica's facility located in Barcelona.
D21 Series (1985)
The D21 model took over from the Datsun 720 as Nissan’s compact pickup offering and was branded as the Navara in countries like Australia and New Zealand. It was available worldwide with two different body configurations: the Japan-originated "A" body featuring single or dual cab options, and the "S" body King Cab developed in Nissan’s San Diego design center for the U.S. market. Each version presented unique front-end designs; for instance, the U.S. variant had a distinct hood and broader flared wheel arches. Some regions, including Australia, offered both body styles. Additionally, this model was assembled in Greece under the names Nissan Pickup and King Cab for local sales.
First Generation (D22; 1997)
Produced from 1997 onward, the D22 compact pickup remains in production as a budget-friendly alternative to the larger D40 in select markets. Originally planned to continue Nissan Design International’s (NDI) Hard Body styling lineage from La Jolla, California, responsibility for its design shifted back to Japan between 1994 and 1995 due to NDI’s commitments on other projects like the Quest, Altima, and Maxima. A refreshed design of the D22 was later sent back to NDI in 1998.
North America
Manufacturing of the Frontier at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant started in 1997 with two-door regular and King Cab models. Development of a four-door version occurred between 1997 and 1998; production began in April 1999 with its market debut as the 2000 Frontier Crew Cab in May 1999. Engine options included the gasoline-powered KA24DE and a diesel TD27 (available for export markets only) with both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations paired with a five-speed manual transmission. These trucks were also exported throughout Central and South America.
In 1999, Nissan introduced a special Desert Runner edition for the 2000 model year—a two-wheel-drive King Cab built on a four-wheel-drive chassis featuring increased ground clearance, larger tires, and either a four- or five-speed transmission. The model received updated styling and a supercharged V6 engine starting in 2001.
Facelift
At the Chicago Auto Show in February 2000, Nissan unveiled a refreshed version of the D22 Frontier for the 2001 model year aimed at younger consumers with more aggressive styling cues. The regular cab variant was discontinued after this model year. Production and sales continued across North America with Crew Cab and King Cab variants featuring redesigned grilles, bumpers, headlights, taillights, integrated fender flares, and updated tailgate designs.
The D22 Frontiers exhibited unique grille designs, tailgate styles, and interior features that distinguished them from their D22 Navara counterparts. Sales of the D22 ceased in Japan after 2002 due to tax regulations and diminishing demand for pickups.
Manufacturing facilities in Egypt export vehicles to Middle Eastern markets while a plant in South Africa supplies African customers. Production commenced in Mexico in 2008 for models including Single Cab Chassis and Long Bed (available with two- or four-wheel drive petrol or diesel engines), along with Crew Cab versions (two-wheel drive petrol), marketed as the D22 Pickup.
In 2009, exterior door handles on the D22 were redesigned.
In June 2017, Peugeot announced plans to produce the Peugeot Pick-Up for Northern African markets—a rebadged version of the Dongfeng Rich developed through a partnership with PSA. This model is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four turbo-diesel engine delivering 115 PS and 280 Nm of torque, coupled with a five-speed manual gearbox and offered with rear- or all-wheel drive plus optional low-range gearing. Available as a Crew Cab with a short bed measuring approximately 1.40 m by 1.39 m cargo space within an overall length of 5.08 m, it supports a payload capacity of up to 815 kg. Market introduction began in September 2017.
Australia
The D22 Navara was introduced in Australia as series 1, succeeding the D21 model until 2001. The arrival of series 2 brought the ZD30 diesel engine along with a redesigned front fascia. Compared to petrol engines, the ZD30 diesels demonstrated greater reliability and were eventually succeeded in 2007 by an enhanced 2.5L Common Rail Diesel unit. The D22 remained available concurrently with the larger D40 model until both were superseded by the D23 Navara (marketed locally as NP300) in 2015.
Brazil
Production in Brazil commenced around 2002, featuring Crew Cab Diesel versions with both 2WD and 4WD configurations, as well as single cab 2WD diesel models. Vehicles manufactured in Brazil were exported to Argentina and Mexico, including a petrol variant equipped with a 2.4L engine specifically for the Mexican market.
Bolivia
Nissan Bolivia imported the D22 Frontier Crew Cab equipped with either a 2.4L petrol or diesel 4WD engine from Japan. Additionally, petrol-powered 2WD Crew Cab and single cab long bed variants were sourced from Mexico. Some V6 automatic Frontiers were privately imported in gray market fashion from the United States.
Chile
In Chile, the D22 was sold under the name "Nissan Terrano," a designation previously assigned to the WD21 SUV, due to Kia's use of "Frontier" for its Bongo minivan. Available from 1998 through 2014, it became Chile's top-selling vehicle in 2010. The facelifted "Navara" edition debuted in 2003, offering petrol (2.4L) and diesel choices (2.5L turbo, 3.0L turbo, and 3.2L). Despite the introduction of the D40 Navara in 2008, the D22 maintained strong popularity as an economical work truck, outperforming the D40 in sales. Starting in 2012, all D22 units were imported from Mexico, featuring common rail fuel injection instead of injection pumps; larger diesel engines were phased out. The D22 was ultimately replaced by the D23 "NP300" model in 2015.
Engines
At launch, Nissan equipped the D22 with a four-cylinder KA24DE engine and added a V6 VG33E option in 1999. In Australia, the KA24E was standard until 1999 before transitioning to the KA24DE; a 3.0L V6 was introduced in June 2000. The 2001 facelift brought a supercharged 3.3L V6 variant. By February 2003, four-wheel-drive models featured an enlarged 3.3L V6 available only with manual transmission, while two-wheel-drive models continued with the 3.0L engine paired with either manual or automatic gearboxes. The V6 engines were discontinued in 2005, leaving only the 2.5L turbo-diesel option.
Early versions of the D22 included larger QD32 naturally aspirated diesels producing 75 kW and an NA20S 2.0L SOHC petrol engine delivering similar output.
| Engine | Displacement | Power | Torque | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOHC Four-Cylinder (NA20S) | 2.0 L | 100 PS (74 kW) | 123 pound-feet (167 N⋅m) | |
| SOHC Four-Cylinder (KA24E) | 2.4 L | 100 kW (130 hp) | 152–154 pound-feet (206–209 N⋅m) | 1997–1999 Australia |
| DOHC Four-Cylinder (KA24DE) | 2.4 L | 107 kW (143 hp) | 154 pound-feet (209 N⋅m) | |
| DOHC Four-Cylinder (YD25DDTi) | 2.5 L | 133 PS (98 kW) | 304 newton-metres (224 lbf⋅ft) | Turbocharged diesel with intercooler |
| DOHC Four-Cylinder (ZD30DDT) | 3.0 L | 110 kW (150 hp) | 314 newton-metres (232 lbf⋅ft) | Turbo diesel without intercooler |
| DOHC Four-Cylinder (QD323) | 3.2 L | 75 kW (101 hp) | 163 pound-feet (221 N⋅m) | Diesel |
| SOHC V6 (VG33E) | 3.3 L | 170 bhp (130 kW) | 200 pound-feet (270 N⋅m) | Model years 2003-2004: up to 180 bhp (130 kW), 202 pound-feet (274 N⋅m) |
| SOHC Supercharged V6 (VG33ER) | 3.3 L | 210 bhp (160 kW) | 246 pound-feet (334 N⋅m) | Automatic transmission: torque up to 231 pound-feet (313 N⋅m) |
Safety
In 2018, the African NP300 received a 0-star rating for adult occupant protection and 2 stars for child safety from Global NCAP, consistent with the Latin NCAP findings from 2013.
International names
- Big M Frontier (Thailand, 1998–2001)
- Datsun (Japan)
- Didsun or Datsun (Persian Gulf region)
- Fiera (Bolivia)
- Frontier (USA, Canada, Philippines, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Mexico, Bolivia, Brazil, Thailand; 2001–2007)
- Navara (Europe and Australasia)
- NP300 (Mexico and select European markets; in Mexico, "Frontier" denotes a premium NP300 trim)
- NP300 Hardbody (South Africa)
- Pick Up (Europe, Central/South America, Africa, Asia)
- Terrano (Chile)
- Skystar (Turkey, facelifted Navara)
- Winner (Middle East; available only as Crew Cab)
- Bravado (Philippines)
Rebadged versions
- Dongfeng/ZNA Rich (D22 pre-facelift model)
- Bhamo Pickup (Myanmar)
- Giad Pickup (Sudan)
- Peugeot Pick-Up (Africa)
Second generation (D40; 2004)
Debuting at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, the D40 generation is built on Nissan's F-Alpha chassis and exhibits design cues similar to the full-size Nissan Titan. It is constructed on a fully boxed ladder frame with wheelbase options of either 125.9 inches or 139.9 inches depending on the variant. The truck supports towing capacities up to .
For North American markets, a standard 4.0-litre VQ40DE V6 engine delivers and torque. Additionally, a QR25DE inline-four engine produces and . Transmission choices include a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. Both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations are offered, featuring traction control and hill-descent assist.
In Europe, sold as the Navara, diesel powertrains include a 2.5-litre YD25DDTi engine available in two power outputs: either or , with the higher specification generating Nm of torque.
Suzuki marketed a rebadged version named the Equator in North America, produced at Nissan's Smyrna plant and introduced at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Production ended in 2013 following Suzuki's withdrawal from the US passenger vehicle sector.
Production for the US market shifted from Smyrna to Canton, Mississippi in 2012. The PRO-4X trim continues to be offered in Mexico.
In 2014, Nissan unveiled a concept pickup equipped with a 2.8-litre Cummins diesel engine paired with an eight-speed ZF transmission.
Outside the U.S.
From September 2006 onwards, the European Navara featured an upgraded engine compliant with Euro IV emissions standards. Available trims included S, SE, Outlaw, and Aventura. The Aventura trim came equipped with leather seats, dual-zone climate control, a six-disc CD/MP3 changer, and satellite navigation as standard features.
In markets such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and South America, the D40 Navara slightly differs from its UK counterpart by offering two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.5-litre diesel and a V6 petrol unit. The diesel is available in Mid Power (106 kW at 4000 rpm and 356 Nm at 2000 rpm) and High Power (128 kW at 4000 rpm and 403 Nm at 2000 rpm) variants. The petrol V6 delivers 198 kW at 5600 rpm with torque of 385 Nm at 4000 rpm. Both engines come standard with a five-speed automatic transmission; additionally, a six-speed manual gearbox is offered for diesel versions. These regional models do not include leather upholstery, climate control systems, or satellite navigation found in UK trims.
The Navara received an update in 2008 that introduced new alloy wheels along with standard Bluetooth connectivity, side work lights, and wing mirror turn signals.
On March 6, 2008, Nissan launched the Single Cab model in Thailand featuring a diesel engine tuned for lower torque output (294 Nm at 2000 rpm), fitted with 15-inch wheels and standard power steering; electric mirrors and central locking were optional extras. This model was exported globally while Nissan continued selling the updated D22 Frontier LCV as an affordable alternative.
Malaysia saw the introduction of the Double Cab version in November 2008 equipped with a 2.5-litre diesel engine producing 128 kW and 403 Nm initially mated to a five-speed automatic transmission; a six-speed manual option was added one year later. The D22 Frontier with manual gearbox remains on sale in this market.
Later that year in November 2008, Nissan Thailand released the Navara Calibre featuring a 144 PS engine generating torque of 36.3 kgm at 2000 rpm. Transmission options included both five-speed automatic and six-speed manual gearboxes.
Facelift
Nissan implemented minor updates for the 2009 Frontier in North America and the 2010 Navara in Europe.
The 2010 refresh introduced a new 3.0-litre V9X V6 turbodiesel engine, delivering 240 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm. Alongside this, the revised 2.5-litre dCi YD25DDTi High Power diesel produced 190 PS and 450 Nm of torque. The facelifted 2011 Navara and Pathfinder V6 diesel engines generated 170 kW and 550 Nm between 1,700 and 2,500 rpm, while the VQ40DE petrol engine remained unchanged, offering 261 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque.
Exterior modifications featured more understated headlamp designs and bonnet contours, a less aggressive V-shaped grille surround, a rounded bumper extending approximately 80 mm forward, and new six-spoke alloy wheels available in 17-inch standard or optional 18-inch sizes.
Inside, enhancements included the use of softer materials on the dashboard and seating surfaces, redesigned center console and fascia elements, a refined instrument panel layout, and additional bright or gloss finish accents. The audio system was upgraded with speed-sensitive volume control, MP3 compatibility, and Bluetooth connectivity. Other additions comprised dual-zone climate control, multifunction steering wheel controls for audio, Bluetooth, and trip computer functions, a trip computer display, external temperature readout, speed-sensitive windshield wipers, 'follow me home' lighting feature, and fully folding electric side mirrors.
A crucial safety advancement was the introduction of Vehicle Dynamics Control stability management on diesel variants. Additionally, all petrol V6 and diesel models incorporated side-impact and side-curtain airbags to complement the existing dual front airbags.
For the 2020 model year, Nissan refreshed the Frontier lineup by introducing a new 3.8-litre V6 engine that produces 310 hp paired exclusively with a nine-speed automatic transmission; manual transmissions were discontinued except for Canada’s Pro-4X model which retained a six-speed manual option. This powertrain replaced both the former 4.0L V6 and the 2.5L inline-four engines while maintaining comparable torque figures. The model range was reorganized: King Cab versions are available in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations on S and SV trims; Crew Cab trims offer these drivetrain options on SV short- and long-bed variants; Pro-4X remains exclusively four-wheel drive. Power windows and door locks became standard equipment across all trim levels.
Safety
The D40 Navara underwent crash assessments by Euro NCAP alongside competitors Mitsubishi Triton and Isuzu D-Max. Initially, it earned only one star with a strikeout; however, following retesting with updated software addressing issues such as delayed airbag deployment and inadequate seatbelt restraint performance, it achieved the highest rating among the group with three stars.
2018
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) evaluated the 2018 Frontier with the following results:
| Small overlap front (Driver) | Marginal |
| Small overlap front (Passenger) | Marginal |
| Moderate overlap front | Good |
| Side (original test) | Good |
| Roof strength | Good |
| Head restraints and seats | Acceptable |
| Headlights | Poor |
| Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use | Marginal |
2021
The 2021 Frontier underwent evaluation by the IIHS, with the following results:
| Small overlap front (Driver) | Marginal |
| Moderate overlap front | Good |
| Side (original test) | Good |
| Roof strength | Good |
| Head restraints and seats | Acceptable |
| Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use | Acceptable |
Honors and Accolades
- The 2021 Nissan Frontier was recognized as a Top-Rated Midsize Truck by Edmunds.com.
- In 2011, the Nissan Frontier achieved top scores in IIHS evaluations for Front, Side, and Roof Strength.
- The 2011 Nissan Frontier was also listed as a Top Recommended Compact Truck by Edmunds.com.
- The 2010 Frontier earned the highest side-impact safety rating (5 stars) from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- J.D. Power and Associates awarded the 2010 Nissan Frontier as the Highest Ranked Midsize Pickup in Initial Quality.
Third Generation (D23; 2014)
Nissan introduced the third-generation Navara, designated D23 and marketed as the NP300 Navara, on 11 June 2014. Production commenced in July 2014 at a newly established $360 million facility located in Samut Prakan, Thailand, with deliveries beginning in August. This D23 model is not available in the US or Canada markets, where the larger D41 Frontier succeeded the D40.
The European version is equipped with a 2.3-litre engine shared with the Nissan NV400. Following the launch of the D23, production of the D40 continued exclusively with V6 engines paired with automatic transmissions.
For the 2018 model year, Nissan integrated Intelligent Mobility technologies into the Navara, including features such as Around View Monitor and blind-spot detection systems to improve driver assistance and safety.
Safety
The 2022 Latin American version of the Frontier is equipped with disc brakes on every wheel.
Latin NCAP
In its standard Latin American specification featuring two airbags, the Navara achieved a four-star rating for both adult occupants and child passengers from Latin NCAP in 2019.
2020 Facelift
On 5 November 2020, Nissan revealed an updated D23 Navara featuring a refreshed design and introducing the Pro-4X trim level. While engine options remained unchanged, new active safety technologies were incorporated. This facelifted model debuted in Australia in early 2021.
Production of the pre-facelift D23 at Nissan’s Barcelona plant ceased on 16 December 2021 due to declining sales within Europe and the facility’s closure.
In March 2022, manufacturing of the facelifted Frontier began in Argentina, where approximately 34% of components are sourced locally. Additionally, around 65% of production—including that of the Renault Alaskan—is destined for export markets.
The EnGuard concept is a specialized variant of the D23 Navara tailored for emergency response teams. First presented at the 2016 Hannover Motor Show, it incorporates Nissan’s inaugural proprietary portable battery pack. Other rescue-oriented enhancements include an onboard DJI Phantom 4 drone, elevated ground clearance, strobe lighting, and a fully adjustable suspension system.
Renault Alaskan
At the 2016 Paris Motor Show, Renault unveiled the production model of the Alaskan Pickup Concept, which is built upon the Navara platform. The Alaskan made its market debut in Colombia in October 2016 before expanding into European countries during 2017. Manufacturing commenced in October 2020 at the Santa Isabel plant in Argentina to cater specifically to Latin American customers.
Mercedes-Benz X-Class
On 25 October 2016, Mercedes-Benz introduced two pickup concepts previewing the "X-Class," constructed on the D23 Navara chassis. Initial assembly occurred in Barcelona, Spain; however, plans for production in Córdoba, Argentina were abandoned due to disagreements over manufacturing expenses and economic difficulties. The X-Class was ultimately discontinued in 2020 as a result of weak sales performance.
Dongfeng Rich 6
The Dongfeng Rich 6 debuted in October 2018 as a high-end pickup under Dongfeng Motor Co., Ltd., manufactured by Zhengzhou Nissan alongside the Navara for the Chinese market. It sports a revised front design that extends the vehicle length by 35 mm, while its remaining bodywork remains identical to that of the Navara.
Motorsports
The D40 Frontier platform is actively employed by NISMO Stuff Racing in the Coupe Rallye Quebec series, where it has demonstrated remarkable reliability with zero mechanical failures over more than two years across eight stage rallies and two hill climb events.
Nissan South Africa achieved notable success using both D22 and D40 platforms in the ABSA Off-Road Series, securing eight consecutive driver's titles from 2001 through 2008. Additionally, vehicles prepared by Hallspeed South Africa were supplied to Belgium’s Overdrive team, which competed in European rally raid competitions including the Dakar Rally.
Sales
2021 60, 693 1 ,716 8 ,079 9 ,882 47 ,884 ||717 5 ,722 3 ,920 11 ,824 2 ,860 2022 76 ,185 5 ,075 5 ,314 11 ,281 40 ,427 1 ,397 7 ,516 4 ,392 8 ,656 4 ,388 2023 58 ,134 3 ,343 3 ,470 61 ,878 1 ,178 12 ,714 3 ,707 8 ,391 2 ,365 2024 69 ,813 2 ,641 2 ,478 10 ,297 59 ,031 1 ,387 6 ,758 9 ,264 1 ,624| Year | U.S | Canada | Thailand | Philippines | Mexico | Argentina | Brazil | Malaysia | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NP300 | Frontier V6 | Frontier | Alaskan | Navara | Frontier | |||||||||||
| 2004 | 4,429 | |||||||||||||||
| 72,838|2,064 | 6,526 | |||||||||||||||
| 77,510|2,461 | 3,063 | |||||||||||||||
| 64,397|2,162 | 2,279 | |||||||||||||||
| 44,997|1,608 | 1,945 | |||||||||||||||
| 27,415|1,649 | 1,272 | |||||||||||||||
| 40,427|2,272 | 2,344 | 3,198|712 | ||||||||||||||
| 51,700|2,512 | 3,819 | 3,899|637 | ||||||||||||||
| 55,435|2,973 | 1,391 | 4,270|529 | ||||||||||||||
| 62,837|2,964 | 1,443 | 4,181|159 | ||||||||||||||
| 74,323|3,567|15,778 | 190 | 3,691|2 | ||||||||||||||
| 62,817|3,622|19,412 | 58,876 | 56 |
3,823| 0 |
- |
2016| 86, 926| 4, 127| 17, 762| |
68, 932|| 838| 1, 341| 3, 606| 6, 047| |
- |
2017| 74, 360| 4, 260| 20, 453| |
75, 324|| 942| 2, 000| 4, 057| 5, 898| |
- |
2018| 79, 646| 4, 134| 25, 116| 16, 140|| 67, 052|| 875| 2, 521| 6, 323| 5, 731| |
- |
2019| 72, 369| 3, 723| 25, 036| 19, 034|| 62, 989|| 850| 2, 750| 8, 091| 4, 193| |
- |
2020| 36,845| 1, 355| 13,523| 9,164|| 44,577|| 409| 3,639| 53|| 8, 079< | |
External links
- Official Nissan websites: United States, Indonesia
- EuroNCAP safety ratings for Nissan Navara 2008
- Articles with short description
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- Cars introduced in 1997
- 2000s cars
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