Ford Ranger vs Toyota Hilux vs Nissan Navara: Best Used Pickup
The three most popular used double-cab pickups compared, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara on drive, durability, towing and value (plus the Navara chassis warning).
Double-cab pickups are the ultimate do-it-all: a 1-tonne workhorse that tows 3.5 tonnes and carries the family. Three names dominate the used market, the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara. Here's how they stack up, including one big warning on the Navara.
Compare live: Ford Ranger · Toyota Hilux · Nissan Navara.
The quick verdict
- Ford Ranger, the best all-rounder and UK's best-selling pickup. Car-like to drive, strong engines, huge trim range (XL to Wildtrak/Raptor). The default choice for most buyers.
- Toyota Hilux, the durability legend. Not the plushest, but the one you buy to never let you down.
- Nissan Navara, comfortable and well-equipped and often cheaper used, but inspect the chassis (see below) before buying.
Driving & comfort
The Ranger drives the most like a car and has the broadest, most modern line-up. The Navara is comfortable and generously specced. The Hilux trades a little polish for toughness, it feels the most utilitarian, which is rather the point.
Durability & reliability
The Hilux's reputation for going anywhere and never dying is well earned, if reliability is your top priority, it's the safe bet. The Ranger is dependable too (watch the 2.0 EcoBlue wet-belt service). The Navara's reputation is dented by one specific issue:
Navara chassis warning: certain NP300 Navaras suffered chassis corrosion and cracking near the rear, leading to a recall and goodwill repairs. If you're looking at a Navara, inspect the chassis underneath carefully and check recall/repair history before buying. A sound, repaired one can be a bargain; an unchecked one is a risk.
Engines & towing
- Ranger: 2.0 EcoBlue (170/205PS bi-turbo) and 3.0 V6 on top trims/Raptor.
- Hilux: 2.4 and 2.8 D-4D (the 2.8 is notably stronger).
- Navara: 2.3 dCi (single/twin-turbo).
All three tow up to around 3.5 tonnes braked, confirm the exact figure and the payload for the specific truck.
Running costs, tax & value
Pickups are thirstier and pricier to insure than panel vans, but hold value well, the Hilux and Ranger especially. Company-vehicle (Benefit-in-Kind) tax rules for double-cab pickups have been changing, so check the current position if buying through a business. The Navara is often the cheapest to buy used (reflecting the chassis concern).
Who should buy which?
- Best all-rounder / most choice: Ford Ranger.
- Maximum durability / keep-forever: Toyota Hilux.
- Most kit for the money (chassis-checked): Nissan Navara.
Read the full pickup buyer's guide, then compare Ranger, Hilux and Navara for sale near Southampton or your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Ford Ranger for all-round ability and choice; the Toyota Hilux for durability; the Nissan Navara for value (if the chassis checks out). Choose on priorities and budget.
Not necessarily, but certain NP300 models had chassis corrosion/cracking that led to a recall. Inspect the chassis and check repair history; a sound or properly repaired one can be a good-value buy.
The Toyota Hilux has the strongest reputation for durability, which is why it's the go-to for buyers who prioritise reliability above all.
Most modern double-cabs tow up to around 3.5 tonnes braked, confirm the exact rating and the payload for the specific vehicle and your use.
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