Ford Ranger vs Navara vs D-Max vs Triton: What does R800k get you from legacy brands?
Is the Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 still the king of the South African mid-spec bakkies? We compare it head-to-head with the Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-Max X-Rider, and Mitsubishi Triton to find the best value, towing power, and off-road capability for your money
The South African double-cab market is more competitive than ever, especially in the sweet spot around R780,000. While the Ford Ranger 2.0 SiT XLT currently sets the pace for technology and refinement, rivals like the rugged Nissan Navara, the efficient Isuzu D-Max X-Rider, and the value-packed Mitsubishi Triton are fighting hard for a spot in your driveway. In this detailed shootout, we compare performance, towing capacity, and tech to see which mid-spec 4x4 reigns supreme.
Quick specs
| Feature | Ford Ranger XLT | Nissan Navara LE Plus | Isuzu D-Max X-Rider | Mitsubishi Triton GLS |
| Price | R 788 500 | R 785 700 | R 776 890 | R 759 990 |
| Engine | 2.0 turbodiesel | 2.5 turbodiesel | 1.9 turbodiesel | 2.4 turbodiesel |
| Power/Torque | 125kW / 405Nm | 140kW / 450Nm | 110kW / 350Nm | 135kW / 430Nm |
| Transmission | 10-spd auto | 7-spd auto | 6-spd auto | 6-spd Auto |
| Fuel Cons. | 7.7 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Towing (Braked) | 3 500 kg | 3 500 kg | 2 100 kg | 3 500 kg |
Performance
The Ford Ranger XLT remains the tech leader with its 10-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smoother power than the ageing 6- and 7-speed units in its rivals. While the Nissan Navara LE Plus claims the title for highest raw output (140kW/450Nm), the Ranger's 10-speed box keeps the engine in its optimal torque band more effectively.
The Isuzu D-Max X-Rider is the most efficient choice here. Its 1.9-litre engine is remarkably frugal but feels noticeably less punchy when fully loaded, evidenced by its significantly lower braked towing capacity of 2 100 kg compared to the 3 500 kg industry standard held by the others.
Off-road capability
All four models feature 4x4 systems with low-range transfer cases.
Ford Ranger: Offers the best wading depth (800mm) and ground clearance (237mm) along with a sophisticated terrain management system.
Mitsubishi Triton: Uses the Super Select II 4WD system.
Nissan Navara: Features a rugged multi-link coil rear suspension rather than traditional leaf springs, giving it arguably the best unladen ride quality and stability over corrugated gravel.
Interior and tech
This is where the Ford Ranger dominates. The XLT features an 8-inch digital instrument cluster and a vertical 10.1-inch touchscreen running SYNC 4A. It feels a generation ahead of the Nissan and Isuzu, which rely more on dated infotainment systems.
The Isuzu X-Rider and Nissan LE Plus focus more on durability and lifestyle aesthetics. The X-Rider specifically adds red interior stitching and "X" branding to appeal to younger buyers, while the Navara LE Plus offers a balanced mix of leather-accented comfort and utility.
Ownership
Warranty and service plans are a major deciding factor in SA:
Nissan Navara: Leads with a 6-year/150 000 km warranty, offering the longest mechanical peace of mind.
Mitsubishi Triton: Offers a 5-year/unlimited km warranty, which is excellent for high-mileage users.
Ford Ranger: Ford has moved to an optional service plan model (Right to Repair).
Verdict
Among this company, the Ford Ranger XLT offers the most advanced technology, a strong drivetrian, and the most modern cabin, along with impressive off-road credentials. The fact that this model now has a more robust timing chain setup means that the Ranger is hard to ignore
