We compared Nissan NP300 Hardbody double cab engines, and the efficiency crown goes to…
Despite some negative press surrounding its poor safety rating, the NP300 continues to be a popular workhorse in South Africa, thanks to its affordability and reliability. The NP300 was about to be discontinued at the time of writing, ensuring that it will be popular in the pre-owned market. Let us discover which Hardbody double cab engine is most efficient.
The soon-to-be discontinued NP300 Hardbody can trace its root back as far as 1988, when the first Hardbody was produced at Nissan’s Rosslyn manufacturing facility in Pretoria. In 1997, the popular D22 Hardbody began production and was badged as such until 2007, when the model was renamed the NP300 Hardbody. Since then, the model has been updated periodically, but will officially be taken out of production in mid-2021. In today’s article we compare the two engines available in the double cab range to determine which is the most efficient.
Nissan NP300 Hardbody 2.4 double cab 4x4
Outputs: 105 kW and 205 Nm
Claimed Average Consumption: 11.7 L/100 km
Kerb weight: 1 735kg
The naturally aspirated engine in the double cab NP300 range has been around for decades, cementing its reputation for reliability and reasonable servicing costs, however, it is not considered a very efficient unit. The petrol unit is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and weighs in at 32kg less than the diesel model.
Nissan NP300 Hardbody 2.5TDi double cab 4x4
Outputs: 98 kW and 304 Nm
Claimed Average Consumption: 8.9 L/100 km
Kerb weight: 1 767kg
The 2.5-litre YD25DDTi engine fitted to the Hardbody at the turn of the century is an agricultural, but relatively frugal unit that suits the Hardbody rather well. The oil-burner is also paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and consumes fuel at a rate of some 2.8L/100km less than the petrol derivative.
Verdict
Having looked at the figures, it is clear that despite the fact that the petrol model is both more powerful and lighter, the turbodiesel is far more efficient, with superior torque figures and an engine that is better suited to the vehicle’s intended use.
