Nissan Navara Engine Models Guide: Complete List by Generation

For more than three decades, the Nissan Navara has been one of the most widely used pickup trucks across Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, Australia, and Africa. Fleet operators, distributors, and workshops value it for one main reason: it’s durable, economical to maintain, and supported by a wide range of petrol and diesel engines depending on the market.

If you’re sourcing replacement engines, checking cross-market compatibility, or helping clients identify the correct engine for their Navara, this guide gives you a clear breakdown of every engine model used across all Navara generations — from the early D21 to today’s NP300/D23.

Overview: What Engines Does the Nissan Navara Use?

Although the Navara name is consistent globally, Nissan offered different engines for different markets, years, and emission standards.

Broadly, Navara engines fall into these categories:

• Small/medium petrol engines: Z24, KA24E, KA24DE, QR25DE
  
• Large V6 petrol engines: VG33E, VQ40DE
  
• Mechanical diesel engines: SD25, TD27
  
• Modern turbo-diesel engines: YD25DDTi, YS23DDT, YS23DDTT
  

The engines most buyers encounter today are YD25, QR25, and the newer YS23 twin-turbo diesel.

Below is the full breakdown by generation.

Nissan Navara Engine Models by Generation

1. Nissan Navara D21 (1986–1997) – Early Generation

The D21 is known for its simplicity and durability. You’ll still see plenty of these trucks in Africa, the Middle East, and South America.

Engine Models Used

Highlights:

• TD27 is famous for outlasting the vehicle itself.
  
• Z24 and KA24E are simple, non-complicated petrol engines — easy to repair.
  

2. Nissan Navara D22 (1997–2004 / up to 2014 in some markets)

This generation introduced engines that would define the Navara for the next two decades.

Engine Models Used

Notes:

• This is the generation that made YD25 widely known.
  
• VG33E offered good power for markets like the Middle East and the U.S.
  
• Many export buyers still search for D22-spec YD25 engines.
  

3. Nissan Navara D40 (2005–2014)

The D40 became a global best-seller and brought major improvements in power and comfort.

Engine Models Used

Highlights:

• The YD25DDTi is the most common engine found in Navara D40 trucks worldwide.
  
• VQ40DE delivered impressive power but is thirstier.
  
• QR25DE served markets like Asia and the Middle East that preferred petrol engines.
  

4. Nissan Navara NP300 / D23 (2015–Present)

The NP300 (also known as D23) represents the newest generation and introduced modern, more efficient diesels.

Engine Models Used

Notes:

• The YS23 series is co-developed under the Renault-Nissan alliance.
  
• The twin-turbo YS23DDTT is the most advanced Navara diesel engine to date.
  
• Despite new engines, some countries continued using YD25 due to local fuel quality.
  

Nissan Navara Engine Specifications (Quick Table)

*Exact output varies by region and tuning.

Nissan Navara Engine Comparison: Which Engines Matter Most Today?

Over the years, the Navara has been offered with many petrol and diesel options, but only a few engines remain truly important for today’s replacement, rebuild, and fleet markets. These are the engines workshops service most often and the ones importers continue sourcing in volume.

Below is a practical overview of the engines that matter most — and when each one is the right choice.

1. YD25DDTi (2.5L Turbo Diesel)

Still the most widely requested Navara engine worldwide. Used in D22, D40, and early NP300 models, it’s valued for its balance of reliability, power, and affordable maintenance.

Best for: markets needing cheap parts, older fleets, and buyers wanting simple upkeep
Why it’s popular: plentiful supply, easy rebuilds, proven long-term durability

2. YS23DDT / YS23DDTT (2.3L Diesel — Single/Twin Turbo)

The main engine for the modern NP300/D23. It delivers strong torque and excellent efficiency but requires cleaner fuel and more advanced servicing.

Best for: newer fleets in Europe, Australia, and APAC
Why buyers choose it: higher torque, better fuel economy, smoother performance

3. QR25DE (2.5L Petrol)

The most common petrol option for D40 and D23 Navaras. Shared with many Nissan passenger models, making parts easy to source and maintain.

Best for: petrol markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia
Why it works well: reliable design, wide parts availability, low operating cost

4. VQ40DE (4.0L V6 Petrol)

A high-output petrol engine known for smooth power delivery and excellent durability, especially under heavy loads.

Best for: regions with cheaper petrol and buyers needing towing strength
Why it’s preferred: strong acceleration, reliable under heavy-duty use

5. TD27 / TD27T (2.7L Mechanical Diesel)

A classic mechanical diesel still trusted in tough environments. With no complex electronics, it’s the easiest Navara engine to repair anywhere.

Best for: Africa, South America, and remote operations
Why it remains popular: extremely durable, easy to service, affordable rebuilds

Simple Summary

• YD25 → Best all-rounder for older fleets
  
• YS23 → Best modern diesel for torque + efficiency
  
• QR25DE → Best petrol for reliability and low maintenance
  
• VQ40DE → Best petrol for power and towing
  
• TD27 → Best for harsh, low-fuel-quality environments

Common Nissan Navara Engine Problems

The Navara is generally reliable, but certain issues appear more often depending on engine type, mileage, and operating conditions. Below is a concise breakdown of the most common problem areas, organized by issue type for quicker diagnosis.

1. Timing Chain Problems

Most common on: YD25

• Timing chain stretch from infrequent oil changes
  
• Rattling on cold starts and reduced performance
  
• Severe wear can lead to major engine damage if ignored
  

2. Turbocharger Issues

Most common on: YD25, YS23DDTT

• YD25: Carbon blockage in turbo oil feed → poor lubrication → early turbo wear
  
• YS23 twin-turbo: Boost control faults from vacuum leaks or failing solenoids
  
• Symptoms: whistling, smoke, grinding noises, or limp mode
  
• Hot-climate note: YD25 intercooler hoses may split, causing sudden loss of boost
  

3. Fuel System & Injector Problems

Most common on: YD25, YS23, TD27

• YD25: Injector seal failure → black smoke, rough running
  
• YS23: High-pressure injectors sensitive to poor fuel quality
  
• TD27: Aging pump seals causing leaks or air ingestion
  
• Results: hard starts, rough idle, smoke, or poor fuel economy
  

4. Emissions System Issues

Most common on: YS23, YD25

• YS23: DPF blockage in short-trip or urban driving
  
• YD25: Carbon buildup in EGR valves reducing performance
  
• Often leads to limp mode or increased fuel consumption
  

5. Oil Consumption & Lubrication Problems

Most common on: QR25DE, YD25

• QR25DE: Oil consumption on high-mileage units
  
• YD25: Clogged turbo oil feed lines reducing lubrication
  
• May cause blue smoke or noisy turbo operation
  
• Extra note: QR25DE may develop throttle body carbon buildup (minor)
  

6. Hard-Start / Cold-Start Issues

Most common on: TD27, YD25

• TD27: Weak glow plugs or worn pump seals
  
• YD25: Air leaks or worn injectors causing long cranking
  
• Worse in cold climates or on high-mileage engines
  

7. Manifold & Exhaust Problems

Most common on: QR25DE, YD25

• QR25DE (early): Exhaust manifold cracking from heat cycling
  
• YD25: Occasional exhaust leaks around EGR connections
  
• Symptoms include ticking noises, exhaust smell, or reduced performance
  

Most Navara engines are durable, but understanding these common issues helps workshops diagnose faster and allows buyers to select the right engine for their operating environment. Proper maintenance can prevent or greatly reduce the impact of these problems.

How to Identify the Correct Navara Engine

Accurate engine identification is crucial when sourcing replacement engines, cylinder heads, or major components. Because the same Navara model year can use different engines across regions, confirming the exact engine code helps avoid fitment errors, returns, and delays.

Below are the fastest and most reliable methods for workshops and importers.

1. Check the VIN Plate

The VIN plate or sticker usually lists the chassis code and build details, helping narrow down the correct engine variant.

Common VIN plate locations:

• Firewall (near the brake master cylinder)
  
• Driver’s side door jamb
  
• Under-hood strut tower or radiator support
  
• Some Thai/Mexico models: inside the engine bay fuse box cover
  

Pro tip:
If the engine code isn’t shown, use the chassis code (D21 / D22 / D40 / D23) and production year for initial identification.

2. Confirm the Engine Block Stamp (Most Accurate)

Every Navara engine has its code physically stamped on the block — the most reliable method for used or imported vehicles.

Diesel engines:

• YD25 → Front right of block near alternator bracket
  
• YS23 → Below injectors, above oil filter housing
  
• TD27 → Injection pump side near cylinder #1
  
• SD25 → Left side near fuel pump
  

Petrol engines:

• QR25DE → Near exhaust manifold
  
• VQ40DE → Front of block, below head mating surface
  
• KA24DE → Left side near engine mount
  

Pro tip:
Clean the area first — block stamps are often hidden under oil or dust.

3. Match by Generation + Market

If the VIN or stamp is missing, combine generation and region to identify the likely engine.

Pro tip:
Engine availability differs by region even in the same model year — always verify with VIN or block stamp before placing an order.

Engine Replacement & Compatibility Guide

When sourcing Navara engines for customers or fleet vehicles, correct compatibility is critical. Many engines look similar but differ in wiring, mounts, and emissions systems. These quick checks help prevent costly installation errors.

1. D22 vs D40 YD25 Engines

Both use the YD25, but the configurations are completely different.

What differs:

• Engine mounts
  
• EGR and intake layout
  
• Turbo setup and sensors
  
• Wiring harness + ECU
  

Pro tip: Always match the exact YD25 variant, not just the engine name.

2. YS23 vs YD25

These engines belong to different generations and are not interchangeable.

What differs:

• Fuel systems
  
• Turbo configuration
  
• Emissions equipment (DPF)
  
• ECU and wiring architecture
  

Pro tip: These two engines are never plug-and-play swaps.

3. Petrol Engine Market Specs

QR25 and VQ40 engines from other Nissan models are not identical to Navara versions.

Example:
A QR25 from an X-Trail/Rogue has different mounts, intake layout, and ECU tuning.

Pro tip: Always confirm the donor model and market region.

4. Confirm by VIN + Engine Code

Navara generations overlap, and the same year can use different engines.

Pro tip: Always request:

• VIN
  
• Engine code stamp
  
• Chassis code (D22 / D40 / D23)
  

This avoids fitment issues and unnecessary returns.

5. Manual vs Automatic Compatibility

Transmission type affects ECU calibration, flywheel patterns, and sensor layout.

Why it matters:

• YD25 and YS23 differ between MT and AT
  
• Some ECUs are transmission-specific
  
• Incorrect pairing can cause no start, limp mode, or fault codes
  

Pro tip: Always confirm manual or automatic before exporting or installing an engine.

FAQ

What engine does the Nissan Navara use?

Depending on the generation, the Navara uses engines such as Z24, KA24DE, TD27, YD25DDTi, QR25DE, VQ40DE, and the newer YS23 twin-turbo diesel.

Which engine is best for Nissan Navara?

For durability: TD27 and YD25
For performance and fuel economy: YS23DDTT

Is the YD25 a reliable engine?

Yes — if maintained well. The main issues are timing chain wear and injector leaks.

What engine does the NP300 use?

Most NP300 trucks use the YS23DDT/YS23DDTT or QR25DE, depending on market.

How do I find my Navara’s engine code?

Check the VIN plate or look directly at the block’s stamped engine number.

Conclusion

The Nissan Navara has gone through multiple generations and engine platforms, and each one comes with its own compatibility requirements, technical details, and common service points. For workshops, parts distributors, and importers, accurately identifying the engine model isn’t just helpful — it’s essential for avoiding fitment issues, reducing returns, and keeping customers satisfied.

About Us

At Woda Auto, we specialize in supplying OEM-quality complete engines, cylinder heads, crankshafts, and key components for the most popular Navara engines — including YD25, QR25DE, TD27, KA24DE, and more. With 25+ years of manufacturing and export experience, we support B2B buyers across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and beyond.

If you’re sourcing replacement engines or building inventory for your market, contact our team anytime for accurate fitment guidance, competitive pricing, and reliable global shipping.

Request a quote or send us your engine code — we’ll help you get the right parts the first time.