Pickups Nissan Datsun (better known as Nissan NP300 or Datsun Go+ Pickup depending on the market) have long gained a reputation as unpretentious workhorses. These cars are valued for their simplicity of design, low cost of ownership and the ability to cope with harsh operating conditions. However, before purchasing, it is important to study the real experience of the owners - after all, what is suitable for a farmer in Africa may be inconvenient for a city dweller in Russia.

In this article we have collected current reviews 2023–2026, analyzed typical problems and compared Nissan Datsun with main competitors - Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi L200 And Isuzu D-Max. Particular attention was paid to issues engine reliability (especially diesel YD25DDTi And K9K), body corrosion And cost of spare parts. If you are planning to buy a used model or a new pickup truck for business, you will find honest, unvarnished assessments here.

1. Specifications: What does the Nissan Datsun pickup truck offer?

Ruler Nissan NP300 (formerly sold as Datsun Go+ Pickup in some countries) is presented in several modifications, but in Russia and the CIS, versions with diesel engines are more common. Basic parameters:

  • 🔧 Engines:
    • YD25DDTi 2.5 l, 190 hp (turbodiesel)
    • K9K 1.5 l, 110 hp (atmospheric diesel, rare)
    • HR16DE 1.6 l, 114 hp (gasoline, for markets with strict economic standards)
  • 🚛 Load capacity: from 850 kg to 1.1 tons (depending on modification)
  • 🛣️ Drive: rear (2WD) or all-wheel drive (4WD, plug-in)
  • ⛽ Fuel consumption: 7.5–9.5 l/100 km (diesel), 10–12 l/100 km (gasoline)

Feature of the model - ladder frame, which provides high strength but adds weight. The suspension is dependent at the front and rear (springs), which simplifies repairs, but reduces comfort on broken roads. NP300 It’s not positioned as a premium pickup truck, so you won’t find climate control or leather upholstery in the basic configuration—the emphasis here is on functionality.

📊 Which engine would you prefer for a Nissan Datsun pickup?
  • Diesel 2.5 YD25DDTi
  • Diesel 1.5 K9K
  • Petrol 1.6 HR16DE
  • I don't know, I need some feedback

2. Owner reviews: pros and cons in real use

After analyzing more than 200 reviews on forums (Drive2, Drom, 4×4 Club) and in owner groups, we have identified key topics that concern buyers. Let's start with benefits:

  • ✅ Diesel reliability YD25DDTi: with proper maintenance (oil change every 10,000 km, fuel filter - 20,000 km), the engine runs 400,000+ km without capital. Owners note good traction at low speeds.
  • ✅ Easy to repair: parts are cheap (compared to Hilux), many non-original analogues. For example, a clutch costs ~15,000 rubles, and a brake repair kit costs from 3,000 rubles.
  • ✅ Patency: All-wheel drive versions with a locking rear differential drive confidently off-road (with the correct tire pressure).
  • ✅ Price: new NP300 cheaper in the basic package Mitsubishi L200 by 300–500 thousand rubles.

Now about shortcomings, which are most often mentioned:

  • ❌ Body corrosion: Even on cars from 2018–2020, the sills, fenders and bottom rust. Pickup trucks operated in salty conditions (coastal regions) are especially vulnerable.
  • ❌ Interior noise: At speeds above 90 km/h, a noise from the wheels and wind is heard. The owners recommend additional sound insulation (cost ~50,000 rubles).
  • ❌ Weak automatic transmission: 4-speed automatic (model RE4R03A) often overheats when towing. Mechanics are more reliable.
  • ❌ Stiff suspension: on broken roads you can feel every hole. Rear seat passengers complain of discomfort.
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Before buying used Nissan NP300 Be sure to check the condition of the frame - it often rusts at the places where the springs are attached. Use an endoscope or a lift.

3. Comparison with competitors: Nissan vs Toyota Hilux vs Mitsubishi L200

To understand whether it is worth choosing Nissan Datsun, compare it with the two main rivals in the segment. Main criteria: reliability, cost of ownership And off-road qualities.

Parameter Nissan NP300 Toyota Hilux (8th generation) Mitsubishi L200 (5th generation)
New price (base), rub. 1 800 000 – 2 200 000 2 500 000 – 3 000 000 2 300 000 – 2 800 000
Fuel consumption (diesel), l/100 km 7.5–9.5 8.0–10.0 7.0–9.0
Engine life, km 400 000+ (YD25DDTi) 500 000+ (GD-6) 450 000+ (4N15)
Maintenance cost (average), rub. 8 000 – 12 000 12 000 – 18 000 10 000 – 15 000
Main problems Corrosion, noise, weak machine Expensive parts, DPF problems Electronics, seal leaks

Critical moment: Nissan NP300 loses Hilux in reliability over a long distance, but benefits in the cost of maintenance. If your budget is limited and mileage does not exceed 30,000 km/year, this is a smart choice.

According to owner reviews, L200 more comfortable in the city thanks to better sound insulation, but its diesel 4N15 sensitive to fuel quality. Hilux it remains the leader in reliability, but its cost of ownership is 30–40% higher.

4. Typical breakdowns and how to avoid them

Even the most reliable pickup trucks require attention. Here most common problemsproblems that owners face Nissan Datsun, and ways to prevent them:

  1. Crankshaft oil seal leak (front/rear)

    Symptoms: oil stains under the car, falling oil level.

    Reason: worn out seal or poor quality oil.

    Solution: replace the oil seal (~5,000 rubles with labor) and use oil 5W-40 (For example, Mobil Delvac MX).

  2. Problems with the turbine (YD25DDTi)

    Symptoms: smoky exhaust, loss of power, whistling.

    Cause: bearing wear or foreign particles.

    Solution: check the air ducts for leaks, change the air filter every 15,000 km.

  3. Frame and body corrosion

    Symptoms: red spots on the thresholds, squeaks when moving.

    Reason: poor factory anti-corrosion treatment.

    Solution: treat annually ML-mastic or Tectyl (cost ~20,000 rub.).

Check the frame for rust (especially in the places where the springs are attached)

Start the engine when cold - there should be no knocking or smoke.

Make sure the all-wheel drive connects smoothly

Check the maintenance history (especially oil and fuel filter changes) -->

⚠️ Attention: If, when inspecting a used pickup truck, you find rust on the side members, do not buy it. Repairing the frame will cost 100,000+ rubles, and safety will be in question.

5. Fuel consumption: real vs declared figures

The manufacturer declares diesel consumption NP300 in 7.5 l/100 km along the highway. However, real reviews show different numbers:

  • 🛣️ Route (90–110 km/h): 8.0–8.5 l/100 km (with a load of up to 1.5 tons - up to 10 l).
  • 🏙️ City: 9.5–11 l/100 km (depending on traffic jams and driving style).
  • 🏔️ Off-road: 12–14 l/100 km (with permanent all-wheel drive).

The owners note that consumption increases by 15–20% at:

  • Using poor quality fuel (especially important for regions with a low cetane number).
  • Driving with a trailer or overload (over 1 ton).
  • Operation in winter (warming up, thick oil).

To reduce consumption, experienced drivers recommend:

  • Install zero resistance air filter (For example, K&N).
  • Use fuel additives (eg Liqui Moly Diesel Systempflege).
  • Monitor the tire pressure (optimally - 2.4 bar in the front, 2.6 in the rear).
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Diesel Nissan NP300 It is 20–25% more economical than gasoline, but requires more frequent maintenance. If the annual mileage is less than 20,000 km, the gasoline version may be more profitable.

6. Cost of ownership: how much does it cost to maintain a Nissan Datsun pickup?

One of the main advantages NP300 is low maintenance cost compared to premium pickups. Let's look at the main cost items using the diesel version as an example:

Type of expenses Cost (RUB) Frequency
Maintenance 8 000 – 12 000 Every 10,000 km
Replacing timing belt + rollers 15 000 – 20 000 Every 100,000 km
Clutch replacement (kit) 25 000 – 35 000 Every 150,000 km
Replacing brake pads (front/rear) 5 000 – 8 000 Every 30,000–50,000 km
Insurance (CASCO, Moscow region) 40 000 – 60 000 Annually

For comparison: service Toyota Hilux costs 30–50% more due to original spare parts. For example, a timing belt for Hilux costs ~30,000 rubles. (versus RUB 15,000 Nissan).

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing spare parts for NP300 beware of branded fakes Nissan. Original parts have a hologram and serial number on the packaging. Popular non-original analogues: Febi, TRW, Sachs.

7. Modifications and tuning: what can be improved?

Many owners Nissan Datsun modify their pickup trucks to improve comfort or off-road capability. Here most popular modifications:

  • 🔧 Suspension:
    • Installing springs Old Man Emu (+2–3 cm of clearance, ~50,000 rub.).
    • Replacing shock absorbers with Bilstein B6 (~30,000 rubles per set).
  • 🛡️ Protection:
    • Installation of crankcase protection (~15,000 rubles).
    • Mud flaps for wheel arches (~8,000 rub.).
  • 🎵 Noise insulation:
    • Pasting doors and floors StP-Flex (~40,000 rub.).
    • Replacing the standard radio with Pioneer SPH-DA120 with Android Auto (~25,000 rub.).
  • 🔥 Engine:
    • Chip tuning (increasing power to 220 hp, ~40,000 rub.).
    • Installation of a larger intercooler (~35,000 rubles).

Important: Any changes to the suspension or engine may affect guarantee (if it is still valid) and passing a technical inspection. For example, raising the suspension by more than 5 cm requires registration with the traffic police.

What happens if you don’t register changes with the traffic police?

In the event of an accident, the insurance company may refuse to pay, citing inconsistency in the design of the vehicle. A fine of up to RUB 5,000 is also possible. according to Art. 12.5 Code of Administrative Offences.

8. Conclusion: is a Nissan Datsun pickup worth buying in 2026?

Nissan NP300 (or Datsun Go+ Pickup) is pragmatic choice for those who need a reliable working tool, and not a status car. It will suit:

  • 🚜 Farmers and summer residents for transporting goods.
  • 🏗️ Entrepreneurs who need inexpensive commercial transport.
  • 🌲 Hunters and fishermen due to good cross-country ability.

But there is also who doesn't like it:

  • 🚗 For those who are looking for a comfortable family car.
  • 💨 Drivers who often drive on the highway at high speeds (noisy, poor aerodynamics).
  • 🏙️ For citizens who care about parking, the pickup truck’s dimensions (5.2 m in length) make maneuvers difficult.

If you are considering a used model, the best choice is pickups 2017–2019 with mileage up to 100,000 km and full service history. New NP300 2026 cost from 2.1 million rubles, which is 20–25% cheaper Toyota Hilux in a similar configuration.

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Nissan Datsun — the best option in terms of price/quality ratio in the budget segment of pickup trucks. But if you need 500,000+ km durability, consider Hilux or Isuzu D-Max.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Datsun pickup

❓ Which engine is more reliable: diesel YD25DDTi or gasoline HR16DE?

Diesel YD25DDTi wins in terms of service life (400,000+ km versus 250,000 km for gasoline) and efficiency, but requires higher quality fuel and regular maintenance. Gasoline HR16DE easier to repair and cheaper to maintain, but consumes 30% more fuel. The choice depends on the annual mileage:

  • More than 25,000 km/year - take a diesel engine.
  • Less than 20,000 km/year - gasoline may be more profitable.
❓ Is it possible to exploit Nissan NP300 on gas (GBO)?

Technically install LPG on diesel YD25DDTi possible (systems DigiGas or Lovato), but this inappropriate for several reasons:

  • The cost of the equipment (~150,000 rubles) will pay off only if the mileage exceeds 100,000 km/year.
  • Diesel engines lose up to 10% of power on gas.
  • The engine warranty is void.

For petrol version HR16DE 4th generation gas equipment (~60,000 rubles) pays for itself in 50,000–70,000 km.

❓ Which tires are best to choose for NP300?

Factory tires (215/80 R16 or 235/70 R16) is often criticized for its poor maneuverability. Owners recommend:

  • 🏔️ Off-road: BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 or Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015.
  • 🛣️ For the track: Michelin Agilis CrossClimate (good for asphalt and wet roads).
  • ❄️ For winter: Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT3 or Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2.

Important: when installing tires with a larger diameter (for example, 265/70 R16) the speedometer may need to be adjusted.

❓ How to deal with corrosion on Nissan NP300?

Corrosion is the main problem of the model. Effective measures:

  1. Annual treatment ML-mastic or Tectyl (especially rapids and bottom).
  2. Installation of plastic fender liners (~10,000 rubles).
  3. Checking the drainage holes in the doors (they become clogged with dirt).
  4. Usage zinc spray for chips on the body.

If rust has already appeared, only sandblasting + primer (cost ~30,000 rubles per element).

❓ Where is the best place to buy spare parts for Nissan Datsun?

Original spare parts can be ordered from authorized dealers (for example, Nissan Center), but they are 30–50% more expensive than their analogues. Alternative options:

  • 🛒 Online stores: Exist.ru, Autodoc.ru, Emex.ru (prices are 10–20% lower).
  • 🔧 Showdown: used parts with mileage (for example, a turbine for ~20,000 rubles instead of 60,000 rubles for a new one).
  • 🏭 Non-original brands:
    • Suspension: Sachs, Boge.
    • Brakes: TRW, Ferodo.
    • Belts/rollers: Gates, Contitech.

When purchasing, check the article numbers in the catalog Nissan (for example, for an oil filter YD25DDTi — 15208-ED00A).