PICK UP
Despite its origins, popularity, and cult status in the US, the pickup truck is also a staple in the lineup of Japanese automobile manufacturers in the domestic market and worldwide.
Models like the Toyota Hilux and the Nissan Navara are just two of the many Japanese pickup trucks available that can stand toe-to-toe with legends like the Ford F-150 and the Ford Ranger in terms of utility, performance, and appearance.
Find out how the pickup might be the vehicle for you, how to choose one, and finally, the standout models from various Japanese brands.
Why Buy a Pickup?
There are many reasons to consider buying a pickup-style truck with an enclosed cabin and cargo bed surrounded by three walls. A spacious cabin and large cargo bed mean there is enough designated space for passengers and most items.
Most pickups also come with heavy hauling capabilities. Heavy-duty pickups have enough horsepower to even tow large boats in and out of the water.
Unlike some types of vehicles, pickups are designed with larger tires and more powerful engines to haul off-road as well. That’s why it is no surprise that the pickup has become a mainstay among hunters, farmers, construction workers, and even families who enjoy frequent getaways.
What to Consider When Buying a Pickup
Seating
A key point to consider when deciding if a pickup truck is right for you is how many seats you will need. Pickups can come in various cabin sizes.
Regular cabins will seat two people, while extended cabs have a second row of seats. The second row is ideal for children and smaller adults but can be cramped if three adults sit in the back.
The largest models are crew cabins, which are common with full-sized pickups. These can have four doors instead of two and as much seating room as a mid or full-sized SUV.
Cargo / Trunk Capacity
The large cargo bed in the pickup makes it possible to move extremely bulky items. For more cargo space, the trade-off is usually less passenger room in the form of a smaller cabin.
Compact pickups can come with cargo beds of 1.5 to 1.8m, depending on the size of their cabin. Full-sized pickups get a standard cargo bed of 2.4m, whereas those with extended cabs have a cargo bed measuring around 1.8m. For pickups with four-door crew cabs, their cargo beds will typically be 1.5 to 1.8m.
Engine and Fuel Efficiency
Heavy-duty pickups come with powerful engines to handle the heaviest of cargo. Unfortunately, this usually comes at the expense of higher fuel consumption. Although, in addition to the standard gas and diesel models, there are now pickups with hybrid drivetrains that offer better mileage.
Safety Features
Most pickups have a standard array of safety features like ABS (anti-lock braking systems), EBD (Electronic Brake Pressure Distribution), and airbags.
Depending on the model's age, more advanced safety devices like blind spot warning, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist might also be available.
Best Japanese Pickup to Consider Importing
Toyota
The ubiquitous Hilux is Toyota's long-selling pickup that has been in production since 1968. Now in its eigth generation, the Hilux features powerful engines from 2.0 to 3.0L. It also comes in 4WD options for the ability to haul anything, anywhere.
The king of 4WDs, the Land Cruiser, also comes in a pickup version. The J70 Land Cruiser, which Toyota has produced since 1984, is available in double-cab and four-door versions with engines like a 4.2L diesel or 4.0L gas.
Nissan
The Nissan Datsun pickup is popular among those looking for a simple workhorse. The cabin features a steering column and dash-mounted shifter for extra legroom, while in the back, there is a spacious flat-bed cargo area with drop-down panels on the rear and sides for easier loading and unloading. Newer models get either a 2.0L or 2.4L engine.
Another of Nissan's beloved pickups is the Navara. This tough and affordable truck offers many standard features and equipment, including a CD player, leather seating, alloy wheels, and steering-mounted controls.
Mazda
The BT-50 from Mazda is a compact/midsize pickup that is as versatile as it is affordable. It can come with cabs ranging from two-seater singles to five-seater doubles. Turbo diesel engines are also available.
The predecessor of the BT-50 is the Proceed, otherwise known as the B-Series. The Proceed from 2004 to 2009 is a rebadged version of the Ford Ranger, getting engines such as a 2.4L inline four-cylinder and a 4.0L V6 six-cylinder.
Mitsubishi
The Mitsubishi Triton is a heavy-hauling compact pickup truck with a maximum carrying capacity of 400kg in its cargo bed for its fourth-generation model.
Specific model years, like the 2010 Triton, get the easy-shift full-time 4WD system that is capable of alternating between 2WD and 4WD while on the road.
Isuzu
To finish this list of pickup options, we'll look at Isuzu's sleek and sturdy D-Max, also known as the Rodeo.
The compact D-Max pickup comes in 2-door and 4-door variations, rear-wheel or 4WD drivetrain, and it has engines of various sizes to best suit your needs. Fuel efficiency comes in at an impressive 22.1mpg for their smaller engine models.
Where to Get the Best Deals on Pickup from Japan
Pickups made by Japanese automobile manufacturers are built to last. Their sturdy build and reliability make purchasing them second-hand a viable and prudent option.
To be guaranteed second-hand Japanese pickups in excellent condition, look to dependable Japanese automobile dealers. Here at BE FORWARD, we offer great prices on our wide selection of Japanese pickups. Get yours with us today!
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