The D22 Navara ZD30DI comes factory-equipped with a wastegated turbocharger. While simple and reliable, it offers a narrower usable power band compared to a VNT (Variable Nozzle Turbo) setup.
Upgrading the turbo is one of the most effective ways to improve both power and drivability on this platform.
High-Flow Direct Bolt-On Options
There are several basic high-flow turbo options available that are direct bolt-on replacements for the factory unit.
These typically offer:
- Increased airflow over stock
- Slightly improved top-end power
- Retained simplicity of the wastegated design
For moderate builds, a high-flow wastegated turbo can provide worthwhile gains without significant changes to supporting components.
However, while these improve peak flow, they do not dramatically change the shape of the torque curve.
Converting to a Patrol ZD30DI VNT Turbo (Recommended Upgrade Path)
A more substantial upgrade is converting the D22 to run a Patrol ZD30DI VNT turbo.
The VNT system offers:
- Faster spool
- Stronger low-RPM torque
- Wider usable torque band
- Improved drivability
- Greater flexibility for future power upgrades
This conversion significantly broadens the power delivery compared to the factory wastegated setup.
What Is Required?
To perform the VNT conversion, you typically need:
- Patrol ZD30DI exhaust manifold
- Patrol VNT turbocharger
- Correct oil feed and return lines
- Modified or custom dump pipe
- Appropriate boost control setup such as a Tillix kit, Dawes valve, HPD VNT controller, etc.
- ECU calibration to suit
In many cases, the Patrol turbo's hotside is used to suit the Navara configuration.
Once converted to VNT, the platform opens up access to many of the same higher-end turbo upgrade options available to the Patrol market.
Larger Performance Turbo Options
After converting to a VNT-based setup, the same manufacturers discussed in the Patrol ZD30DI turbo article become relevant, including:
- Procharge
- Spartan
- Demon Pro
- GTurbo
- UFI
- GCG Turbo
These offer upgraded and performance VNT options suited to larger injector and intercooler setups.
Supporting Modifications
As with the Patrol platform:
- The factory intercooler may become a limitation at higher boost levels
- High-flow injectors may be required beyond mild tuning
- A 3″ turbo-back exhaust is strongly recommended
- Boost control must be properly managed
The factory turbo on the Navara is generally efficient up to typical factory boost levels (~15–16 PSI). Once moving beyond this range, proper calibration becomes critical.
Wastegated vs VNT – Key Difference
The factory wastegated turbo:
- Is mechanically simple
- Has predictable boost control
- Has a narrower power band
A VNT turbo:
- Offers stronger low-end torque
- Spools faster
- Provides a wider and more usable torque curve
- Allows for more refined boost control when tuned properly
For those wanting improved drivability and a broader power band, the VNT conversion is typically the better long-term upgrade path.
Summary
- Direct bolt-on high-flow wastegated turbos are available
- Converting to a Patrol VNT turbo offers significant drivability improvements
- VNT conversion requires manifold, turbo, oil lines, and modified dump pipe
- VNT opens the door to larger performance turbo options
- Supporting modifications and tuning are essential
The best turbo choice depends on your goals — whether that's a modest power increase or a full performance build. Planning the turbo upgrade alongside injector and intercooler upgrades results in a far more balanced setup.