Hey mate, I worked for nissan for a number of years as well as other manufacturers, and I didnt even think twice before I bought my new 2.5 D22, that was as I worked for ford. I didnt even look at a ranger... Mate has a colorado.... my D22 in my opinion was a tougher truck.
I did a clutch... which nissan didnt fix... might have had something to do with the copious amounts of mud that fell out when I put it on the hoist! but thats the opinion of one dealership, always go to another. The only reason I sold it was to buy a house... and that was a sad day! I had a great run out of mine and would absolutely buy another one in a moment! Great value and prob one of the most capable d/cab out there! and they hold there value! i sold mine for $2500 less than what I paid drive away....20 000k and alot of mud later!