Nissan Interstar Van Range
In commercial vehicle terms, Nissan remained on the periphery of things until quite recently. Their 4x4 vans and pick-ups had been popular, as had the Cabstar E flat bed truck, but success in the more lucrative mainstream van markets eluded them. The Interstar was the first in a series of vehicles given remit to change all that and its recently been the subject of a thorough upgrade providing the fresh impetus it needs in a competitive marketplace.
The stRange pang of déjà vu thats likely to be felt by Vauxhall and Renault van drivers when they first clap eyes on the Interstar can be explained away with one simple fact. Beneath all the badging, branding and cosmetic detailing, Vauxhalls Movano, Renaults Master Van and Nissans Interstar are one and the same. Granted, if you must scrutinise the specification lists in detail, you will come across some differences in equipment levels from Range to Range, but the variations are few. All three models have been on the receiving-end of reasonably far-reaching facelifts so that the latest versions look and feel significantly different while still staying the same if that makes any sense.
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In addition, buyers can specify a diesel particle filter (DPF) which eliminates 99.9% of diesel engine emissions or receive it as standard fitment on the 2.5-litre dCi 150hp engine. In order to cope with the torque increase of the new diesel engine line up, this van is available with a hi-tech 6-speed gearbox Range of manual and robotised transmissions offering improved reliability and performance.
"Slide the Interstar into reverse and a short bleep sounds to represent the RPS systems spring into action."
Nissan has been listening to owners of the current Interstar models. Following their feedback, the updated vans now offer the option of intelligent windscreen wipers, as well as auto lighting in order to improve convenience, driving comfort and safety in inclement conditions. This evolution has been made possible thanks to a new Electronic Control Unit operating through multiplex wiring technology. Theres also a clever (but sadly optional) 3-button key selective opening system, as well as stronger, higher mounted hooks in the loading area.
Fleet customers can also specify a unique third factory key option, particularly relevant for a vehicle used by more than two operators. In terms of safety, Interstar has not been left behind by its rivals: ESP linked to ABS is now available. This feature will dramatically improve active safety in extreme driving conditions. Automatic door locking, a speed limiter and factory fitted foglights are other features bringing passenger car-like safety to this model. On the inside, improvements at the manufacturing process have contributed to higher levels of fit and finish, as well as durability for both vehicles.
The Interstar is now fitted with a larger variety of useful storage areas around the cabin including a new double roof storage and an additional tray on the centre console. For a sign of just how little there is to choose between the top contenders in the large panel van sector, look no further than Nissans early promotional literature and advertising for the Interstar. In their wisdom, the companys marketing gurus singled out the Nissan Rear Park System, thats included as standard on most models, as the vehicles main selling point. Customarily, its little matters like engines and payload capacities that dominate commercial vehicle buying decisions, thats why they are more actively promoted, but theres not much to separate the top models on these criteria.
The Japanese obviously thought that their RPS parking sensor was the best angle of attack to differentiate the Interstar from its ostensibly similar rivals. It works well too. Slide the Interstar into reverse and a short bleep sounds to represent the RPS systems spring into action. As you proceed backward the bleeps become more frequent to warn you as the proximity of your rear end to potentially fender-bending objects increases.
The Interstars body can be specified in various combinations of three wheelbases and three roof-heights. If you plan on testing the load bays dimensions with extremely long, tall or wide objects, the biggest Interstar is the Long wheelbase/high-roof. It gives 13.9 cubic meters of load volume with access through high rear doors or a sliding side door.
At 5,888mm in length and with unglazed rear doors fitted as standard, you might be glad of that Rear Parking Sensor. The floor is usefully low making access easier still. Interstar operators get disc brakes all-round and independent double wishbone suspension at the front. Rear ride is the responsibility of a rigid axel with single steel leaf springs, designed to handle heavy loads without adversely effecting handling.
The van has a tight turning circle and is controlled through a flatly mounted steering wheel. The driving position is typical of many panel vans with designers refusing to go too far down the road in search of a car-like feel. You sit high with a good view of the road and upright so as to make the hop in and out an easy one. The drivers seat is adjustable in three ways and using the Interstar on longer journeys isnt an uncomfortable experience.
The Nissan Interstar has all the bits in all the right places for it to be a success. The comprehensive nature of the latest package may be thanks largely to its close association with the equivalent Renault and Vauxhall models but when it comes to supplying the public, Nissan retailers will be out on their own. The manufacturer now has the largest and most varied commercial vehicle Range on the UK market and the Interstar is amongst the best of the bunch. It looks like yet another example of creative thinking from Nissan.
Facts At A Glance VAN: Nissan Interstar Van ENGINES: 2.5dCi (100/120/150bhp diesel) GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT: 2.8t, 3.3t, 3.5t
