As far as vans go, the Nissan Urvan is big enough for most needs. We often see them as parcel delivery vehicles, UV Express commuters, family transport, and more. It also helps that it comes in various several configurations, making it tailor-fit for specific jobs.
But even given its size, there will be times where you’ll need an even bigger van. Enter the all-new Nissan Interstar.
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The what, you ask? The Interstar is Nissan’s entry in the ‘jumbo van’ arena. Park an Urvan next to it and the prior will look downright tiny. Mind you, this isn’t a 100 percent Nissan product as it’s essentially a rebadged version of the Renault Master, a popular large van over in Europe.
Nissan offers three configurations for the Interstar. The first is the standard model that’s 5,780mm long, 2,080mm wide, 2,498mm tall with a wheelbase of 3,585mm. The next is a long-wheelbase variant that stretches the van to 6,410mm long with the distance between the wheels of 4,215mm.
And if that’s still not enough, there’s the long-wheelbase, high-roof version that kicks the height up to 2,756mm. Look out for those vertical clearance signs. Aside from the three van bodystyles, there are other configurations offered as well. It includes a dropside, dual-cab, cab and chassis, and even a tipper.
Inside, there’s a bench seat that’s good for three and a wide, expansive dashboard. The pod-like design of the dash isn’t a common look in its segment, oddly giving this hauler a bit of flair inside. And while’s it’s a true commercial vehicle, it comes equipped with niceties such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even an advanced driver assist system. Yes, this van autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and the like.
Four diesel engines are available for the Nissan Interstar. All use the same 2.0-liter mill sourced from Renault with varying power outputs. The base models make 103hp and 330Nm, followed by the 129hp/350Nm tune. Higher up the range is the 148hp and 360Nm version, and the most powerful one pushes out 168hp and 280Nm. All come fitted with a six-speed manual but a nine-speed automatic can be specified for the 148hp and 168hp models.
But aside from diesel power, the Interstar can be had with pure electric power. Two battery sizes are on hand, namely 40kWh (Standard) and 87kWh (Long Range). Standard models make 129hp and 300Nm with a range of up to 200km, while the Long Range bumps power up to 141hp but torque is retained at 300Nm. Nissan claims up to 460km on a single charge.
