The Good: Simple mechanical parts, availability
The Bad: Outdated by modern standards
The Say: There are fans of this van for a reason.
Go For: Any well maintained unit
Avoid: Overly tired units
Price Range: P300,000-P950,000
Our Rating: **
Full Review: Used Car Review - Nissan Urvan (1988-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Nissan NV350 Urvan
See the different versions of this vehicle:
1988-2015
Vehicle Overview
This van was first launched in 1988 under the helm of Universal Motors Corporation, who took care of Nissan light commercial vehicles (until two Nissan distributors were merged into one in March 2014). While the L300 Versa Van was the one to beat, this one became an alternative among buyers. Both E24 (sold from 1988 until 2015) and E25 (marketed from 2002 til 2014) models were sold together but were packaged differently.
With this van made available since 1988, the most common engine available is a 2.7 diesel shared with other Nissan vehicles which runs on a basic fuel system that will give you worry free maintenance but is no match when compared to CRDI vans of the modern competition and complains when driven hard so use your overtaking skills wisely. For the E25 body, the standard engine is a 3.0 diesel derived from the Patrol but with less power which gives you decent acceleration than the older engine but it drinks a lot of gas under hard acceleration. Ride quality isn't bouncy, which is a plus point for people who get motion sickness.
A generic but inoffensive interior greets you. With a basic interior, some items are omitted in certain variants but then you are buying this to haul people and not impress a crowd. Models that seat 12 to 15 people all face front and have individual seat belts with 18 seater models have two front facing and the back sideways while the 21 are all side facing.
What Should I Get
Since 1988, the first model which was made available is the Shuttle which can accommodate 12 people, has power steering, alloy wheels, an audio system, vinyl upholstery, dual air-conditioning, and a 84hp 2.7 engine. That line was revised in 2005 with 15, 18, and 21 seater models (effectively dropping the 12 one) were launched with upgrades such as a CD player with MP3 and auxiliary jack, rear wiper and Wi-Fi connectivity system added later on. The Escapade, added in 2000 that rides on the E24 body, adds fabric upholstery, body stickers and can accommodate 12 people. Utilizing the E25 chassis is the Estate that adds a 105hp 3.0, all power features, alarm, keyless entry, immobilizer, and a tachometer. A limited edition CEO model carrying the Estate version adds rear swiveling seats with a center table.
How Much Would It Cost Me
No CRDi technology or computer box present, which means maintenance costs are very dirt cheap and this vehicle isn't picky in fuel. Parts are on the affordable side and any mechanic can fix this one with its easy maintenance. The only thing to inspect for is the transmission, especially if this one got abused. With Urvans mostly used for shuttling people, high mileage units aren't recommended so make sure you find one with a private ownership and not those that are rented out more often or have seen life as public transportation.