The Interstar has been part of the Nissan range for 25 years now, with the van first making its debut as the NV 400 and then mutating into the NV 400 PH. Together with the Townstar and Primastar, the Interstar now forms Nissan's "Star Trio", with the large panel van adopting the technology of the Renault Master as a product of the alliance between Nissan and Renault. The price list for the van, which is already in dealerships, starts at 40,758 euros, with the electric version costing at least 63,522 euros.
"Since 2014, we have sold more than 120,000 Interstar units in the European Union," explains Nissan manager Christophe Beaumont at the launch of the new model. Currently, 93 percent of customers still opt for diesel engines - but that will soon change, because "from 2027," says Beaumont, "our vans will be electrically powered. Electric drive will become increasingly attractive, especially for use in cities".
Like its French twin, the Renault Master, the Nissan Interstar has an aerodynamically refined body. The designers shortened the hood, brought the windscreen into a flatter position and optimized the air flow. According to Nissan, the result is the best Cd value in the van sector and contributes to a significant reduction in fuel consumption. The concrete savings in consumption are up to 20 percent, promises Marketing Manager Andrew Limbat. To clearly differentiate itself from the Renault, the Nissan has an independent front section.
In terms of powertrains, the diesel still dominates, delivering between 105 hp (77 kW) and 170 hp (125 kW). Maximum torque is available at 380 Newton meters. Power is transmitted either by an easy-shifting six-speed gearbox or a nine-speed automatic transmission from ZF. The driver behind the wheel looks at a conventional analog information center. Once on the move, the Interstar offers comfortable driving characteristics. The turning circle has been reduced by 1.20 meters compared to its predecessor, making it an agile vehicle in urban environments. The seats are comfortable and offer good lateral support. On the road, the Interstar is pleasantly quiet and therefore easy on the nerves of its users.
Naturally, the electric Interstar is even quieter and easier on the nerves, initially rolling into dealerships with an 87 kWh battery and a 105 kW (143 hp) drive. A digital information center then spreads out in front of the driver, which is probably intended to show where Nissan sees the future. Like all electric vehicles, the van develops its maximum torque from a standing start. The driving behavior is no different from a diesel. The range is up to 460 kilometers, and it takes half an hour at the fast charger before the journey can continue. Next year, the Interstar will be launched on the market with a 40 kWh battery and a 96 kW (130 hp) drive for use on short journeys (range 252 kilometers). The two electric vans are available from the 280 Nissan partners or the brand's 80 commercial vehicle competence centers.
The interior materials are solid and robust, and a reversing camera transmits the surroundings to the electronic rear-view mirror (for an extra charge). In addition to the centrally positioned screen, which controls the infotainment and navigation, switches for the most important functions have fortunately not been forgotten. All versions of the Interstar are equipped with the usual safety systems. These include the so-called 1-box braking system, which ensures optimum deceleration regardless of the vehicle weight. The usual safety assistants are also on board, and the van achieved the top rating of Platinum in the NCAP test.
In the interior, loads can be transported over a 3.80 meter long area, which is accessed via a 1.30 meter wide side door and two wide-opening rear doors. Depending on the version, the load compartment has a capacity of between 10.8 and 14.8 cubic meters. The payload is between 1925 and 2175 kilograms for the combustion engines and up to 1925 kilograms for the electric version. (aum)
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