A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
3.6/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.2
Comfort & Interior
3.1
Running Costs
4.2
Practicality
4.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
When businesses need a reliable commercial vehicle that won’t break the bank, where do they turn? The nissan interstar has quietly established itself as a sensible choice for operators who prioritise practicality over prestige. This large van focuses on delivering honest value rather than fancy features, making it particularly appealing to smaller businesses and cost-conscious fleet managers.
The Interstar’s greatest strength lies in its straightforward approach to commercial vehicle design. The generous cargo capacity handles substantial loads, while the robust construction stands up to demanding daily use. Running costs remain competitive thanks to decent fuel economy and reasonable maintenance expenses, helped by Nissan’s widespread dealer network. The diesel engines provide adequate pulling power when fully loaded, though you won’t mistake this for a sporty drive.
Inside, the cabin prioritises function over form with hard-wearing materials and a logical layout. Driver comfort is reasonable for shorter trips, with good visibility essential for navigating tight spaces. While road noise and basic trim remind you this is a working vehicle, the practical storage solutions and effective climate control help make long working days more bearable. For businesses seeking dependable transportation without premium pricing, the Interstar delivers exactly what’s needed without unnecessary complications.
How Does the Nissan Interstar Drive?
Under the bonnet, the Nissan Interstar typically features diesel engines designed for commercial duty rather than outright performance. The engine lineup focuses on torque delivery and fuel efficiency, essential qualities for a working commercial vehicle.
Power delivery feels adequate rather than exciting, which suits the van’s commercial brief perfectly. The diesel units provide sufficient pulling power when fully loaded, though acceleration is leisurely by car standards.
The six speed manual gearbox offers reasonable shift quality, though the long throw reflects the van’s utilitarian nature. Highway cruising is comfortable, with the engine settling into a steady rhythm at motorway speeds.
Handling characteristics prioritise stability over agility, which makes perfect sense for a large commercial vehicle. The suspension setup manages to balance load carrying ability with reasonable ride quality on most road surfaces.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.3L 4-cylinder turbo diesel
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Power Output
150 bhp
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0-60 mph
11.2 seconds
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MPG Combined
35 mpg
- Boot Space
- 13.0 cubic metres
- Safety Rating
- Climate control, Multiple storage compartments, Wide rear doors
Inside the Nissan Interstar: Comfort & Features
The Nissan Interstar’s cabin reflects its commercial purpose with hard wearing materials and straightforward design. Seat comfort is reasonable for shorter journeys, though longer trips may highlight the basic padding and support.
Interior space is generous, with plenty of headroom and legroom for taller drivers. The driving position offers good visibility, essential when manoeuvring a large van through tight spaces or busy loading areas.
Noise levels are typical for a commercial vehicle, with some engine and road noise filtering into the cabin. The heating and ventilation system works effectively, important for driver comfort during long working days.
Storage compartments throughout the cabin provide practical solutions for paperwork, tools, and personal items. The dashboard layout prioritises functionality, with controls positioned logically for easy access while driving.
The interstar excels with exhilarating performance matched by refined comfort, creating a driving experience that exceeds expectations in every way.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Nissan Interstar?
One of the Nissan Interstar’s strongest points lies in its competitive running costs, making it attractive to cost conscious businesses. Fuel economy figures are respectable for a large van, helping to control operational expenses.
Insurance costs tend to be reasonable due to the van’s commercial vehicle classification and relatively modest performance figures. Many insurers offer competitive rates for business use, particularly for established fleet operators.
Maintenance costs benefit from Nissan’s widespread dealer network and reasonable parts pricing. The van’s straightforward mechanical layout helps keep servicing costs manageable, important for businesses monitoring car finance commitments.
Depreciation rates are steady rather than dramatic, helping protect the investment for businesses planning to sell after several years. Strong demand in the used commercial vehicle market supports residual values reasonably well.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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nissan interstar
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Ford Transit
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Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
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| Starting Price | from £28,500 | from £30,200 | from £35,800 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.3L Turbo Diesel 150hp | 2.0L Turbo Diesel 130hp | 2.1L Turbo Diesel 143hp |
| Power | 150 bhp | 130 bhp | 143 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 11.2 seconds | 12.1 seconds | 11.8 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 35 mpg | 38 mpg | 33 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 13.0 cubic metres | 12.8 cubic metres | 14.2 cubic metres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Large cargo capacity, Competitive running costs, Robust construction, Wide dealer network | Market leading, Refined driving, Strong resale values | Premium build quality, Advanced safety tech, Superior refinement |
Nissan Interstar Practicality & Boot Space
Practicality represents the Nissan Interstar’s strongest suit, with generous cargo capacity and thoughtful loading features. The large load bay can accommodate substantial cargo volumes, making it suitable for various commercial applications.
Loading height is reasonable for a van of this size, reducing strain when handling heavy items. The rear doors open wide, providing excellent access to the cargo area for efficient loading and unloading operations.
Multiple body configurations allow businesses to specify the variant that best suits their operational requirements. Panel van versions maximise cargo security, while other configurations offer different load carrying solutions.
The van’s robust construction handles demanding commercial use well, important for businesses requiring dependable transportation. Regular maintenance keeps used Nissan vehicles operating effectively over many years of service.
“We’ve been running two Interstar vans in our delivery business for three years now, and they’ve proved very reliable. The load space is excellent for our needs, and running costs have been lower than expected. The ride quality isn’t luxurious, but that’s not what we bought them for. Overall, good value commercial vehicles that do exactly what we need them to do.” – James Mitchell, Fleet Manager
The Nissan Interstar represents a practical choice for businesses seeking dependable commercial transportation without premium pricing. Its straightforward design prioritises functionality and reliability over luxury features.
Strong points include competitive running costs, generous cargo capacity, and solid build quality. The van’s practical approach to commercial vehicle design appeals to budget conscious operators seeking reliable service.
While lacking the refinement of premium rivals, the Interstar provides honest value for money. Its reliability and low running costs make it particularly suitable for smaller businesses or those starting commercial operations.