Nissan Caravan Wagon (minibus) 2012-2018 used car review

The Nissan Caravan NV350 Wagon is one of the more refined van-based minibus vehicles. It is ideal for taxi or shuttle work.

The latest generation Nissan Caravan carries two names - it is also known as the NV350 and wears both badges. The minibus version is called a "Wagon". It is available in short and long wheelbases with a low or high roof, though both models carry 10 passengers. It features a full lining and is more refined than van versions.

It is a tall step up into the front cabin, though well-placed steps and grab handles help. The design of the dashboard is car-like, with softly curved plastics and trim, easy-to-read gauges with a digital trip meter and a smaller than expected steering wheel.

The air vents for the manual air-conditioning are round with a metallic bezel. The DX review vehicle features only a basic stereo, though we found most are optioned with a touchscreen infotainment system. Either way, you will require a band expander to receive local stations. The Wagon does not have a front row centre seat. Instead, there is a substantial armrest and storage bin.

Both front seats are narrow, though otherwise comfortable. The rear seats are arranged with two rows of two on the left, a single seat on the right, and a row of three at the rear. All seats are narrow, though the same size - the middle rear passenger gets a seat equal to all the others. The configuration provides for an aisle down the middle, which makes the van easier to certify for passenger service.

The DX model gets panels covering the sides of the van, which improve noise levels. The GX and rider models get a full lining like a standard passenger vehicle. The rear door is on the left, so passengers can only get out on the kerb.

Luggage space is limited in the short-wheelbase model - the area behind the third row is enough for two large or four small cases. The backs of the rear seats can be folded forward for additional cargo space. With all seats taken, a road trip will require a luggage trailer.

The Caravan drives reasonably well, with a good ride and excellent stability. The steering does feel quite heavy, which could tire some drivers. The Caravan is also one of the quietest cargo vans we have driven. Its 12.1-metre turning circle is good for such a large vehicle.

Seeing forward and to the side of the Caravan is easy - you sit high and look over the short nose. Down the sides, the large mirrors help as well. There is a parking mirror on the rear of the van to assist in tight spaces, though it is not that useful. Reversing cameras were not fitted as standard. However, they are a very common option, particularly on the GX. Best to buy a vehicle with one already integrated.

The tow rating for the Caravan is low for its size. According to overseas figures, it can pull 700kg unbraked (a medium-size garden trailer) or 1,400kg braked (a small trailer boat). This is enough, however, to tow a luggage trailer of reasonable size.

There are few reports of issues, but the engine in the previous model was known to have problems with head gasket failures. When you inspect a 2.5-litre petrol model, check the coolant is clean, and the engine temperature stays stable when you run the vehicle.

This review covers the Nissan Caravan (Minibus) for model years 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Review vehicle supplied by Turners Cars.

*Our insurance estimates are based on a 35-year-old male with no accidents in the last two years, garaging the car in Mission Bay, Auckland. The car is not used for business and will cover 10,000km to 20,000km a year. We estimate with no option add-ons and $500 excess. Customise your estimate at Trade Me Insurance.