Nissan’s minivan, the Elgrand, has been around since 1997. But Nissan has gone big and weird as part of its reconstruction period. Nissan unveiled the fourth generation at the Japan Mobility show, and it’s clearly inspired by the wild 2023 Hyper Tourer Concept (pictured below).
2023 Hyper TourerNissan
It has little in common with the outgoing generation, which has been on sale since 2010. Beyond the styling, the new Elgrand is aimed toward luxury, powered by the automaker’s third-generation e-POWER hybrid system, and the first in its lineup to use the updated e-4ORCE electric four-wheel drive system.
That Styling, Though
Nissan calls it ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism,’ but we suspect the styling will date quickly. The fascia features small LEDs that are neatly incorporated into the very much on-trend pixelated grill contrasting black with the body color. The theme carries on at the back, along with what we can best describe as a sudden wedge-shaped tailgate. With its big overhangs and small wheels, the new Elgrand strikes us as being toy-like to look at in photos.
Inside, the new Elgrand gets a new steering wheel, and a beautiful interior that pushes back at the trend of minimalism and embraces an old-school luxury vibe on, what we assume is, a top-trim model. There are plenty of physical buttons, a dual-wireless charger for phones in the middle, and what will likely be an optional 22-speaker audio system, including Bose speakers in the front headrests.
Drivetrain Upgraded
Nissan famously missed the first boat on hybrid powertrains, so there’s a lot riding on the third-generation e-POWER system, using a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor. The updated e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system looks interesting as well. Nissan claims that the “rear electric motor torque suppresses vehicle pitching during acceleration and deceleration, providing a smooth, comfortable ride for passengers and reducing the likelihood of carsickness.” Exactly what’s needed in a minivan.
“A strong, vibrant Japan market is important for Nissan’s global success. We are dedicated to reigniting that spirit by honoring our heritage, launching the Patrol as a new flagship for Japan, elevating the legacy of the Elgrand through electrification and advanced intelligence, and pushing technological boundaries with our EVs. Our goal is to offer a range of compelling vehicles, from the smallest Roox to our flagship models, that not only meet daily needs but also inspire emotion and pride.”
– Ivan Espinosa, Nissan CEO.
While Nissan is pushing into new ground, it’s latest ProPILOT driver-aid and safety system supports hands-off operation for the first time, albeit only at speeds below 31.5 mph. However, Nissan says that ProPILOT 2.0 will be available with hands-free highway driving and lane change assistance as features.
Time To Save The Company
Nissan has a lot of work to do to get itself out of trouble, and is being aggressive about it in Japan. Along with the drastic new Elgrand generation, the automaker is bringing the rugged Nissan Patrol SUV back to Japan, which we currently know in the US as the Armada. Along with that, an updated Ariya EV crossover is on its way that includes a Google-based infotainment system, vehicle-to-load functionality, and suspension upgrades to improve ride comfort. All of this follows a new Kei car, the Roox, an updated Skyline, and the global all-new Leaf.
AloJapan.com