Nissan Cabstar

The exterior of the Nissan Cabstar hasn't changed much since the previous version in 2000 except for the front grille with a large Nissan badge and slats. The inside of a Nissan Cabstar is simple and sturdy, carpets and seat trim have been upgraded to a better quality. CD player, driver's airbag and ABS brakes as standard. Engines now available by one of two 3.0-litre turbo diesel units; 3.0T and 3.0Ti. The 3.0T 105bhp an improvement on the 90bhp 2.7-litre engine that has been discontinued. The second and range-topping option, the 3.0Ti, has 125bhp more than the old 3.0-litre diesel in the Cabstar E. These outputs may sound low for a vehicle capable of hauling well over 1.5 tonnes but Nissan say it's the way it's delivered that is important. The engines are designed to produce their full force of torque from exceedingly low in the rev range meaning a fully laden Cabstar can move smartly away from standstill and negotiate steep inclines without the need for a run-up. These power dynamics do mean that top speed and 0-60mph acceleration figures look slow on paper but the vehicle is fast enough up to 30mph. As the Cabstar is targeted at urban drivers regularly stopping off to deliver and collect goods the power should be enough. The Cabstar is available in three wheelbases each with a number of cab and body style options.

3.0T, 3.0Ti

Of more immediate importance to music loving buyers will be the presence of a CD player on the standard equipment list. Safety concerns have not been overlooked with a drivers airbag and ABS brakes appearing as standard and better crash protection added to forward areas. The Nissan Cabstar must fight for sales directly against the likes of Mitsubishis Canter and Toyotas Dyna. There are flat-bed conversions of standard panel vans for businesses to consider but those vehicles generally dont offer the manoeuvrability and payload capacity of the Cabstar and its ilk.

3.0Ti