Nissan NV200 Vanette and Navara Single Cab launched
Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd has added the all-new Nissan NV200 Vanette to its line-up. It is the direct successor of the enduring and bullet-proof C22 Vanette that has served many a business well. Now available only in panel van guise, the NV200 offers some 4.2m3 for the wet market and pasar malam entrepreneurs.
Compared to the old C22, the new NV200 has a slightly more sophisticated engine – the 1.6-litre HR16DE that is also found in the Latio and Grand Livina. It boasts of Continuous Variable-valve Timing Control, still not a common offering in this end of the market, producing 108hp and 152Nm. Standard transmission is a 5-speed manual.
The NV200 is in actual fact based on the front-wheel drive B platform, and as such, the driver sits behind the engine like he or she would in a passenger car rather than on it. There is an electric power steering system, and the instrument panel features not only a multi-info display but a gear change indicator as well – not a common feature even in passenger cars.
There is a good complement of standard safety features in the NV200, which includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Zone Body construction, driver’s airbag, and seat belt pre-tensioners with load limiters. Its rear suspension is a single-leaf spring type, which allows for a payload of up to 740kg.
Another option for commercial buyers to consider is the Navara Single Cab 4×2, launched together with the NV200. The twin-cab Navara 4×4 is a very well-liked vehicle in this office, thanks to its styling, road manners, and refinement. Built for commercial applications, the single cab is naturally less flash, and understandably pumps out less power than its more glorious siblings – 142hp and 294Nm – still very decent figures from its ‘detuned’ 2.5-litre YD25 engine.
Commercial users can choose from three body designs (Luton, Steel or Wooden body configurations) to suit specific business needs. Each body design is built on a double-layered, high-tensile metal frame chassis reinforced to take a maximum payload of 750kg.
Like its familiar twin-cab siblings, the Navara Single Cab has independent double wishbone suspension up front and leaf springs holding a live axle at the back. Equipment in the Navara Single Cab’s arsenal includes air-conditioning, single-CD player, side-impact beams, and load-sensing rear brakes.
Selling prices for the all-new Nissan NV200 Vanette and Navara Single Cab start at RM62,047.93 and RM64,391.55 respectively; excluding road tax, insurance and registration related charges in Peninsula Malaysia. Both vehicles come with 3-year / 100,000km warranties.
Pictures: Official ETCM release.
