This 14-Year-Old Van Won't Quit and Continues to Acquire New Accessories | Carscoops

      The new Sotoasobi package for the Nissan Caravan features a matte black hood wrap and robust fender extensions.

      Nissan refreshes its Caravan, which has been on the market for 14 years, by introducing new trim packages and enhancements to the interior.

      The Outdoor Black Edition adds a rugged appearance with dark accents and off-road design elements.

      The powertrain options remain consistent, offering a 2.0L gasoline engine or a 2.5L diesel engine, along with up to 4WD configurations.

      While a new generation of the Elgrand minivan is anticipated to launch in late 2025, Nissan is focusing on updating the Caravan in the interim. This long-standing LCV-based model receives a light upgrade aimed at improving comfort and usability, including upgraded front seats, a larger navigation screen, improved driver assistance systems, and several new trims designed for outdoor enthusiasts.

      Despite its age, the Caravan will not undergo any exterior design changes for the 2026 model year. However, it will introduce a new trim called the Premium GX Outdoor Black Edition, featuring black accents on the grille, bumper, mirrors, and door handles. This is a subtle yet effective visual enhancement that offers the van a somewhat more rugged appearance.

      More intriguing is the optional “Sotoasobi Package,” influenced by previous concepts derived from the X-Trail. This package includes a matte satin black hood wrap to protect against stone chips, JAOS fender flares, and a unique emblem on the front doors. Nissan states that this styling package will be available on more models in the future.

      The Caravan range also adds the Autech Line, equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels and waterproof upholstery inside. Although it lacks the distinctive grille, LED lighting, or front splitter of the standard Autech model, customers can select a rear spoiler and the optional Black Package to enhance its appearance.

      Inside, all variants of the Caravan come with upgraded front seats for both the driver and passenger, featuring improved spinal support and better cushioning, thanks to memory foam. Technology upgrades include a new 9-inch navigation system and enhanced safety features, such as Nissan’s Intelligent Cruise Control system.

      In terms of mechanical specifications, the Caravan’s ladder-frame chassis and engine options remain unchanged. Buyers can choose between a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter gasoline engine generating 129 hp (96 kW / 130 PS) and 178 Nm (131 lb-ft) of torque, or a 2.5-liter diesel engine from Mitsubishi producing 130 hp (97 kW / 132 PS) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque. Both engines are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, with options for either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

      The updated Nissan Caravan will be available for sale in Japan starting August 25, with prices ranging from ¥2,708,200 to ¥5,639,000 ($18,200 to $37,900), depending on the selected configuration. The Sotoasobi Package will be available as an option for an additional ¥198,155 ($1,300). Additionally, Nissan plans to launch a similarly updated version of the MyRoom camper this autumn.

      Although the Caravan (NV350) has been available since 2011, with facelifts in 2017 and 2021, it is not the oldest van in its category. That title still belongs to the Toyota HiAce (H200), which debuted in 2004 and continues to be sold with only minor updates.