Nissan Believes You’re Not Ready to Value Its Recent Launch in Japan | Carscoops

      The newly released Elgrand is a luxury-filled tech haven that holds great appeal in Japan, but it remains largely overlooked by international consumers.

      16 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      Nissan has unveiled its latest Elgrand with a forward-looking exterior design.

      The interior boasts 14.3-inch displays and a 22-speaker audio system.

      Japanese consumers prioritize practicality more than buyers from other regions.

      Japanese car buyers might be appreciating elements that others tend to overlook. While much of the world remains fixated on SUVs, Nissan is committed to the modest minivan, with the company’s chief product specialist indicating that local consumers are simply more “mature” in understanding the benefits of MPVs.

      This statement comes soon after the introduction of the new Elgrand, which replaces the long-standing model that was launched back in 2010.

      Are Japanese Buyers More Mature?

      During the Tokyo Mobility Show, where the new Elgrand was showcased, Nissan’s Toshiyuki Nakamura noted that the company continues to support minivans (referred to as MPVs elsewhere) due to the practical benefits they offer, which resonate well with Japanese customers.

      “In the Japan market, customers are very aware and appreciate bigger spaces, three rows, and sliding doors – that’s really convenient for the market,” he explained to Australia’s Drive. “And those conveniences, globally, everyone [customers] feels [the same].”

      He added that many buyers outside Japan still overlook these benefits, contributing to the strong global demand for SUVs.

      “But in other markets, people don’t recognize those features, which is why SUVs remain popular worldwide. To me, the Japanese customer is more mature,” he remarked.

      This shift in perspective has been gradual. “Thirty years ago, customers didn’t pay much attention to these types of vehicles; they preferred sedans,” Nakamura recalled. “However, once they acknowledged the benefits, they really embraced these models and what they have to offer.”

      Minivans have enjoyed popularity in Japan for much of the last decade. Among the top-selling models are the Honda Stepwgn, Toyota Alphard, Nissan Serena, and, of course, the Elgrand.

      In the US, the most favored minivans generally feature SUV-inspired designs, such as the Kia Carnival, Toyota Sienna, and Honda Odyssey. They also tend to not emphasize luxury as much as those in Japan.

      Futuristic Design and Cutting-Edge Technology

      The new Elgrand features a dramatically redesigned exterior that employs Nissan’s ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism’ design philosophy.

      The interior enhancements are equally impressive. The cabin is now equipped with dual 14.3-inch displays, a 22-speaker sound system, plush second-row captain’s chairs, and large screens embedded into the front headrests.

      In its domestic market, the Elgrand will be offered exclusively with Nissan’s third-generation e-Power petrol-electric powertrain. It also debuts the brand’s new e-4ORCE electric all-wheel drive system, designed to enhance handling and reduce pitching during acceleration and braking, resulting in a more pleasant driving experience.