English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Nissan NV300: van and minibus, engines and trims
Nissan NV300 — a mid-size van and passenger minibus, produced from 2016 to 2021 alongside the Renault Trafic and Opel Vivaro. We look at the trims, engines, length and roof options, and what to check when buying a used NV300.
NV300 in brief
NV300 — a mid-size commercial vehicle that is essentially a cousin of the third-generation Renault Trafic. Available as a van, passenger minibus (Combi) and double-cab version.
It's a practical choice for tradespeople, delivery firms and small groups. It's less common on the used market than the Trafic, but the technology is the same, so parts and mechanics are plentiful.
Trims and updates
NV300 is offered in two lengths — shorter (around 5.0 m) and longer (around 5.4 m) — with different roof heights. The Combi version has up to nine seats, while the van offers a large cargo area.
Around 2019, the NV300 was updated with a new front end and a more modern interior, as well as newer engines. Production ended in 2021, and the Primastar name returned with the new generation.
Engines and gearboxes
The most common diesel engines are the 1.6 dCi, offered in various power outputs (roughly from 95 to 145 hp, some with twin turbos). After the update, the 2.0 dCi was also introduced.
The gearbox is manual or automatic (EDC). Diesel engines are well-suited to long journeys and heavier loads.
What to check when buying a used NV300
Body: Check the lower parts of the sliding doors, sills, wheel arches, and cargo area floor. Commercial vehicles are often heavily used.
Inspect the diesel engine for leaks, the turbo (especially in twin-turbo versions), DPF, and EGR condition. The engine should start without prolonged cranking and not smoke.
Inside the cabin, check the seats, air conditioning, electrical functions, and sliding doors. Assess the ride based on service records.
Trims and versions
Trim names vary by market and year; below are the most common versions by purpose.
Furgonas (trumpas)
2016–2021A more compact version for urban deliveries.
- Shorter cargo area
- Often has a lower roof
- Easier to manoeuvre
Furgonas (ilgas)
2016–2021More cargo space.
- Longer cargo area
- Often has a higher roof
- Larger turning circle
Combi
2016–2021Van with a second row of seats.
- Second row of seats
- Nimble cargo area
- Often — additional windows
Mikroautobusas
2016–2021Passenger version with up to 9 seats.
- Up to 9 seating positions (including the driver)
- Windows on the sides
- Higher spec than the van
Dviguba kabina
2016–2021For cargo and crew.
- Two rows of seats
- Smaller cargo area
- Often — partition
NV300 versions compared
| Furgonas | Combi | Mikroautobusas | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For deliveries and work | For work and crew | For transporting passengers |
| Body | No side windows | Second row of seats | Windows and up to 9 seats |
| Engine | 1.6 dCi, 2.0 dCi | 1.6 dCi, 2.0 dCi | 1.6 dCi, 2.0 dCi |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | Mid-range | High-end |
Most buyers opt for a van or Combi with a diesel engine. For transporting passengers, choose a minibus, and if new features are important, go for the post-2019 refreshed version.
Pros
- A practical and straightforward medium-sized van
- A wide range of lengths and body styles
- Shares technology with the Trafic — parts and mechanics are plentiful
- More modern features post-refresh
Cons
- The used market offering is smaller than the Trafic
- Costs of maintaining diesel DPF and EGR systems
- Two-turbo variants can be pricier to fix
Frequently asked questions
Is the NV300 the same as the Renault Trafic?
Technically, they're very similar: the NV300 is built on the Trafic III platform, differing mainly in badging, some trim details, and equipment levels.
How does the NV300 differ from the Primastar?
The NV300 was produced from 2016–2021, while the Primastar name returned with a new generation, based on the updated Trafic platform. The tech is similar, but the years and some details differ.
Which engine to choose?
Often, the 1.6 dCi is enough if the vehicle isn't heavily loaded. If you frequently haul heavy cargo or drive a lot, it's worth considering a more powerful 2.0 dCi option.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
