The 2019 Nissan Clipper Van (DR17V) is the backbone of small business logistics in Japan, and it is quickly taking over River Road. It is essential to know that this is a rebadged Suzuki Every. This is good news: it combines Nissan’s brand reach with Suzuki’s legendary durability and cheap spare parts availability. It is designed for one specific job—moving 350kg of cargo efficiently.

The DR17V is powered by the R06A engine, which is chain-driven (no timing belt replacements needed).

• DX / GL (Non-Turbo): 49 HP. The workhorse. Ideal for light deliveries like cakes, laundry, or flowers. Very frugal.
• GX Turbo: 64 HP. RECOMMENDED FOR LOADS If you carry hardware supplies or cement, you need the turbo. It provides the torque to climb hills without crawling.

• Flat Floor: The rear seats fold completely flat to create a 1,910mm long cargo bed. It fits standard plywood sheets easily.
• Front Seat Fold: The front passenger seat backrest folds forward, extending the load length to 2.6 meters for pipes or timber.
• Overhead Shelf: High-roof models include a large overhead bin for storing delivery notes and invoices.

• Consumption: 17–19 km/l (unloaded); 13–15 km/l (fully loaded).
• Tyres: Uses 145/80R12 LT (Light Truck) tyres. They are durable and cost about Ksh 3,500 each.
• Resale: High demand from SMEs guarantees quick resale liquidity.

Tarmac Warrior. The rear suspension uses leaf springs. It is bouncy when empty but stable when loaded. The small 12-inch wheels struggle on mud or rocky roads. Stick to the tarmac.

The 5-speed AGS (Auto Gear Shift) is an automated manual transmission. It may feel "jerky" in traffic compared to a CVT, but this is normal. The engine is robust if serviced every 5,000km.

The following are average showroom prices for fresh imports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Who is this for? For the SME owner, this van is an asset, not a liability. It is cheap to run and easy to fix. Who is it NOT for? Families looking for a weekend car—the suspension is too harsh for passengers.