The Carimports.co.ke Importer's Review: #8 Nissan Elgrand

 

Vehicle: Nissan Elgrand (Third Generation, E52)

 

1. The Big Picture

 

The Nissan Elgrand is the stylish and luxurious challenger to the dominance of the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire. It stands out with its bold, aggressive design, a lower and sportier stance, and a high-quality, driver-focused interior. For the Kenyan family or executive who wants a full-size luxury MPV that is both comfortable and enjoyable to drive, the Elgrand is a fantastic and often more affordable alternative.

 

2. Engine, Performance & Economy

 

The Elgrand is known for its smooth and powerful engine options, paired with Nissan's excellent Xtronic CVT.

  • 2.5-litre Petrol (QR25DE): This is the most common and sensible engine choice for the Kenyan market. It's a reliable 4-cylinder that provides a great balance of smooth performance for city and highway driving, along with reasonable fuel economy. Expect 9-11 km/l.

  • 3.5-litre V6 Petrol (VQ35DE): For those who want maximum power, this legendary V6 engine delivers strong, effortless acceleration and a satisfying engine note. It is, however, significantly thirstier.

 

3. Design & Practicality

 

The Elgrand's design is its key differentiator. It has a lower, wider, and more aggressive stance than its rivals, giving it a powerful and sporty road presence. This lower height makes it easier to get into and improves handling.

  • Seating Capacity: It is a luxurious 7 or 8-seater. The 7-seater models with two large, comfortable "ottoman" captain's chairs in the second row are particularly popular for V.I.P. transport.

  • Ease of Access: Like its rivals, it features dual power-sliding side doors for easy passenger access.

  • Luggage Capacity: The boot is a practical size, and the third-row seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area for luggage.

  • Ground Clearance: ~150 mm

 

4. Comfort & Technology

 

The Elgrand's cabin is a luxurious and comfortable space. High-spec "Highway Star" and "VIP" models are lavishly equipped with high-quality leather, a premium Bose sound system, and multi-zone climate control. The lower ride height and car-like driving position make it feel less like a van and more like a large luxury saloon from behind the wheel.

 

5. Safety & On-Road Stability

 

The Elgrand is a very safe vehicle, equipped with a full suite of airbags, stability control, and ABS. Many models also feature Nissan's Around View Monitor, which uses four cameras to create a bird's-eye view of the car, making parking the large vehicle incredibly easy. Its lower center of gravity gives it more stable and confident handling than its taller rivals.

 

6. Reliability & Maintenance

 

The engines used in the Elgrand are proven and reliable units from Nissan's lineup. The primary maintenance consideration is the CVT gearbox, which requires regular fluid changes with the correct Nissan-spec fluid. As a large, complex luxury vehicle, parts will be more expensive than for a standard minivan, but they are readily available from Nissan specialists.

 

7. Estimated Import Cost for a 2018 Nissan Elgrand

 

(These estimates are for a direct import of a 2018 model with low mileage and a Japanese auction grade of 4 or higher. The import duty is calculated using the official KRA valuation template.)

A) 2.5L Petrol Version (250 Highway Star S)

  • Duty-Paid Estimate:

    • Estimated CIF to Mombasa: KSh 3,000,000 - KSh 3,500,000

    • Taxes & Fees (KRA + NTSA): ~ KSh 948,000 (based on a CRSP estimate of KSh 6,645,735 from the provided KRA list)

    • Clearing & Port Handling (excl. RDL/IDF): ~ KSh 120,000 (Kerb weight is ~1,940kg)

    • Total Estimated On-the-Road Price: KSh 4,068,000 - KSh 4,568,000

  • Duty-Free Estimate:

    • Total Estimated Landed Cost (USD): $24,000 - $28,000

 

8. Long-Term Ownership Costs

 

  • Annual Insurance Premium: Expect to pay between KSh 125,000 and KSh 170,000 for comprehensive cover.

  • Minor Service: Approximately KSh 9,000 - KSh 15,000.

  • Major Service: Approximately KSh 25,000 - KSh 45,000.

 

9. The Ci Verdict

 

The Nissan Elgrand is a fantastic luxury minivan that offers a unique combination of bold style, a comfortable and luxurious interior, and a more engaging driving experience than its rivals. It often represents better value for money than the equivalent Toyota Alphard or Vellfire, making it a very smart choice for the buyer who wants first-class comfort without the highest price tag.

 

10. Meet the Competition

 

  • Toyota Alphard & Vellfire: The Elgrand's main rivals. The Toyotas have a stronger brand image and resale value, but the Elgrand is often better to drive and can be more affordable to import.

  • Mercedes-Benz V-Class: The premium German competitor. The Elgrand offers a similar level of space and luxury with the promise of Japanese reliability and lower maintenance costs.