The 2019 Nissan NV350 Caravan is the box that moves Kenya's economy. Origin: Japan. First Generation: 1973 (E20). Current Generation: 5th Generation (E26, launched 2012). It was designed specifically to dethrone the Toyota HiAce, offering slightly more cargo width and a driver-focused cockpit. In 2019, it was still using the 5-speed automatic transmission, known for being robust and simpler to repair than the newer 7-speed units found in 2022+ models.

The engine lineup is focused on durability:

• 2.5L Diesel Turbo (YD25DDTi): 129 HP / 356 Nm. STANDARD This is the same engine block found in the Nissan Navara D40. It offers massive low-end torque, making it ideal for carrying heavy loads up steep inclines.
• 2.0L Petrol (QR20DE): 130 HP. Smoother and quieter, but lacks the torque for heavy commercial work. Ideally suited for light courier duties or ambulance conversions.

• Load Space: The NV350's key advantage is its cargo length (3,050mm in Long Body). The wheel arches are flatter than the HiAce, allowing for easier stacking of boxes.
• Cabin Comfort: The "Premium GX" trim offers car-like amenities such as push-button start, a color instrument display, and better sound insulation, making it a comfortable office for the driver.

• Consumption: 10–12 km/l (Diesel). The 5-speed automatic is decent, but highway cruising revs are higher than the newer 7-speed models.
• Service: The YD25 engine requires strict adherence to oil change intervals and high-quality fuel filters. Injectors are sensitive to dirty diesel.
• Resale: Very strong. It is the preferred alternative for those who find the HiAce too expensive to buy initially.

Suspension: The front uses a double-wishbone torsion bar setup, while the rear has heavy-duty leaf springs. Unladen, it is bouncy. Loaded, it settles down nicely. 170mm clearance is sufficient for most murram roads.

Standard driver airbag and ABS. Higher trims get Intelligent Emergency Braking (IEB). Reliability is generally good, but the turbo on high-mileage units should be inspected.

The following prices represent the cost of buying a 2019 Nissan NV350 Caravan in Kenya. These prices reflect showroom asking prices in major towns including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Who is this for? The business owner who needs a reliable 1-ton panel van or a 14-seater PSV base that is cheaper to buy than a HiAce. Who is it NOT for? Those who prioritize resale value above all else—the HiAce still holds value slightly better.