What is the Nissan Elgrand?
Nissan released the Elgrand in 1997 as their top-tier luxury minivan. The first generation replaced the long-standing Homy van and came with many advanced features for the time, as well as a robust 4WD system from the Terrano (Pathfinder) SUV.
The 2nd generation, known as the E51, was launched in 2002 and was a completely new model. The launch model featured Nissan's famous VQ35DE V6 engine producing 240 hp, mated to a RWD or 4WD drivetrain. Later years also featured the VQ25DE V6 which featured lower emissions and better fuel economy.
Nissan updated the interior to have more space and luxury features, such as a DVD navigation system and rearview camera. Later editions even featured an early edition of Nissan's Around View Monitor in 2007, which was way ahead of the competition for car camera technology.
The second-generation Elgrand, chassis code E51, was in production from 2002 to 2009 and had many various updates and special editions through its production run. Some notable special editions included the VIP edition, which was an ultra-luxury version with only two rear seats with extended cushion and reclining features. Additionally, the Rider was released in 2002 as the sports edition, customized by Nissan's in-house tuning shop Autech. Though performance was the same, the car featured additional aero and styling features, as well as larger sporty wheels.
The main rival to the Elgrand was the Toyota Alphard, which went on sale the day after the 2nd generation E51 Elgrand was released in Japan.
The third generation Nissan Elgrand was announced and released in August of 2010. At launch, Nissan claimed that the Elgrand was the "King of Minivans" and made sure the model lived up to the name by offering a blend of fresh styling, comfort, and technology. Some notable features included an 11-inch retractable monitor with a Bose 5.1 surround sound system for rear passengers.
Third generation Elgrand models were offered with two engine options, a 2.5L and 3.5L, both efficient enough to meet stringent Japanese eco-standards qualifying for tax incentives. It also included some great tech for its era, such as an Around View Monitor, Eco-Drive Assist, and intelligent braking systems.
Special editions on the third gen Elgrand included the Autech Rider and VIP spec. The Autech Rider, which also existed in the 2nd generation, was completed by Autech, and featured various performance inspired updates inside and out. This included a special edition body-kit, 18" wheels, a thick chrome grill, and a roof spoiler. From 2019 the Rider trim was replaced with a separate Autech version that featured a refined body kit and similar sporty features.
The VIP is a luxury grade trim, designed for busy executives who wish to be driven in comfort. VIP models have a partition between the front seats and rear passenger seats, as well as featuring only two rear seats, with full reclining functionality and various luxury and comfort features.
In April of 2025 Nissan released a teaser of the 4th generation Elgrand. The press release states that the model is planned to be released by the end of the fiscal year 2026 and will utilize Nissan’s e-Power hybrid-electric drivetrain.
Elgrand Spec and Chassis Code Breakdown
| Engine Name | Fuel Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Chassis Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QD32Eti (Turbo) | Diesel | 3,153cc | 150ps | 34kg-m | - |
| VQ35DE | Gasoline | 3,500cc | 240ps | 36kg-m | APE50, APWE50 |
| VG33E | Gasoline | 3,300cc | 170ps | 27.1kg-m | ALE50, ALWE50 |
| ZD30DDTi (Turbo) | Diesel | 2,953cc | 170ps | 36kg-m | ATE50 |
| Chassis Number | Trim Names | Drive | Engine Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| ALE50 | J, V, X, Highway Star, Rider, Special Edition | RWD | VG33E |
| ALWE50 | J, V, X, Highway Star, Rider, Special Edition, Prime Edition | 4WD | VG33E |
| APE50 | V, X, Highway Star, Rider, Kid's Edition, Limited Edition, S Edition, Coleman Version, Memorial Selection Version S | RWD | VQ35DE |
| APWE50 | V, X, Highway Star, Rider, Kid's Edition, Limited Edition, S Edition, Coleman Version, Memorial Selection Version S | 4WD | VQ35DE |
| ATE50 | J, V, X, Rider, Highway Star, Prime Edition, Limited Edition, Special Edition | RWD | ZD30DDTi Diesel |
| ATWE50 | V, X, Special Edition, Prime Edition, Highway Star, Rider | 4WD | ZD30DDTi Diesel |
| FLGE50 | Field Base | RWD | ZD30DDTi Diesel |
| FLWGE50 | Field Base | 4WD | ZD30DDTi Diesel |
2nd Generation Nissan Elgrand – 2002 to 2010
| Engine Name | Fuel Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Chassis Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VQ35DE | Gasoline | 3,498cc | 240ps | 36.0kg・m | E51 |
| VQ25DE | Gasoline | 2,495cc | 186ps | 23.7kg | ME51 |
| Chassis Code | Trim Name | Drive | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| E51 | 350X, 350XL, 350 Highway Star, V, VG, X, XL, Highway Star, Highway Star Urban Selection, Rider, Rider High Performance, Rider S, Rider Alfa | RWD | VQ35DE |
| ME51 | 250V, 250 Highway Star, 250 Highway Star Black Leather, V, V Aero, Highway Star, Highway Star Urban Selection, Highway Star Urban Selection J Package, Highway Star Premium Edition, Rider, Rider S, Rider Alpha, Rider Performance Spec | RWD | VQ25DE |
| MNE51 | 250V, 250 Highway Star, 250 Highway Star Black Leather, V, V Aero, Highway Star, Highway Star Urban Selection, Highway Star Urban Selection J Package, Highway Star Premium Edition, Rider, Rider S, Rider Alpha, Rider Performance Spec | 4WD | VQ25DE |
| NE51 | 350X, 350XL, 350 Highway Star, 350 Highway Star Black Leather, 350 Highway Star Red Leather, 350 Highway Star Espresso Leather, V, V 70th Anniversary, VG, VG Aero, VG Version L, X, XL, Highway Star, Highway Star Black Leather, Highway Star Urban Selection, Highway Star Urban Selection J Package, Highway Star Version L, Highway Star Premium Edition, Rider, Rider S, Rider Alpha | 4WD | VQ35DE |
3rd Generation Nissan Elgrand – 2010 to 2025
| Engine Name | Fuel Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Chassis Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VQ35DE | Gasoline | 3,498cc | 280ps | 35.1kg・m | PE52, PNE52 |
| QR25DE | Gasoline | 2,488cc | 170ps | 25.0kg・m | TE52 |
| Chassis Code | Trim Name | Drive | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| PE52 | 350 Highway Star, 350 Highway Star Urban Chrome, 350 Highway Star Premium, 350 Highway Star Premium Chrome, VIP, VIP Power Seat Package, Autech, Rider, Rider Autech 30th Anniversary, Rider High Performance Spec, Rider Black Line | FWD | VQ35DE |
| PNE52 | 350 Highway Star, 350 Highway Star Urban Chrome, 350 Highway Star Premium, 350 Highway Star Premium Chrome, VIP, VIP Power Seat Package, Autech, Rider, Rider Autech 30th Anniversary, Rider High Performance Spec, Rider Black Line | 4WD | VQ35DE |
| TE52 | 250XG, 250 Highway Star, 250 Highway Star S, 250 Highway Star S Urban Chrome, 250 Highway Star Urban Chrome, 250 Highway Star Premium, 250 Highway Star Premium Urban Chrome, Autech, Rider, Rider Autech 30th Anniversary, Rider Black Line | FWD | QR25DE |
| TNE52 | 250XG, 250 Highway Star, 250 Highway Star S, 250 Highway Star S Urban Chrome, 250 Highway Star Urban Chrome, 250 Highway Star Premium, 250 Highway Star Premium Urban Chrome, Autech, Rider, Rider Autech 30th Anniversary, Rider Black Line | 4WD | QR25DE |
Driving Dynamics
What's it like driving a Nissan Elgrand? Well, many people will contest their claim of being the "King of Minivans" due to the existence of the Toyota Alphard, which seemingly overshadowed the Elgrand since its launch. With that said, the Elgrand provides amazing value in terms of technology, efficiency, comfort, and space.
The 2nd and 3rd generation Elgrand models have plenty of power for a van of their size, especially when optioned with the 280hp VQ35DE engine. Further optioning them with 4WD makes them capable of getting you, your family, and your gear just about anywhere the road will lead you.
Additionally, from 2007 Elgrand models can come equipped with fairly modern features. Vans came with rear seat entertainment, dual power sliding doors, round-view monitors for easy parking, and more. It is surprisingly possible to get features still coveted in the modern cars of 2025 in 10- to 20-year-old Elgrand models today.
Finally, the cars are quite comfortable, and the interior is spacious. You can be certain that drivers and passengers alike can cruise in comfort. The Highway Star monicker is fitting for the Elgrand, and we can confirm that they are great highway cruisers.
Are Nissan Elgrands Reliable? Common Issues
We’re often asked ‘Are Nissan Elgrands reliable?’ by prospective buyers. Being specialists in sourcing used cars from Japan, we have inspected many Nissan Elgrand vans and can highlight some of the most common issues that we have found on them over the years.
Dashboard Cracks
Nissan models have unfortunately had roughly aging dashboards for a long time, and the Elgrand did not escape this issue. Typically, cracks are small but sometimes can stretch across the dash. Japan's hot and humid summers unfortunately are to blame for these issues.
Steering Wheel Wear
Along with the dashboard, we often find more excessive wear on the steering wheel of some Elgrand models. Luckily, many Japanese drivers use steering wheel covers and most of the models we find are in good condition.
Oil Leaks
The engine and transmission of the Elgrand generally hold up very well. We don't often find any issues with either of these. The most common issue is oil leaking from engine seals, but it is not so common of an issue on these models.
How to Import Nissan Elgrands from Japan
Thinking about a Nissan Elgrand import from Japan? The Nissan Elgrand is eligible for import to the following countries under the conditions specified below.
| Country | Eligible Year Range | Specific Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| USA | 1997 to 2000 | Must be 25+ years old |
| Australia | 1987 to Present | All 25+ years old models, Campervans from 05/2002 to 08/2010, Mobility Variants from 05/2002 to 08/2010, Mobility Variants from 07/2010 to Present |
| New Zealand | 1997 to Present | Must be 20 years old or have ESC and clean condition |
| United Kingdom | 1997 to Present | Requires local compliance, contact us for details |
Nissan Elgrand Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Nissan Elgrand?
The price of a Nissan Elgrand varies significantly depending on the generation, year, condition, and specification. Whilst we haven't included specific pricing in this guide, costs typically reflect the model's premium positioning in the luxury minivan segment.
Second-generation E51 models (2002-2009) generally represent excellent value for money, offering many premium features at accessible prices. Third-generation models (2010-2025) command higher prices due to their more modern technology and refined styling. For the most current pricing and availability, contact the Davey Japan team who will be happy to help with all pricing and import queries.
Is it possible to import Nissan Elgrand from Japan?
Absolutely! Davey Japan specialises in importing Japanese cars and can deliver them anywhere in the world. Import eligibility varies by country - eg the USA has certain criteria, while rules for Nissan Elgrand importers Australia and beyond differ, so it's best to work with experienced importers to ensure your paperwork is in order.
As leading Nissan Elgrand importers UK, we handle all the complexities of international shipping, paperwork, and regulatory compliance. Our experienced team can guide you through the entire process, from auction purchase to delivery at your door. If your country isn't listed, contact us - we have extensive industry knowledge and can help you understand the import requirements for your region.
What should I know when looking at a Nissan Elgrand import from Japan?
When considering a Nissan Elgrand import, there are several common issues to be aware of. Dashboard cracking is unfortunately common due to Japan's hot, humid summers - look for small cracks that can sometimes stretch across the entire dash.
Steering wheel wear is another area to check, though many Japanese owners use steering wheel covers which help preserve the original trim.
Oil leaks from engine seals can occur but aren't particularly common on these models. Overall, the engines and transmissions are quite robust and reliable.
At Davey Japan, we execute pre-purchase inspections on every vehicle to ensure it meets our safe trade standards. Our experienced team has boots on the ground at auction houses throughout Japan, and we provide detailed inspection reports so you know exactly what you're buying. We understand the Japanese auction grading system inside and out, and we'll guide you through what to expect from each grade level to help you make an informed decision.
How is the Nissan Elgrand fuel consumption compared to similar cars?
The Nissan Elgrand offers competitive fuel consumption for its class, particularly the third-generation models which were designed to meet stringent Japanese eco-standards and qualify for tax incentives.
The 2.5L QR25DE engine provides the best fuel economy whilst still delivering adequate performance with 170hp. The larger 3.5L VQ35DE engine, producing 280hp in third-generation models, offers more power but naturally consumes more fuel.
Compared to its main rival, the Toyota Alphard, the Elgrand generally offers similar efficiency figures. The focus on meeting Japanese fuel economy standards means both the 2.5L and 3.5L variants deliver respectable consumption figures for large luxury minivans.
Are Nissan Elgrands reliable?
Yes, the Elgrand proves generally reliable with only minor issues like dashboard ageing and occasional steering wheel wear, making it a great choice for your next car purchase.
