Typically, utility vans like the Urvan rarely get any love—as long as they can do their job, they’re not exactly the focus of nifty updates and stuff. Well, Nissan at least is showering some love on the Urvan, and hopefully this is a sign of what we’re going to be seeing in the near future.
The 2020 Nissan Urvan (NV350 Caravan in Japan) gets a new high-end GX Urban variant. This one swaps the traditional halogen headlights for projector-type ones illuminated by LEDs. On top of that, it gets new 15-inch wheels and the use of dark chrome on the grille, door mirror, and rear plate garnish. New options for this year include side sill protectors and a rear under protector.
Feature-wise, the 2020 Urvan GX Urban adds an automatic dimming rear view mirror and power side door.
In terms of safety, the 2020 Urvan now gets Nissan’s Around View Monitor—a segment first, as well as Intelligent Emergency Braking on top of standard ABS with EBD, and stability control.
Mechanically, the Urvan remains unchanged for 2020. In Japan, that means being equipped with a choice between two 4-cylinder gasoline engine: a 2.0-liter with 130 horsepower and 178 Nm of torque, a 2.5-liter with 147 horsepower and 213 Nm of torque, or a 2.5-liter diesel (YD25DDTi) with 129 horsepower and 356 Nm of torque.
For the Philippine market, it’s highly unlikely that we’ll be seeing a gasoline-powered Urvan anytime soon. However, Nissan may choose to introduce features like the LED headlights and 360-degree camera for its higher trim models to keep it competitive against the recently launched Toyota Hiace.
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