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Nissan hopes that the latest generation of Cabstar will enjoy great success thanks to a thorough makeover. Julian Milnes reports.
Page 59
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AT A GLANCE
Nissan Cabstar
WHAT'S NEW?
• All-new platform based on ladder-frame chassis • Three engine outputs— a 2.5-litre with 109
and 128hp, and a 3.0-litre developing 148hp III Redesigned exterior and cab with improved
packaging • Optional 'Easy Hill Start' system HIGH RISK?
• Forward-control layout is not for all tastes • 3.0-litre unit is unsuited to the Cabstar's character WORTH A PUNT?
• Strong product development with significant all-round improvements II Enhanced passive safety Il Extended engine servicing intervals
THE VERDICT
Although some people will always steer clear of forward control, the Nissan Cabstar offers as good a compromise as we have seen with this design. The work done inside reduces the restrictions of the interior and the driving position, making the Cabstar more usable and accessible.
The driving experience has also been significantly improved, avoiding the nervous feeling that the previous generation suffered from. This further adds to the Cabstar's commendable all-round ability. W. . hen forward-control vehicles are updated you can bet your trousers that the designers' attention will be turned to, among other things, improving cab space and driveability.Whether this is an indirect admission that the nature of such vehicles limits them in certain ways is hard to say.
However, manufacturers will point to the increased load area and manoeuvrability that these machines offer as compensation.
So it came as no surprise that Nissan's updated Cabstar had received a revised interior (complete with improved driving position) and chassis improvements to help address the areas that dissuade some punters.
Based on an all-new ladder-frame chassis, the smartly styled Cabstar also gets two new Euro-4 engines:a 2.5-litre producing either 109 or 128hp and a 3.0-litre unit rated at 148hp.There are three wheelbases to choose from as well as five GVWs (2.8,3.2,3.4,35 and 4.5 tonnes).
A new feature is the optional 'Easy Hill Start' which holds the vehicle on the brake when stopped on a hill without the driver using the handbrake or depressing the brake pedal.
The improved interior packaging is immediately evident upon entering the cab. with the near-upright windscreen and an extra 150mm of width contributing to the feeling of space. The driving position has been modified so the driver sits further back than is usual in this class of vehicle; storage and control layout also move a step forward.
On the road there is a noticeable improvement in body rigidity thanks to the uprated chassis; the suspension copes well in absorbing undulations and making the Cabstar feel secure in corners,where it avoids the skittish behaviour that can blight such machines.
Nissan claims a best-in-class turning circle and we are inclined to believe it after a few tight twirling manoeuvres that swiftly had us facing the other way on a standard road. However, there is not much feedback from the steering which, as with so many forward-control vehicles, feels lifeless and vague.
Powering the Cabstar is a tale of two engines. The 2.5-litre with 128hp pulls convincingly from low down and is commendably refined when working up the rev range. Mated to this is a five-speed box located next to the driver's knee. It shifts with purpose and its ratios suit the engine's nature.
Making a statement of intent with its high power output, the 3.0-litre feels rather too urgent for the vehicle —coming on strong from low revs when a more progressive delivery would be preferable. Its six-speed box also feels notchy and stiff, further reducing the benefit of the extra power.