Nissan Cabstar (07 on) - Review

The range is impressively flexible with three different wheelbase lengths, two cab types (a single tilt cab and a double cab) and three gross vehicle weights of 3.4 tonnes, 3.5 tonnes and 4.5 tonnes. The short wheelbase model is offered in 3.4 tonne single or 3.5 tonne and 4.5 tonne twin rear wheel forms, while all medium and long wheelbase models are rated at 3.5 or 4.5 tonnes with twin rear wheels. The Good-To-Go range of 'off-the-peg' conversions is impressive. It includes a choice of 3.5 tonne box van conversions across all three wheelbases with load volumes from 14.3 to 19 m3. Constructed from GRP, features include a polyester translucent roof, Wizadeck flooring, one set of Aeroquip lashing bars and two levels of lashing rails. Twin rear doors are standard, while a rear roller shutter door is available. Refrigerated options on the 3.5 tonne single cab Cabstar come in capacities ranging from 10.8 to 15.4 m3. Topping off the Cabstar range is a variety of tippers and dropsides, spread over standard and crew cab models, and with three wheelbases to cope with everything from landscape gardeners to scaffolders. Dropside payloads range from 1,239 to 1,521 kg and start at load lengths of 3,160 mm, extending all the way to 4,600 mm. The tipper bodies accommodate load lengths from 3,180 to 3,500 mm. The 3.4 tonne tipper features heavy duty folded mild steel headboards and a three-stage ram taking it to the fully raised position in 20 seconds.

A driver airbag is standard across the range while a passenger airbag is available as an option (on Basic+ and above models). Elsewhere, all models (except the Basic trim) get ABS and the cabin structure has been reinforced with beams mounted in the doors to offer greater protection in a side impact. The seatbelts have pretensioners while rear visibility is aided by larger door mirrors than the previous Cabstar. Electric mirror adjustment is available as an option. Medium and long wheelbase models come with a system called Easy Hill Start, which holds the vehicle on the brake when stopped on a hill without the driver having to use the handbrake or keep a foot on the brake pedal. This not only makes hill starts easier but also preserves the clutch. An alarm and immobiliser come as standard.

The Cabstar is good value, although the entry-level Basic models are - as their name suggests - pretty sparse. But there's a huge choice of models thanks to three wheelbases, three GVWs and a lengthy choice of conversions from the Nissan Good-To-Go range which offer instant delivery and the same warranty as the rest of the vehicle. In terms of equipment, the Basic has a driver airbag, an alarm and immobiliser, a CD stereo, electric windows. The Basic+ adds ABS, EBD and auto-door locking while the Pro gets easy hill start, power and heated mirrors. The top Pro+ comes with front fog lights and a rear heater (on double cab models).

The previous Cabstar model built up a good reputation for being robust and durable and this model continues that tradition. While the interior isn't very plush, it is strong and hardwearing, while both engines have been well-proven in a variety of Nissan vans, pick-ups and passenger cars. It comes with a three year/60,000 mile mechanical warranty along with six years’ paint and anti-corrosion cover plus three years’ RAC roadside assistance.