The Nissan Townstar Van 1.3 DIG-T (130 Hp) is a compact commercial vehicle introduced in January 2022. Representing Nissan’s entry into the small van segment, the Townstar is primarily marketed in Europe as a successor to the Nissan Evalia and shares a platform with the Renault Kangoo. While not directly sold in the United States, understanding its specifications provides insight into the evolving landscape of light commercial vehicles focused on efficiency and practicality. The Townstar aims to cater to businesses and individuals requiring a versatile and economical transport solution.
Nissan Townstar Van 1.3 DIG-T: Overview
The Townstar Van is a five-door minivan designed with a focus on maximizing cargo space and fuel efficiency. It’s positioned as a direct competitor to vans like the Citroën Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, and Renault Kangoo, all popular choices in the European market. The vehicle prioritizes functionality over luxury, offering a robust and reliable platform for commercial use. Its compact dimensions make it well-suited for navigating urban environments, while its generous cargo capacity allows for substantial loads. The 1.3 DIG-T variant, equipped with a turbocharged gasoline engine, represents a balance between performance and fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
Powering the Nissan Townstar Van 1.3 DIG-T is a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated H5H E4. This engine produces 130 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1600-3500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio is approximately 10 kg/Hp, or 99.7 Hp/tonne, indicating a reasonable level of performance for its intended purpose. The engine is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. Maximum speed is rated at 183 km/h (113.71 mph). The Townstar incorporates a Start & Stop system to further improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. The engine meets Euro 6d-Full emission standards and is equipped with a particulate filter.
Design & Features
The Nissan Townstar Van features a functional and practical design. Its body style is a traditional minivan configuration with five doors for easy access. The vehicle is designed to accommodate two occupants and prioritize cargo volume. The Townstar boasts a maximum trunk (boot) space of 3900 liters (137.73 cu. ft.), making it highly versatile for transporting goods. Key features include a robust chassis, a comfortable cabin focused on driver ergonomics, and a range of safety technologies. While not a luxury vehicle, the Townstar offers essential features for commercial use, such as ample storage compartments and a practical interior layout. The exterior design is modern and aerodynamic, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4486 mm (176.61 in.) in length, 1860 mm (73.23 in.) in width, and 1864 mm (73.39 in.) in height – make it relatively easy to maneuver in urban settings.
Safety and Technology
The Nissan Townstar Van incorporates several safety features as standard equipment, including an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). While specific trim levels may offer additional features, the core focus is on providing a safe and reliable platform for commercial operation. The vehicle’s braking system utilizes ventilated discs on the front wheels and drums on the rear. The steering system employs a steering rack and pinion for precise control. The Townstar is equipped with 195/65 R15 95H tires mounted on 6.0J x 15 wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Townstar |
| Generation | Townstar Van |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 DIG-T (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.4-7.5 l/100 km (36.8 – 31.4 US mpg, 44.1 – 37.7 UK mpg, 15.6 – 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 145-171 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Full |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1600-3500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1600-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H5H E4 |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 1304-1344 kg (2874.83 – 2963.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2180 kg (4806.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 836-876 kg (1843.06 – 1931.25 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3900 l (137.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 685-705 kg (1510.17 – 1554.26 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4486 mm (176.61 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2159 mm (85 in.) |
| Height | 1864 mm (73.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2716 mm (106.93 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.75 m (38.55 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 95H |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15 |


