The Nissan Elgrand (E50) 3.0 TD, produced between 1999 and 2002, represents a significant iteration of Nissan’s luxury minivan offering, primarily targeted towards the Japanese domestic market (JDM). This variant, equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 170 horsepower, occupied a middle ground within the E50 Elgrand lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, torque for comfortable highway cruising, and a more accessible price point compared to the gasoline-powered models. The E50 generation, built on the D-platform, was known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced features for its time. It was a popular choice for families and those requiring a versatile vehicle capable of long journeys.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Elgrand |
| Generation | Elgrand (E50) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TD (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 year |
| End of production | 2002 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 1800 rpm, 260.36 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2953 cm3, 180.2 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm, 3.78 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm, 4.02 in. |
| Compression ratio | 17.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 2060 kg, 4541.52 lbs |
| Max. weight | 2500 kg, 5511.56 lbs |
| Max load | 440 kg, 970.03 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l, 17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal |
| Length | 4740 mm, 186.61 in |
| Width | 1775 mm, 69.88 in |
| Height | 1940 mm, 76.38 in |
| Wheelbase | 2900 mm, 114.17 in |
| Front track | 1510 mm, 59.45 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515 mm, 59.65 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.9 m, 32.48 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E50 3.0 TD Elgrand is the RD30DDTi inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, a technology that was becoming increasingly prevalent in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Common rail injection allowed for more precise fuel delivery, resulting in improved combustion efficiency, reduced emissions, and increased power output. The RD30DDTi also features a turbocharger with an intercooler, further enhancing performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine’s 170 horsepower output at 3600 rpm and 353 Nm (260 lb-ft) of torque at 1800 rpm provided ample power for a vehicle of its size and weight. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. The transmission is a four-speed automatic, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for the minivan’s intended purpose of comfortable family transportation. While not offering the sportiness of a manual transmission, the four-speed automatic provided smooth shifts and adequate responsiveness for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TD Elgrand with the automatic transmission delivers a driving experience focused on comfort and ease. The engine’s torque peak at 1800 rpm means that strong acceleration is available from low speeds, making it well-suited for navigating city streets and merging onto highways. However, the four-speed automatic transmission does limit the engine’s ability to stay in its optimal power band, particularly when accelerating at higher speeds. Compared to the gasoline-powered Elgrands, the diesel variant offers significantly better fuel economy, making it a more economical choice for long-distance travel. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a stable and predictable handling experience, although it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 TD Elgrand typically came equipped with a generous array of features, reflecting its positioning as a luxury minivan. Standard equipment often included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and an audio system. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, woodgrain interior trim, and a more advanced audio system with a CD changer. Many Elgrands were also equipped with optional extras such as a sunroof, navigation system, and electronically adjustable seats. The interior layout prioritized space and comfort, with seating for up to eight passengers. The seats were typically configured in a 2-2-2-2 arrangement, providing ample legroom and headroom for all occupants.
Chassis & Braking
The E50 Elgrand utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The suspension consists of coil springs all around, with independent suspension in the front and a solid axle in the rear. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear wheels. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering is hydraulically assisted, providing light and effortless steering feel. The tires are typically 215/65 R15, offering a good balance between ride comfort and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Elgrand E50 3.0 TD was well-received in the Japanese market, praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. Critics noted that the diesel engine, while offering good torque, was not as refined or powerful as the gasoline engines available in the Elgrand lineup. Compared to the 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, the 3.0 TD offered lower performance but significantly better fuel economy. The diesel variant was also generally more affordable than the gasoline models. In terms of reliability, the RD30DDTi engine proved to be generally robust, although the common rail injection system could require maintenance over time.
Legacy
The Nissan Elgrand E50 3.0 TD remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly in regions where diesel vehicles are favored. Its reputation for reliability, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency continues to attract buyers. While the technology may be dated by today’s standards, the E50 Elgrand offers a comfortable and practical transportation solution for families and those requiring a versatile vehicle. The RD30DDTi engine, while not known for its high performance, is generally considered to be a durable and long-lasting powertrain, provided it has been properly maintained. The E50 Elgrand represents a significant chapter in Nissan’s minivan history, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and quality.
