The Nissan Presage 2.4 i 16V, produced between 1998 and 2006, represents Nissan’s entry into the mid-size minivan segment, primarily targeted towards the Asian market, particularly Japan. Positioned as a practical and spacious family vehicle, the Presage offered an alternative to established competitors like the Toyota Previa and Honda Odyssey. This specific 2.4-liter, 150 horsepower variant, coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission, served as a core offering within the Presage lineup, balancing affordability with acceptable performance for everyday driving needs. It was part of the second generation of the Presage (U30 chassis code), which saw a significant increase in size and refinement compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Presage |
| Generation | Presage |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 year |
| End of production | 2006 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 92 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 132.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 4400 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2388 cm3 (145.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4755 mm (187.2 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front 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) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Presage 2.4 i 16V is Nissan’s KA24DE engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration with multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The KA24DE is known for its relative simplicity and durability, characteristics valued in a family vehicle. The 16 valves (four per cylinder) contribute to reasonable breathing at higher engine speeds. The engine’s 9.2:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between efficiency and performance. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and convenient operation. This transmission, while not offering the most advanced gear ratios, was well-suited to the engine’s power characteristics and the intended use case of comfortable family transportation. The transmission’s shift logic prioritized fuel economy and smooth transitions over aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 horsepower and 216 Nm (159.31 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 2.4-liter engine provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance for the Presage. Acceleration was best described as leisurely, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 11-12 seconds. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of more modern transmissions or manual gearboxes. Gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and cruising comfort, meaning the engine often felt strained during quick overtaking maneuvers or when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Compared to the higher-spec Presage models equipped with larger engines (like the 3.0-liter V6), the 2.4-liter version felt noticeably less powerful. However, it offered a more economical driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 i 16V trim typically included features such as power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio with a cassette player (later models offered a CD player). Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the vehicle’s family-oriented design. The Presage’s spacious interior was a key selling point, offering comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. Optional extras included a navigation system (available in Japan), leather seats, and a rear entertainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Presage utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with independent coil spring suspension at all four corners. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. Steering was rack and pinion with hydraulic power assistance, providing light and easy steering feel. The 205/65 R15 tires offered a good balance of comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Presage 2.4 i 16V was generally well-received as a practical and spacious family vehicle. Critics praised its comfortable ride, roomy interior, and relatively affordable price point. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance and the somewhat dated feel of the interior compared to some competitors. Compared to the more powerful Presage variants, the 2.4-liter model offered better fuel economy, achieving around 22-26 mpg in combined driving conditions. Reliability was generally good, with the KA24DE engine proving to be a durable and long-lasting unit. However, like all vehicles, regular maintenance was crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Legacy
The Nissan Presage 2.4 i 16V remains a relatively common sight on used car markets, particularly in regions where it was originally sold. The KA24DE engine is known for its robustness and relatively low maintenance costs, making these Presages an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. While not a performance icon, the Presage 2.4 i 16V served as a reliable and practical family vehicle for many years, and continues to offer affordable transportation for those seeking a spacious and comfortable minivan.
