2018 NISSAN NV300 1.6 Dci 1.2t Acenta Panel Van 5dr Diesel Manual L2 H1 Euro 6 (120 Ps)

Thinking about a used medium-sized panel van for your UK business? The Nissan NV300, a rebadged Renault Trafic/Vauxhall Vivaro, offers a compelling package of practicality, efficiency, and comfort. Launched in 2016 and replaced by the Primastar in 2021, the NV300 shares its robust platform with proven European vans, making it a strong contender in the competitive used van market. This guide provides an in-depth look at what to expect when purchasing a pre-owned Nissan NV300 in the UK.

Used Nissan NV300 Price Guide (UK 2025/26)

Prices for used Nissan NV300 models vary significantly based on age, mileage, condition, and specification (e.g., L1H1, L2H1, Tekna trim, engine power). The table below offers realistic price ranges you can expect in the current UK market (early 2025/26).

Year	Mileage (Approx.)	Price Range (Excluding VAT)
2016-2017	100,000+	£6,500 - £8,500
2018-2019	60,000 - 100,000	£8,000 - £12,000
2020-2021	30,000 - 60,000	£11,500 - £16,000

Key Specifications

The Nissan NV300 shares many specifications with its Renault and Vauxhall counterparts, offering practical load-carrying capabilities and efficient engines.

• Payload: Typically ranges from 1,079 kg (L1H1 1.6dCi 95PS) up to 1,280 kg (L2H1 1.6dCi 145PS). Always check the specific vehicle's GVW and kerb weight for its accurate payload.
• Load Volume:
  • L1 (SWB): 5.2 cubic metres
  • L2 (LWB): 6.0 cubic metres
• External Dimensions (approx. L1H1):
  • Length: 4,999 mm
  • Width (inc. mirrors): 2,283 mm
  • Height: 1,971 mm
• Load Area Dimensions (approx. L1H1):
  • Load Length: 2,537 mm (up to 3,750mm with load-through bulkhead)
  • Load Width: 1,662 mm (1,268 mm between wheel arches)
  • Load Height: 1,387 mm
• Engine Options: All UK models feature a 1.6-litre dCi diesel engine in various power outputs:
  • 95 PS (single turbo, typically L1H1)
  • 120 PS (single turbo)
  • 125 PS (twin-turbo)
  • 145 PS (twin-turbo)
  Later models (from late 2019/early 2020) transitioned to a 2.0-litre dCi engine for Euro 6D temp compliance, offering improved performance and emissions. These typically came in 120 PS, 145 PS, and 170 PS variants.
• Euro Standard: All NV300s sold in the UK are Euro 6 compliant, making them suitable for ULEZ/CAZ.

What to Look For When Buying Used

While generally reliable, there are specific areas to inspect on a used Nissan NV300:

• DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter): Vans used predominantly for short, stop-start journeys can suffer from blocked DPFs. Look for dashboard warning lights or a history of DPF issues. Replacements can be costly (£1,000+).
• Twin-Turbo Issues (125PS/145PS 1.6dCi): The twin-turbo units are more complex. Listen for unusual whistling or grinding noises from the turbochargers. Check for excessive blue smoke on acceleration, which could indicate turbo seal failure.
• Timing Chain (1.6dCi): The 1.6 dCi engine uses a timing chain, which should ideally be maintenance-free. However, neglected oil changes or extended service intervals can lead to premature wear. Listen for any rattling noise from the engine on start-up or when idling, which could indicate chain wear. A timing chain replacement is an engine-out job and very expensive (£1,500-£2,500).
• Bodywork Rust: Pay close attention to wheel arches, sills, and around the rear doors. Vans often sustain minor dents and scrapes, which, if not repaired properly, can lead to rust.
• Electrics: Test all electrics, including windows, central locking, infotainment, and especially the indicators and rear lights, as issues here are not uncommon.
• Door Hinges/Catches: Side loading doors and rear barn doors are heavily used. Check for smooth operation, alignment, and any signs of damage to hinges or locking mechanisms.
• Service History: A full, documented service history is paramount for any commercial vehicle. Vans with gaps in their service records should be approached with caution.

Running Costs for Businesses

The NV300 offers a good balance of running costs, especially with the efficient diesel engines.

• Insurance (Group): NV300 models typically fall into insurance groups 30-36 (T1-T6) for van insurance, depending on engine size and trim. Expect annual premiums for a business policy to range from £600-£1,200+, influenced by driver history, location, and excess.
• Fuel Economy: Expect real-world combined fuel consumption of 35-45 mpg for the 1.6 dCi engines, and similar figures for later 2.0 dCi engines, depending on load and driving style. The 1.6 dCi 120PS/125PS models are often cited for their good balance of power and economy.
• Servicing Intervals: Nissan recommends service intervals of 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, for the 1.6 dCi models. Sticking to these, or even shorter intervals for heavy use, is crucial, especially for the timing chain. Costs for a minor service range from £150-£250, with major services £300-£500.
• Tyre Costs: Depending on the variant, the NV300 typically uses 215/65 R16 or 205/65 R16 commercial tyres. Expect to pay £80-£130 per tyre for quality commercial-rated rubber.
• ULEZ/CAZ Compliance: All Nissan NV300 models sold in the UK are Euro 6 compliant, meaning they are exempt from daily charges in London's ULEZ and other UK Clean Air Zones (CAZ) such as Birmingham, Bristol, and Glasgow.

Is the Nissan NV300 Right For Your Business?

The Nissan NV300 is a versatile medium-sized panel van that could be an excellent fit for many UK businesses.

• Who it Suits:
  • Tradespeople: Plumbers, electricians, painters, and carpenters will appreciate the practical load space, available load-through bulkhead for longer items, and comfortable cab.
  • Delivery Services: The NV300's comfortable driving position, decent fuel economy, and strong payload make it suitable for local and regional courier work.
  • Small to Medium Businesses: Those needing a reliable and cost-effective workhorse for daily operations.
• Alternatives to Consider:
  • Renault Trafic: Mechanically identical, often with slightly different trim levels and pricing.
  • Vauxhall Vivaro (2014-2019 model): Also mechanically identical, offering the same underlying reliability.
  • Ford Transit Custom: Often seen as the segment leader, known for driving dynamics. Might command higher prices.
  • Volkswagen Transporter: Premium option, excellent residuals, but typically more expensive to buy and maintain.
  • Citroen Dispatch/Peugeot Expert/Toyota Proace: Another strong contender, offering similar load capacities and good efficiency.

The Nissan NV300 represents a sensible and value-for-money option in the used medium van market. Its shared platform with popular European vans ensures a good supply of parts and knowledgeable technicians. Just ensure you carry out thorough checks, especially regarding its service history and potential mechanical issues, to secure a reliable workhorse for years to come.