Nissan Elgrand I (E50) photos

Manufactured from 1997 to 2002, the first-generation Nissan Elgrand (chassis code E50) succeeded the passenger versions of the Nissan Caravan and Homy to establish the modern luxury full-size minivan segment in Japan. Built on a robust unibody-on-frame architecture shared with the R50 Nissan Terrano and Pathfinder SUV, the E50 featured a longitudinal front-engine layout paired with either rear-wheel drive or the sophisticated electronically controlled All-Mode 4WD system. Depending on the Japanese dealership network, early models were badged as either Caravan Elgrand or Homy Elgrand, and buyers could choose between standard luxury trims, the sporty Highway Star package with aero body kits and mesh grilles, and specialized Autech conversions such as the Royal Line VIP cruiser. Compared to the utilitarian cab-over vans it replaced, the E50 offered a front-engine nose for vastly improved crash safety, refined ride comfort via front strut and rear multi-link coil spring suspension, and a sumptuous seven- or eight-seat cabin with swiveling captain's chairs and dual-zone climate control. At launch, powertrain choices consisted of a 3.3-liter VG33E V6 petrol engine and a 3.2-liter QD32ETi four-cylinder turbodiesel, both mated to a column-shifted four-speed automatic transmission. In 1999, the diesel unit was replaced by a more efficient 3.0-liter ZD30DDTi direct-injection four-cylinder turbodiesel, followed in August 2000 by a major facelift that introduced updated front styling, refined interior appointments, and the smooth 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 petrol engine. Although officially sold primarily in Japan—where it was also badge-engineered as the Isuzu Filly—the E50 Elgrand became a popular grey-import vehicle in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Russia.