Nissan Clipper Truck is a compact truck that has gained popularity due to its versatility, efficiency and adaptability to urban conditions. Originally developed for the Japanese market, this pickup truck has gradually found its fans beyond the Japanese market, especially among small businesses and owners who need a reliable assistant for hauling cargo without breaking the bank. Unlike large trucks, Clipper Truck combines the maneuverability of a passenger car with a load capacity sufficient for most everyday tasks.
The model has been produced since 2014 and is a rebranding of an earlier Mitsubishi Minicab Truck, which explains some technical and design decisions. Despite its modest size, the car is equipped with modern safety and comfort systems, which makes it an attractive choice for both commercial use and personal use. In this article we will look at the key aspects Nissan Clipper Truck: from technical characteristics to the nuances of operation and maintenance.
Technical characteristics of Nissan Clipper Truck
Nissan Clipper Truck belongs to the class kay-trucks (keitora) - Japanese mini-trucks that meet strict local standards for size and power. This allows the car to be economical, but at the same time functional. The basic parameters of the model depend on the generation and modification, but in general they can be characterized as follows:
- 🔧 Engine: gasoline 3G83 volume 659 cm³ (power 52–54 hp) or diesel 4D35 volume 759 cm³ (power 55–64 hp).
- 📏 Dimensions: length ~3.3–3.4 m, width ~1.4–1.5 m, height ~1.8–1.9 m (depending on the body).
- 🚛 Load capacity: up to 350–450 kg (depending on modification and body type).
- ⛽ Fuel consumption: 4.5–6.5 l/100 km (gasoline) and 3.5–5 l/100 km (diesel).
A special feature of the model is rear axle drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) in some versions, which expands the possibilities of use in difficult road conditions. Transmission - manual (5-speed) or automatic (3- or 4-speed), the latter being less common and more often installed on export versions.
- Gasoline (economical, but less powerful)
- Diesel (more high-torque, but expensive to maintain)
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Advantages and disadvantages of the model
Nissan Clipper Truck it is not for nothing that it is in demand - it has a number of undeniable advantages that outweigh some disadvantages. Let's look at the key advantages:
- 💰 Low cost of ownership: cheap maintenance, affordable spare parts (especially if you buy original Japanese ones), economical fuel consumption.
- 🚗 Compactness: ideal for the city - easy to park, maneuverable in traffic jams, suitable for narrow streets.
- 🔧 Reliability: simple design, time-tested engines Mitsubishi, minimal electronics.
- 📦 Practicality: the cargo-passenger version allows you to transport up to 2 people + cargo, and the open body simplifies loading.
However, there are also disadvantages that you should know about in advance:
- 🐢 Low power: an engine with a volume of 0.6–0.8 liters is not intended for high-speed driving or transportation of heavy loads.
- 🛣️ Limited cross-country ability: even versions with 4WD are not intended for off-road use - ground clearance is only ~150–170 mm.
- 🔊 Noise: Diesel versions can be loud, especially at high revs.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Clipper Truck With mileage, pay attention to the condition of the frame and body - these elements often suffer from corrosion when used in aggressive conditions (salt, humidity).
Modifications and configurations
Nissan Clipper Truck It is offered in several body styles and trim levels, which allows you to choose a model for specific tasks. Main modifications:
| Body type | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Pickup | Open cargo compartment with sides, single-row cabin. | Maximum load capacity, ease of loading. |
| Utility (Double Cab) | Double-row cabin + shortened cargo compartment. | Accommodates up to 4 people, suitable for family use. |
| Van | Closed body without windows, single-row cabin. | Protection of cargo from weather, high transportation safety. |
| Special versions (for example, with refrigeration equipment) | Modifications for specific tasks (transportation of products, tools, etc.). | A ready-made solution for business without modifications. |
Options vary from basic (S) to top (G or Custom), where the following can be preinstalled:
- 🎧 Air conditioning and heating.
- 🔒 Central locking and alarm.
- 📱 Multimedia system with navigation (rare, mainly on export versions).
- 💺 Heated seats (relevant for cold regions).
When choosing a modification, focus on the main task: for cargo transportation, a standard pickup truck is better, for a family - a cargo-passenger version, for business - a van or a special version.
Features of operation and maintenance
Nissan Clipper Truck is unpretentious in maintenance, but has its own nuances that are important to consider to extend the life of the car. Here are the key points:
- 🛢️ Oil and filters: It is recommended to change the engine oil every 5,000–7,000 km (even if the manufacturer specifies a longer interval). For diesel versions, it is critical to use oil with approval
API CF-4or higher. - ⚙️ Transmission: In manual transmissions, the oil is changed every 60,000 km, in automatic transmissions - every 40,000 km. Neglect of this rule leads to damage to the box.
- 🔋 Battery: Due to the small engine size and frequent short trips, the battery can drain quickly. It is recommended to check the charge every 2-3 months.
- 🩹 Brake system: Pads and discs wear out faster with frequent trips with a load. Brake inspection is required every 10,000 km.
Particular attention should be paid body and frame. Due to its small dimensions and lightweight design Clipper Truck vulnerable to corrosion, especially in places where the body is attached and on the bottom. Regular washing and anticorrosive treatment will extend the life of the car.
☑️ Checklist before buying a used Nissan Clipper Truck
⚠️ Attention: When operating in winter conditions, diesel versions require the use of winter diesel fuel with additives or installing a pre-heater. Gasoline engines are less sensitive to cold, but still require high-quality oil.
Comparison with competitors
In the compact truck market, Nissan Clipper Truck there are several direct competitors, among which stand out Suzuki Carry, Daihatsu Hijet And Mitsubishi Minicab. Let's compare them based on key parameters:
| Parameter | Nissan Clipper Truck | Suzuki Carry | Daihatsu Hijet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine (gasoline) | 0.66 l, 52–54 hp | 0.66 l, 52 hp | 0.66 l, 50–52 hp |
| Load capacity | up to 450 kg | up to 350 kg | up to 300 kg |
| Drive | 2WD / 4WD | 2WD / 4WD | 2WD |
| Price (used, 2018–2020) | from 800,000 ₽ | from 750,000 ₽ | from 700,000 ₽ |
Clipper Truck It compares favorably with its competitors with its higher payload capacity and the availability of all-wheel drive versions, which makes it more versatile. However Daihatsu Hijet cheaper to buy and Suzuki Carry famous for the reliability of the suspension. The choice depends on priorities: if you need maximum load capacity - Nissan, if price is important - Daihatsu.
The Nissan Clipper Truck is the best choice for those who need payload capacity and all-wheel drive in a compact format. For budget solutions, the Daihatsu Hijet is worth considering.
Nuances of purchase and legalization in Russia
Acquisition Nissan Clipper Truck in Russia has its own characteristics related to customs clearance and registration. Here's what you need to know:
- 📄 Documents: the car must have
PVA(certificate of conformity) and go through customs clearance. Without this, it is impossible to register with the traffic police. - 💵 Customs clearance cost: depends on the year of manufacture and engine size. For models older than 5 years, the rate is lower, but can reach 30–50% of the cost of the car.
- 🚘 Rights category: for management Clipper Truck with a weight of up to 3.5 tons, the category is sufficient
B. - 🔧 Adaptation: some models require modifications (for example, installation of daytime running lights) to comply with Russian traffic regulations.
It is important to consider that diesel versions may have problems with environmental regulations (For example, Euro-4/Euro-5). Before purchasing, check to see if the vehicle meets current standards in your area.
⚠️ Attention: When buying through intermediaries, check the car's history through Japanese auctions (for example, USS or TCV). Some cars may have been in an accident or have hidden mileage problems.
How to check the history of Nissan Clipper Truck?
To check, use services like CarVertical or AutoCheck, which will show data on mileage, accidents and number of owners. Also request a report from the Japanese database JEVIC — it contains information about the technical condition at the time of export.
Tuning and improvements
Despite the utility Nissan Clipper Truck popular among tuning enthusiasts. Here are the most requested improvements:
- 🔥 Power increase: chip tuning (especially relevant for diesel versions), replacing the air filter with a zero filter, installing forward flow.
- 🛡️ Body protection: installation of plastic body kits, anti-gravel film, additional mudguards.
- 💡 Light: replacing standard headlights with LED ones, installing foglights or a light bar on the roof.
- 🚙 Suspension: lift kits to increase ground clearance (relevant for off-road use), reinforced shock absorbers.
Before tuning, it is worth remembering that any changes in the design (especially in the engine or suspension) may affect the safety and legality of operation. For example, exceeding the permissible load capacity after a suspension lift will lead to problems during technical inspection.
If you are planning major modifications, consult with a customs clearance expert in advance - some changes may require re-execution of documents.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Can the Nissan Clipper Truck be driven in winter?
Yes, but with reservations. Gasoline versions are easier to start, but diesel versions require winter fuel and possibly a pre-heater. It is also recommended to use winter tires and check the condition of the battery.
How much does it cost to service a Clipper Truck per year?
With a mileage of 10,000–15,000 km per year, the costs will be approximately 20,000–30,000 rubles (including oil, filters, brake pads and minor repairs). Diesel versions may be more expensive due to more frequent oil and fuel filter changes.
What is the top speed of the Nissan Clipper Truck?
Officially limited to 100–110 km/h (depending on version). In practice, accelerating above 90 km/h is not recommended - this increases engine wear and reduces safety.
Can a Clipper Truck be converted into a camper?
Technically yes, but this will require serious modifications to the body and interior. It is important to consider that such changes must be agreed upon with the traffic police, otherwise the car will not pass inspection.
Where is the best place to buy parts for Clipper Truck?
Optimal options:
- Official dealers Nissan (original spare parts, but expensive).
- Japanese online stores (eg. Amayama or Buyee).
- Local disassembly (cheaper, but quality may vary).
For diesel versions, pay attention to engine compatibility Mitsubishi 4D35.