The new Sotoasobi package for the Nissan Caravan adds a matte black hood wrap and rugged fender extensions
- Nissan updates its 14-year-old Caravan with new trim packages and interior improvements.
- Outdoor Black Edition adds rugged looks with dark accents and off-road styling cues.
- Powertrains remain unchanged with a 2.0L gas or 2.5L diesel engine and up to 4WD options.
While a new-generation Elgrand minivan is rumored for a late 2025 debut, Nissan is giving some attention to the Caravan in the meantime. This long-serving, 14-year-old LCV-based model gets a mild update with a focus on comfort and usability. The latest version adds upgraded front seats, a larger navigation display, enhanced driver assistance systems, and a handful of new trims tailored for outdoor-focused buyers.
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Despite its age, the Caravan doesn’t receive any exterior design changes for the 2026 model year. What it does gain is a new trim called the Premium GX Outdoor Black Edition, which includes black accents on the grille, bumper, mirrors, and door handles. It’s a subtle visual tweak, but one that gives the van a slightly more rugged presence.
New Trim Levels with Outdoor Flair
What is more interesting is the optional “Sotoasobi Package”, which is inspired by earlier concepts based on the X-Trail. This version includes a matte satin black hood wrap to help protect against stone chips, bolt-on-style fender flares from JAOS, and a special emblem on the front doors. Nissan says this styling package will appear on more models in the future.
The lineup also expands with the Caravan Autech Line. It comes fitted with 15-inch alloy wheels and waterproof upholstery inside the cabin. While it doesn’t share the more distinctive grille, LED lighting, or front splitter found on the standard Autech model, buyers can opt for a rear spoiler and the available Black Package to complete the look.
Nissan Caravan Premium GX Outdoor Black Edition
Nissan Caravan Sotoasobi Package
Nissan Caravan Autech Line
Inside, all variants of the Caravan receive updated front seats for both driver and passenger. These now offer enhanced spinal support and better cushioning, thanks to memory foam construction. The tech sees a small bump too, with a new 9-inch navigation system and updated safety features, including Nissan’s Intelligent Cruise Control system.
Familiar Powertrain Options
Mechanically, there are no changes to the Caravan’s ladder-frame chassis or engine options. Buyers can choose between a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter gasoline engine producing 129 hp (96 kW / 130 PS) and 178 Nm (131 lb-ft) of torque, or a 2.5-liter diesel sourced from Mitsubishi delivering 130 hp (97 kW / 132 PS) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque. Both engines are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and can be configured with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
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The updated Nissan Caravan will go on sale in Japan on August 25. Pricing ranges between ¥2,708,200-5,639,000 ($18,200-37,900), depending on the chosen configuration. As for the Sotoasobi Package, it is available as an option for an extra ¥198,155 ($1,300). Finally, Nissan will also introduce a similarly-updated version of the MyRoom camper this autumn.
Though the Caravan (NV350) has been on the market since 2011 with facelifts in 2017 and 2021, it’s not the oldest van in its segment. That title still belongs to the Toyota HiAce (H200), which first launched in 2004 and continues to sell with only modest updates.