Nissan Bassara is a legendary Japanese minivan that has gained popularity due to its practicality and comfort. If you are planning to purchase this car or are simply interested in its technical characteristics, then the dimensions of the body, trunk and interior will become key parameters for evaluation. In this article we will analyze in detail all the dimensions Bassara, including comparison with analogues, nuances when choosing and operating tips.
The model was produced in two generations (1999–2003 and 2003–2010), and their sizes have important differences. We will analyze both options, and also tell you how dimensions affect handling, parking and load capacity. We will pay special attention trunk volume - one of the main advantages of a minivan.
Official dimensions of Nissan Bassara: length, width, height
First generation Nissan Bassara (1999–2003) was positioned as a compact family minivan with an emphasis on urban use. Its dimensions were optimized for narrow Japanese streets, but the interior remained spacious. Here are the key parameters:
- 📏 Length: 4,490 mm - ideal for maneuvering in urban environments.
- 📐 Width: 1,690 mm (excluding mirrors) - standard for the class, but narrower than its European counterparts.
- 📊 Height: 1,525 mm - lower than many minivans, which improves stability at high speeds.
- 🔄 Wheelbase: 2,700 mm - provides good stability and comfort for passengers.
The second generation (2003–2010) received minor changes in dimensions, but they affected the interior space. For example, length increased to 4,540 mm and height to 1,550 mm, which added volume to the trunk and improved fit in the rear seats. At the same time, the width remained the same - 1,690 mm, which retained maneuverability.
For comparison: Toyota Noah of the same period had a length of 4,690 mm, and Honda Stepwgn — 4,660 mm. Thus, Bassara remained one of the most compact in the class, but with well-thought-out ergonomics.
- Parking dimensions
- Trunk volume
- Cabin ceiling height
- Fuel consumption
Trunk dimensions: how much does the Nissan Bassara fit?
Trunk volume is one of the key criteria when choosing a minivan. B Nissan Bassara it depends on the generation and seat configuration. In the standard position (all seats up) the volume is:
- 📦 First generation: 350–400 liters (depending on configuration).
- 📦 Second generation: up to 450 liters thanks to the increased body length.
However, real strength Bassara appears when folding the seats. In the second generation you can get up to 1,500 liters useful space if you fold the second and third rows. This allows you to transport large loads - from baby strollers to construction materials.
| Parameter | 1st generation (1999–2003) | 2nd generation (2003–2010) |
|---|---|---|
| Trunk volume (standard) | 350–400 l | 400–450 l |
| Volume with seats folded | up to 1,300 l | up to 1,500 l |
| Trunk width (between wheel arches) | 1,050 mm | 1 100 mm |
| Maximum cargo length (seats folded) | 1 800 mm | 1 900 mm |
It is important to consider that trunk shape in Bassara not perfectly rectangular - tapers at the top due to the sloping rear door. This may make it difficult to transport tall objects. However, for most everyday tasks there is enough space to spare.
If you need to transport long cargo (for example, skis or boards), Bassara In the second generation, the rear seat headrests can be removed and the cargo can be stowed diagonally, increasing the useful length to 2.2 m.
Comparison with competitors: who is more spacious?
To objectively assess the size Nissan Bassara, let's compare it with the main competitors in the class of Japanese minivans. Main rivals - Toyota Noah/Voxy, Honda Stepwgn And Mazda MPV. They all have similar dimensions, but there are nuances.
For example, Toyota Noah (2001–2007) is 150–200 mm longer, which gives it an advantage in trunk volume (up to 500 liters in standard position). However Bassara wins in cabin width — it has a flatter floor, which is convenient for transporting goods. Honda Stepwgn it is distinguished by a greater height (1,600 mm), which improves visibility, but impairs stability at high speeds.
| Model | Length | Width | Height | Trunk volume (standard/max.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Bassara (2nd generation) | 4,540 mm | 1,690 mm | 1 550 mm | 450 / 1,500 l |
| Toyota Noah (2001–2007) | 4,690 mm | 1,695 mm | 1,575 mm | 500 / 1,600 l |
| Honda Stepwgn (2001–2005) | 4 660 mm | 1,695 mm | 1 600 mm | 420 / 1 400 l |
| Mazda MPV (1999–2006) | 4 720 mm | 1,795 mm | 1,630 mm | 480 / 1,700 l |
From the table it is clear that Bassara - one of the most compact, but at the same time not inferior in practicality. Its main advantage is balanced proportions, which make the car convenient both for the city and for long trips.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing between Bassara and competitors, pay attention to rear door width. U Toyota Noah it opens 90°, and Nissan - only 70°, which can complicate the loading of large items.
Interior dimensions: comfort for passengers
Interior space Nissan Bassara designed to meet Japanese comfort standards. Despite the external compactness, the interior offers enough space for 7 passengers (in the version with the third row). Here are the key parameters:
- 🪑 Ceiling height: 1,250 mm (up to 1,300 mm in the second generation) - enough for passengers up to 180 cm tall.
- 🦵 Leg room:
- Front seats: 1,050 mm.
- Second row: 850 mm (up to 900 mm in the 2nd generation).
- Third row: 700 mm (only suitable for children or short trips).
- 🚪 Door width: 800 mm (front) and 750 mm (rear) - convenient entry/exit even in tight parking lots.
Feature Bassara — adjustable second row seats. They can be moved back and forth by 200 mm, which allows you to optimize legroom or increase trunk volume. There is not much space in the third row, but it is enough for occasional transportation of children or short trips.
For comparison: in Toyota Noah Legroom in the second row reaches 950 mm, but due to this, the trunk is reduced. Nissan has found a balance by offering enough space for both passengers and cargo.
☑️ What to check when inspecting the Bassara salon?
The influence of dimensions on handling and parking
One of the key advantages Nissan Bassara - him maneuverability. Thanks to its width of 1,690 mm and wheelbase of 2,700 mm, the car easily fits into city traffic and parks in tight parking lots. The turning radius is just 5.3 m, which is comparable to compact hatchbacks.
However, there are also nuances:
- 🚗 Length 4.5 m may create difficulties when parking in reverse in narrow yards.
- 👀 Low driving position (compared to crossovers) improves the sense of size, but worsens visibility through the windshield.
- 🅿️ Height 1.55 m allows you to enter most underground parking lots without the risk of hitting the ceiling.
For comparison: Honda Stepwgn with a height of 1.6 m more often touches sensors in parking lots, and Mazda MPV (width 1.8 m) is more difficult to fit into rows in parking lots. Thus, Bassara remains one of the most convenient minivans for the city.
⚠️ Attention: During operation Bassara in Russia, keep in mind that ground clearance is only 150 mm. This limits travel on broken roads and snowdrifts. For winter, it is recommended to install high profile winter tires.
How dimensions influence choice: tips for buyers
Upon purchase Nissan Bassara The dimensions of the body and interior must correspond to your tasks. Here are the key recommendations:
- For the city: The first generation (4,490 mm) is better suited - it is more maneuverable and easier to park.
- For a family with 2–3 children: The second generation (4,540 mm) is preferable due to its increased trunk and legroom.
- For transportation of goods: Please note versions with folding third row — they allow you to transform the interior into a cargo compartment.
- For tall passengers: Check ceiling height — in the second generation it is increased to 1,300 mm, which is more comfortable for people taller than 175 cm.
Also keep in mind that Bassara with all-wheel drive (4WD) has more weight and slightly different suspension settings, which may affect ground clearance. If you often drive on unpaved roads, it's worth considering alternatives with higher ground clearance, e.g. Nissan Serena.
Which Bassara trims had a larger trunk?
In versions with the "Highway Star" and "Autech" prefix, the trunk was expanded due to a modified third row of seats, which folded almost flat into the floor, increasing the useful volume to 1,600 liters.
Frequently asked questions about Nissan Bassara sizes
❓ What is the maximum load that can be transported to Bassara?
Load capacity Nissan Bassara depends on the configuration and amounts to 400–450 kg (including passengers). When the trunk is fully loaded (1,500 l), it is recommended not to exceed 300 kg of cargo so as not to overload the rear axle. To transport heavy objects (for example, furniture), it is better to use a trailer.
❓ Is the Bassara suitable for a tall driver (190 cm+)?
A driver 190 cm or taller will feel cramped in Bassara, especially in the first generation. In the second generation the ceiling is higher, but Steering wheel adjustment only by tilt angle (no overshoot), which can create discomfort. We recommend testing the fit before purchasing.
❓ Is it possible to install a roof rack?
Yes, on Bassara You can install roof rails and boxes, but there are restrictions:
- Maximum roof load - 50 kg (indicated in the manual).
- Due to the low ground clearance (150 mm), loading the box may be inconvenient.
- It is recommended to use boxes with an aerodynamic shape so as not to increase fuel consumption.
❓ What wheel sizes are suitable for Bassara?
Standard wheel sizes for Nissan Bassara:
- 1st generation:
185/65 R15or195/60 R15. - 2nd generation:
205/55 R16(in top trim levels).
Maximum permissible diameter - R17, but this requires modification to the suspension. Increasing the tire width by more 215 mm may cause friction on the wheel arches.
Nissan Bassara is the best choice for those who value a balance between compactness and space. It is inferior to competitors in maximum trunk volume, but wins in maneuverability and interior ergonomics.