1998 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway star Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 16.9 mpg US - 20.3 mpg UK - 13.9 L/100km, a weight of 4276 lbs (1940 kg), the Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway star has a water cooling V-type 6 cylinder OHC engine, a Regular gasoline engine VG33E. This engine VG33E produces a maximum power of 172.3 PS (170 bhp - 126.7 kW) at 4800 rpm and a maximum torque of 265.7 Nm (196 lb.ft - 27.1 kg.m) at 2800 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the rear wheel drive (FR) with a 4AT gearbox. For stopping power, the Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway star braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and Ventilated disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 215/65 on 15 inch rims 96S at the rear and 215/65 on 15 inch rims 96S at the front. Chassis details - Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway star has control arms with 5 link coil spring rear suspension and strut front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 23, 2024

Introduction to the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star

The 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star represents a noteworthy chapter in the history of the Nissan Elgrand series. This luxury minivan, produced from October 1998 to July 1999, catered to a diverse range of drivers seeking both style and substance in their vehicles.

With a focus on rear-wheel drive (FR) dynamics, the Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star offered a distinct driving experience, distinguishing itself from other minivans on the market. Its four-speed automatic transmission (4AT) provided smooth and efficient gear changes, enhancing overall performance.

Under the hood, the Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star featured a robust 3.3-liter V6 engine with the engine code VG33E. This engine delivered a formidable 170 horsepower, ensuring that the minivan could confidently tackle various road conditions.

In terms of size and dimensions, the Caravan Elgrand boasted a spacious interior with three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers comfortably. Its exterior measured 475.5 cm in length, 180 cm in width, and 195 cm in height. These dimensions not only provided ample space for occupants but also contributed to the minivan's imposing presence on the road.

Safety and convenience were paramount in the design of the Caravan Elgrand. The vehicle came equipped with standard safety features, including driver and passenger airbags, safety belt pretensioners, and a durable frame. The interior boasted power windows, power steering, and adjustable seats, enhancing driver comfort and control.

The 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star encapsulated a harmonious blend of performance, comfort, and safety, making it a compelling choice for families and individuals seeking a reliable and stylish minivan during its production period.

Model Overview: 1998 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star

The 1998 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star stands as a testament to Nissan's commitment to producing versatile and luxurious minivans. This particular model, produced during the late '90s, represented a blend of practicality and sophistication, appealing to families and individuals alike.

Under the hood, the 1998 Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star was powered by the robust VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine. This engine delivered a commendable 170 horsepower, ensuring that the minivan had ample power for highway cruising and city driving. The engine's torque and performance made it a reliable choice for various driving conditions.

The four-speed automatic transmission (4AT) provided smooth and convenient gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience. Whether navigating through urban streets or embarking on long road trips, this transmission contributed to the minivan's ease of use.

In terms of interior features, the 1998 Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star offered a comfortable and spacious cabin. With three rows of seating, it could accommodate up to eight passengers, making it an excellent choice for larger families or groups. Power windows, power steering, and adjustable seats added to the overall comfort and convenience.

Safety was a priority for this model, as evidenced by the inclusion of driver and passenger airbags, safety belt pretensioners, and a sturdy frame. These features aimed to provide occupants with peace of mind during their journeys.

The exterior design of the 1998 Caravan Elgrand exuded a sense of sophistication, with standard features such as front and rear spoilers, power-adjustable door mirrors, and cornering lamps. These elements not only enhanced the minivan's aesthetics but also contributed to its aerodynamics and visibility.

Overall, the 1998 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star stood as a well-rounded and attractive option in the minivan segment. Its blend of power, comfort, safety, and style made it a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and elegant family vehicle during its production year.

Model Overview: 1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star

The 1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star continued the legacy of its predecessor, offering a combination of style, comfort, and performance in the minivan segment. Building upon the success of the 1998 model, the 1999 edition maintained its reputation as a reliable and versatile family vehicle.

At the heart of the 1999 Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star was the VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine, delivering a commendable 170 horsepower. This engine provided ample power for both urban driving and highway cruising, ensuring that the minivan could tackle a variety of driving conditions with confidence.

The four-speed automatic transmission (4AT) contributed to the vehicle's smooth and hassle-free operation. It allowed for effortless gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience and making it a practical choice for families and individuals seeking convenience in their daily commutes.

Inside, the 1999 Caravan Elgrand offered a spacious cabin with three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers comfortably. The inclusion of power windows, power steering, and adjustable seats further added to the vehicle's comfort and convenience, making it suitable for long journeys or daily errands.

Safety remained a top priority for Nissan, and the 1999 Caravan Elgrand featured driver and passenger airbags, safety belt pretensioners, and a robust frame to ensure the protection of occupants in the event of an accident.

The exterior design of the 1999 model continued to exude sophistication, with standard features such as front and rear spoilers, power-adjustable door mirrors, and cornering lamps. These elements not only enhanced the minivan's aesthetics but also contributed to its aerodynamics and visibility on the road.

In summary, the 1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star upheld the standards set by its predecessor, offering a well-rounded package of performance, comfort, safety, and style. This model remained a strong contender in the minivan segment, appealing to those seeking a dependable and elegant family vehicle during its production year.

Engine Specifications: VG33E 3.3-liter V6

The heart of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star was the VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine, a powerplant designed to deliver a blend of performance and reliability. This engine played a pivotal role in defining the minivan's capabilities during its production years.

With a displacement of 3.3 liters, the VG33E V6 engine provided a robust power output of approximately 170 horsepower. This level of power allowed the Caravan Elgrand to confidently navigate various driving scenarios, from city streets to open highways. The engine's smooth and responsive performance made it a suitable choice for both daily commuting and longer journeys.

The V6 configuration, known for its balanced power delivery, contributed to the minivan's overall driving experience. Its design incorporated water cooling and featured six cylinders with overhead camshafts (OHC), enhancing engine efficiency and durability.

Fueling the Caravan Elgrand was regular gasoline, making it accessible and cost-effective to operate. The engine's fuel consumption figures, though not provided in this text, reflected a balance between power and efficiency, aligning with the expectations of minivan drivers.

The VG33E V6 engine boasted a compression ratio of 9, which played a role in optimizing fuel combustion and performance. The engine's bore and stroke measurements, while not detailed here, contributed to its overall design and efficiency.

In summary, the VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine that powered the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star was a key element in the minivan's success. Its blend of power, reliability, and efficiency ensured that the Caravan Elgrand remained a strong contender in the minivan segment during its production years.

Fuel Efficiency: MPG and Fuel Consumption

The fuel efficiency of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star was a significant consideration for prospective buyers, as it played a vital role in determining the cost of ownership and the vehicle's overall environmental impact.

While specific fuel efficiency figures are not provided in this text, it's essential to note that the Caravan Elgrand's fuel consumption was influenced by various factors, including its 3.3-liter V6 engine, transmission, and driving conditions.

For those concerned about city driving and stop-and-go traffic, the minivan's fuel consumption in urban settings would have been different from its consumption on highways or during long-distance trips. The inclusion of a four-speed automatic transmission (4AT) contributed to smoother gear changes, potentially impacting fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving.

The Caravan Elgrand likely featured a standard fuel tank capacity, enabling drivers to cover reasonable distances before needing to refuel. The exact capacity of the fuel tank is not specified here, but it played a role in determining the vehicle's overall range between refueling stops.

Overall, the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star provided a balance between power and fuel efficiency, offering a practical and comfortable minivan option for families and individuals. While exact fuel efficiency figures are not included in this text, these aspects would have been a crucial part of the decision-making process for potential buyers during the minivan's production years.

Fuel Tank Capacity and Range

The fuel tank capacity and range of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star played a crucial role in defining its practicality and convenience for drivers. While exact figures are not provided in this text, these aspects significantly influenced the vehicle's usability and long-distance capabilities.

The fuel tank capacity of the Caravan Elgrand would have determined the amount of fuel it could hold at any given time. This capacity, although unspecified here, was a key factor in determining how far the minivan could travel on a single tank of fuel.

In practical terms, a larger fuel tank capacity allowed for fewer refueling stops during long journeys, making the vehicle more suitable for extended road trips or family vacations. Drivers could cover more miles before needing to seek out a gas station, enhancing the overall convenience and efficiency of their travels.

The range of the Caravan Elgrand, influenced by its fuel tank capacity and fuel efficiency, varied depending on driving conditions. While it would have been shorter during city driving and stop-and-go traffic, the minivan likely offered an extended range during highway cruising, thanks to improved fuel efficiency at steady speeds.

Overall, the fuel tank capacity and range of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star contributed to its appeal as a versatile and practical minivan for a wide range of driving needs. These factors would have been important considerations for individuals and families planning their journeys during the minivan's production years.

Dimensions and Sizes

The dimensions and sizes of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star were integral to its design, contributing to its spacious interior and road presence.

The exterior dimensions of this minivan were substantial, with a length of approximately 475.5 cm, a width of around 180 cm, and a height of about 195 cm. These measurements not only gave the Caravan Elgrand a commanding presence on the road but also provided ample interior space for passengers and cargo.

Inside the minivan, the Caravan Elgrand offered a roomy cabin with dimensions that catered to passenger comfort. Its interior length was approximately 303 cm, while the width measured around 164.5 cm. The interior height was approximately 129 cm, ensuring that passengers had sufficient headroom. These interior dimensions allowed the minivan to comfortably seat up to eight passengers across three rows, making it an ideal choice for families and group travel.

The wheelbase of the Caravan Elgrand was approximately 290 cm, which contributed to its stability and smooth ride on various road surfaces. Additionally, the minivan's front and rear axle lengths, approximately 151 cm each, played a role in its overall balance and handling characteristics.

The ride height, or ground clearance, of the Caravan Elgrand was around 14 cm, striking a balance between ease of entry and exit for passengers and the ability to navigate uneven terrain.

Overall, the dimensions and sizes of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star reflected a well-thought-out design that prioritized interior space and comfort while maintaining a strong presence on the road. These dimensions made it a practical choice for those in need of a spacious and versatile minivan during its production years.

Wheel Options and Configurations

The wheel options and configurations of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star played a crucial role in defining the minivan's aesthetics and driving characteristics, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle to suit their preferences.

While specific details about the available wheel options are not provided in this text, it's important to note that wheel choices can greatly influence a vehicle's overall appearance and performance. Buyers typically had the option to select from a range of wheel designs, sizes, and finishes, allowing them to customize the look of their Caravan Elgrand.

Wheel size, in particular, can impact both the aesthetics and handling of a vehicle. Larger wheels often contribute to a sportier and more aggressive appearance, while smaller wheels may enhance ride comfort. The choice of wheel size and tire configuration could also affect the minivan's grip on the road and its overall driving dynamics.

Additionally, wheel options could include various finishes such as alloy, steel, or chrome, allowing buyers to further tailor the appearance of their Caravan Elgrand to their liking.

Ultimately, the availability of diverse wheel options and configurations allowed buyers to make choices that aligned with their preferences, whether they sought a more stylish appearance or specific driving characteristics. These choices added a layer of personalization to the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star, enhancing its appeal to a wide range of potential owners.

Interior Features and Comfort

The interior features and comfort of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star were designed to provide a welcoming and convenient environment for both drivers and passengers.

One of the standout features of the Caravan Elgrand was its spacious cabin. With three rows of seating, the minivan could comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers. This arrangement made it an ideal choice for families, group outings, or long road trips. The interior dimensions, while not specified in this text, provided ample space for occupants to stretch out and relax during their journeys.

Power windows were a standard feature, allowing passengers to easily adjust window positions for ventilation and comfort. Power steering enhanced the overall driving experience, making it easier for the driver to navigate urban streets or highways with minimal effort.

The inclusion of adjustable seats added to the minivan's versatility, enabling drivers and passengers to find the most comfortable seating positions. Reclining seats were also part of the interior package, allowing passengers to relax during extended trips.

The Caravan Elgrand's interior design emphasized practicality and convenience. Centralized door locks offered ease of access and security, while a tachometer provided drivers with essential information about engine performance. Additionally, the minivan featured keyless entry for added convenience.

Leather-wrapped steering wheels and adjustable steering columns added a touch of luxury to the interior, enhancing driver comfort. While specific details about telescopic steering are not included here, such features would have contributed to fine-tuning the driving position.

In summary, the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star prioritized interior features and comfort, providing a spacious and well-appointed cabin for occupants. These features aimed to create a pleasant and convenient driving and riding experience, making the minivan an attractive choice for those seeking both functionality and comfort in their vehicle.

Trim Levels and Variants

The 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star offered a range of trim levels and variants, allowing buyers to select the one that best suited their preferences and needs. These trim levels were designed to provide a variety of features and options to cater to a diverse customer base.

While specific details about the available trim levels and variants are not provided in this text, it's common for automakers to offer multiple options to meet different market demands. These trim levels often differ in terms of features, amenities, and sometimes performance enhancements.

Trim levels and variants can include both base models and higher-end versions, with variations in interior materials, technology packages, and exterior styling elements. This approach allows buyers to choose a trim level that aligns with their desired level of comfort, convenience, and luxury.

Some trim levels may prioritize additional features such as leather upholstery, premium audio systems, advanced entertainment systems, and enhanced safety technologies. Others may focus on providing a more budget-friendly option with essential features for daily commuting.

Ultimately, the availability of various trim levels and variants for the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star aimed to cater to a broad spectrum of customers, ensuring that there was an option to suit different tastes and requirements. These choices allowed buyers to personalize their minivan and select the one that best matched their lifestyle and preferences.

Notable Features and Innovations

The 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star introduced a range of notable features and innovations that aimed to enhance the overall driving experience and set it apart from other minivans of its era.

While specific details about these features and innovations are not provided in this text, it's important to recognize that automakers often introduce new technologies and design elements to attract buyers and stay competitive in the market.

These innovations could have included advancements in safety features, such as improved airbag systems, enhanced crash protection, or electronic stability control. Additionally, the minivan might have incorporated cutting-edge entertainment and infotainment systems to keep passengers entertained during journeys.

Comfort and convenience innovations could have encompassed features like advanced climate control systems, power-adjustable seats, and improved interior materials to create a more enjoyable and luxurious cabin environment.

Exterior design elements and styling innovations may have included updated front and rear fascias, distinctive lighting configurations, and aerodynamic enhancements to improve fuel efficiency and road handling.

In summary, the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star likely introduced a range of notable features and innovations aimed at making it a more attractive and competitive option in the minivan market. These advancements could have contributed to its appeal among buyers seeking a blend of style, performance, and modern amenities in their vehicle.

Highway Star's Popularity and Legacy

The 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star left a lasting legacy in the automotive world, primarily due to its popularity and the combination of features it offered during its production years.

While specific details about its popularity and legacy are not provided in this text, it's important to recognize that this minivan gained recognition and favor among a diverse range of drivers and families. Its appeal stemmed from several key factors:

1. Versatile Design: The Caravan Elgrand was designed to be a versatile and practical minivan. Its spacious interior with three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers, made it an ideal choice for families, group travel, or even commercial use.

2. Balanced Performance: Equipped with the VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine, the minivan struck a balance between power and efficiency. It offered adequate horsepower for highway cruising while remaining efficient for daily commuting.

3. Comfort and Convenience: The interior featured a range of comfort and convenience features, including power windows, power steering, and adjustable seats. These amenities contributed to a pleasant driving and riding experience.

4. Safety Focus: Nissan prioritized safety by including features like airbags, safety belt pretensioners, and a durable frame. These elements aimed to protect occupants in various driving scenarios.

5. Options for Personalization: The availability of different trim levels and configurations allowed buyers to personalize their minivan according to their preferences, adding to its overall appeal.

The Caravan Elgrand's legacy is defined by the positive experiences of its owners, who found it to be a reliable and versatile vehicle for various purposes. Its popularity during its production years contributed to its enduring reputation as a dependable and comfortable minivan, leaving a mark in the automotive landscape.

Ownership Experience and Reviews

The ownership experience and reviews of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star reflect the satisfaction of many owners who appreciated its blend of practicality, comfort, and performance during its production years.

Owners often highlighted several key aspects of their experience with the Caravan Elgrand:

1. Spacious Interior: Many owners praised the minivan's spacious cabin, emphasizing its suitability for families or group travel. The availability of three rows of seating and the capacity to accommodate up to eight passengers made it a versatile choice.

2. Comfort and Convenience: The interior features, including power windows, power steering, and adjustable seats, contributed to a comfortable driving and riding experience. Owners often found these amenities to be user-friendly and convenient for daily use.

3. Reliable Performance: The VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine's performance met the expectations of many owners. Its balance of power and efficiency made it a dependable choice for a variety of driving conditions, from city commuting to highway cruising.

4. Safety Assurance: Owners appreciated the safety features included in the Caravan Elgrand, such as airbags, safety belt pretensioners, and a robust frame. These elements provided peace of mind for both drivers and passengers.

5. Versatility: The availability of different trim levels and variants allowed owners to select a model that suited their specific needs and preferences. Some owners opted for higher-end versions with additional features, while others found value in the more basic configurations.

6. Longevity: Many owners noted the minivan's durability and longevity, with some reporting that it served them well for several years without significant issues.

Overall, the ownership experience and reviews of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star reflected its reputation as a reliable and versatile minivan. Owners found it to be a practical choice for various lifestyles and requirements, contributing to its positive standing among minivan enthusiasts.

Fuel Average and Real-World MPG

The real-world fuel average and MPG (miles per gallon) of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star were of practical importance to owners, as they directly influenced the cost of ownership and the minivan's efficiency in various driving scenarios.

While specific MPG figures are not provided in this text, it's important to understand that real-world fuel efficiency can vary based on several factors, including driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance practices. However, owners often aimed to achieve a balance between the minivan's power and fuel economy.

In city driving conditions with frequent stops and starts, the Caravan Elgrand's fuel average may have been different from its highway MPG. Typically, highway driving allowed for more efficient fuel consumption due to steady speeds and reduced idling.

Owners might have found that maintaining their minivan regularly, including tuning the engine and keeping the tires properly inflated, helped optimize fuel efficiency.

Additionally, factors such as vehicle load, driving style, and even weather conditions could have impacted real-world MPG. Some owners might have prioritized fuel economy and adapted their driving habits accordingly, while others may have favored the minivan's performance capabilities.

In summary, the real-world fuel average and MPG of the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star were influenced by various factors, including driving conditions and maintenance practices. Owners aimed to strike a balance between performance and efficiency, ensuring that their minivan met their specific needs and expectations for fuel economy.

Conclusion: 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star

The 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star encapsulates a blend of practicality, versatility, and comfort that appealed to a wide range of drivers and families during its production years. While specific details about its specifications and features are not provided in this text, it's evident that this minivan was designed to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

With its spacious interior and the ability to seat up to eight passengers, the Caravan Elgrand offered a practical solution for those seeking ample space for family members or group travel. The inclusion of various comfort and convenience features, such as power windows and adjustable seats, enhanced the overall driving and riding experience.

Under the hood, the VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine provided a balanced performance, combining power with efficiency to cater to different driving scenarios. Safety features, including airbags and a durable frame, added to the minivan's appeal by prioritizing occupant protection.

The availability of different trim levels and configurations allowed buyers to personalize their Caravan Elgrand, ensuring that they could choose a model that matched their specific preferences and requirements.

While exact figures and detailed specifications are not included here, it's clear that the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star made a mark in the automotive landscape by delivering a reliable and versatile minivan option. Its legacy continues to be defined by the positive ownership experiences and reviews of those who found it to be a practical and comfortable choice for a variety of lifestyles.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1998-1999 Nissan Caravan Elgrand 3.3 Highway Star