Nissan Safari 1987-1997 used car review

The Nissan Safari is a tough, durable and work-ready large SUV.

Richard Edwards
Richard Edwards
Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group
Exterior , 2.5 out of 5 Drive , 2.5 out of 5 Safety , 3 out of 5 Value , 3.5 out of 5 Interior , 4 out of 5

Overall score , 3.1 out of 5

The good
  • Strong and durable with a solid reputation for reliability
  • Excellent off road even in its standard form
  • Good load capacity
The not-so-good
  • Tow rating low for the vehicle’s size
  • Ride and handling soft and bouncy
  • Poor second-row legroom

Inside and out

On the road

Safety

Reliability

Cost of ownership

Buyers’ guide

Variants

Timeline

Details

Review vehicle

1995 Nissan Safari Kingsroad

Price

$24,000 to $25,000 for models which have travelled 70,000 to 120,000km

Engine

4.2-litre four-cylinder turbocharged, 107kW/330Nm (claimed)

Transmission

Four-speed automatic, four-wheel drive

Safety rating

Three-star Used Car Safety Rating (NZ model)

Servicing

10,000km or six months

Spare wheel

Full size wheel

Fuel economy

12-litres per 100km (reported)

Fuel type

Diesel

Length

4845mm

Width

1930mm

Height

1815mm - varies by model

Towing capacity

750kg (unbraked), 2500kg (braked)

Turning circle

12.5m

Image gallery

Richard Edwards Richard Edwards
Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group