As many of you are aware, I was at the NTEA Work Truck Show this past week, and many of you have asked about this particular truck, the new Nissan NV. This truck was introduced at this very show a year ago, and they are now showing up at Nissan Commercial Dealers now. So, is this new van competitive with the domestic Econoline or Savanna/Express products, and how well does it compete with the Sprinter?


The Nissan NV is offered in three models; The NV1500, NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD. The NV will come to market with a single 146.1-inch wheelbase. The High Roof trim (available only on NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD models) provides for 76.5 inches of cargo height. The NV went in an unusual design direction compared with the rival domestic commercial vans with its long-hood design, which allows for most engine service work to be performed from under the hood. Ford and GM models require dismantling the interior to perform service work.

The NV will come with a 4.0-liter V6 engine or an optional 5.6-liter V8 (Standard on the 3500 HD). Both engines will use a five-speed automatic to route power to the rear wheels. High Roof models will provide over 300 cubic feet of cargo space, which is enough room for most owners to stand up straight in the cargo area. The front passenger seat will fold down to increase work space. An in-dash navigation system will be optional, as will Bluetooth capability, something not offered by either Ford or GM.

The real competitor to the NV is the Sprinter Van, which is available with two wheelbases, two roof heights, and is available in 2500 and 3500 models. The short wheelbase model is comparable to the NV at 144 inches, and offers 371 cubic feet of cargo space. However, with almost the same cargo capacity, the 2500 HD NV is price at $27,990, while the Sprinter starts out at $38,350, giving the High Roof Nissan a distinct price advantage.

There were several on display at the show, with two located within the Adrian Steel Booth showing off their shelving product. With the combination of price and cargo flexibility, this will be a strong competitor to the established domestic vans, as well as offering an alternative to the Sprinter. There will be more offerings in this once morbid sector in the coming months which include a new Fiat based Ram Van, and the Ford full sized Transit which will replace much of the 20+ year old Econoline.