2015 Nissan NV1500 Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
The 2015 Nissan NV1500 adds an updated NissanConnect with navigation and mobiles apps. Cargo vans gain a new SL trim with eight-way power driver's seat, supplemental airbags and chrome bumpers, grille, door handles and mirror caps, and wheels.
Vehicle Summary
The 2015 NV1500 is a commercial van sold in three grades, two roof heights, three wheelbase (NV2500 and NV3500) lengths, and two engine choices.
Overview
The 2015 Nissan NV1500 is available with a 4.0-liter V-6 producing 261 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque or a 5.6-liter V-8 with 317 hp and 385 lb-ft paired to a five-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is good with the V-8 even when loaded up while braking is decent gives drivers some confidence when stopping. Ride quality, however, is unimpressive particularly when the van is empty. Towing capacity is generous with up to 9,500 pounds on the NV3500 powered by the V-8 engine.
Interior refinement is lacking due to the cabin's lack of sound insulation, making it loud. Space is generous in cargo variants with up to 323 cubic feet of space and a maximum payload of 3,925 pounds in the high roof variant of the NV3500. Passenger variants are able to accommodate up to 12 passengers and can be configured depending on the operator's needs. Storage cubbies inside are also plentiful while tech features such as a rearview camera, aux input and navigation system give the car an impressive amount of convenience options.
The 2015 Nissan NV1500 has not been crash tested by the NHTSA or the IIHS.
What We Think
The 2015 Nissan NV1500 and its larger NV2500 and NV3500 variants are good choices in the commercial vehicle segment due to their flexible interiors, and generous cargo and towing capacity. Both cargo and passenger variants offer a high level of versatility that allows owners to configure the car in a numerous ways depending on their needs. During a 2012 long-term test, we said that the myriad of ways that cargo can be secured inside and the wide door openings made loading and unloading gear "effortless." Interior refinement, however, is lacking due to the lack of sound insulation, making the cabin loud and noisy. Ride quality is also a weak point due to it being bouncy especially when the van is empty.
Key Competitors
- Ram ProMaster
- Ford Transit
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
- Chevrolet Express
- GMC Savana
