INTRODUCTION

The 2021 Nissan NV is a full-size commercial van available in both cargo and passenger configurations. Known for its rugged body-on-frame construction, powerful V8 engine option, and spacious interior, the NV was designed to meet the needs of small business owners, contractors, and fleet operators. The 2021 model year marked the final production year for the NV line in North America, as Nissan shifted focus away from commercial vans in the U.S. market.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

The Nissan NV series was introduced in 2011 as Nissan’s first full-size commercial van in North America, competing with the Ford Transit, Chevrolet Express, and Ram ProMaster. Built in Canton, Mississippi, the NV aimed to offer a pickup truck-like driving experience with the cargo capabilities of a van. By 2021, the NV had gained a loyal following among tradespeople and small fleet operators but was ultimately discontinued due to competitive pressure and Nissan’s strategic realignment.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 2021 Nissan NV was offered with two engine choices:

• 4.0L V6 engine (NV1500 and base NV2500)

  • 261 horsepower

  • 281 lb-ft of torque

  • 5-speed automatic transmission

  • Rear-wheel drive

• 5.6L V8 engine (Available on NV2500 HD, standard on NV3500 HD)

  • 375 horsepower

  • 387 lb-ft of torque

  • 7-speed automatic transmission

  • Rear-wheel drive only

The V8 engine gave the NV best-in-class horsepower and impressive towing capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,400 lbs, depending on configuration.

DESIGN & FEATURES

The 2021 NV retained a traditional, upright design with a tall roof option available for increased cargo versatility:

Exterior Features:

• Wide-opening rear cargo doors (243° swing-out)

• Optional high-roof model with 6’3” standing height

• Sliding side door for cargo/passenger access

• Truck-like front end and body-on-frame chassis

Interior Features:

• Available in 2-seat cargo and 12-seat passenger configurations

• Fold-flat front passenger seat (cargo models)

• High-roof models allow shelving installation and standing work space

• 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (SV trims)

• Generous cupholders, bins, and under-seat storage

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The 2021 NV was available in multiple configurations across three weight classes:

NV1500 (Cargo Van Only)

• Engine: 4.0L V6

• Roof: Standard roof only

• Payload: ~2,590 lbs

• Trim: S, SV

NV2500 HD (Cargo Van)

• Engines: 4.0L V6 or 5.6L V8

• Roof: Standard or high-roof

• Payload: ~3,500 lbs

• Trim: S, SV, SL (V8 only)

NV3500 HD (Cargo & Passenger Van)

• Engine: 5.6L V8 only

• Roof: Standard or high-roof (cargo); only standard roof for passenger

• Payload: Up to 3,850 lbs (cargo); seats up to 12 passengers (passenger)

• Trim: S, SV, SL (more luxury in passenger version)

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Safety features on the 2021 NV included:

• Front-seat side-impact airbags and roof-mounted curtain airbags

• Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)

• Rearview camera (standard on SV and SL)

• Parking sensors (available on SL trims)

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Tech features:

• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment (SV and SL)

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

• Bluetooth hands-free and streaming

• USB ports and available navigation

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

The EPA does not provide fuel economy ratings for commercial vans over 8,500 lbs GVWR, but real-world estimates for the 2021 NV are:

• V6 models: ~14–16 MPG combined

• V8 models: ~11–13 MPG combined

The NV includes a 28-gallon fuel tank, allowing for approximately 300–400 miles of range depending on load and driving habits.

MARKET COMPARISON

The 2021 Nissan NV competed with:

• Ford Transit – More modern, with AWD options and better MPG

• Ram ProMaster – FWD layout, better turning radius, front-drive traction

• Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana – Similar RWD architecture but less tech

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – More advanced, but significantly more expensive

The NV stood out for its truck-like feel, V8 power, and standard body-on-frame construction, but lagged behind competitors in customization options and modern safety tech.

PRICING

• Original MSRP (2021):

  • NV1500: ~$31,000

  • NV2500 HD: ~$33,000–$38,000

  • NV3500 HD (Passenger): ~$36,000–$42,000

• Used Market (2025):

  • Cargo Vans: ~$18,000–$32,000 depending on mileage and condition

  • Passenger Vans: ~$22,000–$38,000

High-roof and V8 configurations fetch higher resale values, especially among tradespeople and small fleet buyers.

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Consistently praised for reliability and V8 performance

• Strong reputation for low maintenance costs and long-term durability

• Received recognition for cargo space and ease of upfitting in fleet circles

• Holds high resale value due to its commercial appeal and limited supply after discontinuation