2021 Nissan NV Passenger
2021 Nissan NV Passenger Review
- Simple model and options structure
- Multiple seating configurations
- Easy-to-use cabin controls
- Feels solid and easy to drive on the road
- No 15-passenger option like some rivals
- Not as fuel-efficient as others in the class
- Hard plastic on armrest areas
- Navigation now standard on SV trim level
- Part of the first NV generation introduced for 2012
With the dawn of minivans in the early 1980s, the full-size passenger van, based on boxed-ladder truck frames, seemed doomed. And, mostly, it was. Large passenger vans remained fringe vehicles relegated to work crews, church groups, and buyers who wanted pint-size RVs. But with advances in fuel economy, comfort and tech, and the advent of a wandering subculture of digital nomads, the big passenger van is back in a big way.
The 2021 Nissan NV Passenger remains a favorite in the rekindled van market thanks to its strong engines, robust towing capability and smart, value-oriented pricing. With a choice of V6 or V8 engine, the NV Passenger can tow between 6,200 and 8,700 pounds. Inside, the seats that make up its three rear rows can be removed or configured in multiple ways, adjusting for cargo, carrying long items, or easiest entry and exit. Even the front passenger seat can fold flat for added versatility. And while its dash and cabin materials feel dated, the controls are large and easy to access and operate.
The NV's limitations may dissuade some buyers, however. While its Ford, Ram and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter rivals can seat up to 15 passengers, the NV offers room for just 12. The NV also comes with a bare minimum of driver assistance features (front and rear parking sensors are about as good as it gets here) and a rudimentary infotainment system and only offers rear-wheel drive. Ford and Mercedes both offer optional all-wheel drive.
But the NV fits the bill as an all-around van adept at carrying passengers and cargo and pulling a trailer or boat, and does it at an attractive price. If you can live with some of its old tech and no-frills cabin quality, the NV Passenger makes a compelling option.
Which NV Passenger does Edmunds recommend?
Nissan NV Passenger models
The 2021 Nissan NV Passenger van is a rear-wheel-drive full-size van with seating for up to 12 passengers. (The two-passenger NV Cargo van is reviewed separately.) It comes in one payload designation, NV3500 HD, and three trim levels — S, SV and SL — with a choice of two engines.
2021 Nissan NV Passenger pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $38,355
- MPG & Fuel
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 28.0 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 12 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Engine
- V6 cylinder
- Horsepower: 261 hp @ 5600 rpm
- Torque: 281 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 5 yr./ 100000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 240.6 in. / Height: 84.0 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 99.5 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 79.9 in.
- Curb Weight: 6713 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 28.9 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite NV Passenger safety features:
- NissanConnect
- Automatically calls for help in the event of a collision. Roadside assistance is also just a button push away.
- Rearview Camera
- Shows you what's behind the NV Passenger before you move.
- Rear Sonar
- Starts beeping if you're getting close to an object while reversing. The beeping gets more frequent as you get closer.
Nissan NV Passenger vs. the competition
2021 Nissan NV Passenger
2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Nissan NV Passenger vs. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is the most expensive pick of the passenger van group, but it also sets the bar for passenger van comfort and refinement. It seats up to 15 people (the NV is limited to 12) and offers an optional diesel engine and four-wheel drive, a cutting-edge infotainment system, and a choice of the standard or tall roof. Several driver aids are also available. The Sprinter's payload and towing capacities, however, aren't quite as robust as the Nissan's.
Nissan NV Passenger vs. Ford Transit Passenger Van
The Ford Transit Passenger is nearly as old as the NV but doesn't look it. Ford continues to modernize the Transit's tech and cabin materials, offering features such as all-wheel drive, forward collision mitigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Like the Sprinter, the Transit can seat up to 15 passengers. It's available in multiple configurations, so choosing one isn't as easy as with the NV's simplified structure, but you can also tailor the Ford more closely to your needs.
Nissan NV Passenger vs. Ram ProMaster Window Van
If you think the Nissan's configurations and pricing are streamlined, check out the Ram ProMaster Window Van lineup. The ProMaster is available with 12- or 15-passenger seating, a single roof option (high) and a single engine choice: a 3.6-liter gasoline V6. Like the Nissan, the Ram also offers impressive towing and payload capacity, but it rides rough and there's one big catch: Rear seats must be purchased through a third party, negating much of the Ram's straightforward appeal.
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FAQ
Is the Nissan NV Passenger a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Nissan NV Passenger?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Nissan NV Passenger:
- Navigation now standard on SV trim level
- Part of the first NV generation introduced for 2012
Is the Nissan NV Passenger reliable?
Is the 2021 Nissan NV Passenger a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Nissan NV Passenger?
The least-expensive 2021 Nissan NV Passenger is the 2021 Nissan NV Passenger 3500 S 3dr Van (4.0L 6cyl 5A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $36,860.
Other versions include:
- 3500 S 3dr Van (4.0L 6cyl 5A) which starts at $36,860
- 3500 SV 3dr Van (4.0L 6cyl 5A) which starts at $39,310
- 3500 SL 3dr Van (5.6L 8cyl 7A) which starts at $43,610
