2017 Nissan NV200 Review

Picking a 2017 Nissan NV200 largely comes down to getting a version that matches your needs. As a basic work van, the NV200 S will work out fine as it comes with a decent set of features, including air-conditioning and power windows and locks. To get more a more comfortable and convenient van for th...

The high profile and boxy shape of this 3,280-pound van make it susceptible to crosswinds. Initial turn-in is quick, which is helpful when making low-speed parking lot maneuvers.

The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes 131 horsepower and is paired to a CVT. Unladen, this combo is enough to maintain good momentum in typical driving, but it could use more power for large loads. In our testing, it accelerated from 60 mph in 10.0 seconds.

The NV's braking is perfectly fine for everyday driving applications. The pedal is reasonably firm and predictable. But in our simulated panic-braking test, it stopped from 60 mph in 137 feet, which is long, considering how small this van is.

A lack of roll stiffness keeps the NV calm and predictable in normal driving. Because of this it leans considerably through corners, amplified by a high center of gravity. But in most situations you won't notice how soft it is.

The high profile and boxy shape of this 3,280-pound van make it susceptible to crosswinds. Initial turn-in is quick, which is helpful when making low-speed parking lot maneuvers.

The NV200, and the base S version in particular, doesn't offer much in the way of creature comforts. Settle into the driver seat, and the tilt-only steering wheel may make it hard for you to find an ideal driving position.

A lack of steering wheel adjustment will negatively impact the ability of some to find a comfortable driving position. The sloping door panel design makes for a poor armrest. There is a center armrest for the driver only.

The ride quality is average on a scale of work vans and trucks, and that's with the small, 15-inch tires. The ride will also be affected if you load the van to its max payload.

The interior is stark. There isn't a lot of "stuff" inside the cabin. But controls are simple yet effective, and access to the front seats is easy. The cargo area is equally accessible with a low load floor.

The instrument panel gauges are pretty basic, and the controls are a collection of dials, easy-to-use knobs and clearly marked buttons. The fuel-filler neck is very low. Six-footers will need to bend down awkwardly to fuel the van.

The front doors open to nearly 90 degrees for great access to the front seats. Sliding cargo doors on either side open fully for access to the load area. The rear barn doors also open 90 degrees or more.

Large side-view mirrors with blind-spot bubbles are useful. Visibility is limited, obviously, if the van doesn't come with the optional door or panel windows. A rear camera is optional.

There were some squeaks and rattles from the cargo area. We consider this borderline acceptable given the nature of the vehicle and the fact that even the smallest of noises is amplified when the van is empty.

The NV200's cargo hold offers 122.7 cubic feet of space, with a maximum payload of 1,480 pounds. Though that's not bad, to put those numbers into perspective, the Ram ProMaster City checks in at 131.7 cubic feet and 1,883 pounds of payload. The SV model makes securing cargo easy with its half-dozen...

The rear cargo loading area is 4.7 feet wide by 3.9 feet tall by 6.7 feet deep, measured by way of the rear barn doors. Sliding doors grant access on both sides of the van. There are cargo mounting points throughout the storage area.