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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2013 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger

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Overview

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2013 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Review

By KBB.com Editors

The NV is Nissan's recent entry in the full-size van market, and is meant to take on the venerable but aging models from Ford and General Motors. Introduced in 2012, the Nissan NV is available as a cargo van or passenger van. Cargo models have a vast amount of space suitable for a variety of tasks and are available with a raised roof, while passenger versions can transport up to 12 people. Each is offered with the choice of a V6 or V8 engine. Along with its overall freshness, strong engines and relatively refined ride in what has become a stale segment, the 2013 Nissan NV has a competitive price that begins at just over $26,000 for cargo models and around $33,000 for passenger versions.

You'll Like This Car If...

The 2013 Nissan NV offers a lot of vehicle and flexibility for the money. If you need a full-size van that accommodates much cargo or can transport up to 12 people, the NV is a much fresher platform than its Ford E-Series and GM rivals, and a less-expensive one than that offered by the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you want your van to have a diesel engine or all-wheel drive, look to Mercedes-Benz's Sprinter or the Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana twins for the diesel option, or, for all-wheel drive, the Chevy/GMC models. Meanwhile, Ford's all-new Transit full-size van is just around the corner to replace the E-Series. If you need something smaller and more fuel efficient, look to Ford's Transit Connect or Nissan's own NV200.

How It Ranks

#4

out of 21

Horsepower

#3

out of 18

Consumer Ratings

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Consumer Rating

9.5 out of 10

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consumer ratings

2013 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Low/wide front photo

What's New for 2013

As it was just introduced in 2012, changes are minimal for the 2013 Nissan NV. They include a vinyl wear patch added to the inside bolster of front-row cloth seats, and three new exterior colors.

Driving the NV3500 HD Passenger

2013 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions The standard powerplant in the 2013 Nissan NV1500, NV2500 HD cargo and NV3500 passenger van is Nissan's trusty 4.0-liter V6 that proves surprisingly capable in this big hauler. Even with...

a full crew aboard, the V6 pulls strongly, though it does tend to labor a bit once up to speed. Those needing more power to easily haul or tow heavier loads should look to the bigger 5.6-liter V8, standard in the NV3500 HD cargo and the top NV passenger model. That engine grants the NV with a maximum payload capacity of 3,925 pounds and towing maximum of 9,500 pounds. The Nissan NV's ride and handling are about what you'd expect from a rolling brick. That said, we appreciate the NV's suspension, which does a good job stabilizing this big vehicle in turns. Its 45.2-foot turning diameter is large, but betters that of the Ford E-Series and Chevy Express. The NV's acceleration ability allows it to keep up with its Ford and GM rivals, and is better than the slower (but fuel efficient) diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Favorite Features

INTEGRATED SEAT BELTS
If you've ever had to wrangle your way past a web of ceiling-mounted seat belts to reach the back of a shuttle, the Nissan NV's clever way of integrating the belts into the seats is a welcome solution.

INTERIOR FLEXIBILITY
The NV offers not just a lot of interior space – it offers that room in a smart way for better utilization. The front passenger seat in cargo versions of the van, for example, folds forward to create a work station, while hooks, floor-mounted D-rings and multiple mounting points allow you to secure all manner of items in the NV's rear cavity.

2013 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Details

2013 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

As the 2013 Nissan NV is available as a cargo or passenger van, it's not surprising that their interiors are a tale of two vehicles. In cargo form, the NV seats just a driver and passenger, with the rest of the space in back ready to hold whatever you wish, from boxes of widgets to customized shelving and hardware to suit the task at hand. For those needing the most space, models with the high roof option expand cargo volume to 323.1 cubic feet, vs. the 234.1 cubic feet in standard-roof models. Passenger versions of the Nissan NV, on the other hand, have four rows of seats that hold a total of 12 passengers: two bucket seats up front, followed by a pair of 3-seat benches, and a 4-across bench in the back. The rear rows of seats are removable for added cargo flexibility (Nissan counts a total of 324 seating configurations).

Exterior

As with the interior, the Nissan NV's exterior profile comes in two different forms depending on which roof you choose: standard or high. With the standard roof, which is the only option on passenger models, the NV looks like one massive rectangle on wheels. The high-roof option is available on NV2500 HD and NV3500 cargo versions and extends the NV's slab higher, albeit with a sharply angled front that extends from the windshield. With the high roof option, a 6-foot-tall person can stand upright in the cargo hold. Windows can be added to the sides and rear of the NV to open up the space and increase visibility. A sliding door on the passenger side allows entry to the NV's rear, while the back doors have a 243-degree maximum opening range for easier loading.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Standard features in a base NV1500 cargo van include air conditioning, scads of cargo mounts, pre-wiring for electrical upfitting, a tilt (but not telescoping) steering wheel, a 2-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input, and electronic traction control. Base passenger models include seating for 12 with a dozen rear heating and cooling vents, eight cup holders/three bottle holders, and a total of four speakers for the audio system. The lowest trims of both passenger and cargo models still use manual crank windows and doorlocks (for a few hundred dollars more you can get the Power Basic Package that rectifies this and adds cruise control).

Optional Equipment

Upgrades for the Nissan NV include a navigation system, Bluetooth wireless communication, front and side-curtain airbags, dual-zone air conditioning (passenger models), a power driver's seat, remote keyless entry, and a rear-view monitor. A V8 engine, standard on top trims, is available on the NV2500 cargo and the two lower versions of passenger models in lieu of the V6. Top trims of each version have many of these features, including rear sonar system and, in passenger models, leather-appointed seats that are heated in front. Those who need to tow can add a Class IV tow hitch receiver.

Under the Hood

2013 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Engine photo

The 2013 Nissan NV comes with a 261-horsepower V6 engine that easily out-powers the V6 offered in the GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express. Optional on other models and standard in top trims is a more powerful 5.6-liter V8 good for 385 horsepower that also outpowers the comparable V8s offered in vans by Ford and GM. Both engines run on regular unleaded gasoline and are connected to 5-speed automatic transmissions. All Nissan NV vans are rear-wheel drive. The EPA has yet to supply fuel economy ratings for the 2013 Nissan NV.

4.0-liter V6
261 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
281 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

5.6-liter V8
317 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm
385 lb-ft of torque @ 3,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

Pricing Notes

The Nissan NV cargo van has a Manufacturer's Suggest Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $26,415. Passenger versions begin just under $33,000. A well-equipped cargo version can reach the mid-$30,000 range, while a loaded passenger version hovers around $40,000. At its base price, the 2013 Nissan NV cargo is in line with base versions of the GMC Savana/Chevy Express, slightly less than a base Ford E-Series, and several thousand less than a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Before buying, be sure to check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price below to see what others in your area are paying for the Nissan NV. Over the years, the Nissan NV is expected to hold its value as well as or better than its Ford and GM rivals.

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2013 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.5

Out of 10

Based on 6 Ratings for the 2012 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.7/10

Quality

9.3/10
Reliability

8.0/10

Performance

9.7/10
Comfort

9.5/10

Styling

9.3/10

Very comfortable and very good work van.

By reacherman (GA) on Saturday, May 04, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 43,796

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Ride and room"

Cons: "gas mileage...loaded need v8"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I brought my V6 hightop used with 36,000 miles. Empty I got about 18 mpg. Since I have loaded the van with my tools and equipment. I am now getting 13 mpg. This van is the best work van I have owned. The ride is smoothe and firm. I have a lot of leg room and head room in my van. The V6 is strong and qiuet. The only thing I wish for was a v8."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Very very nicely done Nissan. This is a hit

By BarsaDave (Canada) on Wednesday, January 16, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 18,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 1/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "work friendly,smart, comfortable"

Cons: "transmission shifts a lot around 50 kph"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this 2 weeks ago used and drove it 1500kms home and just love it.It has 25000km and works like a charm. For work I haul around 1500pounds of stuff and the V6 works very well and is ample power. On the highway I got 18mpg and my combined now is showing about 16. Nissan have done a great job making sure of a convenient, comfortable and smart work truck with their amazing back doors and side sliding door. Inside everything is nicely done with grab handles to power outlets to tye downs and lots of compartments which I find great.I have a 2007 Chevy Express 2500 which is going for sale and good bye. If Chevy and Ford don't wake up the NV is going to kick their butt. There is no comparison in the boxes and comfort of the Nissan to the Chevy. I did not rate the reliability as I just purchased it but the previous owner said there were no issues whatsoever with it."

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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Best 12 passenger van available hands down.

By Family of 10 (TX) on Sunday, January 06, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 5,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: Not Rated
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Quiet, comfortable, safer. Tows very well."

Cons: "dash board set up poor."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Just returned from a Tx to FL trip with 9 us in the van and towing a 30 ft. travel trailer. This van blows away my previous vans; a 2002 Dodge 3500 and the 2007 Ford E350XLT 6.0 Turbo-diesel that I traded in on this. The handling , comfort, stability and power of this van are all impressive. The transmission is amazing in how it handles towing a large load, I never once had to floor it. The three 12 volt and two 120volt outlets were very handy. Without a trailer the backup camera makes parking this beast absolutely easy. Biggest drawbacks; not offered with running boards or any type of video options. This van is the only one to have for large families like ours"

9 people out of 9 found this review helpful

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Hands down best work van ever made!

By Big fan (SC) on Friday, March 23, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Ride, looks, power, gas milage,etc"

Cons: "Ladder rack placement"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have owned the van for four months now and have now complaints at all! I that time I have put over 15000 miles on the NV1500 and it is alot smoother then the ford or chevy that I have driven owned in the past. If they can build enough of them this will take the place of the Ford and Chevy models now offered. They have not left anything out on this Van. Now with eveything there are good and bad points. The good is ride, gas milage, power, space, looks(everyone wants to know what it is?), and the rear doors make loading and unloading much easier. Now the only bad thing I have found so far is the ladder rack mounting points. They offer alot of different options put the rear one is not back far enough. It is hard to put large ladders on the van without scratching the roof. Besides that I would recomends this to anyone loking at buying a new work van."

23 people out of 23 found this review helpful

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Far more comfortable than any other cargo van...

By TinyTim (CA) on Tuesday, September 27, 2011

I don't own this car

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Comfort, functionality, storage, cargo area"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"So I have driven the NV on a few test drives and would have to say the lack of the engine inside the vehicle like the Chevrolet and Ford makes it by far the most comfortable van I've ever driven. Very comfortable seats and a ton of foot and legroom. I set the cruise control on the 2500 Low Roof V6 and the computer stated 18.6 MPG's which was great as fuel eceonomy is a concern for me. I have driven many Chevrolet and Ford Cargo Vans over the years and the NV is by far a superior product. The walls of the van are straight and with the shelves I saw at the dealer looks like a lot less wasted space. It will be nice to finally have a center console, cup holders and storage for my laptop and the under seat storage drawers are a nice touch. As far as there being too much plastic, I guess there is a lot of it but it seems well put together... I was interested more in the V6 when I heard it had more HP than the Ford V8 engine and still got better fuel economy. All in all a great van, especially for someone in their van ALL day"

43 people out of 43 found this review helpful

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I like my NV2500 SV V6 so far, some reservations

By DoubleD on Tuesday, May 31, 2011

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 7/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "More comfortable than the competition, reasonable price"

Cons: "Questionable exterior fit and finish, lack of OEM parts and accessories"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"With under 1,000 miles on the odometer the NV is almost everthing promised. Since Nissan doesn't post MPG on commercial vehicles I thought it might be helpful to oters to know that my NV2500 SV with the 4.0 V6 gets between 16- 17 mpg (better than my 5.4 F150 Supercrew) with a mix of local and highway miles. The interior is very nice compared to the E150, although, if you're alergic to plastic you're in trouble. The reason my "Value", "Quality," and "Overall" ratings are 3's and 4's relate to exterior fit and finish. If you are considering buying one of these vans be sure to check the finish on the roof. While watertight, spotwelds are visible on the roof (through the paint), seams in the various sections of roof look a little "forced", and locations where the roof rack brackets attach to the roof (on my van) are down-right sloppy. There are large amounts of what appears to be the sealant "goop" spread throughout the channel containing the roof brackets, and this entire mess is painted over. While functionally the roof does it's job, and because of it's out-of-sight it may not be a big deal to some buyers, but it just seems sloppy for a new vehicle. Hopefully Nissan will address these quality issues. The final issue relates to any new vehicle I suppose, but, be sure that any options that you want on the vehicle are installed at the factory not by the dealer (if possible). In my case, I wanted the rear door glass package and shock-sensors on the van, and was told that they could be added later (they would arrive in "about 2 weeks"). Well, after 3 weeks they are still not available, and it is unclear when they will become available, at what price, and whether they will be as good as the factory installed options (i.e.,whether or not the windows will have defrosters, etc.). All in all I like my NV. Once the options I want are installed it should serve it's purpose for the next 8- 10 years. We'll see..."

77 people out of 78 found this review helpful

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