Long the exclusive realm of American’s automakers, the full-size van segment now names the rear-wheel drive Nissan Passenger NV 3500HD among the models available. Also sold in a cargo configuration for commercial accounts, the NV3500 as a passenger van seats 12 people.
What's New for 2017
For 2017, Nissan increased the 5.6-liter V8's output by 22 percent, to 375 horsepower, and paired the brawnier engine with a new seven-speed automatic transmission.
Choosing Your Nissan Passenger NV3500 HD
The rear-wheel drive Nissan Passenger NV 3500HD is available in three trims: S, SV, and SL. Nissan claims as many as 324 possible seating configurations for this van offering room for up to 12.
A 4.0-liter, V6 with 261 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque is standard on the S and SV trims. The V6 still uses a five-speed automatic transmission.
A 5.6-liter, V8 engine with 375 horsepower and 387 pound-feet of torque is optional on the two lower trims and is standard on the SL. A seven-speed automatic is the only available transmission.
Nissan isn't required to supply fuel economy numbers for the NV, since its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) exceeds the 8,500 pounds. Cargo space behind the fourth row measures 28.9 cubic feet. Models equipped with the V8 engine are rated to pull up 8,690 pounds, but a tow rating isn't available for the V6.
All models offer four rows of seating, with bucket seats in front, a 65-35 split-bench in the second and third row, and a 50-50 split in the fourth row. The rear three rows are removable. There's a single sliding door on the passenger's side, and 50-50 French doors in back.
Nissan prices the 2017 Passenger NV 3500HD from $33,800 to $41,200. Add $1,195 for the destination charge.
S
The 2017 NV 3500HD S edition costs $35,395, including destination. Choose the V8 option and you’ll pay an extra $1,600 or $36,995.
Standard equipment includes 17-inch steel wheels and all-season tires. All models are equipped with a full-size spare, found underneath the rear cargo area. Halogen headlamps, daytime running lights, and folding side mirrors.
Inside, cloth bucket seats, a four-speaker stereo come standard, front map lights, air conditioning, and eight airbags are standard. A $650 Basic Power Package adds power windows. Available accessories include splash guards ($145), a Class-IV ball mount ($370), and an auto-dimming rear mirror ($95). Select exterior paint choices are a $400 upgrade.
SV
The SV V6 starts at $37,195, including destination. Add the V8 and you’ll pay $38,795.
The SV trim includes chrome touches on the grille, door handles, and bumpers. Keyless entry is included. Inside, power windows and door locks, an eight-way power driver’s seat, a six-speaker audio system, a front center console, and additional cup holders are standard. This model also has two 120-volt outlets and rear parking sensors.
Available options include an $1,100 Technology Package comprised of a 5.8-inch color touchscreen and a navigation system. The SV's available accessories broadly mirror the S trim's.
SL
The top-of-the-line SV trim costs from $42,395, destination fee included. This V8-only model adds fog lights.
Inside, the SL edition adds leather seats, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, navigation, NissanConnect Apps, and a six-speaker audio system with a USB port, satellite radio, and Bluetooth. Dual-zone climate control, an auto dimming rearview mirror, a rear-view camera, and a front parking sensors are also standard.
Steer clear of the V6 if you intend to maximize payload or towing. The updated V8 is the best choice, and we think the top-of-the-line SL edition offers everything most customers want. The SL is also the only model with a standard rearview camera, although one is available as part of a tech package on the SV trim.