Overview

What's New for 2021

Nissan offers the 12-passenger NV Passenger in three trim levels: S, SV, and SL.

The S trim starts at around $37,000, putting it on the less expensive end of the segment. Standard features include daytime running lights, a backup camera, power side mirrors, cloth and vinyl upholstery, remote keyless entry, power windows, front and rear air conditioning, cruise control, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and a USB input.

The SV adds amenities like navigation, satellite radio, an upgraded audio system, household-style power outlets, chrome body trim, a power driver's seat, and rear parking sensors for around $39,500.

The top-of-the-line SL is priced from $44,000, coming with a V8 engine, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a leather steering wheel, front/rear parking sensors, fog lights, heated mirrors, a tow hitch, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The NV Passenger comes standard with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 261 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel-drive, the powertrain provides adequate power around town and hauling passengers, though it is not class-leading. It comes with a 2,000-lb towing capacity.

For those wanting more power and strength, the SL trim uses a 5.6-liter V8 similar to the one in the Nissan Armada. It makes a little less power here -- 375 hp and 387 lb-ft of torque -- but those figures are superb. A 7-speed automatic is standard. The burly V8 offers smooth power on long-haul trips, and it gives owners a massive 8,700 lbs of towing.

Full-size passenger vans tend to lack their smaller minivan siblings' style and technology, and the Nissan NV is no exception. Its cabin styling feels more like an SUV, with a tall dashboard made from durable plastic. It also has big side mirrors and an elevated ride height, giving the driver excellent outward visibility on the road. The seats are comfortable, even those in the rearmost rows. All of the seats can slide and fold for any configuration one desires. Seats can also be removed for a balance between passenger and cargo space.

There are helpful slide-out cup holders under the seats. The front row gets a concealed stowage box for holding emergency supplies, electronics, or other small items. Some of the in-cabin tech is outdated, though. To get the optional navigation system, one must downgrade in touchscreen size, from 7- to 5.8 inches. Driver-assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are not available either.