(November 9, 2011) DETROIT — There’s an old saying about anybody who’s up for a challenge that goes, “he never backed away from a fight.” That's a tribute to Nissan North American which just announced the introduction of an all-new addition to its NV commercial van series.

The new entrant is the 2012 NV3500 HD Passenger Van. It’s set to debut in the spring of 2012. What’s significant about this vehicle is the competitive arena it’s chosen to declare war; it will be going up a trio of stalwarts in this segment — Ford’s Econoline, GMC’s Savana and Chevrolet’s Express.



Go to any hotel, airport or facility where large numbers of commercial travelers need to be transported and you’ll see the opportunities that Nissan has created for just such a vehicle.

The rear-wheel-drive NV3500 HD is available in a range of models and option packages that will fit a variety of owner needs and uses. The three well-equipped modes are the NV3500 HD S, the NV3500 HD SV, and the NV3500 HD SL (which has a V-8 engine, only).

There are two engine choices for the HD S and the HD SV: a 4.0L DOHC — a Silent Chain, Two-Stage 4-valves per cylinder V-6 that produces 261 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque; or a DOHC Single-Stage 4-valves-per-cylinder 5.6L V-8 that pumps out 317 horsepower and 385 pound feet of torque. Both are mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.

In pure passenger configuration the NV3500 can seat 12, which makes for a perfect passenger shuttle vehicle. 

Talk about seating flexibility…there are up to 324 possible seat configurations. Large 1st row seats are completely removable and repositionable 2nd and 3rd row seats; and 50/50-split 4th row seat can be partially or completely removable as needed.  Maximum cargo area behind the front seat at the floor is 120.7 cubic feet. The V6 model will tow 7,000 pounds (when properly equipped w/accessory tow hitch) and the V8 will do 9,500 pounds. With a standard 28-gallon fuel tank you’ll go far in this world, Grasshopper.

The NV Passenger Van is a handsome vehicle. Yes, it’s a large vehicle but doesn’t strike you as gawky. Its wheelbase is 146.1 inches and overall length is 240.6 inches. Without mirrors the overall width is 79.9”. Minimum ground clearance is 8.1 inches. 

Depending on the specific need Nissan might consider engineering an interim step because for the elderly and/or infirm it’s a pretty good climb to lift one’s self into the vehicle. Even a portable step that’s often used in these kinds of vehicles could be problematic. Ingress and egress, however, aren’t hindered by intrusive seat belts because the belts are integrated into the rear seats.

It has large front doors and a single right-hand sliding door. At the rear are 50/50 split French doors with 243-degree rear opening. Furthermore, NV3500 features SUV-like maneuverability and easy access for servicing due to its pickup truck-like front engine and full hood design.

NV3500 also provides mobile office support with a large center console with storage for laptop computer and charger, business cards, hanging files, pens and paper; available 120V outlets, seat wear patch, fold-down front passenger seat with under-seat storage and no engine intrusion in the cabin area.

Nissan didn’t scrimp on available technology, either. Navigation system, Bluetooth Hands-free phone system, telematics pre-wiring, XM Satellite Radio and integrated rear view camera are yours for the equipping.

Nor was safety a second thought. Integrated seat belts for all rear seating positions, standard headrests for all seating positions and segment-exclusive standard side curtain air bags for all four rows of passengers are all standard as are Traction Control System, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Vehicle security system with alarm and a host of passive safety items.

There are a slew of option packages offered – each one better than the last. Pricing won’t be announced until closer to its introduction next Spring but according to various Nissan officials it will be competitive with other vehicles in the segment but is expected to offer more content. The vehicle will be manufactured at the company’s Canton, Mississippi plant.

It will be available through a select network of certified Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide.

— Al Vinikour, MotorwayAmerica