NEW FOR 2015:
– New next-generation CVT transmission
– Standard heavy-duty alternator
– Upgraded optional navigation system with NissanConnect
– Added wide-angle spotter mirror
– Improved warranty: 60 month / 160,000 km comprehensive
– New colours: Cayenne Red, Graphite Blue
While it may look the same on the outside, Nissan has given its little NV200 a whole host of upgrades to keep it appealing in light of new competitors – including its captive import twin, the Chevrolet City Express.
For 2015, the NV200 receives upgrades to its powertrain. A heavy-duty alternator now comes standard, as does Nissan’s next-gen Xtronic CVT transmission which reduces drone under acceleration and improves real-world fuel efficiency but results in a slightly reduced payload capacity. Meanwhile, on the SV trim with the optional Technology Package, the navigation system has been upgraded to feature NissanConnect Apps. Were this not enough, Nissan has upgraded the comprehensive warranty from 36 months and 60,000 km to 60 months and 160,000 km. The powertrain warranty continues at 60 months, but offers an added 60,000 km of coverage for a total of 160,000 km.
Based on the Nissan B-Platform, which is shared with the Versa and other small vehicles, the NV200 is diminutive compared to other commercial vehicles making it a great fit for urban use. It has been optimized to deal with heavy loads with a solid rear axle and commercial-grade suspension. Twenty mounting points, hardboard (wood) panels, and a width that’ll accommodate a 40×48 pallet make it a useful tool indeed. Unlike the Ford Transit Connect or the Ram ProMaster City, the NV200 isn’t offered as a passenger wagon.
The NV200 comes powered by a simple 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that develops 131 hp and 139 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired to a CVT transmission. While this combo is adequate for city use under light loads, it’s the least powerful model in the segment. On the flip side, operating costs are very low.
The NV200 is offered in two trims: S and SV.
Standard equipment includes 15-inch steel wheels, black bumpers, black door handles, black exterior mirrors, silver grille, dual power heated exterior mirrors with integrated spotter mirror, front vinyl flooring, six roof-rack mounting points, 60/40 split rear cargo doors, 180-degree rear cargo doors, dual side sliding doors, splash guards, air conditioning, 20 integrated and reinforced cargo mounting points, telematics pre-wiring, overhead map lights, cargo area light, hardboard interior cargo panels, rear cargo floor protector, power windows with one-touch auto-down, cruise control, intermittent wipers, trip computer, Mobile Office centre console with laptop storage, upper dash bin, passenger under-seat tray, front map pockets, 12-volt DC power outlet, cloth upholstery, driver’s armrest, six-way manual driver’s seat with lumbar support, four-way manual flat-folding passenger seat, AM/FM/CD stereo with two speakers, aux-in jack, and tire-pressure monitoring system.
Bluetooth package adds Bluetooth and MP3 capable stereo.
SV adds 15-inch wheels with wheel covers, chrome grille, body-colour mirrors, and body-colour bumpers, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, six floor-mounted D-rings in cargo area, remote keyless entry, power door locks with auto-lock, dual 12-volt power outlets, and an MP3-capable stereo.
The Technology Package adds 5.8-inch navigation display with NissanConnect apps, reverse camera, USB audio input, text-messaging assistant, and satellite radio.
Both S and SV can be had with the Rear Door Glass Package that adds rear doors with privacy glass, rear defroster, and rearview mirror.
