2020 Nissan NV Passenger Review: Convict-Approved

The first-generation NV Passenger Van was introduced back in 2012, and little did Nissan know that it would wear the crown of the ugliest car on US roads for the next eight years. Yes, it's not a looker, but the 2020 Nissan NV Passenger Van does bring a lot to the table. It's a no-nonsense people carrier offered in three trim levels with two powerful engine options, including a 5.6-liter V8 gas engine producing an impressive 375 horsepower and 387 lb-ft of torque. For 2020, the NV Passenger sees no updates and goes head to head with competitors such as the Ford Transit Passenger Van and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Passenger Van. But a low price, strong engines, and the reliability inherent from its Nissan Titan underpinnings mean this passenger van, which seats up to 12 occupants, has more than enough going for it, even if it is just as a regular prop in any movie as prisoner transport.

2020 NV Passenger Exterior

Dimensions

LengthWheelbaseHeightMax Width
240.6 in146.1 in84.0 in79.9 in


2020 NV Passenger Performance

2020 NV Passenger Interior

2020 NV Passenger Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

BasicDrivetrainCorrosionRoadside Assistance
5 Years / 100,000 Miles5 Years / 100,000 Miles5 Years / Unlimited Miles5 Years / 60,000 Miles


US NHTSA Crash Test Result

Rollover Rating
2/5


Verdict: Is the 2020 Nissan NV Passenger A Good van?

The Nissan NV was only ever designed to do one thing: carry stuff. Nissan has now tasked it to carry the most precious cargo of all, and it manages, but not without a few drawbacks. Firstly, if you care anything about style and looks, then this vehicle is not for you. Secondly, do not expect the ride comfort and handling of a luxury SUV; this is still a cargo van, only now it has a few seats in it. The good news is that there are over 340 ways to configure those seats, although a 15-seat option is notably absent. The interior is simple and easy to use, and you can even get luxuries such as dual-zone climate control and satellite radio in an otherwise sparse features list. Under the hood, both engine options shine, but the V8 is the star of the show and gives this review of the 2020 Nissan NV Passenger Van a big highlight: the highest towing rating around. It's an honest working van with the reliability of a mule and the face of a natural disaster.

What 2020 Nissan NV Passenger Model Should I Buy?

There are only three trims to choose from, and if we're honest, you can't really go wrong with either. Your most significant decision will, however, be what engine to go for. We would suggest going straight for the V8 option. This, of course, means going for the top-of-the-line SL. Not only does this add a 5.6-liter V8 engine with 375 hp, but it adds luxuries such as leather interior, navigation system, and dual-zone climate control system. The SL will set you back $42,860.