Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4
Running Costs
4.3
Practicality
4.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a compact van that punches above its weight? The Nissan NV200 might be exactly what your business needs. This clever commercial vehicle delivers impressive cargo capacity in a surprisingly manageable package that’s easy to drive and park. It’s the van for businesses that need maximum space without the bulk of larger commercial vehicles.
From first glance, the NV200 looks compact and car-like rather than intimidating. Its smooth lines and practical twin sliding doors give it an approachable appearance that makes urban deliveries less stressful. But the real surprise comes when you open those doors. The cargo area is genuinely impressive for such a compact footprint, offering more space than rivals like the Citroen Berlingo or Peugeot Partner. The interior feels more like a car than a basic work vehicle, with decent materials and thoughtful storage solutions.
Driving the NV200 is refreshingly civilised for a commercial vehicle. The engines are smooth and economical, making long delivery runs or daily commutes feel effortless. It handles city streets with confidence while remaining stable on motorways. This van aims to make every working day a little easier, whether you’re navigating tight car parks or cruising between job sites. While it may cost slightly more than some budget alternatives, you get proven Japanese reliability and build quality that stands the test of daily commercial use.
What's the Nissan Nv200 Like to Drive?
The Nissan Nv200 focuses on efficiency and reliability rather than outright speed. The 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine produces around 90 horsepower, which might sound modest but proves perfectly adequate for commercial duties. It feels responsive around town and has enough torque for fully loaded acceleration. The engine pulls strongly from low revs, making it ideal for stop-start urban deliveries where you need immediate response.
Where the NV200 excels is in its car-like driving dynamics. The steering is light and precise at parking speeds, making tight spaces manageable even when fully loaded. At higher speeds, it feels stable and composed, with none of the wandering you might expect from a high-sided compact van. The ride quality is notably good for a commercial vehicle, absorbing bumps and potholes without jarring the driver. This makes it comfortable for long days behind the wheel, whether you’re making local deliveries or longer regional trips.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.5L 4-cylinder dCi diesel
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Power Output
90 bhp
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0-60 mph
13.2 seconds
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MPG Combined
50-55 mpg
- Boot Space
- Safety Rating
Inside the Nissan Nv200: Comfort & Features
Step into the NV200 and you’ll immediately notice how car-like it feels compared to traditional vans. The dashboard is clean and functional, with easy-to-read instruments and intuitive controls. The materials feel solid and well-assembled, giving confidence that everything will withstand daily commercial use. Storage compartments are thoughtfully placed, with plenty of spots for phones, paperwork, and drinks bottles that every working driver needs.
The driver’s seat offers good support and reasonable adjustment range, making it comfortable even on longer journeys. Road noise is well controlled for a commercial vehicle, creating a civilised cabin environment that reduces fatigue. The heating and ventilation work effectively, crucial for year-round comfort in a working vehicle. Higher specification models include features like Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports, allowing easy smartphone integration for navigation and hands-free calling during busy working days.
The Nissan NV200 succeeds brilliantly at its intended purpose: delivering maximum cargo capacity in a manageable, efficient package. It offers the rare combination of impressive load space, car-like driving manners, and excellent fuel economy. The build quality feels solid and dependable, exactly what businesses need from a working vehicle that must perform reliably day after day.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Nissan Nv200?
The NV200 shines when it comes to running costs, which is exactly what matters for commercial users. The efficient 1.5-litre diesel engine regularly achieves 50-55 MPG in real-world conditions, keeping fuel bills manageable even with high daily mileage. Insurance costs are reasonable for the commercial vehicle category, and Nissan’s reputation for reliability helps keep premiums down compared to some European alternatives.
Purchase prices are competitive within the compact van segment, though slightly higher than basic budget alternatives. However, this premium pays dividends in build quality and long-term reliability. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, with Nissan’s widespread dealer network making servicing convenient. The generous five-year warranty provides peace of mind for business users who depend on their vehicles daily. For businesses exploring car finance options, the NV200’s strong residual values make it an attractive proposition for lease deals or hire purchase agreements.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Nissan Nv200
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Citroen Berlingo
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Ford Transit Connect
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £18,500 | £17,800 | £19,200 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.5L dCi 90hp | 1.6L BlueHDi 100hp | 1.5L EcoBlue 100hp |
| Power | 90 bhp | 100 bhp | 100 bhp |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 53 mpg | 51 mpg | 49 mpg |
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Practicality
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Excellent cargo space, Car-like driving, Reliable build | Higher payload, Good value, Practical design | Strong engine, Latest tech, Refined ride |
Is the Nissan Nv200 Practical for Everyday Use?
The NV200’s practicality credentials are genuinely impressive for such a compact van. The 4.2 cubic metre cargo area offers more space than you’d expect from the external dimensions, easily accommodating everything from parcels to building supplies. The standard twin sliding side doors and wide-opening rear doors make loading and unloading straightforward, even in tight spaces. The low loading lip reduces strain when handling heavy items throughout busy working days.
Inside the cab, storage solutions are well thought out for commercial users. Door pockets accommodate maps and paperwork, while dashboard storage keeps essential items within easy reach. For businesses requiring passenger capability, the Combi version offers five or seven seats while retaining useful cargo space. The compact external dimensions, just 4.4 metres long, make it ideal for urban work where larger vans struggle. This makes it perfect for florists, caterers, or any business requiring frequent city centre access, complementing other used Nissan cars in mixed commercial fleets.
We’ve run three NV200s in our catering business for two years now. They’re incredibly reliable and the fuel economy is brilliant. The sliding doors are perfect for tight restaurant deliveries and they drive more like cars than vans.
The Nissan NV200 stands out in the compact van segment by delivering genuine cargo capacity without sacrificing driving refinement. It combines practical commercial vehicle functionality with car-like comfort and handling, making it ideal for businesses that value both efficiency and driver satisfaction. The excellent fuel economy and strong reliability record make it a smart long-term investment.
You choose the NV200 because you want a van that makes working life easier rather than more stressful. Its manageable size, impressive cargo space, and civilised driving experience suit modern commercial needs perfectly. Whether you’re making urban deliveries or covering longer distances, it remains comfortable and capable. For businesses seeking a refined commercial vehicle that doesn’t compromise on practicality, exploring cars under £10,000 could reveal excellent used NV200 opportunities.