Our Verdict

We love the NV200 concept; a small footprint with the carrying capacity of a larger van. The ride could be better, but it makes a good urban delivery van thanks to its impressive manoeuvrability.

In recent years much of Nissan’s light commercial line-up has consisted of Renaults with different badges on. The Japanese manufacturer has decided to move away from badge engineering, however, and develop its own distinctive van range. Replacing Kubistar — a re-badged generation one Renault Kangoo — the NV200 is the first model to debut as a consequence of this change in policy.

For you money you receive a vehicle with the on-the-road footprint of a short-wheelbase van but the cargo cube of one with a long wheelbase. You get a 4.2m³ load area, with a gross payload capacity of 783kg. Access is excellent thanks to twin asymmetric side-hinged rear doors and twin sliding side doors as standard.

Although Nissan is edging away from its French stablemate’s designs, NV200 is nonetheless powered by a Renault 1.5-litre diesel pumping out 86hp at 3,750rpm and hitched to a five-speed gearbox. Maximum torque of 200Nm is available at 2,000rpm and CO₂ output is a creditable 137g/km. A 106hp version of the 1.5-litre is said to be in the pipeline.

ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist are standard across the range while Electronic Stability Programme is offered as an option.

Two levels of specification are listed; E and the more upmarket SE. In general driving conditions the ride is okay, but it can be upset by pot-holes; a situation we suspect could be improved by fitting 15in rather than 14in wheels, but this would increase the commendably low loading height of 524mm. And this measurement is one of NV200's many plus-points.

NV200 doesn’t lack performance and boasts surprisingly responsive steering, despite it being electrically-assisted. In general driving conditions the ride is okay, but it can be upset by pot-holes; a situation we suspect could be improved by fitting 15in rather than 14in wheels, but this would increase the commendably low loading height of 524mm. And this crucial measurement is one of NV200's many plus-points.

There’s a 12,500 mile interval between services. Also produced as a passenger-carrying five- or seven-seater Combi — although it retains side glass behind the B-pillars so VAT cannot be reclaimed — NV200 is covered by an excellent three-year/100,000-mile warranty.