Style and space
Nissan's European Design centre had plenty to do with the smart exterior of the NV200, so much so - it hardly looks like a van at all. It also manages to disguise its commercial status thanks to the handsome grille, SUV-like headlights and chunky flared wheelarches. The design gives it an excellent driving position and a clear view out, which helps to improve safety too.
Built for all requirements
It may be stylish and spacious, but this van still comes with a practical element. You can specify your NV200 with black plastic bumpers, rather than body-coloured ones, and steel wheels rather than alloys - so you'll have no trouble coping with the rough and tumble with this set up. There's also the option of a Combi version, which brings a second row of seats that can be folded away and a rear cargo area.
Fully loaded
The real crux of any van is the load area, and on this score the NV200 doesn't disappoint. It can handle over 750kg and 4.1 cubic metres of cargo: Nissan says it's the largest payload in the class. Thanks to some clever design it can swallow loads that are 2 metres in length - up to 2.8 metres if the front passenger seat is folded away too. It can also swallow two standard Euro pallets - few of its rivals pull this off!
Car-like interior
The good news doesn't stop once you get behind the wheel. As well as a distinctly car-like cabin with a smart layout and generous equipment, the NV200's mechanicals are based on Nissan's B-platform, which underpins the Micra and Note. It also has available features like ESP, keyless go and a reversing camera. Nissan claims to be the lowest in class running costs too.
When can I get one?
Van lovers will need to exercise patience for this one: the NV200 doesn't reach the UK until October. The only downside is that the seven-seater version, designed to be a people carrier rather than a commercial vehicle, won't be coming to the UK at all.