Nissan’s newest light commercial vehicle, the NV200, has been named Van of the Year for 2010 by the Institute of Transport Management. ITM selected the Nissan on the basis of versatility, fuel efficiency, and value, lapping high praise on a vehicle that amicably blends the traits of a traditional commercial vehicle with a multiperson mover. The NV200 holds room for seven passengers and a full set of cargo, but manages nearly 45 combined mpg thanks to its 1.5-liter diesel inline-four with 85 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque.
“With the NV200, Nissan is really opening up a new niche in the market, a crossover between commercial and passenger vehicles which will challenge the grip of the MPV on the vehicle market for working families,” commented ITM media and P.R. director Patrick Sheedy. “It’s perfectly pitched -- spacious inside yet compact enough to retain a good level of agility in an urban environment; sleekly styled with a comfortable interior; and, most important for those on a tight household budget, cost-effective.”
The NV200 recently went on sale in Europe and awaits the remainder of its global launch.
The ITM is a U.K.-based transportation and logistics group dedicated to improving all facets of the transport industry through ongoing research, training, and communications programs.