2013 Nissan NV200

A true purpose-built vehicle, this 2013 Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo van delivered us a quick spin, and a day in the life of a small commercial van courier.

Cargo capacity is listed at 122.7 cubic feet. Oddly, that’s less than rival Ford Transit Connect, despite being nearly 6 inches longer. Wide-hinged rear doors and optional D-ring tie downs do make life easier, though. And up front, passenger legroom is more accommodating than Ford’s.

Like most cargo vans are, you’d expect work-day comfort; still we found the seats in the NV200 a little stiff for our liking. But good storage capacity and a fold-down passenger seat work table add functionality where it matters most. On the whole, we found the cabin a fine place to spend work time in.

GREG CARLOSS: Given its nature as a cargo van, the NV200 has two features that are surprisingly exceptional: crankin’ A/C and a boomin’ stereo! and, on the more practical side it gets good fuel economy, too.

JOHN DAVIS: Indeed, the NV200’s 131 horsepower, 2.0 liter I4, while sluggish, returns an estimated 24-MPG combined. We surpassed that, at 28.6 in our time.

A rear view Monitor is optional; though Nissan’s AroundView, full 360 degree camera technology, which we are huge fans of, is not offered at all.

On sale now, the 2013 Nissan NV200 starts around $21,000. GM will also sell the compact van, badged as the Chevrolet City Express.