2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo’s main change is better standard side-impact protection: front-seat side airbags and roof-mounted curtain airbags became standard. Otherwise, it is largely unchanged from 2015.
About the 2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo
1st generation NV Cargo full-size van (2012-2021), fifth model year; no redesign or major refresh.
Nissan positions the NV Cargo as a full-size work van built around easy upfitting, straightforward service access, and a more usable front cabin than cab-forward rivals. Its core appeal is a tall, boxy cargo area with flat walls, built-in mounting points for shelves and partitions, room for 4'x8' sheets between the wheel wells, and a front work space with storage. The NV1500 is the lighter-duty entry point for businesses that need cargo space and simple work-van hardware more than passenger-car polish.
The S is the basic, job-focused version, with a V6, reinforced cargo-mounting points, roof-rack mounting points, and wiring for work equipment. The SV adds daily-use conveniences such as power accessories, cruise control, cargo-wall panels, rear parking sensors, and steering-wheel audio controls.
What changed, by category
2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| Horsepower | 261 hp | 261 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7000 lb | 7000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 234.1 cu-ft | 234.1 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Power Mirrors | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Power Locks | ||
| Power Windows | ||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo?
The biggest change is that front-seat side airbags and roof-mounted curtain airbags became standard across the cargo-van lineup. The rest of the van remained largely unchanged.
Was the 2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo redesigned?
No, the 2016 NV1500 Cargo was not redesigned. It kept the same standard-roof body, rear-wheel-drive layout, 4.0-liter V6, five-speed automatic transmission, and two-trim lineup.
How is the 2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo different from the 2015 model?
The key difference is standard side-impact protection for 2016. Front-seat side airbags and roof-mounted curtain airbags became standard, while the powertrain, body, styling, and main equipment structure carried over.
Did the 2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo get a new engine or transmission?
No, its powertrain carried over. The 2016 NV1500 Cargo retained a 4.0-liter V6, five-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive.
What trims does the 2016 Nissan NV1500 Cargo have?
The 2016 NV1500 Cargo has S and SV trims. The S is the basic work version, while the SV adds convenience equipment such as power accessories, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and cargo-wall panels.