2016 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2016 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo is improved standard airbag coverage. Front-seat side airbags and roof-mounted curtain airbags are standard across the lineup, while the rest of the van carries over without major changes.
About the 2016 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo
1st generation (2012-2021), mid-run year with no redesign.
Nissan positioned the NV Cargo as a full-size work van that was smarter, tougher, and more comfortable than the old-school cargo vans many fleets were used to. Its key identity was simple: a tall, easy-to-upfit cargo box paired with a truck-like front end that gave drivers more legroom and easier engine access for service. For many buyers, the draw was business-ready practicality — vertical walls, lots of mounting points, strong payload and towing capability, and an interior that could double as a mobile office.
The S is the work-first version, with 57 reinforced cargo-mounting points and pre-wiring for trade equipment. The SV adds everyday conveniences such as power windows, remote keyless entry, cargo work lights, and rear parking sensors, while the SL adds a power driver’s seat, extra security equipment, and more polished exterior trim.
What changed, by category
2016 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 5.6 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 5.6 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 5.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| Horsepower | 261–317 hp | 261–317 hp | 261–317 hp |
| Torque | 281–385 lb-ft | 281–385 lb-ft | 281–385 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7000 lb | 7000 lb | 7000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 234.1 cu-ft | 234.1 cu-ft | 234.1 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Locks | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2016 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo?
The 2016 NV2500 HD Cargo gained standard front-seat side airbags and roof-mounted curtain airbags across the lineup. No other major model-wide changes were made.
Was the 2016 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo redesigned?
No, the 2016 NV2500 HD Cargo was not redesigned. It remained part of the first generation, with the new standard side and curtain airbags serving as the year's main update.
Which 2016 NV2500 HD Cargo trims received the new standard airbags?
Every 2016 NV2500 HD Cargo trim received them. The S, SV, and SL all came standard with front-seat side airbags and roof-mounted curtain airbags.
Did the 2016 NV2500 HD Cargo get powertrain, body, or infotainment changes?
No, the 2016 NV2500 HD Cargo had no major powertrain, body, or infotainment changes. Those parts of the van carried over from 2015.
Is the 2016 NV2500 HD Cargo meaningfully different from the 2015 model?
The main difference is its broader standard airbag coverage. Otherwise, the 2016 and 2015 NV2500 HD Cargo are largely alike, with no major redesign or powertrain change.