2017 Nissan NV3500 HD: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2017 Nissan NV3500 HD is a light mechanical update, not a redesign. The headline change is a stronger 5.6-liter V8 paired with a new 7-speed automatic transmission on V8-equipped versions.
About the 2017 Nissan NV3500 HD
1st generation U.S.-market full-size NV (2012-2021), later pre-refresh year.
Nissan positions the NV3500 HD as a heavy-duty, truck-based full-size van for people who need serious hauling, towing, or passenger capacity more than flashy design. In Cargo form, it is an upfit-friendly work van with wide-opening doors, straight walls, and strong tow ratings. In Passenger form, it is a 12-seat people mover with highly flexible seating. Across both, Nissan leans on commercial-strength hardware, a roomy front cabin, and durability-focused design as the core selling points.
The S is the job-focused foundation, with durable seating, upfitter wiring, wide-opening rear doors, and roof-rack mounting points. SV adds everyday conveniences such as power accessories, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a power driver's seat, while SL combines a standard V8 with towing hardware, heated extendable tow mirrors, and extra chrome trim.
What changed, by category
2017 Nissan NV3500 HD specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 5.6 Liter | V8, 5.6 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 5.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 7-Spd | Automatic, 7-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| Horsepower | 261–375 hp | 375 hp | 261–375 hp |
| Torque | 281–387 lb-ft | 387 lb-ft | 281–387 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6200–9500 lb | 8700–9500 lb | 8700–9500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 234.1 cu-ft | 234.1 cu-ft | 234.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 2–12 | 2–12 | 2–12 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Tow Hooks | |||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Locks | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2017 Nissan NV3500 HD?
The biggest change is the upgraded V8 powertrain. V8-equipped 2017 vans use a 375-horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance V8 and a 7-speed automatic instead of the previous 317-horsepower V8 and 5-speed automatic.
Is the 2017 Nissan NV3500 HD a redesign?
No, the 2017 Nissan NV3500 HD is not a redesign. Its body, trim structure, work-focused layout, and basic cabin design remain largely unchanged.
Did every 2017 Nissan NV3500 HD get the new V8?
No, the new V8 applies only to V8-equipped vans. It is standard on the SL, while S and SV models also include versions with the carryover lower-output engine.
What transmission comes with the 2017 NV3500 HD V8?
The 2017 NV3500 HD V8 comes with a 7-speed automatic transmission. It replaces the 5-speed automatic used with the previous V8.
Did the 2017 Nissan NV3500 HD receive major styling or safety updates?
No, the 2017 NV3500 HD did not receive a major styling or safety overhaul. The meaningful update for this year is the stronger V8 and its 7-speed automatic transmission.