2018 Nissan NV3500 HD: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2018 Nissan NV3500 HD is a light equipment update, not a redesign. The headline change is that a rearview camera and core infotainment and phone-connectivity features became standard across the lineup.
About the 2018 Nissan NV3500 HD
1st generation NV full-size van (2012-2021), late-cycle 2018 equipment-update year.
The NV3500 HD is Nissan’s heavy-duty, rear-drive full-size van for business duty, shuttle work, and big-group hauling. Nissan sells the cargo version on square load space, built-in mounting points, and strong V8 towing, while the passenger version is about seating up to 12 and removing rear seats when more cargo room is needed. The core pitch is straightforward toughness: a simple, easy-to-understand van with pickup-like hardware and strong towing, rather than a more car-like or tech-heavy driving experience.
The NV3500 HD remains a heavy-duty cargo van or 12-passenger people mover, with the S serving as the straightforward work-ready trim. The SV adds everyday conveniences such as rear parking sensors, a lockable mobile-office console, and household-style power outlets. The SL pairs a V8 with towing hardware, heated extendable tow mirrors, and a power driver's seat.
What changed, by category
2018 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 | Automatic, 5-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 | 6200–9400 lb | 8700–9400 lb | 6200–9400 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 323.1 cu-ft | 323.1 cu-ft | 323.1 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 | |||
| Tow Hooks | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2018 Nissan NV3500 HD redesigned?
No. The 2018 NV3500 HD received an equipment update rather than a full redesign, with its engines, body styles, and heavy-duty platform carrying over with little change.
What equipment became standard on the 2018 Nissan NV3500 HD?
A rearview camera, 5.0-inch color display, Bluetooth calling and audio streaming, USB connection, and hands-free text messaging became standard across the 2018 NV3500 HD range.
What changed on the 2018 Nissan NV3500 HD S trim?
The S became better equipped for 2018. It gained standard power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, cruise control, a rearview camera, a color display, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and hands-free text messaging.
Is the 2018 Nissan NV3500 HD worth choosing over the 2017 model?
The 2018 is the more convenient choice if a standard rearview camera, phone connectivity, and a better-equipped S trim matter to you. Otherwise, the underlying van changed very little from 2017.
Did the 2018 Nissan NV3500 HD get new engines or body styles?
No. The 2018 update focused on standard equipment rather than new engines, body styles, or a different platform.
Sources
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2018 / 2018 Nv Cargo Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2018 / 2018 Nv Passenger Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2017 / 2017 Nv Cargo Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2017 / 2017 Nv Passenger Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2019 / 2019 Nissan Nv Cargo Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2019 / 2019 Nissan Nvpassenger Brochure En