2021 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo was mostly unchanged in its final model year. The main change was that the SV's touchscreen monitor went from standard equipment to optional.
About the 2021 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo
1st generation (2012-2021), final model year with no major refresh.
Nissan positioned the NV Cargo as a hard-working full-size van with a truck-style front end, a needs-based front cabin, and body-on-frame construction aimed at payload, towing, and easy upfitting. The main appeal was practical space: a wide, boxy cargo area, nearly vertical sidewalls, room for plywood or pallets, and a front area that could function like a small mobile office. Compared with more car-like vans, the NV leaned into durability, simple controls, and trade-ready utility.
The S remained the straightforward work trim, with a 4.0-liter V6, durable seating, 57 reinforced cargo-mounting points, and wiring for job-specific equipment. The better-equipped SV focused on driver convenience with cruise control, rear parking sensors, power mirrors, lockable storage, and power outlets in the cab and cargo area.
What changed, by category
2021 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 5.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| Horsepower | 261 hp | 261–375 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 281–387 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6900 lb | 6900 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 234.1 cu-ft | 234.1 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 |
| Cruise Control | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Heated Mirrors | ||
| Privacy Glass | ||
| Tow Hooks | ||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2021 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo compared with the 2020 model?
The main change for 2021 was that the SV's touchscreen monitor became optional instead of standard. The van's engines, transmissions, body styles, chassis, and safety equipment otherwise carried over without major updates.
Was 2021 the final year for the Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo?
Yes. The 2021 NV2500 HD Cargo was the final model-year version, and Nissan ended NV production in summer 2021.
Did the 2021 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo get a new engine or transmission?
No. The S retained its 4.0-liter V6 and five-speed automatic, while the SV kept its existing V6 and five-speed automatic or V8 and seven-speed automatic setup, depending on configuration.
Is the touchscreen standard on the 2021 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo SV?
No. The touchscreen monitor is optional on the 2021 SV; it had been standard for 2020.
How do the 2021 Nissan NV2500 HD Cargo S and SV differ?
The S is the basic work trim, while the SV adds convenience features for drivers who spend more time in the van. SV equipment includes cruise control, rear parking sensors, power mirrors, lockable center-console storage, extra power outlets, and additional cargo-area protection.