2021 Nissan NV3500 HD: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 Nissan NV3500 HD received a light equipment update rather than a redesign. The main change was built-in navigation becoming standard on SV and SL trims.
About the 2021 Nissan NV3500 HD
1st generation (2012-2021), final model year before discontinuation.
Nissan positioned the NV3500 HD as a heavy-duty full-size van for businesses, shuttle duty, large families, and anyone who needed big interior space with real towing strength. Its big selling points were a truck-style ladder frame, large brakes, simple controls, and an interior designed around work use. Passenger versions emphasized 12-seat flexibility, while cargo versions emphasized loading access and upfit readiness. Compared with more car-like vans, the NV3500 HD leaned more toward durability and capability than fuel economy or advanced driver-assist tech.
The NV3500 HD remained a work-focused heavy-duty van, with passenger versions emphasizing 12-seat capacity and flexible seating. The basic S used a V6 and a 7-inch touchscreen, while the better-equipped SV added everyday conveniences and the SL paired V8 power with towing hardware and a more upscale cabin.
What changed, by category
2021 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 |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 7-Spd | Automatic, 7-Spd / Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| Horsepower | 261 hp | 375 hp | 261–375 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 387 lb-ft | 281–387 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6200 lb | 8700–9400 lb | 6200–9400 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 323.1 cu-ft | 323.1 cu-ft | |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 12 | 2–12 | 2–12 |
| Doors | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Tow Hooks | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2021 Nissan NV3500 HD redesigned?
No. The 2021 NV3500 HD kept the same body-on-frame design, engines, transmissions, and overall styling as the 2020 model. Its updates were limited to equipment changes.
Which 2021 Nissan NV3500 HD trims have standard navigation?
Built-in navigation is standard on the 2021 NV3500 HD SV and SL. The S retains a simpler 7-inch touchscreen without built-in navigation.
Did the 2021 Nissan NV3500 HD get a new engine?
No. The engine lineup carried over for 2021. The S and passenger SV use a 4.0-liter V6 with a five-speed automatic, while the SL and cargo-based 3500 SV use a 5.6-liter V8 with a seven-speed automatic.
Is 2021 the final year of the Nissan NV3500 HD?
Yes. The 2021 NV3500 HD was the final model year before Nissan ended NV production in the United States.
Is the 2021 Nissan NV3500 HD meaningfully different from the 2020 model?
Only slightly. The basic van, powertrains, structure, safety equipment, and styling carry over; the notable differences are standard navigation on SV and SL and standard satellite radio on SV.