Nissan NV200 Combi 1.5dCi SE

After several months with AM, it's time to say goodbye to the NV200.

Our experience of the Combi could be one that acknowledges that it is a vehicle that moved the goalposts.

As we reflect on the seven-seater’s performance, management speak is not thankfully creeping into our lexicon, but one of the team took the van to, literally, move some full-size goalposts for his children’s school.

It highlights one of the selling points of the NV200.

It is largely sold on its ability to carry people, but with some application of muscle to swivel or rotate seats the loadspace becomes, what Nissan claims, is best in class at 2.8 metres long.

It is this adaptability that contributed to the NV200 winning the International Van of the Year Award this year.

The jury, comprising 23 European journalists, concluded it was “impressed by the fact Nissan created a compact light commercial vehicle that sets new standards in terms of internal space in relation to external dimensions”.

Unique selling points highlighted by Nissan are low CO2 emissions at 139g/km, a very spacious interior in a very compact overall package; good luggage space even with all seven seats down that very few MPVs can match; folding flat seats leaving a large luggage space and the low floor height giving ease of access.

Very often van drivers get a raw deal from manufacturers when it comes to the extras that can help make driving a pleasurable experience.

At launch Nissan’s corporate sales director Tony Lewis said that from the B-pillar forwards the NV200 is a car.

So, the spec list includes electric wing mirrors, electric windows and central locking.

Another plus is the aux in connection, which means you can attach an iPod to the stereo with ease.

The reversing camera image display set in the instrument panel is also an appealing touch.

Current financial incentives on offer on the NV200 van include 3.9% APR on a minimum 30% deposit and on contract hire £199 per month (excl VAT) for the E spec and on the SE contract hire for business users only of £209 per month.

On the Combi specifically, the HP offer is at 3.9% APR with a minimum 30% deposit for the S spec priced from £13,865.

Nissan says its 99 Combi sales to-date this year are slightly above forecast. The SE grade represents 75% of sales.