Today Stuart discovers if the new NV400 can help Nissan grab a bigger share of the UK van market.With the exception of the Navara pickup, Nissan has never been a major player in the UK LCV market (in fact their vans have traditionally been not much more than rebadged Renault’s!). All that’s about to change however and Nissan has set themselves a target of doubling their European LCV sales by 2014. This new push starts with the launch of the much-anticipated NV400. Although this model has been built in conjunction with Renault and Vauxhall, much more effort has been put in to differentiate the NV400 from the competition both in terms of bold new looks and pretty impressive functionality. So could a brand new NV400 be the perfect van lease for you? Let’s find out:
Size Matters
Flexibility is a big selling point with the NV400. With 4 load length and 3 load height variants it’s suitable for pretty much any commercial purpose you can think of. Load volumes vary depending on the configuration but range from 8m3 – 17m3. Load lengths also vary between 2,583mm – 4,383mm – the latter figure making the NV400 longer than any configuration available on a Relay, Boxer or Ducato van. This is sure to prove another excellent selling point for those in need of the longest panel van they can get their hands on! Having said that when it comes to width the NV400 falls slightly short of its main competitors at 1765mm – so I suppose it’s down to what you’re looking your van to carry. The NV400 makes loading and unloading a breeze by offering great access from 1,580mm wide rear doors and a nearside loading door. An offside door pack is also available and a full steel bulkhead comes as standard on all models.
Creature Comforts
The NV400 is more comfortable and offers more legroom than its predecessor. Everything in the cab is sturdy, robust and accessible and there’s plenty of storage in the form of a clipboard holder, cupholders, overhead and under seat storage and plenty of other cubbyholes here, there and everywhere!The first thing that hits you when you jump into the cab is that it’s very ‘car-like’ both in terms of its interior décor and impressive standard features. Air Conditioning, Cruise Control, Speed Limiter, Trip Computer, Bluetooth Connectivity and MP3 Stereo are just a few features in a long list and a Rear Parking Sensor is also included as standard on all SE models. In fact in terms of comfort and features in the cab, it’s pretty difficult to fault the N400. So what about the drive?
On the Road
The NV400 is available in both front and rear wheel drive options, which make it an even more flexible vehicle and allows it to compete with the likes of the Ford Transit. Power comes in the form of a new Euro 5 2.3DCi engine available in 100, 125 and 150bhp power outputs and with 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Fuel consumption is improved by 10% across the range and depending on the power output you go for torque outputs have been improved by up to 15%. But what does it all mean? Well, the new engines are much quieter and smoother giving a refined drive that you don’t usually find in a panel van. Power delivery is smooth and progressive in all power outputs and handling is also surprisingly responsive. If all that wasn’t enough then the new chain driven camshaft in the NV400 increases the service intervals from 18,000 to 25,000miles, making it even cheaper to run!
The Verdict
There’s no doubt that the new NV400 is a huge step forward for Nissan but this brand new model isn’t just better than it’s predecessor, it’s also got a real edge on some of its biggest competitors. The NV400 is comfortable, refined, practical and comes with an array of impressive features as standard. What else could you possibly ask for?! Overall it really is a great van leasing deal.
Today Ryan looks at the all-new Toyota Hilux to see how the ‘indestructible’ pickup fares against some pretty fierce competition.
The Hilux has been completely restyled with a new bonnet, headlamps and grille, which give it a more modern and aggressive feel than its predecessor. There are currently 3 model options including the entry level HL2, the HL3 and the top of the range Invincible. All models are also available in single cab and double cab configurations. 
Things have really improved inside the cab following criticism that the last model didn’t have the same quality feel as other pickups. There is a completely new look with restyled dashboard and instrument cluster and everything benefits from increased finish quality. The result is a much more refined and premium cab area in line with the feel you get in the new VW Amarok pickup. Toyota has also fitted some class leading features into the Hilux. The HL3 and Invincible in particular come with fantastic features as standard including a 6.1inch Toyota Touch multimedia unit, Bluetooth connectivity and a USB plug in for connecting your MP3 player to the stereo system. 
The new Euro 5 compliant engines in the 2012 Toyota Hilux are a real step up from the ones they’re replacing. They produce the lowest emissions in their class, which improves their rating and results in a reduction in the tax you need to pay. You’ll also benefit from impressive fuel economy for a vehicle of this size (combined 38.7mpg), which is a great selling point as the price we pay for fuel continues to increase.