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http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/chicago/2012/1202_2012_nissan_nv200_first_look/
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Unlike its larger siblings, the NV200 lives up to the compact van moniker Nissan uses within its press materials. In fact, it's actually built upon a modified version of Nissan's B-segment architecture, which underpins other Nissan small cars like the Juke, Cube, and Versa hatchback. NV200s still utilize MacPherson-type struts up front, although the torsion beam rear suspension is ditched in favor of leaf springs in order to boost payload to an estimated 1500 pounds.
North American NV200s are relatively compact, but they will be slightly larger than those sold in other corners of the globe. For instance, the 115.2-inch wheelbase is about 2.6 inches longer than in other markets. Overall length, which measures in at 186.2 inches, is about 7.9 inches longer than before. That stretch pays dividends not only for the NV200's livery aspirations, but also for commercial clients. Nissan says there's roughly 123 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats; though exact cargo dimensions have yet to be announced, the automaker says there's enough space between the wheel wells to lay a standardized 40-by-48-inch cargo pallet. Although NV200s are offered with a wide variety of engine choices (including a few frugal diesel options), those sold in our market will be locked down to a single powerplant and transmission. Power comes courtesy of a sixteen-valve, DOHC 2.0-liter I-4, similar to that offered in most Sentra models. Nissan's preliminary specifications suggest the engine may be slightly detuned to about 135 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque. As is the case in so many of Nissan's B-segment offerings, that power is sent to the front wheels by way of a continuously-variable transmission.
