In January, Nissan started production on the 2012 Nissan NV commercial van. With its first entry into North America’s commercial vehicle (CV) market, Nissan is aiming to reinvigorate a segment known more for its “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality than innovation.

“We’ve taken a fresh look at every aspect of the CV business — including styling, powertrain, interiors, cost of operation and ownership, dealership sales and service operations and, most importantly, real-world customer needs,” said Joe Castelli, vice president of Nissan North America Inc.’s commercial vehicle and fleet division.

The Nissan NV comes in half-, three-quarter and one-ton versions (NV1500, NV2500 HD, NV3500 HD) with a Standard Roof or High Roof (NV2500 HD, NV3500 HD). The standard gas engine is a 4.0L V-6 that produces 261 hp and 281 lb-ft torque. An optional 5.6L V-8 generates 317 hp and 385 lb-ft torque. No diesel engine is planned at this time.

Payloads range from 2,590 lbs. on the Standard Roof 1500 S (V-6) to 3,747 lbs. on the Standard Roof 3500 SV (V-8).

The 2012 NVs are available now through a network of 250 newly appointed Nissan Commercial Vehicle Dealers (www.nissancommercialvehicles.com). That number should grow to 300 by year’s end, according to Nissan.

Check out our video walk-around of the 2012 Nissan NV!