2014 Nissan NV Cargo NV2500 HD

The NV is Nissan's full-size work van, built to haul serious cargo and tow heavy loads, and it's a direct rival to the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. It drives like a proper truck, with a firm ride and a commanding view over traffic, and the steering is heavier than a car's, which you'll get used to quickly. The cabin is utilitarian but well laid out, with a huge center console and plenty of storage for tools and paperwork, and the seats are supportive for long days. Cargo space is massive, and the rear doors open wide for easy loading, while the tall roof lets you stand up inside to move around. The NV2500 HD skips the V8 offered in the higher GVWR models, but its lower price and still-substantial payload make it the sweet spot for most work crews. Its 4.0L I6 makes 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque through a five-speed automatic, which is a willing combo that pulls hard from a stop but revs high on the highway. The tall roof and big rear doors are standard here, so you can load pallets upright without ducking.