NV 2500 High Roof/5.4 VK56DE

[trego]

Hello everyone. This is my first post in several years. I have two 2001 QX-4s and they are awesome vehicles. I liked the first one so much I bought another one.
Having said that I am considering buying a 2012 NV HD SV 2500 High Roof with the V-8 for my electrical contracting business. This is a big step for me as I have always used Ford E-250s. My question is should I get the V-6 which has a great history and adequate torque or spend the extra $900.00 for the V-8 to get a little more power?
I don't need to tow anything.
My initial feeling is the the V-6 is a proven performer and the v-8 is not quite as reliable,not quite worth the extra bucks for a little oomph.

Any thoughts on this?

I would also be most greatful for any feedback regarding the NV in general regarding reliability, incentives known problems etc.

Thanks, Steve

[MinisterofDOOM]

While the VQ40 (4.0 V6) is definitely a very reliable and dependable motor, I don't think the VK56 (5.6 V8) is any less so. The old 4.5 liter VK from Infiniti's cars had a handful of issues, but the modern 5.6 liter truck motor is stout and dependable.

The biggest irritation faced by us Nissan folks when making this decision is that the VQ40 makes less power and torque but doesn't offer improved fuel economy versus the VK56. So there's really no reason to go with the V6 unless you're really afraid that the 8 will be unreliable--which I wouldn't be concerned about. EPA fuel economy ratings are within 1MPG for either. I'd definitely go with the VK56 if I were buying an NV (or even just a Pathfinder).

The NV is closely related to the Titan, and the V8 powertrain is straight out of the pickup, so it's had several years of production to work out the kinks. Meanwhile the VQ40 is the mainstay Frontier/Pathfinder/Xterra engine, so it's got years of honing under its belt as well.

Also:
Welcome to NICO!

[PapaSmurf2k3]

The biggest irritation faced by us Nissan folks when making this decision is that the VQ40 makes less power and torque but doesn't offer improved fuel economy versus the VK56.

Agreed. I'd probably go with the Vk56. The VQ40 just seems a bit more harsh to me with no real added benefit... not to say its a BAD powertrain though.

In reality I guess it would come down to what is on the dealer's lot and therefore what you have as a bargaining chip to haggle. Best of luck!

[trego]

Thank you both for you response.
Based upon your input and other information I have decided to go with the V-8.

Steve

[PapaSmurf2k3]

Post pics when you get it... as well as your future plans.