Small Cars: Why Choose The Nissan Micra

 Not too long ago small cars were incredibly popular. Nowadays, affordable hatchbacks and other traditional smaller vehicles are fighting an uphill struggle against the ongoing sales onslaught from all things SUV, especially compact SUVs.

However, MPG and economy often win, and nothing else is as economical to buy and run as a small car. With fuel prices still stubbornly high, there’s a big market for small cars not trying to look like a shrunken Range Rover.

They are all great cars for new drivers and city slickers alike, but that’s not why we love them, their compactness is only a tiny part of their awesomeness.

Small doesn’t always have to mean inexpensive either. Some models cater to a bigger budget. But it’s worth noting that small is the operative word here. 

Why The Nissan Micra Is A Great Small Car

The Nissan Micra has always been a great small car at Group 1 Nissan dealerships, but until this latest model arrived the styling was so polarising it only appealed to a certain audience. And often one unbothered by power or panache.

Let’s be honest, the original Micra was a bit of a loaf of bread. It might have raised a smile on the face of a small child, but it wasn’t a car many would want to be seen driving around town in.

But that’s all changed. Thankfully, everyone can now enjoy what was always a damn good car, Nissan have changed the styling so much, it looks good enough to match its many rivals.

Although early versions of the Micra were very highly regarded and the second-generation was even named European Car of the Year, the fourth generation was a gamble by Nissan that didn’t pay off.

 

Production was moved from Sunderland to cheaper countries like Thailand, Mexico, India and Indonesia. Sales soon fell by more than two thirds and the Micra fell out of the top-ten best-sellers in Europe.

 

Production of this new fifth-generation Nissan Micra now happens at Renault’s Flins facility near Paris, and that’s just the start of the good news.

 

There’s now modern styling with fashionable squinting headlights and sharp creases all over the Micra. There’s nothing particularly revolutionary about the way this tiny Nissan looks, but at least there’s nothing off-putting about it.

 

The most popular engine is a 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo from Renault, and its 90 horsepower is more than adequate for a car of this size. It’s great to drive in the town or city, and it’s not bad on the motorway either unless you try to overtake in the outside lane on a bit of an uphill gradient.

 

2019 saw a minor facelift on the Micra, it also added a new N-Sport variant abroad, but it’s a bit of a warm hatch rather than a hot one.

 

The Micra’s new look, good engines, decent handling, top-notch driver-assistance tech makes this an attractive all-round package with impressive driver-assist technology and it now looks like a car for grownups.

 

Article sourced from: https://motorway.co.uk

Used Nissan Qashqai- Small and simple, a good little crossover on a budget

 Somewhere between subcompact and compact, this Nissan crossover is sized right and priced right for South Africans

Nissan sold almost 10,000 Qashqais in its first half-year, and then almost 20,000 in its first full year on the market last year and is poised to do so again this year.

Anyhow, it was that success of the Nissan Qashqai for sale that prompted me to book a test drive at Group 1 Nissan. 

Weighing in at over 1,500 kilograms, it’s not particularly light for a car this small and it has 141 horsepower and 147 lb.-ft. of torque. 

It’s a perfectly acceptable daily driver, the CVT making the driving experience smooth, all-wheel drive standard on our SV trim to get you through the winter, and a well-sorted suspension that offers impressive comfort despite 19-inch rims and decent handling for a small crossover. It’s the kind of quiet, forgettable drive that allows you to enjoy your tunes or podcasts on the way into the office. The SV trim also brings peace of mind to the commute with a whole array of driver safety aids, Nissan’s ProPilot assist providing a more proactive approach to the virtual safety bubble around your car. Even without the intelligent cruise control set to match speeds, with the ProPilot suite on the Qashqai will prompt just a hint of braking or throttle cutoff when encroaching on another vehicle’s personal space — control freaks would likely hate this, but daydreamers will appreciate this early intervention so it’s not a sudden alarming, blaring beep and lockup braking, just to avoid stuffing into someone’s rear bumper.

Its size is at the very smallest end of the proper compact crossover pool, smaller even than the Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson, but larger than most subcompact crossovers like the Honda HR-V, Chevy Trax and Nissan’s own Kicks. Its closest competitors would be the Jeep Compass and Subaru Crosstrek, and while space is a bit tight in the back seat, it’s plenty spacious enough for kids and easy to get in and out of. Although cargo space is not massive, the standard Divide-n-Hide cargo organizer makes the most of the space allowing a lower floor in standard five-seat configuration with 648 litres or a flat load floor with the 60/40 split rear seats folded yielding 1,730 L. On top of that, the two panels double as cargo walls to keep various items separate or as a cover for hidden storage if you find the standard cargo cover insufficient to keep belongings safe from prying eyes. It’s not earth-shattering, but it’s a little thing that becomes very useful in the life of a family car and much appreciated by busy people that like to keep their trunks tidy.

Upfront, there’s more of the same convenience, with the usual cupholders, door pockets with bottle holders and spacious armrest storage, but also a couple of extra trays in the centre console for cell phones or knick-knacks, and an easily accessed USB port ahead of the shifter and another in the cubby. The seats are similarly spacious but supportive, and the interior is well laid out. While visibility is compromised to the rear because of thick pillars, the 360-degree Around-View Monitor (available only on the SL trim) means it is as easy to park as anything, and a basic backup camera is standard equipment anyway.

South Africans can relish the fact that Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is standard on used Nissan Qashqai models for sale (2019). The native infotainment system offers a lot of good features, like standard 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and a home screen with some handy short cuts.

Nissan has been struggling across the board this year, with overall sales down 6.6 per cent, and virtually every model bleeding sales (or in some cases getting dismembered) compared to last year at the midway point, but the Qashqai and Kicks are bright spots in the corporate ledger. The Kicks proved its merit in a Comparison earlier this year, and now the Qashqai shows that Nissan’s broad portfolios of SUVs was the smart play in this market.

At the end of the day, the Nissan Qashqai offers a pleasant, low-stress driving experience, the latest tech, great practicality for a small package, and competitive value compared to cars its size. It’s easy to see why anyone who’s done their homework would at least look at the Qashqai and easy to understand why it’s actually a great little crossover.

Article source: https://thenissanfan.home.blog/2020/09/18/used-nissan-qashqai-small-and-simple-a-good-little-crossover-on-a-budget/

THE NEXT GENERATION NISSAN ALMERA

No longer will compact sedans stand in the shadow of their larger relatives. No longer will you have to compromise style for space, form for function, technology for affordability. Never again will you have to choose between performance and practicality, or pay a premium to transport your family around in style.

SPACIOUS COMFORT

With plenty of room for five adults, Nissan Almera’s surprisingly roomy interior is also remarkably comfortable. Supportive seats, great visibility and thoughtful features make even a daily commute a pleasure.

The Nissan ALMERA’s audio system features Bluetooth audio streaming, MP3 and USB connectivity so you can enjoy your tunes just the way you like them. With handsfree Bluetooth capability and steering wheel audio controls, you are safe and in complete control wherever you drive. 

With its wide stance and sporty yet refined styling, Nissan Almera puts you in command. Engineered for reliability and spaciousness it’s the ultimate combination of style and functionality.

SLEEK AND FLEXIBLE

Designed to comfortably carry a full load of people and luggage, it’s the daily driver you can rely on. The Nissan Almera's advanced design contributes to the dramatic reduction of wind and road noise within the cabin, even at speed.

SCULPTED FRONT END

Boomerang-shaped headlights make a bold statement adding a modern, stylish touch.

 

GREAT VISIBILITY

The large “greenhouse” provides the driver with excellent all-around visibility. And the passengers will enjoy the light, airy feeling and ample interior room.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Nissan Almera’s large, well-appointed cockpit puts the driver comfortably in control of the road on the daily commute or a long trip. The intelligently designed cabin layout puts all the controls you need right at your fingertips.

LOADED WITH FEATURES

Nissan Almera goes way beyond the essentials. You’ll find comfortable, supportive seating, high-quality finishes, lots of interior storage and soft-touch materials all your passengers will appreciate.

 

Designed to carry five adults, Nissan Almera gives everyone aboard plenty of leg, elbow, shoulder and headroom. Supportive seats mean long trips are no longer a chore. But a joy.

With a generous 490 litre capacity, there is enough boot space for the whole family’s need. Shopping, sporting events or holidays all become a pleasure cruise. A low bumper height makes loading and unloading an easy task.

FEATURES

Reversing is a breeze with rear parking sensors that ensure even the tightest parking spots become a precision exercise.

The Nissan Almera is also big on the latest technology, all designed to make your life easier, safer and more enjoyable.

MULTI-FUNCTION DRIVE COMPUTER

Puts all the information you need right where you want it: in plain sight on the multi-information display.

INFORMATION CENTRE

The drive computer keeps you in the know with important information, including average and current fuel consumption, distance to empty, outdoor temperature, and more.

PEACE OF MIND

The Nissan Safety Shield is a comprehensive approach to safety that guides the engineering of every vehicle we make and based on the idea that cars should help protect people.

POWER ON DEMAND

The Nissan Almera is powered by an impressive 1.5 litre engine that will get you from A to B in no time. While the Nissan Almera feels like a big car on the inside, it still offers small sedan efficiency. When it comes to performance and outstanding fuel economy the Nissan Almera really is the intelligent choice for those looking for big value for money.

TRANSMISSIONS

With either the 5-speed manual or the 4-speed automatic transmissions, power delivery is right there when you need it.

ELECTRONIC STEERING

Compared to mechanical systems, Nissan Almera’s electric power steering transmits your input more directly, so the car responds more precisely to what you ask it to do. All for a very satisfying connection between you, your Nissan Almera and the world.

Test drive the new Almera at your nearest Group 1 Nissan dealership today!

Article source: https://www.nissan.co.za/vehicles/new/almera.html

Nissan Navara Driven & Reviewed in South Africa

The South African double cab bakkie market is easily on of the most tightly contested vehicle segments in SA, with South Africans being one of the largest fans of the utilitarian aspects of being able to lug around nearing one tonne of payload and three times that via a tow hitch.  This has allowed the top contenders, in the form of the Ford Ranger and Toyota’s iconic Hilux to constantly shift in the realm of 3 000 units each month, both over 3 times that of the third and fourth-placed Nissan Hardbody and Isuzu KB.

This is overall contrasted with tough economic times, that has resulted in the underlying fact that the utilitarian aspects come with the typical bakkie bouncy ride, noisy diesel motors and cramped rear seats that are not ideal traits for every day, especially since the second daily small car is fast becoming a dream. The packages are improving in line with this shift to more of an everyday usage focused vehicle, but still hindered by the use of load-friendly leaf spring set up, in all but one – enter the new Nissan Navara. Understanding this fluid use of the vehicle that mainly encompasses traffic jams rather than the extreme off-road expedition, Nissan engineers have ditched the traditional bakkie setup for that of a more driver-friendly multi-link coil-over set-up.

The Navara is incredibly good at the everyday ‘leisurely’ activity that is traffic, driving to and from work and even gravel roads. The ride is easily the best in class, better than even the exceedingly German VW Amarok.  

CABIN

The interior of the Navara is incredibly well-appointed with standard features on SE models including a touch screen Sat Nav system with CD player, AM/FM Radio, AUX, USB and Bluetooth connectivity with steering mounted audio controls. Top-spec Nissan Navara LE models at Group 1 Nissan get leather interior, electric & heated seats, keyless entry and start, reverse camera, rear PDC and LED daytime running lights.

The interior is upmarket and comfortable. It feels comparable to a premium SUV rather than a bakkie and offers very good space front and rear, the level of the standard spec is really impressive and does a good job of helping you forget about the bakkie roots. It’s incredibly refined and cancels out wind noise, vibrations and harshness – easily class-leading in this aspect

DRIVETRAIN

Powered by a twin-turbo 2.3-litre engine that has 140 kW and 450 N.m, it’s happiest when cruising along at freeway speeds. Overtaking power is good and the low down torque from 1 500-2 500 RPM offers incredible tractability and in town, builds speed very quickly with little effort. The only complaint is the noise when overtaking as the engine does get a little loud when pressing on, but this is a very small gripe. The claimed fuel consumption figure of 6.5 l/100km is rather optimistic with a best of 9.1 l/100km in the combined cycle being more realistic. The 7-speed Automatic is also smooth and feels like a good match to the engine, although some adjustment must be made when cruising as the gearbox will often gear down when accelerating with anything other than ¾ throttle, even when you don’t intend on such, likely more orientated to accommodate 3.5-ton towing capacity.

4X4 TOYS

The new Navara is again class-leading in the approach and departure angles offering 33 degrees, on the former and  27.9 degrees the latter. Ground clearance sits at 226 mm, which is impressive but may be hampered by the standard side steps. Low range, diff-lock, and selectable 4WD are standard and the electrical goodies like hill ascent and descent control come with the territory.

The New Navara is an incredibly good bakkie and with a starting price of R 519,800 at Group 1 Nissan, offers very good value for money for those not overly focused on the bakkie aspects of the vehicle.  The range will expand later to include other offerings but at this point, the pick of the bunch is the top-spec 2.3 LE 4×4 Auto.

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Article source: https://thenissanfan.home.blog/2020/08/18/nissan-navara-driven-reviewed-in-south-africa/

Should You Buy A 2018 Nissan NV200?

The Nissan NV200 for sale is a light cargo van built as a complement to Nissan’s larger NV full-size van starting in 2010. In the very price-sensitive field of commercial and small-business vans, it is one of the most inexpensive options available. Other than an attractive price, tradesmen, small business owners and regular buyers alike will also appreciate the excellent degree of customizability and the low cost of ownership that the 2018 Nissan NV200 brings.

What’s New for 2018?
In 2018, Nissan updated the complement of onboard electronics for the van. The 2018 Nissan NV200 now comes standard with a rearview camera, a 5.0-inch LCD display and Bluetooth voice and hands-free texting functions. Aside from its feature selection, the Nissan NV200 remains unchanged since its 2010 model year debut.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Nissan NV200 – The Pros

1. Inexpensive
The biggest selling point is that the 2018 Nissan NV200 is the cheapest cargo van on the market today by far. At around the same price point as a compact passenger car or crossover SUV, it delivers a lot more cargo room and hauling ability. It is also priced well below most of its competitors in the light cargo van segment, making it a good value purchase.

2. Attractive
Vans are not designed to be appealing, but the 2018 Nissan NV200 manages to avoid looking boxy or ugly, thanks to its rounded lines and subtle accents integrated into its cargo cab. Likewise, its interior feels more car-like than some competitors when you are in the driver’s seat.

3. Standard Technology
The addition of standard Bluetooth and a rearview camera to the 2018 Nissan NV200 gives it additional value as both a private and a commercial vehicle. While those are common in many consumer cars, they are high-end options on many commercial vehicles. For a van, a rearview camera is almost a must, and Bluetooth makes it easier to safely conduct business while on the go, so this is a big plus for the NV200.

4. Manoeuvrable
While it is large to accommodate a big cargo load, the 2018 Nissan NV200 is not actually much longer than most mid-size consumer vehicles, which makes manoeuvring it around city streets or through built-up neighbourhoods much easier than a standard van. The standard rearview camera makes it even easier when it comes to reversing.

5. Modular Cargo System
Nissan has made it very easy to customize this van and adapt it to your changing business needs. Inside the cargo compartment of the 2018 Nissan NV200, you will find 20 wall-mounted and six optional floor-mounted cargo points, which allow you to attach shelves, storage lockers or equipment to the walls without welding or drilling. This makes adding, removing or rearranging your storage very easy.

6. Sliding Door Option
Another optional customization feature offered on the 2018 Nissan NV200 is its optional sliding door. Models with that option have a minivan-style door on the passenger side that allows easy access to the cargo area without having to use the rear doors. For many business applications, such as residential deliveries, this can greatly speed up the process and make it more efficient.

7. “Mobile Office” Seating
The front cabin of the 2018 Nissan NV200 is filled with little touches designed to make it easier to keep your business workflow going even while in transit. There is storage for files and laptops in the centre console and dashboard, helping important items not get lost, but the most innovative is the folding passenger seat. It can be folded down to create a small desk, which can make it easier to work on the aforementioned laptop or files while remaining in the driver’s seat.

8. Fantastic Taxi Model
For the 2014 model year, Nissan introduced a new version of the NV200 specifically for use as a New York City taxi, before expanding the availability of the model to other markets. This model is filled to the brim with excellent comfort touches, including vinyl upholstery, full windows and a complement of nice features for the passengers, including a panoramic sunroof and USB ports and even a power outlet.

9. Good Economy
The Nissan NV200 does slightly better than its van rivals when it comes to keeping fuel costs down. It is rated at 24 miles per gallon city, 26 mpg highway and 25 mpg combined, which puts it at above average for the class.

10. Excellent Warranty
Nissan offers a great warranty on its commercial vehicles, which includes the NV200. Its new car warranty lasts for five years or 100,000 miles, which is longer than most other manufacturers. This is good news for both larger fleet buyers, who are more likely to see defects, and small businesses, which may be running on lower margins.

Conclusion
The 2018 Nissan NV200 is a vehicle focused on one thing: providing an excellent value when it comes to carrying cargo and the various business applications that accompany that. It is inexpensive and easily tailored to the needs of each particular business. It is not as flashy as some alternatives, but it delivers good and consistent value which will be reflected in your bottom line at the end of the day. That makes it an excellent choice.

Find a secondhand Nissan van at Group 1 Nissan and boost your business!
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Article from: https://www.car-buying-strategies.com/Nissan/2018-NV200.html

Used Nissan X-Trail Reviewed

A full used buyer’s guide covering the Nissan X-Trail for sale.

The X-Trail sits in a crowded market, especially if five seats are enough for your needs. But even if you need space for seven, there are many accomplished choices and it doesn’t really stand out. Still, the Nissan isn’t a poor buy; it looks smart, is well equipped and has a roomy cabin, but there are alternatives that offer these things and feel more special to drive and more solidly built and are just as affordable. 

Nissan has a long history of making rugged SUVs; its Patrol was introduced way back in 1951. Over the years the company has produced a raft of other 4x4s, including the original X-Trail, which arrived in the UK in 2000.

The first two generations of X-Trail for sale were surprisingly capable off road, and offered reliable family transport at keen prices, even though the exterior design was uninspiring.

But with the Mk3, unveiled in 2013, Nissan brought the design right up to date. This sleeker and much more stylish SUV packed lots of hi-tech features. It also offered the option of seven seats, which is why there’s no second-generation Qashqai +2. So how does the X-Trail Mk3 stack up? 

History

The third-generation X-Trail arrived at Group 1 Nissan in July 2014, codenamed T32; its predecessors were the T30 and T31. Only a 130bhp 1.6 dCi diesel engine was offered, with front or part-time four-wheel drive; the former was available with a six-speed manual or a CVT auto.

A 1.6 DIG-T turbocharged petrol engine appeared in January 2016, in 2WD manual form only, then in January 2017 a 175bhp 2.0-litre diesel was introduced, rated at 175bhp and offered with a manual gearbox (4WD only) or CVT (2WD or 4WD).

July 2017’s facelift brought a revised nose, better refinement and a higher-quality interior, plus LED rear lights, new wheel designs and DAB as standard across the range. There was also new standard and optional safety tech. 

Which one should I buy?

The 1.6 DIG-T feels sluggish while the 1.6 dCi is noisy and short on torque, leaving the 2.0 dCi as the best option, especially if towing, but prices are high.

Entry-level Visia spec gets 17-inch alloys, cruise control, air-con, hill start assist and all-round electric windows. It also has a spare wheel, plus electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors.

Acenta trim adds privacy glass, power-folding door mirrors, dual-zone climate control, automatic lights and wipers, parking sensors front and rear plus an electrically operated sunroof.

n-tec has 19-inch alloys, a powered tailgate, DAB radio, a bird’s-eye parking camera, AEB and a suite of other safety aids. The top-spec Tekna features LED headlights, heated leather seats, blind-spot warning and automatic parking.

Noticeably more upmarket – and pricey – is the Volkswagen Tiguan. Older models come with five seats only, like the (more costly) Audi Q5 and BMW X3. 

Interior

Inside, the X-Trail is less utilitarian than previous models, and feels more upmarket, with a modern design and plenty of passenger space – even if the optional third row is only for children. It’s still worth having, but boot space rises from 445 to 550 litres if you go for the five-seater. Find a car with a glass roof if you can; it really brightens up the cabin.

Driver Power owner satisfaction

In this year’s Driver Power satisfaction survey, the X-Trail came 60th out of 75 cars. It didn’t score particularly highly in any category, with the engine and gearbox rated towards the bottom of the table, along with build quality and reliability. Owners rated the car’s infotainment and safety highest, along with its practicality.

Article from: http://myheartbelongstonissan.over-blog.com/2020/08/used-nissan-x-trail-reviewed.html

THE ALWAYS BELOVED NISSAN NP200

Nissan and bakkies – two words that marry like a superstar Hollywood couple and then make the world’s perfect babies. And in the South African context, a legend. We all remember the iconic Nissan 1400 bakkie, a car which helped move students out of the house and bricks to the construction site. It also taught plenty of us how to drive and the local street racing fraternity loved it too.

Like the VW Beetle and the original Mini, it turned out to become a classic and Nissan South Africa sold the little bangers for almost 40 years. Sure one or two things were updated and it got new nicknames like “Champ”, but essentially you could buy a 1971 Datsun bakkie in 2008.

The decision to replace it must have been a tough one for Nissan SA. How do you replace a legend? Well, you don’t. That’s why the new Nissan NP200 shares as much DNA with the old 1400 as a show jumper’s steed shares with Michael Schumacher’s F1 car: only the badge is the same.

The NP200 isn’t really a Nissan, though. It’s based on the chassis of something called a Dacia which is an Eastern European budget box, and you will find the same underpinnings in the Renault Logan and Sandero. In fact, the Nissan NP200 feels and looks simply like a Logan with no back seats. They even smell exactly the same!

The Nissan is also front-wheel drive, which is in total contrast to the rear-wheel driven 1400. I bet Louis Lima won’t be thinking of modifying the new car to race down the country’s drag strips any time soon. However, if you forget about the heritage and the purist stuff, the NP200 starts to win you over

I drove the 1.5 dCi version, which is powered by Renault’s efficient turbocharged diesel motor. In “High Spec” trim, luxury features including electric windows and mirrors, air conditioning, front fog lights and central locking are included, and although those extras don’t usually pop up on my radar, they make a big difference when the car you’re driving is designed for one specific purpose and anything else is just a bonus.

Quality on the inside is good, with durable plastics and fabric seats doing fine duty. The silver-painted plastic dash sections are a bit tacky, but the slightly sporty flavour isn’t going to make you sick, so it doesn’t matter. Dials are very easy to read and you get a central digital display, but I would have liked a button with trip information attached to it. You can’t monitor fuel consumption or distance-to-empty, which drove me bonkers if I am honest. Nissan claims 5.3 litres for every 100 kilometres and I don’t doubt you would be able to achieve that, but not with anything weighing you down in the back.

And then you get to the engine noise. Being based on a budget car and then not really being improved on means there is a lot of intrusive engine noise in the cabin, along with road and tyre roar. However, if you have even a modicum of petrol headedness, you will fall absolutely in love with all the turbo sounds that filter through the firewall. You can hear everything, and it was music to my ears!

There is a radio system available at this spec level, and it wasn’t half bad, but it’s an aftermarket system whose face is detachable, and I’m sorry to say that I wouldn’t be surprised if it was a car thief’s number one priority when canvassing an NP200. That said, the remote central locking is coupled to an anti-hijack immobiliser system. On the safety front you get two airbags, ABS with EBD (electronic brake-force distribution) and a roll bar.

Driving dynamics are okay, I suppose. You’re not going to try vigorous cornering with this car anyway, so it doesn’t really matter. Ride comfort is rather bouncy though, unless you’ve loaded the rear and calmed things down a bit. I wouldn’t say you feel detached from the driving experience but you sure won’t be enthralled by anything, except maybe by making the turbo sing under the control of your right foot. The clutch is nice and soft but you will learn to “ride” it when pulling off.

The NP200 is exceptionally good at being a bakkie. If you take a look at the competition which includes the Chevrolet Corsa Ute, the Fiat Strada and the Ford Bantam, you will be hard-pressed to take one of the older players over this new one.

The Corsa is very good, and there is a new one about to be launched, but I don’t like the way people try and make it look like a junior Lumina. The 1.7 diesel engine puts out a horribly low amount of torque (160Nm), something which will drive you mad especially once loaded. There are 1.4 and 1.8-litre petrol variants though, so don’t discount it altogether. Payload ability is quoted as 760kg for the diesel.

The stylish Fiat however only comes with a 1.4-litre petrol engine, and it can only carry 715 kilos. So really, the only reason you would buy one is because you want an Italian car. The Bantam, boet, comes with 1.3 or 1.6 petrol engines or a 1.4 TDCi diesel motor. Torque is also low for the diesel at 160Nm, so I would go for the 1.6 petrol if I absolutely had to. It may be the stereotypical South African favourite, but based on the Fiesta of old it is not up-to-date enough for me, despite yet another facelift.

The Nissan, on the other hand, boasts the biggest load bay and carrying capacity (800kg) and with a huge tail gate which opens easily and low-down, getting things in and out shouldn’t be any sort of back ache. You get 200Nm from the engine and for that reason alone it is the best and most relaxing car to drive out of these four. You can take a 1.6-litre petrol version if you so desire, but in a car like this you need to go diesel.

Add to the equation that Group 1 Nissan has just upgraded the NP200’s warranty to a whopping 6 year or 150 000km affair, peace of mind should have you signing a deal without question. I am the last person to voluntarily drive a small bakkie like this, but honestly, the NP200 brought some style and sophistication to an area of the market that appeals to me only on a practical level. Two thumbs up!
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Article source: https://www.mambaonline.com/2011/04/06/motoring-nissan-np200/

Nissan develops lightweight acoustic meta-material to reduce road noise

Road noise has long been a problem in cars in Cape Town, particularly when traveling at speed on the highway, but it's even more obvious in electric cars, which don't produce engine noise that can help mask it. Nissan has now developed an acoustic meta-material that is as effective as the sound insulation materials currently used, but at a quarter of the weight.

Carmakers have long used rubber boards to reduce road noise inside vehicle cabins, but these are heavy, reducing energy efficiency. This has lead a number of companies, including Hyundai and Bose, to tackle the problem by adapting active noise cancelling technology like that used in headphones in an attempt to cancel out the sound waves. Nissan's approach, however, is passive, so it doesn't require any power or complicated (or expensive) microphone and speaker setup.

The company also claims it is comparable in cost to mass-produce to rubber boards – if not cheaper. This is due to the acoustic meta-material's simple design, which is a lattice structure covered by a thin plastic film. This arrangement, which looks a bit like bubble wrap with one side removed, helps reflect wide frequency band noise in the 500 to 1,200-hertz range hitting the material, reducing the amount that passes through.

In addition to improving the energy efficiency of existing vehicles that currently rely on heavy rubber boards, Nissan says its acoustic meta-material could bring a quieter ride to vehicles whose use of conventional sound insulation materials due to weight and cost constraints.

There's no word on if or when Nissan Cape Town plans to integrate the acoustic meta-material into its vehicles, but you can stay up to date with any new developments by following Group 1 Nissan’s blog.

Original article from Wheels Galore.

TIPS FOR BUYING A NEW CAR IN SOUTH AFRICA

When you buy a car it should be a fun, exciting experience. Browsing vehicles, choosing the right one, then slipping behind the wheel of a bright, shiny new motor, ready to hit the road in style!
But often the number of questions associated with purchasing a new vehicle can turn a thrilling time into a stressful one. Between worrying about finance, knowing what to ask the dealer, and even deciding on which type of car to choose, the purchasing process can be a tricky one if you’re unfamiliar with it. That’s why Group 1 Nissan put together an extensive guide, but here’s a list of tips to guide you all the way from browsing to buying with as little hassle as possible.

1. Decide what you can afford

It may seem like a given, but working out how much you can afford to spend on car payments every month is a crucial first step to buying a new vehicle. It’s no good deciding on the car of your dreams, and then realising you won’t be able to afford it – or worse, crippling yourself with debt in order to make your payments.
That’s why before you buy a new car, it’s imperative that you calculate what you can realistically afford to spend on repayments every month. Also, make sure to budget for essentials like car insurance, and occasional repairs too.

2. Decide what type of car you need

Again, perhaps an obvious step, but another important one nonetheless. Deciding on the make and model of the car you need, rather than want. If you have a family, there’s no point investing in a two-seater sports car. Similarly, if you’re an urban warrior, there’s no reason to spend more than you can afford on a giant 4 x 4.
That’s why in order to ensure you choose the ideal car for your lifestyle, first make a note of exactly what it is you need from a car. Once you have a clear idea of the necessary specs and features, you’ll have narrowed your search considerably. After this process, you’ll have a clearer idea of which type of vehicle would suit you best.

3. Secure your financing

Some dealers may try to persuade you that securing financing is only necessary once you come to actually purchase a vehicle. In fact -walking into a dealership with approved financing gives you more negotiating power and allows you to find the best interest rate.
What’s more, having your financing approved before visiting a dealership may leave you with extra money to pay associated fees and taxes. These are costs that you might otherwise have to cover yourself after purchasing. As such, applying for vehicle finance before making an actual purchase can give you a welcome advantage.

4. Choose a dealership

Once you have a shortlist of potentially suitable vehicles to purchase and have secured financing for yourself, it’s time to visit a dealer. In South Africa, you’ll want to make sure any dealer you choose is a member of either the Retail Motor Industry Association (RMI) or the Independent Dealer Association (IDA). Both of these associations are accredited organisations that are regulated in order to ensure fairness, compliance and best practice standards. Before you approach any dealership, first make sure it is affiliated with either of these organisations in order to protect your rights as a consumer.

5. Go for a test drive

Now comes the most important part of the purchasing process – your questioning of the dealer. Before you make a decision on which car to buy, you’ll need to make sure you know it inside and out. That means asking the dealer questions about service plans, specifications, warranties, optional extras, or any other information you may need. This is also your opportunity to take your shortlisted vehicles for a test drive. Maybe even a few, if you feel it necessary. Make sure you know how well the car handles, how comfortable you feel driving it, and how confident you are behind the wheel before ever making an offer. And when it comes time to discussing price, remember that the door to negotiation is always open – and can sometimes lead to you paying less than full sticker price too!

6. Sign the paperwork

Once you have decided on your vehicle, and have accepted the price as quoted to you by the dealer, you will need to sign the paperwork in order to finalise the purchase. Make sure that you have your valid South African driver’s license with you, as well as proof of car insurance, and sign the contract once the vehicle is ready for delivery and you are fully satisfied with it.

7. Take a tour of your new car

While you could just as easily familiarise yourself with your new vehicle at home with the driver’s manual in hand, having your dealer take you through the various features and functions of the car will allow you to ask on-the-spot questions. Make sure your dealer runs through the dashboard functionality with you, any technological features such as Bluetooth, the type of petrol your car takes and shows you how to open your bonnet and petrol cap too. Lastly, make sure you have a copy of your car’s instruction booklet, service manual and original registration, and you’ll be ready to drive off and rule the road!

Article source: https://www.iwyze.co.za/post/7-tips-buying-a-new-car

Fifth-generation Micra is much more than a rental

Nissan might be best known for its bakkies, SUVs and GT-Rs but the Japanese brand has not forgotten its passenger car portfolio. Keen to reassert itself in the compact car market locally, Nissan’s sales strategy in this regard revolves around its fifth-generation Micra. 

Mechanically it is a twin of the current Renault Clio, with some distinguishing Japanese styling details such as switchblade rear lights and pronounced shoulder line styling creases.

The compact hatchback segment is South Africa’s most traded passenger car class and Nissan is doing something unusual by adding new Micra to its existing Micra Active/ Nissan Micra 2019, which is the fourth-generation car.

VW has shown how successful retailing a legacy model can be, by virtue of its dominance with Vivo, which is a previous generation Polo.

Nissan’s now in the position too much the same, with two-generations of Micra in the market, at Group 1 Nissan, creating a much broader pricing bandwidth.

Powered by an 898cc turbocharged three-cylinder engine, booting to 66kW and 140Nm, it promises to be both frugal and responsive.

A five-speed manual transmission runs the little city car from 0-100kph in 12.1 seconds, whilst a conservatively driven one should return an average fuel consumption of 5.1l/100km.

The range is three derivatives strong, with the anticipation of more engine and transmission options to come towards the end of 2018. Visia trim denotes the entry-level model which cruise control, air-conditioning, Bluetooth and a host of standard features such as ABS, stability control and hill-start assist – the latter being a very useful feature if you live in Northcliff or Sea Point.

Whereas rival brands often skimp a touch on the active safety specification of their compact hatchbacks, Nissan’s gone full-in with all the safety features you’d expect on a C-segment vehicle in its B-segment hatch.

Extending the range is Micra Acenta, adding alloy wheels and a seven-inch infotainment display which is Apple CarPlay compatible. The range-topping model is an Acenta Plus, which sizes-up the alloy wheel offering to 17-inches in diameter and has orange cabin trim.

What’s it like to drive? Curiously, Micra’s appeal pivots on its engine. If you keep the tiny turbocharged triple boosting, it’s credibly responsive and despite its compact size, Micra tracks reassuringly, even at highway speeds.

A consequence of having to keep the sub-1-litre engine on boost all the time is that fuel economy will never edge close to the claimed average of 5.1l/100km. A sixth gear will assist in lowering consumption at highway speeds and this certainly an upgrade which will be offered in time.

There are two advantages of Micra’s tiny engine which are not ordinarily considered. One is the reduction in mass above the front axle, which means Micra turns-in very crisply, without a nose-heavy feel when you are in a hurry and the road is a serpentine sequence of winding of corners.

The other is that at Gauteng motoring altitudes, where the air is thin and engines struggle for power, a turbocharged engine is far less afflicted by induction asthma than a naturally aspirated one.

Whereas most competitors have allowed VW to dominate the compact hatchback market in South Africa with its combination of legacy Vivo and new Polo, Nissan’s finally learnt that imitation is the best route to a rivalry.

Offering a combination of fourth- and fifth-generation Micra, on one generously broad pricing graph, is the closest thing to a true range alternative VW’s ever had to deal with in the South African market.





Article source: https://www.thesouthafrican.com/nissan-micra-turbocharged/

Tested: Nissan Navara Stealth is an attractive package

Nissan Navara 2.3D Stealth 4x4 auto

Vehicles that don’t match their names often end up taking flak from buyers, reviewers and internet trolls alike. This is usually because it says sporty on the box but the actual toy isn’t much fun to play with.


But Nissan’s new Navara Stealth edition is something we’ll happily forgive for its mismatched name. Stealth is a word you’d usually associated with going undercover, but this Nissan instead attracts attention on the street with its orange trim on the front bumper, side steps and wing mirrors as well as its large stickers and black wheels and grille. The latter in my opinion works better than the chrome trim that adorns other Navara models at Group 1 Nissan, and it makes for a sportier look.


The Stealth package is a purely aesthetic one, however, meaning that in essence this is a rival to the Ranger Wildtrak rather than the Raptor. The Stealth is available in 4x2 manual and auto as well as 4x4 auto configurations, commanding a very reasonable price premium over the Navara LE variants.


While it can’t match the 157kW/500Nm Ford for outright grunt, the 2.3-litre twin-turbo that comes standard in all Navaras is still more powerful than most rivals, producing 140kW at 3750rpm and 450Nm from 1500 revs.


The engine provides relatively effortless performance and it’s impressively smooth, quiet and refined too, and the seven-speed automatic gearbox is reasonably responsive.


On the subject of refinement, the Nissan Navara is the only vehicle in its class to feature a coil-sprung rear suspension rather than leaf springs, and while the unladen ride is comfortable enough on most surfaces, it doesn’t seem notably better than its rivals in that regard, and you’ll also feel an uncomfortable firmness over larger speed bumps - as you would in other bakkies. The Navara does handle corners quite neatly though.


For those that want to venture deep into the wilds, the Navara has all the typical ingredients you’d expect at this level, including a transfer case with low-range gearing, diff lock and a ground clearance of 129mm. While on the subject of utility, the Navara is rated to tow 3500kg (braked) and the payload is just short of a tonne, at 961kg.


It will make a decent family vehicle too, with relatively generous rear legroom, although really tall teens will probably want more headroom.


The features count is as generous as you could expect, with standard fare including partial leather seats (heated upfront and with electric adjustment for the driver), dual zone climate control, keyless push-button start, cruise control, auto headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system with satnav and a 360-degree Around View Monitor.


The Stealth also gets a unique seat upholstery that pairs black leather side bolsters with orange material inserts and stitching. It works well to lift the mood inside, without being too OTT.

VERDICT

The Navara operates in a cut-throat segment that has no shortage of talent, and although it doesn’t stand apart from its rivals in any particular area, it is a decent all-rounder that offers impressive all-round refinement. This could be a very attractive package for someone wanting to avoid the Hilux-Ranger herd, and stand out a little on the road (and trail).





Article source: https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/road-tests/tested-nissan-navara-stealth-is-an-attractive-package-30229827

Will the NP200 ever achieve the much-loved status of “the 1400”?

Looking at the number of sales the 1-ton pick-up market keeps racking up month-after-month, as it has been doing for many years, one has to ask the question why there aren’t more smaller pick-ups on the market.


Once a thriving segment with a few competing offerings, the half-ton bakkie segment had the Ford Bantam (based on the front-drive Ford Escort hatch) and re-badged Mazda Rustler, Volkswagen Golf pick-up (which was based on Golf 1, and later renamed Caddy pick-up)… and way before them, the Datsun 1200 bakkie was born. This little bakkie became the Nissan 1400, and through a few upgrades like a higher roof and new face, stayed true to its origins. The Bantam was built for quite a few years, but then ended, while the VW Caddy kind of had to retire after the long-standing CitiGolf (Golf 1) was stopped. Interestingly, the oldest of the group also endured the longest, as 1400 outlived all the abovementioned half-tonners. Only the Opel Corsa Utility, as the new entrant, made some inroads – this became Chevrolet Utility. Fiat tried this for a while with its Strada, but quit.


When it came time for Nissan to close the 1400 production line, it commemorated it with a Heritage edition model, bowing out this little winner in style. The last of the rear-wheel-drive half-ton bakkies had to go. Nissan SA decided it was time to let it go… but why did it? Just looking at the high demand for the 1400 even now, and seeing how many are still running around daily, there would no doubt still be buyers today.


The big question was: what will they replace it with? Nissan had formed an alliance with Renault, who in turn has ties to Dacia. The Dacia bakkie seemed a good source to continue Nissan’s long-standing small bakkie sales strength, so the NP200 was decided on. However, this is not a true Nissan – just look at the front-end and interiors of the Dacia/Renault Logan sedan (which was thankfully stopped for the local market) and you’ll see the similarity between Logan and “Nissan” NP200.


Nissan SA introduced the Nissan NP200 for sale in September 2009, overlapping with the last of the 1400s produced. A sad day for South Africa – not so much the discontinuation of the 1400, but the NP200 marketed as a continuation of the loved little heritage bakkie.


It was very bold of Nissan to, in 2011, extend the warranty of all-new NP200 bakkies to 6 years or 150 000km. This means a buyer of a new NP200 would have a long time and far distance to go before the warranty expires.


Nissan SA boasts a comprehensive range of LCVs (Light Commercial Vehicles) in its commercial portfolio – the NP200 is at the bottom, and also sells the NP300 Hardbody, Navara (up for replacement by the NP300 Navara) and the Patrol pick-up, which had received a look similar to the Patrol SUV.


Strange that there are only 2 remnants of the half-ton bakkie – this Nissan NP200 from Group 1 Nissan, and the Chevrolet Utility, both selling 1200+ per month. Ford is expanding its commercial range but is happy to sell only Ranger and panel vans. Toyota actually had a small 1200 bakkie many years ago, but no replacement was made. Today only Volkswagen has a chance of re-entering this market when seeing the Saveiro from Brazil.



Article source: https://welovenissan.tumblr.com/post/190380871033/will-the-np200-ever-achieve-the-much-loved-status