Nissan Sylphy updated for 2012
Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd has just introduced new updates to its Nissan Sylphy C-segment sedan today. Engine-transmission combo remains unchanged, but ETCM now offers the Sylphy in two trim levels – 2.0XL and 2.0XV – priced at RM114,880.00 and RM124,880.00 respectively inclusive of insurance.
There are no mechanical changes to report, so it’s the same 2.0-litre MR20DE twin-cam engine under the hood. Featuring drive-by-wire technology and continuously variable valve timing control, it is not the most advanced powertrains around, but our experience is that it most certainly is among the smoothest and most refined engines this side of a Lexus.
Vital stats of the engine are 131hp @ 5,200rpm and 191Nm @ 4,400rpm, and these outputs are sent to the front wheels by Nissan’s third-generation X-Tronic CVT. Chassis setup appears unchanged as well – MacPherson strut suspension and ventilated disc brakes up front; torsion beam and drum brakes at the rear.
The Sylphy’s familiar profile is largely retained in this update, but we do get the usual new bumpers and lights front and rear, and a revised chrome grille. A choice of five colours are offered: Bronze Gold, Tungsten Silver, Sapphire Black, Twilight Grey and Brilliant White.
The bigger changes of the 2012 Sylphy take place in the cabin. The previous beige-coloured trim is gone, with ETCM’s product planners now favouring a black theme instead, marrying it to cherry wood trim. On the dashboard is a new instrument panel with multi-info display, and a revised audio head unit with MP3 and Aux-In connectivity.
One of the Sylphy’s biggest weaknesses against its rivals is a chronic lack of equipment, and that complaint is now being addressed with the higher-specced 2.0XV which comes with 16-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels, intelligent key (i-Key) keyless entry and engine-start system, leather steering wheel with audio controls, and bi-xenon projector headlamps with an Active Front-lighting System (AFS).
In the aspect of safety, the 2012 Nissan Sylphy comes equipped with dual front SRS airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, front seat Active Head Restraints and Zone Body construction with front and rear crushable zones. As before auto headlamps with manual level adjustment is standard fitment across the board.
As usual, ETCM offers the Sylphy with a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first). Early buyers are offered a free aerokit with each new unit of the 2012 Sylphy, and they also get to enjoy low interest hire purchase rates starting from 2.50% per annum, subject to terms and conditions.
Pictures: Official ETCM release.
See also: Nissan car prices and specifications in Malaysia
