Edaran Tan Chong Launches All-New Nissan Teana
Kuala Lumpur, 03 June 2014 – The Nissan Teana was launched today by Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd, the local distributors for the Nissan brand. The Teana is longer, wider and taller than the outgoing model, and in addition to the base 2.0 XE, 2.0 litre and 2.5 XV, 2.5 litre variants, there is a new mid-range variant called the Teana 2.0XL, which sports the same 2.0 litre engine as the base model, but with a higher level of trim.
Based on the three model pillars of Sedan / Premium / Comfort, the Teana is targeted directly at the buyers of D-Segment cars, namely the people who are also targeted by the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. This is the third generation Teana after the first model was launched in 2002. The latest model has a more majestic demeanour that should be more appealing to the business, executive and family types who make up the main market for these cars.
The Teana is specced at a very high level, and all carry a passive and active package that is quite impressive. Across all the variants, the standard safety package includes 6 airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (read as Vehicle Stability Control) Traction Control, and Active Understeer Control (AUC). AUC uses the ABS system to apply braking on the inside wheels during a corner to transfer drive to the outer wheels to help the Teana turn into the corners � it is something like a cross between torque vectoring and an LSD. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic BrakeForce Distribution) and BA Brake Assist), are also standard equipment.
The two 2.0 litre variants are powered by the MR20DE, 1,997cc, DOHC 16-valve engine carried over from the previous Teana. Power is rated at 136 PS @ 5,600 rpm, while torque is maxed at 190 Nm @ 4,400 rpm. This engine loses out in the power department to its competitors, but the overall specifications, ride and composure of the Teana are expected to make up for the deficit.
The top-of-the-range 2.5XV variant is equipped with a newly developed 2.5 litre, 4-cylinder DOHC engine dubbed the QR25DE. Some Nissan loyalists will mourn the loss of the old V6, but the new engine promises a healthy 173 PS @ 6,000 rpm, and 234 Nm of torque @ 4,000 rpm and dual continuously variable valve control (CVTC).
Drive is to the front wheels through a XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) which is known to be quite smooth in operation and provides an excellent driving feel. Suspension remains as Macpherson struts in the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear.
In terms of dimensions, the all-new Teana has an overall length of 4,885mm, an overall width of 1,830mm, and an overall height of 1,485mm. Wheelbase is 2,775 mm, and kerb weight is 1,447kg for the 2.0XE, 1,456kg for the 2.0 XL, while the 2.5 XV weighs in at 1,516kg. Wheels are 16-inch for the 2.0 litre variants while the 2.5 XV comes with 17-inch. Boot size is 516 litres. Considering the weight of the three variants, I would expect the 2.5 litre to be the most popular choice due to its better power-to-weight ratio. The base models would be for the up-graders from the C-segment who are looking for a bigger sedan that is not necessarily more powerful.
All variants come with smart entry and push button start, dual-zone air-conditioning and a rear air-conditioner duct. Leather seats are only available in the two higher range variants.
The 2.5 XV has additional goodies, including Xenon headlamps, and an automatic headlamp leveller, a sunroof and a high end Bose sound system.
The main attraction that will pull potential buyers over to the Nissan showrooms would be its very attractive pricing:
Nissan Teana 2.0 XE: RM139,800
Nissan Teana 2.0 XL: RM149,800
Nissan Teana 2.5 XV: RM169,900.
All prices are on-the-road with insurance.
