Mitsubishi-based Nissan Livina
The last model of the Nissan Livina arrived in Malaysia sometime in late September 2013 and by that time there were already more than 65,000 units of the of this compact station wagon on Malaysia roads.
Yes, it was called a MPV but in reality this Nissan Livina was more a station-wagon which was priced between RM86,880 for the 1.6L version to RM99,980 for the 1.8L version. The provided third row seats were of little use for teenagers and adults and only small kids could fit in, but it was a family favourite as there was little competition in the market.
Now we hear that the all new next generation Nissan Livina may be arriving soon on Malaysian shores, thanks to the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. Launched in Indonesia at IR 265,400,000 which is about RM79,787.00 will compete directly at the Toyota Avanza.
Don’t be fooled by the striking Nissan signature V motion grille, this particular Nissan is essentially a reskinned version of the Mitsubishi Xpander. Which is part of the reason why this generation of Livina looks more like a crossover than the previous generation, which had a more estate-like aesthetic with a lower roof line.
In terms of propulsion, driving the front wheels of the new Nissan Livina is a 1.5 litre MIVEC four cylinder borrowed from Mitsubishi. Generating 103 hp and 141 Nm of torque, it is mated to a well-proven four speed automatic gearbox with a 5 speed manual option also available for certain variants.
As for the interior, there is enough space for 7 in this 3 row MPV. The Livina’s snoopy dash design is carried over from its Mitsubishi counterpart and standard equipment in this Indonesian-made Nissan includes a 7-inch infotainment system with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android auto functionality. All models come equipped with dual airbags and ABS/EBD, while higher variants receive Brake Assist and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC).
In addition to the four trim levels available, there is also a limited run ‘Sporty’ edition in its home market of Indonesia. Limited to 100 units and only coming in black with red accents and red mirror caps, it is not much more than an appearance pack with no additional performance gains. Even the alloy wheels are the same as on the highest normal spec Livina. On the inside, the black and red theme continues with red stitching contrasting the black seats. The Sporty edition however adds additional features such as ‘Welcome Home’ lights and a 360º reversing camera with bird-eye functionality.
This SUV-styled people mover is currently only sold in Indonesia for the time being. However signs point to the Livina making an appearance in other ASEAN markets soon, so chances are it may make its way to Malaysia in the coming months.
