Here’s a name that should sound very familiar, except that it’s on a completely new face. Nissan has unveiled an all-new global sedan called the Sunny at the 8th China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Exhibition.
The Sunny name isn’t new to China – it was first introduced in 2003 on the first locally-built model from the new Dongfeng Nissan partnership, and the first Sunny quickly helped establish the Nissan brand in the passenger vehicle market there.
This one is set to take things further afield – Nissan says the car will be a projected class leader in fuel economy, and is expected to appeal to young families in their 30s looking for a medium-sized sedan that combines a dynamic upscale design with the space, quality and features associated with the model and the brand.
It’s powered by the ubiquitous HR15DE 1.5 litre block, with dual injectors per cylinder and a partnering new-generation Xtronic CVT transmission being new to China. Other specs include front MacPherson struts and a torsion beam for the rear suspension.
The car will be produced at the Dongfeng Nissan Huadu Plant in Guangzhou for the Chinese market, and the new Sunny will go on sale first in China in January 2011 before progressively making its way into 170 countries worldwide under different vehicle brand names.
Gallery after the jump.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments on the Nissan Sunny debut express mixed reactions, with many praising its practicality, reliability, and nostalgic value, especially for those familiar with past Sunny models. Some find the exterior design dull or unattractive, criticizing its lack of style and odd design cues reminiscent of other Nissan models like the Sylphy and March. There are concerns about the interior quality, with comparisons to cheaper finishes, and some prefer Proton or other brands for better aesthetics. Pricing expectations suggest it must be competitively priced under RM75k-80k to succeed in markets like Malaysia. Enthusiasm exists for the car's features such as fuel economy and CVT transmission, but overall, many feel the design could be more appealing to increase market acceptance.