We’ve already reviewed it and even compared it to its 2013 predecessor, so there’s not much else that have yet to be told of the 2014 Nissan Teana. Well, all but the prices, that is. Just launched today, we now have those vital figures: RM139,800 for the base 2.0XE, RM149,800 for the better-equipped 2.0XL and RM169,900 for the top-of-the-range 2.5XV (all prices OTR with insurance).
So yes, that’s a fair bit less than than the estimated RM142k-173k prices (which are identical to the 2013 model’s retail pricatags), with the lower two models matching the well-received Honda Accord like-for-like. The Teana 2.5XV, meanwhile, undercuts the Accord 2.4 VTi-L by RM3,000. The Toyota Camry 2.5V? That’s beyond RM180k.
Let’s start with the engines. The 2.0 litre models get the same MR20DE CVTC engine with 136 PS at 5,600 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. Moving to the 2.5 litre variant, a new four-cylinder QR25DE Twin-CVTC motor replaces the older car’s famed VQ-series V6 engine. It gets 173 PS at 6,000 rpm and 234 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm (loss of 9 PS, but with 6 Nm more – the latter peaking 400 rpm earlier than before).
Paired to a new-generation Xtronic CVT gearbox (70% new components, 40% less friction and wider ratio coverage), fuel efficiency remains as one of Nissan’s strong points. The 2.0 litre models are claimed to return 13.5 kilometres per litre (7.4 l/100 km), while the flagship variant does 13.3 km/l (7.5 l/100 km). For comparison, the old Teana 2.5 V6 consumed 21% more fuel, at 10.5 km/l (9.5 l/100km).
Nissan claims to have improved the new Teana’s refinement and NVH as well, with new engine and exhaust mount designs, improved body rigidity and 30% more noise absorption materials. Also working to isolate the passengers from road vibrations are the seats themselves, which now feature multi-layered paddings.
The front thrones, by the way, are dubbed ‘Zero-Gravity Seats’. Nissan says it used findings by NASA to design these thrones that come closest to a “neutral posture” – a relaxed position that the human body takes in a weightless environment. They’re also designed to improve blood flow, thus helping to reduce fatigue over long journeys.
While the 2,775 mm-long wheelbase has been kept unchanged, the new Teana has improved rear knee- and leg-room by having revised front seat back design and interior B-pillar and door covers. The boot has grown to 516 litres too, up 10 litres from before.
Moving on to the list of equipment, all models get dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air-con vents, full-colour Advance Drive Display within the instrument cluster, cruise control and keyless entry and start system. Tilt/telescopic-adjustable leather steering wheel and 60:40 split-folding rear seats is standard fare too.
Opting for the mid-sped 2.0XL adds auto lights, powered front seats, leather upholstery and a 5.0-inch colour screen head unit with built-in Bluetooth connectivity and reverse camera. Self-levelling xenon headlamps, auto-dimming rear view mirror, sunroof, nine-speaker Bose Premium Audio System, LED mood lamps and a powered rear sun shade are all reserved to the range-topping 2.5XV.
No matter which variant you choose, however, the long list of safety features is identical. Six airbags, ABS, hill-start assist, Active Understeer Control (AUC) and two ISOFIX anchors are all fitted as standard across the range. First the Sylphy, and now this. Well done, Edaran Tan Chong Motor. Well done indeed.
Offered as optional extras are V-Kool 4mil Security Film for RM4,200 and a trunk tray for RM250. The first 1,000 customers will get the former at a 50% discount, as well as special interest rates as low as 2.48% per annum.
Unique to Nissan’s D-segment sedan offering is the “Teana Total Care” premium service package, which includes direct access to service managers, specially-assigned priority service bays, a dedicated Teana technical support team, as well a three-day follow up verification call process to ensure customer satisfaction. Assurance of delivery times and the ability to book service appointments through call/SMS/online are also thrown in.
Assembled in Tan Chong Motor Assemblies’ Serendah plant, the 2014 Nissan Teana is available in five colours: Storm Blue (new), Tungsten Silver, Diamond Black, Bronze Gold and Brilliant White. All variants come with a three-year/100,000 km warranty.
Tan Chong targets sales of about 500 Teanas per month for the remainder of this year (compared to 1,600 units of the outgoing model sold in the whole of 2013), and plans to increase its market share within the D-segment from five percent currently to 25%. Tan Chong is optimistic it will be able to achieve this in 12 months, thanks to the improved specifications and lower prices compared to the previous generation Teana. The new Teana also has approximately 40% local parts content, which it says will translate to lower maintenance/repair costs compared to the previous gen.
You can refer to our new car research site, CarBase.my for the new Teana’s complete list of technical details and equipment. And while you’re at it, do compare it to its direct competitors as well to see if the Nissan is really the right car for you. Also read our comprehensive test drive report.
Brought to you by Michelin
Switch to MICHELIN Pilot Sport 3 for your driving pleasure. The Nissan Teana 2.5 XV tyre size is 215/55R17 for the MICHELIN Pilot Sport 3 which retails at RM727.
