This week, Myk Belmonte gives you a comfortable car that can be yours for less.
2010-2014 Nissan Teana
History We all know that Nissan was a choice among executives nearly 10 years ago or so. The magic of Nissan's cold air-con and the roomy cabin of the Cefiro isn't anymore a proposition that back-seat riding people take, since Camrys and Accords had taken the helm that Nissan used to dominate. With rising incomes, the upper echelons now line-up for BMW 5 Series and Benz E Class saloons to take them anywhere they wish.
Under the J32 platform code, the second generation Teana debuted in several ASEAN markets (like Thailand, where this one is aplenty) in 2008 under the Teana (other countries used the Cefiro badge) or Maxima - for consumers land down under - nameplates. The platform being utilized is also shared with the Murano and several Renault vehicles sold in France. Although being marketed in some nations, it is succeeded by the L33 Altima (and being renamed as such).
In the RP context, however, Nissan Motor Philippines Inc. is notoriously known to bring world acclaimed cars too late to the market, like three to five years past their selling date. The J32 Teana arrived in late 2010 with two engine options and more plush. In March 2014, alongside a transition to a united Nissan, the L33 Altima was brought here. One can get the 250XL and 350XV models when it was new.
Value and Costs Since a new Altima was introduced (or brought up to the grave), second hand Teana prices may fall down a bit but not to an extent it will fall below the million peso range. As a golden rule regarding late model vehicles, get the newest model you can in which the remainder of the warranty can be used.
Bad news? With this car being a low volume model, replacement parts are very limited so better be careful on driving. Also, with this car sporting a V6 engine expect high gas bills but if you can afford this type of car you should not be complaining.
Exterior and Interior Large as it is, you wouldn't mind especially it provides the luxury that Nissans in the premium category give. So let the exterior speak for itself. One feature present in the 350XV is the panoramic glass ceiling which gives an airy feeling for the occupants.
The highlight, of course, goes to the cabin. The beige interior is nice to see but touching it with dirty hands is an eye sore plus a pain to clean. Of course, there's the wood paneling and the seating may be less for some, but with some magic strings they've done a way.
Engine Unlike the predecessor, this generation offered two V6 engines which may suit both personalities. The basic is a 2.5 V6 having 182hp and 232Nm that may be lacking for some but you wouldn't mind it anyways. Our recommended engine is the 3.5 V6 with 248hp and 335Nm being shared with the 350z and Murano but tuned in a different way.
Driving Impressions One great feature of this sedan is the Xtronic CVT that is up to the task of keeping the car in the right gear whether you have a feather foot or a speed devil, there's an appropriate speed for you. Handling is fine but the suspension system isn't great on isolating road imperfections towards the cabin, but then you wouldn't be complaining about it.
Verdict There's no doubt the Teana is one fine vehicle, with the luxurious feeling that one can get without costing your arm and a kidney stone for a Benz. However, you may want to live with some imperfections that you'll encounter, so decide wisely.
The Good:
- Comfortable
- Smooth ride
- Creamy engine
The Bad:
- Dirt prone interior
- Driving spirits not available
- Large
The Pick: 350XV
THE SPECS
Engines: 2,495cc VQ25DE and 3,498cc VQ35DE V6 gasoline
Power: 182hp @ 6,000rpm (2.5), 248hp @ 6,000rpm (3.5)
Torque: 232Nm @ 4,000rpm (2.5), 335Nm @ 4,400rpm (3.5)
Fuel Consumption: 6-9km/L (city), 8-11km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 6-speed CVT
Suspension: Front independent strut with coil springs, rear multi-link
MORE INFO
Price (New): P1,600,000-P2,050,000
Price (Now): P1,200,000-P1,400,000
Rivals: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mitsubishi Galant, Hyundai Sonata
On Sale: 2010-2014
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Contacts:
After a weekend with the Nissan 2.5-liter Teana two months ago, this 3.5-liter V6 did little to move our enthusiasm as we test drove it in and around the city over 4 days. Yes, the V6 3.5-liter engine is a joy to drive and ‘hear’ in the upper throttle. But with a RM80,000 premium over the 2.5-liter, we were trying very hard to find a single reason why the extra price premium is justifiable during our test drive.
Yes, acceleration is great (smooth and fuss free), midrange power delivery impressive. Engine note tickles our right foot to keep the power on as much as possible, but the handling is a little too soft for a car with this power (it has been setup for great comfort over our badly maintained city roads). Seating comfort for rear and front passengers are class best with thigh rest and electric movements. Again, the price premium did not justify the final product. Nissan Teana 3.5V6 Specifications Engine: V6, DOHC, 24V, CVTC Capacity: 3498cc Transmission: CVT, 6 virtual ratios, FWD Max Power: 252PS @ 6,000rpm Max Torque: 326Nm @ 4,400rpm Acceleration: 8.0 seconds Max Speed: 210km/h Price: RM248,500 with Insurance
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Is Nissan Teana a reliable car?
— Yes, the Nissan Teana J32 is a durable car with a reliable transmission, comfortable suspension, and a controllable all-wheel drive system, making it suitable for aggressive driving and driving on poor quality roads.
Is Nissan Teana fuel efficient?
Nissan Teana Mileage The Teana mileage is 9.1 to 11.07 kmpl. The Automatic Petrol variant has a mileage of 11.07 kmpl.
Is Nissan Teana a V6 engine?
Engine choices include a 3498 cc V6, a 2495 cc V6, a 2488 cc in-line four and 1997 cc in-line four, all with a continuously variable transmission.
Is Nissan Teana a luxury car?
The New Nissan Teana has been elegantly redesigned to be the ultimate luxury sedan.