NISSAN CEFIRO (1996-2000)
See the overview of this Cefiro
Showing posts with label nissan cefiro. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nissan cefiro. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Nissan Cefiro - Generation 2.1-2 (1996-2000)
See the overview of this Cefiro
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Nissan Cefiro - Generation 3.3 (2004-2007)
The final update before being replaced by the Teana line, the Cefiro loses its sun roof and reclining rear seats while the base Classic model returns. There are several suspension revisions and a 3.0 engine was brought in for the first time.
Nissan Cefiro - Generation 3.2 (2002-2004)
NISSAN CEFIRO (2002-2004)
Nissan Cefiro - Generation 3.1 (2000-2002)
NISSAN CEFIRO (2000-2002)
Redesigned for 2000 and signaling the usage of the A33 chassis, the Cefiro retains the variants of its predecessor but gets more equipment (for the Brougham) while retaining the sole 2.0 V6.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Used Car Review - Nissan Cefiro (2000-2007)
Myk Belmonte revisits a former favorite of the elite, which can be now yours.
2000-2007 Nissan Cefiro
History
Ah, the problems when climbing up the executive ladder range from the responsibilities for his subordinates to the time that he will spend for his family. If we will put this on the perspective of a car enthusiast, going up means having a huge car plan budget. What shall the working man get? A minivan for his family is great. An SUV for himself. Or something luxurious similar to a Benz but has a Japanese badge. Choices, choices.
Whether it has the Maxima, Cefiro, or the Infiniti I30 badge, the A33 Cefiro was first launched in Japan back in 1998. Other nations had their own versions years later and Infiniti a year later, with the latter giving a more distinction from the Nissan counterpart. This model was discontinued in favor of the J31 Teana (still called the Cefiro in Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, Caribbean, and Latin America) in 2003.
After the success of the Cefiro A32, it was time for Nissan Motors Philippines Inc. to update the Cefiro at the turn of the millennium. With taxation reasons, only the 2.0 version was brought in with the 3.0 made available four years later. Good while it was new, the Cefiro lost ground when technologically superior competitors came into the scene. Finally, the A33 Cefiro was replaced by the J31 Teana that arrived very late in 2007. Variants that were available from 2000 until 2003 include the Elite and Brougham VIP. A 2004 update had the Elite and Brougham VIP trims renamed to Classic and Superior (dropped sometime in 2005) respectively, while the 3.0 variant was named as the 300EX.
Value and Costs
As everyone knows it, Nissans aren't good when it comes to depreciation. But this vehicle can be yours for just between P220,000-P480,000, a great bargain since you get something classy for less.
Since this has a V6 engine, fuel expenses can be high and the same goes with maintenance costs. Parts can be purchased in Nissan specialist shops. Since this vehicle has tons of electronic gadgets, make sure they function well. Also lookout for normal wear-and-tear components, since at this vehicle's age they tend to get worn out.
Exterior and Interior
What makes the Cefiro appeal to executives? Stately appearance. The exterior resembles those of European vehicles and even the Brougham mimics them by offering a two tone color. Think that this one has the same size as the A32? Well, don't be fooled, it is 4,920mm long (previous model was 4,770mm), possess a width of 1,780mm (from 1,770mm), and 1,435mm tall (a gain from 1,415mm). Top end models get a hood ornament to distinguish them from their lowly counterparts.
The passenger is king inside the Cefiro's cabin since it is very cavernous, especially at the back. Again, the top end model gains air-con vents for the rear occupants, heads up display, and a VCD player with monitor. Leather is standard except for the Classic variant, while an analogue clock (that resembles 80s wrist watches) come standard across the board. Of course, there is the wood trim inside but not Snickers dark; you may describe it as elegant or tacky.
Engine
From the award winning VQ engine family moves the Cefiro in either ways. The lowest spec (and the veteran member) is the VQ20DE 1,995cc that carries 155hp (upgraded to 165hp in 2002) at 6,400rpm and
186Nm (uprated to 189Nm in 2002) at 4,400rpm. Added in 2004 as part of an update is the VQ30DE 2,987cc which is good for 220hp at 6,400rpm and 301Nm at 4,000rpm. Both of these engines are silky smooth, but how do they perform in the real world? Despite having two liters, this engine would have that purr when driven hard to the redline and carries the weight well. The 3.0, on the other hand, is smooth enough but we would pick the 2.0 since it has more than enough power and would cost less to maintain.
Driving Impressions
Fire the ignition and shift to drive, the Cefiro moves without any drama and importantly, no noise intrudes the cabin. Since the transmission is programmed, it can react to any driving conditions. Despite the heft, body roll is kept to a minimum unlike the main competitors. Braking can be spongy, but Electronic Breakforce Distribution and Brake Assist comes standard. If you are the driver, do not expect any excitement behind the wheel but handling is on the safe side.
Verdict
Riding inside the Cefiro is like going to your destination safe and sound. Isolated from the outside world, that's what executives want. It may not have that prestige of a German sedan but you'll be amazed with the savings you get. Now, if you have that spare cash we suggest to save it for your wife's shopping spree, kid's tuition for the next five years, or for that dream vacation abroad (not paid by the company of course).
2000-2007 Nissan Cefiro
History
Ah, the problems when climbing up the executive ladder range from the responsibilities for his subordinates to the time that he will spend for his family. If we will put this on the perspective of a car enthusiast, going up means having a huge car plan budget. What shall the working man get? A minivan for his family is great. An SUV for himself. Or something luxurious similar to a Benz but has a Japanese badge. Choices, choices.
Whether it has the Maxima, Cefiro, or the Infiniti I30 badge, the A33 Cefiro was first launched in Japan back in 1998. Other nations had their own versions years later and Infiniti a year later, with the latter giving a more distinction from the Nissan counterpart. This model was discontinued in favor of the J31 Teana (still called the Cefiro in Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, Caribbean, and Latin America) in 2003.
After the success of the Cefiro A32, it was time for Nissan Motors Philippines Inc. to update the Cefiro at the turn of the millennium. With taxation reasons, only the 2.0 version was brought in with the 3.0 made available four years later. Good while it was new, the Cefiro lost ground when technologically superior competitors came into the scene. Finally, the A33 Cefiro was replaced by the J31 Teana that arrived very late in 2007. Variants that were available from 2000 until 2003 include the Elite and Brougham VIP. A 2004 update had the Elite and Brougham VIP trims renamed to Classic and Superior (dropped sometime in 2005) respectively, while the 3.0 variant was named as the 300EX.
Value and Costs
As everyone knows it, Nissans aren't good when it comes to depreciation. But this vehicle can be yours for just between P220,000-P480,000, a great bargain since you get something classy for less.
Since this has a V6 engine, fuel expenses can be high and the same goes with maintenance costs. Parts can be purchased in Nissan specialist shops. Since this vehicle has tons of electronic gadgets, make sure they function well. Also lookout for normal wear-and-tear components, since at this vehicle's age they tend to get worn out.
Exterior and Interior
What makes the Cefiro appeal to executives? Stately appearance. The exterior resembles those of European vehicles and even the Brougham mimics them by offering a two tone color. Think that this one has the same size as the A32? Well, don't be fooled, it is 4,920mm long (previous model was 4,770mm), possess a width of 1,780mm (from 1,770mm), and 1,435mm tall (a gain from 1,415mm). Top end models get a hood ornament to distinguish them from their lowly counterparts.
The passenger is king inside the Cefiro's cabin since it is very cavernous, especially at the back. Again, the top end model gains air-con vents for the rear occupants, heads up display, and a VCD player with monitor. Leather is standard except for the Classic variant, while an analogue clock (that resembles 80s wrist watches) come standard across the board. Of course, there is the wood trim inside but not Snickers dark; you may describe it as elegant or tacky.
Engine
From the award winning VQ engine family moves the Cefiro in either ways. The lowest spec (and the veteran member) is the VQ20DE 1,995cc that carries 155hp (upgraded to 165hp in 2002) at 6,400rpm and
186Nm (uprated to 189Nm in 2002) at 4,400rpm. Added in 2004 as part of an update is the VQ30DE 2,987cc which is good for 220hp at 6,400rpm and 301Nm at 4,000rpm. Both of these engines are silky smooth, but how do they perform in the real world? Despite having two liters, this engine would have that purr when driven hard to the redline and carries the weight well. The 3.0, on the other hand, is smooth enough but we would pick the 2.0 since it has more than enough power and would cost less to maintain.
Driving Impressions
Fire the ignition and shift to drive, the Cefiro moves without any drama and importantly, no noise intrudes the cabin. Since the transmission is programmed, it can react to any driving conditions. Despite the heft, body roll is kept to a minimum unlike the main competitors. Braking can be spongy, but Electronic Breakforce Distribution and Brake Assist comes standard. If you are the driver, do not expect any excitement behind the wheel but handling is on the safe side.
Verdict
Riding inside the Cefiro is like going to your destination safe and sound. Isolated from the outside world, that's what executives want. It may not have that prestige of a German sedan but you'll be amazed with the savings you get. Now, if you have that spare cash we suggest to save it for your wife's shopping spree, kid's tuition for the next five years, or for that dream vacation abroad (not paid by the company of course).
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Car Profiles - Nissan Cefiro (2000-2007)
The Good: Fully kitted, smooth engines, oodles of space
The Bad: Not an agile handler, heavy
The Say: Still a premium bargain in the market.
Go For: 2.0 Elite
Avoid: 2.0 Classic
Price Range: P220,000-P480,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Nissan Cefiro (2000-2007)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2000-2002
2002-2004
2004-2007
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Car Profiles - Nissan Cefiro (1989-1991)
The Good: Fun to drive due to RWD layout
The Bad: Problems may pop out, carburetor engine comes standard
The Say: Unless you'll be doing some side sliding fun, other modern rivals are better for personal usage.
Go For: 2.0
Avoid:
Price Range: P150,000-P170,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Car Profiles - Nissan Cefiro (1996-2000)
The Good: Feature loaded, silky smooth engine, comfortable
The Bad: Drinks gas more than a 4-Cylinder Accord of the same time and there are some quality quirks
The Say: Executives loved this before, and you can have it for a lower acquisition cost.
Go For: 2.0 V6 MT
Avoid: 3.0 V6
Price Range: P100,000-P190,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Used Car Review - Nissan Cefiro (1996-2000)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
1996-2000
Monday, March 5, 2012
Used Car Review - Nissan Cefiro (1997-2000)
This week (and definitely next week), Myk Belmonte hunts a premium sedan (two of them) for this week. This gives you a break from mainstream priced sedans, SUVs, and vans. We all know thanks to depreciation, you get to enjoy luxury at a less price (although somewhat older).
1997-2000 Nissan Cefiro
History
You might be surprised to know that the Infiniti 130 is basically a Nissan Cefiro (in majority of the world markets)? And the Maxima nameplate is used in the North American markets. While the Cefiro nameplate was gone in 2003, it had been used as a name for the Nissan Teana J31 - its direct replacement. The Cefiro name is used in Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, Bangladesh, Latin America, and the Caribbean (all of these markets had been using the Teana badge since its second version).
The Cefiro was made available in 1988 as a four door sedan, with its rear wheel drive chassis being shared with the sixth generation Nissan Laurel and the R32 Nissan Skyline. Its second iteration ditched the A31's sports car like pretensions and became a front wheel drive luxury sedan. The Infiniti counterpart was born and a station wagon was made available.
The first generation Cefiro didn't become a hit among consumers due to the prohibitive price back then. It was briefly sold from 1988-1990, and Nissan Pilipinas offered the Bluebird, Bluebird Altima, and the Cedric but none of them were successful. In late 1996, Nissan brought in the A32 Cefiro and was the first car to offer an automatic climate control system, keyless entry (alarm systems where a novelty back then), automatic gas tank release, and a disc changer. It became a best seller, outselling competitors from Mitsubishi, Honda, and Toyota. Available until 2000, where it received a revision the following year including new trim lines and engines. Variants back then are a basic manual and automatic versions, but Elite and Brougham versions were made available in 1999 and in the millennium year respectively.
Value and Costs
With the reputation Nissan received locally, first gen Cefiro prices range between P160,000-P220,000. Prices vary from vehicle condition to vehicle trim line, with later year models being priced higher. Modified units (such as those with high inch rims, lowered suspensions, and side skirts) are rare to come by, but ask the owner if he has the original parts before purchasing it.
Do remember that maintaining an A32 Cefiro is not similar to maintaining a garden variety Sentra Super Saloon, a Corolla GLi, a Civic VTi, or a Lancer GLXi of the same age. It may be a bit costly than a Corona, Accord, or Galant due to the present number of electronic gadgets and the V6 power plant. Weak points of the car do include the radiator, which can crack and overheat (it is made of plastic and aluminum, with the former being on top); and the automatic climate control which does not respond. The sunroof in the Elite version must be checked if it opens properly. Parts are aplenty, available in original, and replacement flavors. Lastly, the Cefiro requires at least 95 octane gasoline to keep on chugging.
Exterior and Interior
Looking at the Cefiro's exterior, one may dismiss it as bland or classy, depending on one's taste. Clean lines and smooth curves are one of the Cefiro's appeals to its buyers, executives and those in the middle-upper class income bracket. The Brougham variant can beat the hell out of Benzes and Bimmers when it comes to bling factor, in stock form of course.
The interior has been one of the Cefiro's selling points. The standard leather seats ages well with the car, and there is decent room for both front and rear passengers. Most variants come with the above-mentioned leather seating plus automatic climate control, and a 10 disc CD changer (back then cassettes were the norm). A sunroof is standard in the Elite trim, which gives the occupants some needed airy experience at night.
Engine
Two engine choices are given to Cefiro buyers. These include a VQ20DE 1,995cc with 155hp at 6,400rpm and 190Nm at 4,400rpm under its hood and a rare VQ30DE 2,987cc with 190hp at 6,400rpm and 282 Nm at 4,000rpm. Both VQ engines are smooth operators and can reach the redline without any drama or noise from it. This results to the inception of the VQ series engine to a spot on the Ward's 10 best engines every year.
Driving Impressions
The letter "C" in Cefiro might mean Comfortable and Classy. The two descriptive words are befitting the car, which found fans with executives, and the older crowd. Even at high speeds, the Cefiro is stable, and comfortable, with your passengers being able to sleep. The manual transmission is fine but automatics are snail. However, those who are preferred to be driven most of the time would not mind the driving dynamics, but rather the comfort.
Verdict
When it comes to comfort and class, nothing beats the mid-size sedans of Nissan. They do have what executives and the older crowd wants - comfort, quiet, and amenities that are easy to manipulate. It may be old, but still has the appeal and the presence when arriving on a five star hotel, a corporate meeting, or during a church wedding. The premium car wars had been passed to the Camry and Accord 10 years later. Up and coming executives, this is your first car at a lower price, and couple it with the presence.
1997-2000 Nissan Cefiro
History
You might be surprised to know that the Infiniti 130 is basically a Nissan Cefiro (in majority of the world markets)? And the Maxima nameplate is used in the North American markets. While the Cefiro nameplate was gone in 2003, it had been used as a name for the Nissan Teana J31 - its direct replacement. The Cefiro name is used in Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, Bangladesh, Latin America, and the Caribbean (all of these markets had been using the Teana badge since its second version).
The Cefiro was made available in 1988 as a four door sedan, with its rear wheel drive chassis being shared with the sixth generation Nissan Laurel and the R32 Nissan Skyline. Its second iteration ditched the A31's sports car like pretensions and became a front wheel drive luxury sedan. The Infiniti counterpart was born and a station wagon was made available.
The first generation Cefiro didn't become a hit among consumers due to the prohibitive price back then. It was briefly sold from 1988-1990, and Nissan Pilipinas offered the Bluebird, Bluebird Altima, and the Cedric but none of them were successful. In late 1996, Nissan brought in the A32 Cefiro and was the first car to offer an automatic climate control system, keyless entry (alarm systems where a novelty back then), automatic gas tank release, and a disc changer. It became a best seller, outselling competitors from Mitsubishi, Honda, and Toyota. Available until 2000, where it received a revision the following year including new trim lines and engines. Variants back then are a basic manual and automatic versions, but Elite and Brougham versions were made available in 1999 and in the millennium year respectively.
Value and Costs
With the reputation Nissan received locally, first gen Cefiro prices range between P160,000-P220,000. Prices vary from vehicle condition to vehicle trim line, with later year models being priced higher. Modified units (such as those with high inch rims, lowered suspensions, and side skirts) are rare to come by, but ask the owner if he has the original parts before purchasing it.
Do remember that maintaining an A32 Cefiro is not similar to maintaining a garden variety Sentra Super Saloon, a Corolla GLi, a Civic VTi, or a Lancer GLXi of the same age. It may be a bit costly than a Corona, Accord, or Galant due to the present number of electronic gadgets and the V6 power plant. Weak points of the car do include the radiator, which can crack and overheat (it is made of plastic and aluminum, with the former being on top); and the automatic climate control which does not respond. The sunroof in the Elite version must be checked if it opens properly. Parts are aplenty, available in original, and replacement flavors. Lastly, the Cefiro requires at least 95 octane gasoline to keep on chugging.
Exterior and Interior
Looking at the Cefiro's exterior, one may dismiss it as bland or classy, depending on one's taste. Clean lines and smooth curves are one of the Cefiro's appeals to its buyers, executives and those in the middle-upper class income bracket. The Brougham variant can beat the hell out of Benzes and Bimmers when it comes to bling factor, in stock form of course.
The interior has been one of the Cefiro's selling points. The standard leather seats ages well with the car, and there is decent room for both front and rear passengers. Most variants come with the above-mentioned leather seating plus automatic climate control, and a 10 disc CD changer (back then cassettes were the norm). A sunroof is standard in the Elite trim, which gives the occupants some needed airy experience at night.
Engine
Two engine choices are given to Cefiro buyers. These include a VQ20DE 1,995cc with 155hp at 6,400rpm and 190Nm at 4,400rpm under its hood and a rare VQ30DE 2,987cc with 190hp at 6,400rpm and 282 Nm at 4,000rpm. Both VQ engines are smooth operators and can reach the redline without any drama or noise from it. This results to the inception of the VQ series engine to a spot on the Ward's 10 best engines every year.
Driving Impressions
The letter "C" in Cefiro might mean Comfortable and Classy. The two descriptive words are befitting the car, which found fans with executives, and the older crowd. Even at high speeds, the Cefiro is stable, and comfortable, with your passengers being able to sleep. The manual transmission is fine but automatics are snail. However, those who are preferred to be driven most of the time would not mind the driving dynamics, but rather the comfort.
Verdict
When it comes to comfort and class, nothing beats the mid-size sedans of Nissan. They do have what executives and the older crowd wants - comfort, quiet, and amenities that are easy to manipulate. It may be old, but still has the appeal and the presence when arriving on a five star hotel, a corporate meeting, or during a church wedding. The premium car wars had been passed to the Camry and Accord 10 years later. Up and coming executives, this is your first car at a lower price, and couple it with the presence.
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