The Nissan Latio finally arrived on our shores after much fanfare and expectation. After many years without a new car, the local Nissan franchise holder brought in the Latio. Also called Tiida and Versa in other markets, the Latio looks tall for its width. A design that is quite common in newer cars. Apparently in congested cities, narrow and tall cars are becoming the trend, with the height giving an roomy feel to the car.
Over here, the Latio is offered with a 1.6 liter and 1.8 liter engine, while in other markets, there is even a 1.5 liter engine. The engines are DOHC 16-valve, all-aluminium units and uses Nissan’s Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control (CVTC). The throttle is Drive-By-Wire type. The 1.6 liter engine designated as HR16DE pushes out 109 ps at 6000 rpm, 153 Nm at 4400 rpm, while the 1.8 liter unit is
MR18DE gives 126 ps at 5200 rpm, 174 Nm at 4800 rpm. The suspension layout is MacPherson struts in front and a simple H-shaped torsion beam axle with stabilizer at the rear.
On the exterior, the Latio front is rather different and the rear have received mixed reviews. Some like it, others don’t. Perhaps it will take some time for people to accept cars like the Latio. Even BMW’s 5 series, became the brunt of jokes when the Bangle boot was launch several years ago, but now most people like the look and other manufacturers came out with similar looking rear ends. The Latio comes as a sedan and a hatchback. The hatchback looking much better than the sedan.
Length – 4,205 (hatchback) / 4415 (sedan) mm
Width – 1,695 mm
Height – 1,535 mm
Wheelbase -2,600 mm
Tread Front – 1,480 mm
Tread Rear – 1,485 mm
Weight – 1,125 to 1,154 kg
Related Articles:
- Nissan Tiida 2009
- Nissan Cube – More Evidence Borgs Are Coming
- Toyota Avanza
- Suzuki Swift Review
- Nissan Sylphy 2008