96 Primera 2.0 SLX (Nissan Primera (1996-99))

Member Name: zOOm

Product:	Nissan Primera (1996-99)
Date:	05/05/01 (2924 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Lots of extras, adjustable automatic transmission, NATS

Disadvantages: Interrior noise, Fuel economy

I have had the Nissan Primera for 2 months now. I did not choose it through some research on the web, actually most of my research choices concentrated on Honda and Toyota models. Nevertheless, I am happy with the Nissan.

I have the “N” reg (i.e. 1996 model) Primera 2.0 SLX Hatchback, automatic. The car comes equipped with some fine standard accessories:

1 – Alloy wheels
2 – All power windows
3 – Remote Central locking
4 – Front fog lights
5 – Six speaker stereo (two on the front doors, two at the rear and 2 tweeters at the front)
6 – Electric sunroof
7 – Adjustable automatic transmission.
8 – ABS
9 – Driver’s airbag

My favourite feature will have to be number 7 from the list above, the adjustable automatic transmission. A little button next to the transmission lets you select the mode of operation. There are 3 modes:

1 – Normal: This is the standard automatic transmission behaviour you get with all automatic cars. The transmission is configured to give you the most fuel economic ride. Which means you do not get as much power and the car is not as quick on the acceleration.

2 – Snow: In this setting the transmission never gets into first gear. You are always started from the second gear hence avoiding loosing control of the vehicle.

3 – Sports: This is where you feel the difference. The car starts performing like a sports car. It is very quick in the acceleration and gear changes are adjusted to give you the best performance (hence compromising on fuel efficiency). I found this setting very useful when driving in hilly areas where quick gear changes are necessary.

The car’s engine itself is powerful enough. The 2.0 litre 16 valve engine is good enough for my needs. I must point out that I do not do any towing, hence I am unable to comment on that.

The interior of the
car is pleasant. The dashboard is simple and easy to read. There are three interrior lights. Two are at the front, one for the front passenger and one for the driver. The other light is in the middle of the cabin.

The seats are comfortable enough for long journeys. I went on a holiday recently and drove it for about 6 hours and was not uncomfortable at all. The back can fit 3 adults easily and comfortably.

The car is equipped with NATS (Nissan Anti Theft System) which means that you cannot start the car without it’s original key. Even hot wiring won’t work because the engine computer checks for a code in the key and won’t allow the engine to start until it gets that code.

The boot space is adequate for your family needs. There is enough space to put the shopping, or if you are going on holiday it should fit a couple of suitcases with ease (although I have never measured it completely).

What I don’t like about the car is interior noise. There seems to be a lot of tyre noise that gets through to the inside. Wind noise is also a little loud. You don’t hear the engine that much unless you really step on the accelerator.

The car is also equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). I am sure everyone knows what that is by now.

It is a shame there is only one airbag. I think it would have been good to also have an airbag for the passenger.

On average the car does 26 mpg (or 9km/litre). Which is not very efficient, however it is a 2-litre engine and I do drive it a bit harsh. It might also be that the engine in my car needs proper tuning, in any case I do not classify the car as fuel efficient.

Overall though, I do like the car and I enjoy driving it.

Summary: