1996 Primera 2.0 SE Auto (Nissan Primera (1996-99))

Member Name: kieranmoore

Product:	Nissan Primera (1996-99)
Date:	31/07/02 (1807 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Handling, Reliability, Toys

Disadvantages: Anonymous

I've had one of these 5 door hatchbacks from new, and it's been a pleasure to drive throughout.

The handling is superb, although the ride is quite firm. The 2.0 litre engine generates about 138bhp, but the car is lighter than some of it's competitors, so it seems more powerful, and acceleration is brisk, although the gearbox does not make much of an effort hiding the gear changes from you. Kickdown is effective, so overtaking is never a problem. There are 'sports' and 'snow' modes which can be activated by a button located, along with the seat heating controls, just below the handbrake. The sports mode does work, but, as expected takes it's toll on economy. It's not necessary to have it on full-time, as a kickdown will temporarily enter the mode. For those for whom this matters, the engine actually sounds good. Economy is average, being just over 30mpg for a 2.0 auto. I think the airconditioning affects the economy more than some other cars I've driven, but I'm not absolutely positive on that.

Reliability is generally typically good, although I've had problems with the suspension 'top links', and I believe this is a not uncommon fault. However, it was not too costly to remedy. Looking under the bonnet is not a rewarding option, in terms of beauty. The engine is purely functional, and not presented as a nice tidy BMW/VW type component; Bits of wires here and there don't inspire confidence, but it hasn't failed yet (65K).

Being an SE trim, the car gets the goodies we so badly need; Leather seats and sterring wheel, with the seats being heated for driver and passenger, electrically adjustable for driver. Electric windows all round, electric heated mirrors, air conditioning, and an RDS radio/cassette with boot-mounted CD-changer. There's also front fog lamps, central locking and alarm. Finally, the SE gets wider alloy wheels that the sporty model also has.

The boot is
very large, and the rear seats are split/fold so large loads can be accommodated.

Cabin quality is average to bland. Everything is where you'd expect it, although some of the switchgear is a bit cheap feeling. That said, it hasn't failed yet. The stereo controls are particularly logical, and all controls are within easy reach without leaning forward. I do not think you would buy the car purely for it's looks.

The seats are extremely comfortable, and getting a good driving position is easy, Legroom in both back and front is good, although the ride suffers a bit.

The window level is set quite high, giving an impression of tank-like safety. This doesn't affect visibility, which is good all-round. The bonnet slopes away a bit, so forward parking needs some care and attention until you're used to it. The same is not true of the rear, so reverse parking is a safe option, particularly in multi-storey car parks.

I've loved this car; It's an amazingly 'good drive', and has the speed to get you into trouble, but the handling to get you out of it. It always feels light and responsive, and is extremely comfortable to be in, at least in the front seats. The ride in the back is firmer, but that's the trade-off for the handling. It's not a fashion statement in any way, but is a very underrated car, and is great for long trips, where it really is possible to frive far too long without feeling uncomfortable. The only things it doesn't have are looks and kudos.

A final consideration, is that, as the SE spec came with all the 'bits', you don't need to worry about whether or not something is included, if buying second-hand.

Summary: