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New-look Nissan Primera arrives in September |
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The new range is among the most technologically advanced in its class, offering the world�s first continuously variable transmission compatible with a 2.0-litre engine, the first mechanical brake assist system in the segment and Europe�s cleanest 1.8-litre engine. Styled at the Nissan European Technology Centre at Cranfield, Bedfordshire the wide ranging improvements give the new Primera a sporty and elegant new look. A new sculpted bonnet and grille contribute to a more purposeful and distinctive appearance - incorporating the latest family nose. New high-tech clear headlamps with both projector and gas-discharge lights, blend into the re-profiled front wings. Lower sill extensions carry the new style along the side of the car to the well-proportioned rear. |
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The redesign of the new Primera range consists of four door, five door and estate models. It will be built at Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Limited, (NMUK), in Sunderland. The new Primera now offers a choice of four engines. For the first time a 1.8-litre petrol engine will be available which significantly broadens the appeal of the new Primera range. One of the cleanest engines in its class, the new 114bhp 16-valve 1.8-litre lightweight unit is claimed to be economical, refined and responsive. Not only does it exceed European emissions level legislation due to come into effect in 2001, but even tougher environmental legislation not due until 2005.
Other engines in the new Primera range include the existing 1.6-litre petrol engine in the entry-level model and in addition there will be a heavily revised 2.0-litre petrol and a turbo diesel units available. The 2.0-litre petrol cars will also be offered with the option of a new continuously variable transmission (CVT). Nissan is the world�s first manufacturer to introduce a CVT compatible with the power and torque of a 2.0-litre engine. Nissan call it "Hypertronic CVT". For more enthusiastic drivers, �Hypertronic CVT M6� is also available, with a six-speed manual-shift mode and sequential operation. Since the Primera name was launched in 1990, more than 182,000 have been sold in the UK and it was awarded runner up in the European Car of the Year in the same year. The Nissan Primera has performed consistently well in the family car market maintaining between four and five per cent share of the segment. The previous model was launched in October 1996 and the estate model followed in April 1998. The new Primera is covered by Nissan Assure, which includes three-year or 60,000-mile mechanical warranty, three-year paint warranty and six-year perforation corrosion protection. Twelve months roadside assistance operated in conjunction with the RAC is also included. Prices and full specifications of the new Primera will be announced nearer the on-sale date of 1 September 1999. |
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