The introduction of the Nissan Livina turns the up the heat in the competitive B segment of the passenger market, because not only will it be released in a five-door hatch version, but a seven seater, the Grand Livina, as well.The Livina design team had a very specific brief to focus on: a good-looking compact car, with the versatile space required for an active lifestyle, an energetic 1,6-litre engine, a high level of standard specification, and affordable pricing.
So, positioned against the likes of the Polo and Jazz, the Livina should offer great value in terms of space and performance. The seven-seater version is placed in the same segment as the Opel Meriva and Toyota Avanza.
Both Livina and Grand Livina are built on the same platform, the only difference being that the Grand Livina has a slightly larger rear window and a third row of seats. The Livina is distinguished by Nissan’ trademark grille design, steeply angled headlamps and pronounced tail-lights.
The 1,6-litre engine powering the Livina has been lifted from the Nissan Tiida. This unit produces 80 kW at 6 000 r/min and 153 N.m of torque at 4 400 r/min. Paired with a five-speed gearbox, this engine takes the Livina from zero to 100 km/h in 11,2 seconds and 12,6 seconds for the Grand Livina. The top speed for both vehicles is 180 km/h. Nissan claims that the Livina’s engine delivers low NVH levels while still offering healthy performance, good fuel economy and a good torque spread throughout the engine speed range.
The 52-litre fuel tank should offer substantial cruising distance, as Nissan claims the combined cycle fuel consumption is 7,2 litres/100 km for the Livina, while consumption for the Grand Livina is just a tad higher at 7,4 litres/ 100 km.
The handling is what would be expected form vehicles in higher segments due to the careful attention given to the suspension and body rigidity. The high-specification suspension system features struts in front and an H-shaped torsion beam layout at the rear, with rebound springs and “ripple control” shock absorbers to provide optimum handling and stability at all speeds on any type of surface. The Livina Visia and Acenta rides on 14-inch steel wheels, while the Acenta+ and Grand Livina are equipped with 15-inch alloys.
The interior was designed with maximum functionality for an active lifestyle in mind. The Livina range (Visia, Acenta and Acenta+) features two-tone interior trim, panoramic windows, air-conditioning, electric windows and useful storage areas and drink holders for every passenger. There is also an array of air vents to ensure all passengers benefit directly from air-conditioning. An integrated radio with CD player and six speakers are available on all models except the entry level Visia. The rear seats split 60/40, while the front passenger seat can be tilted to allow for an item up to 2,40 metres long. The two extra seats in the third row of the Grand Livina easily fold flat to create an extra large boot space.
Standard safety features include driver airbags, while the Acenta and Acenta+ models also have a passenger airbag. Other safety features include a high mounted stop lamp, front seat belt pretensioners, ABS, EBD and Brake Assist on the Acenta and Acenta+.
All models are equipped with Nissan’s anti-theft security system (NATS), including remote keyless entry, immobiliser and panic alarm. Sophisticated laser microdot technology, where ten thousand high-tech dots are etched onto various parts of the vehicle, also makes a welcome appearance on the Livina, making it difficult for thieves to alter the car’s identity.
All Livina models have a 3 year/100 000 km warranty and service intervals are every 15 000 km.
Pricing
Livina 1, Visia R115 550
Livina 1,6 Acenta R129 950
Livina 1,6 Acenta+ R136 950
Grand Livina 1,6 Acenta R146 950
Grand Livina 1,6 Acenta+ R155 950