Nissan has added some much-needed rugged charisma to its Livina compact MPV range with the introduction of a pair of ‘X-Gear’ – badged newcomers. With pseudo-SUV styling and ample space, Nissan hopes these models will shift the Livina’s appeal from families to those with an adventurous lifestyle.
The Livina X-Gear’s SUV styling elements include a set of roof rails, matt black plastic cladding for the fenders, door guards and side sill protectors, as well as a redesigned radiator grille and front rear bumpers that give the car a more purposeful air. The look is rounded off with a set of 15-inch alloy wheels. Despite its ‘macho styling cues, the Livina X-Gear does not feature an all-wheel drive system, but the ground clearance has been raised to a useful 170 mm, making excursions on dirt and access to the load bay an cabin a bit easier.
Power is provided by a 1.6-litre petrol engine that develops 80 kW at 6 000r/min and 153 N.m of torque at 4 400r/min.Mated with a 5-speed manual gearbox, this unit propels the Livina X-Gear to a top speed of 180 km/h. Nissan claims a average fuel consumption figure of 7,2-litres /100km and CO2 emissions of 165g/km.
The X-Gear’s interior sports chrome trim accents as well as black finishes and robust cloth seat covers. The rear seats split 60/40 and the front passenger seat can be tilted to make room for lengthier lifestyle items, such as surfboards, wake boards etc up to 2.40m long. In addition to a cavernous boot, the cabin is dotted with additional storage compartments and cup holders for every occupant.
Safety equipment includes driver airbags on both derivatives, while the Acenta+ model adds a passenger airbag. Other safety features include a high mounted brake light and front seat belt pretensioners on both models. The Acenta+ comes standard with ABS with EBD and BA.
Specification in the Visia model includes electric windows and air conditioning, while the Acenta+ is further enhanced by the addition of body colour-coded wing mirrors and an in-dash radio six-CD front loader.
All Livina models come standard with Nissan’s anti-theft security system (NATS), including remote keyless entry, immobiliser and panic alarm. Moreover, all models benefit from Nissan’s decision to introduce the Microdot security feature across the Nissan product range. Service intervals are every 15 000 km, with a 3 years / 60 000 km service plans included in the price as well as a 3 years / 100 000 km warranty.
Prices
Livina X-Gear Visia – R140 000
Livina X-Gear Acenta+ – R152 500
