Nissan Dualis pricing and specifications

In the lead-up to the Sydney International Motor Show (which kicks off tomorrow), Nissan have released pricing and specification information for their new Dualis compact Crossover. Fresh from taking Europe by storm, the Dualis is expected to roll onto Nissan dealer forecourts in December this year.

Nissan believe its all-new Dualis brings together the best features of a crossover with its tough and compact look combined with performance, agility and comfort. Dimensionally, the Dualis sits between small car hatchbacks and SUVs. It has a wheelbase of 2630 mm, it is 1623 mm tall, 1783 mm wide and 4315 mm long.

The Dualis is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 102kW at 5200rpm and 198Nm of torque at 4500rpm and is available with either a six speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with six-speed M-Mode.

Dualis's ALL-MODE 4x4 system has three modes that are selected via a switch on the centre console. In 2WD, the system is permanently set in front-wheel drive and when the Lock setting is pushed the system switches to permanent four-wheel drive mode with drive split 50:50 front to rear.

Nissan state that the most often used mode is 'select-and-forget' Auto, in which the system is left to its own devices. Sensors linking the engine's ECU with the four-wheel drive and ABS controller constantly monitor wheel slippage and automatically send signals to the electromagnetic centre clutch mounted just ahead of the rear axle to apportion torque correctly.

The front suspension features a sub-frame mounted strut-type system with combined coilover- strut assemblies and a forward lower link. The sub-frame has compliant rubber mounts to isolate road noise and vibration from the platform, improving both general refinement and ride comfort.

Fully independent multi-link rear suspension has been used for imporved handling and high-speed stability. In addition, the rear shock absorbers are tilted to ensure minimal intrusion into the boot area.

The Dualis features electric power steering which offers greater assistance at lower speeds with more steering feel as speeds rise.

The rigid bodyshell of the Dualis provides maximum passive safety and is matched by a suite of active safety features including the latest generation VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) - standard on the Ti models and optional on ST - which includes brake torque control and engine torque control.

Disc brakes on all four wheels feature standard anti-lock (ABS) in addition to Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).

The entry-level ST Dualis is fitted with dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, power windows and mirrors, in-dash single CD player, remote central locking, cruise control and air conditioning and is priced from $28,990* for the six-speed manual and $30,990* for the CVT equipped model.

The ST option pack adds vehicle dynamic control (VDC), dual side and curtain airbags and 16-inch alloy wheels for an additional $2000 – a worthwhile investment for the money.

The top-of-the-rangeTi gains a number of significant features including heated power front leather seats, six-stack in-dash CD player with bluetooth compatibility, VDC and dual side and curtain airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, auto headlamps and rain sensing wipers and is priced from $33,990* for the manual and $35,990* with the CVT transmission.

According to Nissan's marketing general manager, Ross Booth, the DUALIS is designed to appeal to owners with an active life style.

*All prices quoted are recommended retail pricing and do not include, metallic paint, dealer delivery and on-road costs.

Steane

[Source: Nissan]