What they said when the Nissan Primera was new… (Aug 15 2002)
RADICAL design has never traditionally been a feature of the medium car, or repmobile, section of the market.
So Nissan deserved commending for their vision and foresight when four-door saloon and five-door estates heralded the springtime arrival of the company's new Primera. But I have to be honest and say that, inspired as integrating the bonnet, cabin and boot into one sweeping curve may be, it didn't appeal to my taste.
The last few weeks has seen hatchback versions hit the showrooms. This is also a striking car, and one which serves to demonstrate how tastes vary. My eldest son raves about the Primera, describing it as space age and stylish, while I find it mis-proportioned and bulbous at the back end.
Where we both agree is that inside, Nissan has done everything right. Well almost - anyone of above average height will scrape their hairline on the ceiling and space is tight for a centre rear passenger.
Where else, though, will you find an "eyes in the back of the head" style rear parking camera which not only shows how close you are to other vehicles or a wall, but also picks out any obstacles like bricks or bottles as you reverse. It's all part of the Primera's cleverest feature, something the Japanese call N-FORM.
N-FORM is a control module in the form of a DVD screen, with a keypad beneath it for audio, heating and satellite navigation systems. The keypad relies on one-touch operation for its various functions, which has enabled Nissan to cut the car's buttons down by half. It's a smart idea once you get the hang of using it.
Seating all round is comfortable with unobstructed views thanks to a high hip point, while the seats themselves have been given deep squabs and high backrests for extra support.
Primera engines comprise 1.8 and 2.0 litre petrol and a 2.2 litre Di diesel. All are spirited, the strongest being the test car's all-aluminium 138bhp unit that pulls to 60mph in a fraction under 10 seconds.
The previous generation was among the best handling and riding cars in the class and the lastest version remains a delight to drive and to be carried in - nicely balanced and rock solid on the road.
Sound proofing too is top notch with mechanical and road noise well subdued. As to kit, well that's extensive. The T-Spec takes in leather upholstery, an electronic stability programme, electrically adjustable/heated front seats, xenon headlamps with washers, electric sunroof and uprated CD system. That's on top of DVD sat-nav, electric windows all round, electric door mirrors, air-con, six airbags and a host of other gizmos.
Top spec cars get intelligent cruise control, which constantly adjusts speed and braking systems to slow the car if you get too close to vehicles in front.
All round, the Primera is an impressive package and one that starts at £14,600 for a 1.8 S model - which doesn't include the reversing camera and only has monochrome display monitor - though the flagship T-Spec will set you back as much as £20,800 with automatic gearbox.
Words: Mike Torpey
Copyright