Only sold on Japanese soil (with the possible exception of some Asian countries), the Nissan Lafesta is a "station wagon" even though the designations in this constantly (and rapidly) evolving category often change.
The overall design is pretty "bland" and should satisfy anybody looking for anything but excentricity. Ever since it saw the light of day in 2004, the Lafesta has been critically acclaimed in Japan for its drivability, comfort and low gas consumption among other things.
So, as a way to extend the peaceful career of their vehicle, Nissan decided to "upgrade" it through 2 new versions called "
Rider" and "
Enchanté" (pronounce "anshantae", yes it means "nice to meet you" in French).
Both immediately available in Nissan's Japanese network.
Improvements are to be seen inside and outside of the cars, as usual the aim was to increase the quality feel through the use of new materials. Some of the features include new headlights with "crystal look", new front grill, new colors (7 to choose from) including the sweet "Champagne Topaz" (M). Once inside the owners of the previous versions will notice redesigned seats for more comfort in all conditions including new head rests (front and rear).
Now for those who need more "punch" there is the "
Rider" version. As you can see on the pictures below (the white car), the style is much more aggressive and sportier and radically changes the appearance of this quiet 4 wheels saloon. Behind this excellent body kit nothing has changed, at least not under the bonnet, the engine is and remains the inline 4 "MR20DE", 2 liter naturally aspirated coming with a CVT automatic gearbox to transmit the power to the front wheels through some 195/55R16 tyres (DUNLOP LE MANS LM703). Note that those versions are available only as Front Wheel Drives.
Second on the list is the already famous "
Enchanté" offering a front seat (driver's) sliding system to facilitate the access to old people or people suffering from limited mobility. A great idea that we have seen on other vehicles from other manufacturers and which proves (if it still had to be proven) the concerns of the Japanese companies towards all types of customers.
As said before, all cars share the same motor/gearbox on 2 or 4WD. The price starts at 1.869.000 JPY and tops at 2.829.750 JPY (15.000 - 23.000$).
Posted on 28/05/07 By F.B
