Nissan Dualis Car Review

HerCar Rating: Model Reviewed Dualis ST 2.0 litre petrol 6 speed auto $27,490* Other models priced from: ST 2.0 litre petrol manual $24,990 HerCar 3 word summary SUV Meets Hatch

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In 2008, Nissan launched the Dualis in Australia as a contender in the 4WD market. But after they took a close look at how people use their car, they discovered that many owners weren't requiring the 4WD technology. This led Nissan to launch a 2 wheel drive version of the car this month. So it looks the same as the 4WD but is a couple of grand cheaper. There are 2 models to choose from, the ST and the fully equipped Ti. Our review focuses on the ST.

Driver Comfort & Visibility
I was really surprised when I jumped behind the wheel at just how solid the car feels to drive, without being heavy. The auto has got plenty of power with a really refined gear box, creating a wonderful smooth drive. The elevated seating position gives you great all round visibility. The seats are really comfy and firm with a stylish grey trim.

Cruise control is standard with controls mounted on the steering wheel. In the Ti model, you get the audio controls on the steering wheel as well.

We drove the car from Bondi Beach to Palm Beach, which is a pretty cool way to spend the day. It was easy to navigate city traffic in, was a pleasure to drive in the 80kms zone of the Wakehurst Parkway and a cinch to park when we got there.

Safety
The Dualis scores 5 stars in the ANCAP safety rating, which is as good as it gets. Features such as stability control, ABS brakes, 6 airbags and Electronic Brake force Distribution are all standard across the range of Dualis models.

Storage
You've got some good storage option including 2 cup holders in the front centre, door pockets with bottle holders in the front doors, small door pockets in the rear doors, and a large glove box.

The boot space is not deep but it is wide and long and bigger than most hatches. The rear seat is 60/40 split fold which allows for more space when required.

Rear Passenger Comfort
The rear seat room is slightly bigger than the Golf. You'll get 3 kids in there no problems, but 3 adults would feel quite squished. Don't worry, they will cope around town, but not the best for a weekend away.

Green Factor
The auto 2 wheel drive Dualis consumes 8.3 litres per 100kms combined cycle; just a smidgen more than the manual at 8.2. This is great news for auto drivers who generally have to spend more at the pump than the equivalent manual model driver. It scores 3.5 stars in the Green Vehicle Guide rating which is not good, but not bad and is the same as the Toyota Corolla, which is the leading hatchback in Australia in terms of sales.

Overall View
The silky smooth drive, power engine, great visibility and value for money means that the Dualis is a real alternative to a hatchback. Definitely worth a test drive.

If you're considering buying this car you might also like to test drive the Toyota Corolla, Kia Rondo, Suzuki SX4.

Features of Car Reviewed

Seats:	5
Airbags:	6
ABS:	Yes
EBD:	Yes
Vehicle Dynamic Control:	Yes
Driver visibility:
Storage compartments:
Drink holders:	6
CD player:	Yes, single
Air conditioning:	Yes
Power windows:	Yes
Power door mirrors:	Yes
Child restraint anchorage points:	3
Transmission:	6 speed auto
Engine:	2.0 litre
Fuel type:	Unleaded Petrol
Fuel consumption (combined cycle):	8.3 litres/100 kms
CO2 Emission:	199gms/km
Greenhouse rating#:	6.5/10 (10=best)
Green Vehicle Guide rating:
ANCAP Safety Rating:
Towing capacity:	Trailer with brakes 1,200 kgs Trailer without brakes 685 kgs
Warranty:	3 year/100,000 kms with 3 year roadside assist
Price:	$27,490*

*Manufacturer's list price. Excludes dealer delivery and government statutory charges.

# All new vehicles sold in Australia (up to 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass) are tested to determine the level of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions (Greenhouse rating), whi   ch are displayed on the fuel consumption label attached to the windscreen of the car. The Green Vehicle Guide rating combines the Greenhouse Rating and Air Pollution Rating and awards a star. 5 stars is the best rating.  For more information, click here.
Information is correct at the time of the review. Please check with your local Nissan dealer for the most recent information.

Review Date: August 2009

Reviewed By: Melissa Pye