2010-2014 Nissan Teana
History
We all know that Nissan was a choice among executives nearly 10 years ago or so. The magic of Nissan's cold air-con and the roomy cabin of the Cefiro isn't anymore a proposition that back-seat riding people take, since Camrys and Accords had taken the helm that Nissan used to dominate. With rising incomes, the upper echelons now line-up for BMW 5 Series and Benz E Class saloons to take them anywhere they wish.
Under the J32 platform code, the second generation Teana debuted in several ASEAN markets (like Thailand, where this one is aplenty) in 2008 under the Teana (other countries used the Cefiro badge) or Maxima - for consumers land down under - nameplates. The platform being utilized is also shared with the Murano and several Renault vehicles sold in France. Although being marketed in some nations, it is succeeded by the L33 Altima (and being renamed as such).
In the RP context, however, Nissan Motor Philippines Inc. is notoriously known to bring world acclaimed cars too late to the market, like three to five years past their selling date. The J32 Teana arrived in late 2010 with two engine options and more plush. In March 2014, alongside a transition to a united Nissan, the L33 Altima was brought here. One can get the 250XL and 350XV models when it was new.
Value and Costs
Since a new Altima was introduced (or brought up to the grave), second hand Teana prices may fall down a bit but not to an extent it will fall below the million peso range. As a golden rule regarding late model vehicles, get the newest model you can in which the remainder of the warranty can be used.
Bad news? With this car being a low volume model, replacement parts are very limited so better be careful on driving. Also, with this car sporting a V6 engine expect high gas bills but if you can afford this type of car you should not be complaining.
Exterior and Interior
Large as it is, you wouldn't mind especially it provides the luxury that Nissans in the premium category give. So let the exterior speak for itself. One feature present in the 350XV is the panoramic glass ceiling which gives an airy feeling for the occupants.
The highlight, of course, goes to the cabin. The beige interior is nice to see but touching it with dirty hands is an eye sore plus a pain to clean. Of course, there's the wood paneling and the seating may be less for some, but with some magic strings they've done a way.
Engine
Unlike the predecessor, this generation offered two V6 engines which may suit both personalities. The basic is a 2.5 V6 having 182hp and 232Nm that may be lacking for some but you wouldn't mind it anyways. Our recommended engine is the 3.5 V6 with 248hp and 335Nm being shared with the 350z and Murano but tuned in a different way.
Driving Impressions
One great feature of this sedan is the Xtronic CVT that is up to the task of keeping the car in the right gear whether you have a feather foot or a speed devil, there's an appropriate speed for you. Handling is fine but the suspension system isn't great on isolating road imperfections towards the cabin, but then you wouldn't be complaining about it.
Verdict
There's no doubt the Teana is one fine vehicle, with the luxurious feeling that one can get without costing your arm and a kidney stone for a Benz. However, you may want to live with some imperfections that you'll encounter, so decide wisely.
The Good:
- Comfortable
- Smooth ride
- Creamy engine
The Bad:
- Dirt prone interior
- Driving spirits not available
- Large
The Pick: 350XV
THE SPECS
Engines: 2,495cc VQ25DE and 3,498cc VQ35DE V6 gasoline
Power: 182hp @ 6,000rpm (2.5), 248hp @ 6,000rpm (3.5)
Torque: 232Nm @ 4,000rpm (2.5), 335Nm @ 4,400rpm (3.5)
Fuel Consumption: 6-9km/L (city), 8-11km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 6-speed CVT
Suspension: Front independent strut with coil springs, rear multi-link
MORE INFO
Price (New): P1,600,000-P2,050,000
Price (Now): P1,200,000-P1,400,000
Rivals: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mitsubishi Galant, Hyundai Sonata
On Sale: 2010-2014
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