Nissan Bluebird Sylphy Coming in Q1 2008?

By Dr Long

The real-deal Nissan Sentra replacement model may see the light of day in Malaysia after all. Getting wind from some market analysts, Tan Chong Motors may start production of this all-new model as early as Q4 2007 at its spanking new Serendah automotive assembly plant.

For new Nissan models these days, engines options from Renault co-developed powerplants remains aplenty. Whether Tan Chong Motors will fit the 1.5L HR15DE or the 1.6L HR16DE remains to be seen for the entry-level version. Or will it spawn a ‘unique’ 1.8L version like the Latio? The flagship all-new Sentra aka Sylphy will likely go head on with the Honda Civic 2.0S. Powered by a 2.0L (MR20DE) engine, power output are 129PS at 5200rpm and 187Nm torque at 4000rpm. However, Nissan’s CVT (XTronic) gear box are unlikely to make it into our local Sylphys, as with the Tiida/ Latio in Malaysia, having to make do with a conventional 4-speed torque converter.

At the showroom level, Edaran Tan Chong Motors (ETCM) sales advisors were hinting at a possible March 2008 launch and sale of this true C-segment passenger car. The newly-launched Latio/Latio Sport will finally get to stay more focus on challenging the Toyota Vios/Yaris and Honda City/Jazz if all this comes true. But will this new Bluebird Slyphy wear a 'Sentra' badge or the fresher (and shortened) 'Sylphy' nameplate?