ZXE well rounded car

Press, 16 May 1985, Page 33

ZXE well rounded car

Although new car models are becoming more and more expensive, ironically New Zealand buyers are demanding the highest equipment levels that dealers can deliver. The ZXE version of Nissan’s Bluebird is a prime example of the trend. This $28,900 saloon is a well rounded car with everything in it apart from a sunshine roof and cruise control. Its only possible limitation is that it is not available with a manual gearbox. The automatic transmission, however, incorporates an overdrive ratio which makes for economical highspeed cruising, as the front drive 2 litre engine turns over at a mild 2400 rpm when the car is ambling along at lOOkm/h.

The feature of this overdrive ratio is that when the car encounters a slight incline the transmission automatically smoothly downshifts and so progress is maintained unabated.

Like all 2 litre cars, the ZXE’s performance is rather sluggish compared with manual transmission Bluebirds, although the average owner of this model would be unlikely to complain about that. The latest front wheel drive Bluebirds quickly earned a reputation for being exceptionally fine handling saloons and the ZXE is no exception. The ride has sporting characteristics which could be considered uncharacteristic in a car of this nature.

Thus the riding qualities tend to be on the firm side in city and suburban driving. However, at higher speeds on open roads the ZXE transforms into a well balanced touring saloon. In many respects the Bluebird models turn out to be what I am sure the Ford

Cortina would have Been it the multi-national had decided to continue the line with a front wheel drive version.

Leg and headroom in the rear compartment is not as good as that of some of the ZXE’s contemporaries, but it is tolerable.

As would be expected, this is a very well equipped and appointed saloon. Air conditioning and electri-cally-operated windows and exterior door mirrors are standard items. My test example was upholstered in camel-coloured velour which, perhaps, would soil fairly easily, but looked exceptionally opulent and was in good taste. Trim and carpets harmonised well. Controls and instruments, are well located although 1 found that I had to grope to find the overdrive switch which is located at the base of the transmission console to the left of the driver. The ZXE acquitted itself competently, if unspectacularly, over the regular test route, its well tuned all round independent suspension and power-assisted steering, which demands little more than the slightest physical effort, imparting a secure feeling to the driver.

This is a car that will appeal to the older generation. It is comfortable, well mannered and extremely pleasant to drive from A to B. It also looks good in the typically bland Japanese way.

I have no doubt, however, that people who enjoy their driving will probably prefer the less expensive manual gearbox Bluebirds with rather crisper performance which, perhaps," is more in keeping with the good roadholding characteristics of the Bluebird range.