* Review of Nissan Grand Livina

Styling

While Toyota Avanza looks much like a commercial vehicle, Grand Livina looks family-oriented. Its front end, dominated by the grille, has been modified from Nissan Murano's. The side and rear end styling are relatively conservative and inoffensive. The 1.8-litre version adds chrome to the grille and door handles.

Handling

Sharing the same monocoque chassis as Nissan Latio, Grand Livina exhibits the same sedan-like handling characteristics. The driving experience is Latio-like, which for an MPV is quite excellent. The light, effortless steering means city driving is a breeze. And with good body control, Grand Livina certainly feels more nimble compared to Toyota Avanza.

Comfort

Grand Livina rides smoother than Nissan Latio, perhaps due to its extra weight. Importantly, it is more refined on highways than Toyota Avanza. The cabin feels modern and functional, but a few more storage areas would be ideal. Finding a comfortable driving position is easy, but the steering wheel offers no reach adjustments and the front seats could do with more thigh support. The 1.8-litre version uses a wood trim for a more premium feel.

* Review of Nissan Sylphy

Styling

Sylphy wears a neat, inoffensive design, one that would not excite or disappoint most neutrals. Nissan clearly intended for Sylphy to follow the same styling theme as big brother Nissan Teana. And you would not be the first to confuse the two, especially from the front end.

Handling

Sylphy feels nimble and changes direction keenly. Body control and grip levels are highly commendable. The sharp, light steering however lacks in feedback. When it comes down to driving pleasure, Sylphy engages the driver too little, too remotely.

Comfort

Much thanks to the 15-inch tyres, ride comfort is good over urban bumps and rough surfaces. Road, wind and engine noise are very well-contained at cruising speeds. Adding to the class-leading refinement is the extremely smooth drivetrain. The dashboard looks neat and tidy, with large displays and intuitive-to-use controls. Finding a comfortable seating position is easy, but the steering wheel offers no reach adjustments or audio controls.

* Review of Nissan Latio - Hatchback

Styling

While the four-door Latio sedan looks rather awkward, the addition of one door gives the five-door Latio Sport hatchback significantly better looks. The front end of the two models looks similar, but Latio Sport's coherent side and rear profile represents a world of improvement over the Latio sedan's.

Handling

The handling is safe and predictable, but expectedly not sporty. Grip levels are reasonable, while body roll is not present in excessive amounts. The light, accurate steering feels too detached for driving fun, though. Latio Sport may look sportier, but handling-wise, it is identical to Latio sedan.

Comfort

Nissan expects their ripple control shock absorber and rebound spring to improve ride comfort. While smooth, the ride is firm, which is surprising considering Latio Sport's comfort-bias. The cabin is well-insulated from engine, wind and road noise, providing a refined drive at cruising speeds. Driver gets height-adjustable seat but only tilt-adjustable steering column. The wide, supportive seats provide much comfort for long trips, while the cabin uses black, instead of beige found in Latio sedan, for a sportier feel.