- New front-end design
- LED rear lights
- Added refinement
Nissan’s new, small crossover hatch, the DUALIS will undergo an extensive update in
mid-2010 to cement its position as the alternative to the traditional hatchback in Australia.
Since its local launch early last year, the DUALIS has built a global reputation as a hugely
popular family hatch. DUALIS meets the demands of customers (over 80 percent of
whom are first time Nissan customers) looking for a stylish crossover which combines the
dynamic driving characteristics of a sporty hatchback with the robust, solid virtues of a
compact SUV.
REFRESHED FRONTAL ASPECT
The most notable visual change to the DUALIS is at the front, where a complete
makeover will take place. All new bonnet, front bumper, wings, grille and headlamps
combine to give the DUALIS an air of presence and quality. The new frontal aspect will be
shared with DUALIS+2 LWB 7-seater which is under consideration for Australia.
At the rear, the overall shape of the lights will remain unchanged, but will include an
aerodynamic feature to reduce drag. A more transparent lens design has been adopted,
with the upper portion, housing the reversing lights and turn indicators, being clear, while
the lower section with the brake and night-time running lights is red. Additionally, the stop
lamp and tail lights operate using 12 LEDs for maximum clarity.
As well as the changes to the front of the DUALIS, a series of other modifications around
the car will improve its aerodynamic efficiency, with the coefficient of drag dropping from
0.34 to 0.33.
The new DUALIS will feature a fresh design to the main dials which give added clarity
and legibility. A redesigned drive computer is positioned between the two dials. Its white
LCD screen shows instantaneous and average fuel consumption, mileage, time and
cruise control among others, providing the driver with an easy to understand interface with their car.
Another improvement to the interior comes with the fitment of low-level lighting around
the front footwells, giving a warmer ambience and greater nighttime visibility on entering/exiting the vehicle.
Additional oddment storage has been created for added convenience, with a new
cubby at the base of the central cluster which is ideal for a mobile phone or portable
audio player.
IMPROVED REFINEMENT
Overall life on board has been made more comfortable for occupants thanks to improved
protection against noise, vibration and harshness. This has been achieved by adding an
all-new multi-layer insulation material around the front bulkhead, as well as the fitment of
an ‘acoustic’ windscreen which reduces the transmission of noise.
A reduction in wind noise around the A-pillar has been achieved by changing the
window sealing.
DUALIS customer research has shown that customers love the blend of solidity and
agility, but some small but significant changes have been made to the suspension tuning
to further improve ride, comfort and responsiveness.
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