We’ve been tossing the keys of the Nissan Sunny around like confetti lately and they find themselves back in my grasp. Last week, you may remember Dejan making a good point about the new model’s impressive fuel economy (when you drive it like he does — an old lady...) and just when I felt I could respect his opinions, he let himself down by taking a pop at my Trans Am.
All I’m going to say about his AE86 is that he’s had that thing for two years but only needs three fingers when counting the number of times he’s driven it... Speaking of which, the Sunny offers a decent enough ride, but if you’re looking for some excitement, then move along as there’s none of that here.
It’s devoid of any emotion whatsoever and feels all too mechanical and is rather soulless, but then again it isn’t intended for throttling around a track at full pelt and it doesn’t pretend to boast any sporty credentials either — which is nice as there’s nothing worse than cars like these dressed up with gofaster decals and massive wings.
OK, the Sunny has a wing, but, it isn’t the ridiculously huge types you often see. As it stands, it doesn’t look particularly great, nor is it particularly offensive, and that’s one of the reasons why it has always been so successful — it’s catering for a wide audience. Think of it like vanilla ice cream; it’s not your favourite, but you don’t mind a scoop of it either.
It has some useful features such as the remote keyless entry with boot release function, Bluetooth hands-free phone system (the buttons are conveniently integrated on the steering wheel), AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system with four speakers and, for rear seat passengers, a comfort fan and an armrest with cup holders built in. Parking is made easier thanks to the reversing sensors while turn signals on the door mirrors provide safer driving as do the dual front airbags. Right, that’s my lot. Hey, Dejan — catch!
