24^th November, 2000

New 200SX maintains a serious tradition

Nissan’s new 200SX sports coupe, already hailed as one of Japan’s best-looking cars, is now on-sale in Australia.

Powered by a turbocharged (with intercooler) version of Nissan’s SR20 DOHC 2.0-litre four cylinder engine, the 200SX drives the rear wheels (like all serious sports cars) through either a new six-speed manual gearbox or optional four-speed electronic automatic transmission.

Maximum power is 147kW at 6500rpm and peak torque of 265 Nm is at 4800rpm. Manual versions of the new 200SX feature the helical limited slip differential as fitted to Nissan’s hallowed Skyline GT-R coupe.

Front suspension is independent MacPherson struts, coil springs and an anti-roll bar.

At the rear, Nissan’s praised multi-link design is featured with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. Four bolt-in race-bred body stiffening braces, revised suspension settings and standard ABS with Braking Assist ensure the new 200SX delivers exhilarating handling to match its straight line performance.

Safety is enhanced with dual SRS airbags and double anti-intrusion beams in both doors. Inside, new seats provide extra support while titanium-look gauges and trim finishes further enhance the sporting appeal of the new 200SX.

While the wheelbase is the same as its predecessor (2525mm), the new 200SX is 75mm shorter at 4445mm and 10mm lower at 1285mm.

However it is the sensational new exterior look of the 200SX which is sure to set tongues wagging in Australia as it did when the car was first unveiled in Japan.

While the previous model’s styling was conservative, the new 200SX can best be described as tenacious with a low, slanted nose and beautiful curved wrap-around rear fenders. Two side character lines accentuate the overall wedge shape. Meaty five-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels fitted with 205/55 R16 tyres complete a purposeful look which leaves no doubt the new 200SX is a serious sports car.

There are two models in the 200SX lineup - S and R. Top-spec R models are externally distinguished by a bootlid spoiler, side skirts and an electric sunroof.

Five exterior colours are available, including Pewter, Flame Red, Black Obsidian, Brilliant Blue and Aspen White..

Nissan Australia’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Leon Daphne, said "Nissan’s history in all major world markets includes success with a variety of different sports car models dating back to the Fairlady and later the original 240Z.

"Of course here in Australia, the launch of Nissan’s first 200SX came after we had enjoyed cars such as the various Z-car models and the honour to be the first export market for the Skyline GT-R coupe. I am sure the new 200SX with its attractive new styling, enhanced features and remarkable performance will be another successful member of Nissan’s sports car family."