Since 2016, media reports have talked about
an all-new Nissan Grand Livina based on a Mitsubishi platform, the first fruits
of the Carlos Ghosn-led tripartite alliance. According to a new report from
Nikkei, this model is on track for a 2019 launch.
The next-gen Nissan Grand Livina will sit on the
Mitsubishi Xpander platform. The monocoque-bodied MPVs will have no marked
external differences, changes at most having to do with unique bumpers and
lights. Unofficial renderings have shown the Nissan version featuring the
X-Trail's V-motion grille and headlights with the 'boomerang’ Daytime Running
Light signature.
The 2019 Nissan Grand Livina will measure around 4.5
metres in length, 1.8 metres in width and 1.7 metres in height. It will have a
2.8-metre wheelbase, comfortably seating three rows of passengers. It could
employ a mildly retuned 4A91 1.5-litre MIVEC naturally aspirated four-cylinder
petrol engine that develops 105 PS at 6,000 rpm and 141 Nm of torque at 4,000
rpm. 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic could be the transmission choices in
that case.
The next-gen Nissan Grand Livina will be
manufactured alongside the Mitsubishi Xpander at MMC's new Bekasi plant in
Indonesia. The three-row light MPV will take on the Honda BR-V, Daihatsu
Terios, Suzuki Ertiga and Toyota Avanza. Like the Mitsubishi
Xpander, it will likely ship to Asia-Pacific regions where the Grand Livina has
a following.