2023 Nissan Livina VL

While you’ve been hearing and reading about the 2023 Nissan Livina for the past couple of weeks, it just arrived at dealerships recently. You also probably heard that it is based on the Mitsubishi Xpander as per the Nissan-Mitsubishi-Renault Alliance that started in 1999.

For economies of scale and to reduce costs, it was wise for Nissan not to revive the old Grand Livina platform we saw in 2008 and just use a shared structure.

The overall shape remains the same, but I commend the designers for making the Livina look distinct despite the limitations. Nissan’s MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) appears rounder and shapelier.

On this range-topping VL variant are large multi-reflector halogen headlamps, slim daytime running lamps, fog lamps, and a silver accent at the bottom of the front bumper. The sides feature a sharp character, line, and a heavy crease at the bottom, which gives its body quite a figure. It gets a silver trim on the rocker panel and 16-inch alloy wheels, while the rear brings up a roof spoiler and an underbody garnish.

Having the V-Motion grille on the nose helps a lot in stamping it on people’s heads that this is a Nissan, but the redesigned surface also distinguishes itself from its sibling, so you don’t double-take when you see it in the parking lot.

It uses a smart key, which allowed me to click the button on the door handle to lock and unlock the doors.

The cabin is familiar because the Livina still uses the old dashboard of the pre-facelifted Xpander. It won’t be a big issue if you don’t remember what it looked like, but we have to give you a heads-up because that’s what we’re here to do.

There are no power seats here, but there is leather upholstery. The seats are thick and firm and are six-way adjustable. That means it feels snugger and more comfortable, and easier to get the proper driving posture. It also helps that the steering column is tilt and telescopic.

Other features include a Start/Stop button, dial-type aircon controls, a seven-inch touchscreen display (that serves as the monitor for the reverse camera) with six speakers, and a color LCD instrument panel. Techie drivers and passengers will appreciate Bluetooth, (two) USB ports, and AUX connectivity. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but it does have the Phonelink software.

One of its best cabin features is storage spaces. There are many, even for people with multiple devices and loose items.

It has overhead air vents with controls in the second row and rear seats that drop flat to the floor for increased cargo space.

The engine of the Livina is the same across all trims, a 1.5-liter inline-four with a valve timing electronic control system and an electronically controlled multi-point injection system. The 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque it makes go to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. It feels very responsive and quick at city speeds. Add the light steering, and the whole vehicle is spry and agile around corners and while switching lanes. It will take some time to get up to 100 km/h on the highway, and the revs will stay at around 2,500 RPM if you do. 80 km/h is the ideal and efficient speed for its weight-to-engine setup. A continuously variable transmission may help engine performance in the future. The suspension is soft, which is great for comfort and to counter road imperfections, but it does not handle body roll very well, so slow down around corners. Noise, vibration, and harshness levels are low.

Safety features include Hill-Start Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Traction Control System, and parking sensors.

This top-of-the-line Livina VL is priced at ₱1.209 million, slightly more expensive than its sibling/counterpart but better looking.

I’m interested to see how this mix of new looks, proven equipment, and the thrifty engine can help Nissan gain a foothold in this competitive MPV segment.