2001 Daewoo Nubira sedan -
The folks at Daewoo implore prospective buyers to make their money work for them by buying a Nubira sedan. Elegant exterior styling, freshened for 2001, is combined with versatile seating, efficient performance and built-in durability at a budget price -- a killer mix designed for success in the American marketplace. Daewoo has taken a page from the playbook of the Japanese automakers in carving out a market share by offering plenty of value for the money, wrapped in an attractive package.
Available in SE and CDX trim levels, the four-door Nubira is powered by a 2.0L DOHC 16-valve D-TEC four-cylinder engine built by an overseas subsidiary of General Motors. Buyers can choose between the standard five-speed manual or the $800 optional four-speed automatic transmission with Power and Economy modes that have fourth gear lockup for better fuel economy at highway speeds.
In keeping with its budget pricing, the Nubira sedan comes with a very short option list -- a tilt/slide moonroof ($500), air conditioning ($700, std - CDX), carpeted floor mats ($65) and leather seating services ($650). SE model buyers may dress up their Nubira with the ($700) Convenience Package.
Standard on the CDX, this package includes power windows and door locks, body-color heated power side view mirrors, anti-theft alarm with remote keyless entry, fog lights, tilt steering wheel and six speaker audio system.
On the road, the 2.0L DOHC engine is very responsive from rest and handles highway speeds with ease. The four-wheel independent suspension with front MacPherson struts and stabilizer bar, independent multi-link rear suspension, long 101.2 inch wheelbase, 177.0 inch overall length and 66.9 inch overall width, work together to give the driver a secure, solid feel.
Hankook P185/65R14 tires work well with the suspension hardware to keep the sedan firmly in touch with the pavement.
Inside the cabin, well-placed displays and controls greet the driver. Seating is comfortable throughout. Textures and fabrics are very tasteful. Decent room for two adults in the rear seat, coupled with a convenient rear armrest, make the back seat a very hospitable place in this sedan. Three passenger grab handles -- one at each passenger door opening, aids with entry and exit.
The Nubira is well equipped, including power heated side view mirrors, mud flaps, and a split 60/40 rear seat back that complements the ample, well designed cargo space. The 13.1 cu. ft. cargo area has a metal floor covering several under floor storage areas -- not like the cardboard or Styrofoam found elsewhere!
Ratings & specifications
The engine performance numbers are 129 hp at 5,400 rpm and 136 lb/ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. EPA fuel economy figures range from 22 city/31 highway for the five-speed manual to 22 city/30 highway for the four-speed automatic using regular unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are easy to reach and clearly marked.
Standard safety/security equipment for the Nubira includes dual front airbags and security code protection for audio unit. CDX adds four-wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution, front fog lights, anti theft alarm with remote keyless entry, and power door locks. Traction control is not available.
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Daewoo Nubira sedan starts at $11,399 for the SE and $14,199 for the CDX. Destination charge adds $330. Dealers report good supplies of this very solid vehicle, so it should be easy finding the right one.
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