Nissan’s V-Motion Grille Evolving
Nissan sedans, such as the Sentra and Versa in America, have leaned heavily on the current V-Motion grille, first previewed by the Vmotion 2.0 concept in 2017. This signature design element strikes a balance between classy refinement and a touch of sportiness. It’s an approach that works across different markets, giving Nissan sedans a recognizable face without going too far into bold territory.
Globally, there’s a different design direction seen in new models such as the N7 electric sedan in China, which combines clean, minimalist lines with contemporary proportions – a low-slung version of the new Nissan LEAF.
But Nissan has more than one sedan shaping its lineup in China. Alongside the new EV, there’s also the Sylphy – a gasoline-powered compact sedan – and it received a significant redesign.
A Redesigned Sylphy Sedan Surfaces in China
Images filed with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, exposed by Autohome, reveal the updated Sylphy as part of a mid-cycle refresh. The filings show a sedan that departs from the more conservative face of the current car, instead taking on a front end that could be mistaken for a Peugeot at first glance.
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A full-width light bar defines the nose, connecting with the headlamps to form a T-shaped signature. The grille is denser and more pronounced, surrounded by sharp bodywork. At the rear, another full-width light treatment enhances the look, paired with a more sculpted bumper design.
Underneath, the updated Sylphy carries over the familiar 1.6-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine, good for 135 horsepower and 117 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. For context, the Sylphy is practically the Chinese-market version of the Sentra, offering similar proportions and purpose but adjusted for local preferences.
Nissan’s Design Direction Unclear
It’s unclear whether the Sylphy’s redesign signals the future styling direction of Nissan sedans beyond China, or if it previews what the upcoming Sentra would look like. If it does, the sharper lines and more dramatic light treatments would be a refreshing shift from the current template.
Of note, the previous Sylphy redesign in China in 2024 mirrored the current Sentra in Nissan’s lineup in America, so we can’t blame you for expecting the same this time around.
At the same time, the N7 presents a distinct take on Nissan’s design, emphasizing clean surfaces and a futuristic look. That model is also worth watching because it will not remain a China-only product. Nissan has confirmed that the N7 will be sold to global markets, with Japan and Australia as initial targets. If both the Sylphy’s updates and the N7’s styling are clues to future products, Nissan’s next generation of sedans could be far more varied than the current ones we see today.
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