How Big Is the Difference Between the Sylphy and the Lavida?
4 Answers
The difference between the Sylphy and the Lavida is not significant. In terms of space: The Sylphy has a clear advantage, with a wheelbase of 2700 mm, and it is also slightly wider. Additionally, the Sylphy's unique "big sofa" seats give it a significant edge over the Lavida in terms of comfort. However, the Lavida is not without its merits—it remains a highly recommendable choice for family use. In terms of exterior design: Although the Lavida has undergone several upgrades over the years and developed some distinctive features, it still hasn't escaped Volkswagen's "same-face" design, making it somewhat conventional in appearance. For younger consumers, it may not be the best choice. On the other hand, while the Nissan Sylphy used to appear outdated in the past, its design has improved dramatically since its latest generation update, making it much more appealing to younger buyers. The Lavida, in contrast, tends to suit the tastes of older generations better.
The differences between the Sylphy and Lavida are quite noticeable. The Sylphy's seats are like mobile sofas, especially the rear ones—they don’t tire your back even after long rides. The Lavida has a sturdier chassis, feeling much more stable at high speeds, and the solid 'thud' over speed bumps is reassuring. In terms of power, the Sylphy's 1.6L with CVT is as smooth as Dove chocolate, while the Lavida's 1.5L + 6AT packs more punch at takeoff. Over three months with the Sylphy, I refueled five times, and the displayed 5.8L/100km is no exaggeration, whereas the Lavida averages around 6.5L. The Sylphy only offers CarPlay in higher trims, while the new Lavida includes it across the lineup. Noise insulation is clearly better in the Lavida, especially wind noise above 80 km/h. If I had to choose, the Sylphy is more comfortable for city commutes, while the Lavida is the reliable pick for frequent long-distance driving.
My neighbor just bought a Sylphy last week, while I've been driving a Lavida for three years. The rear seats in his car are spacious enough to cross your legs, but my daughter always complains about the bumpy ride in the back of mine. However, the Lavida's steering is precise, making lane changes and overtaking feel very responsive. The Sylphy's paint is thin and easily scratched by branches, while the Lavida has more plastic parts but minor dings are less noticeable. A mechanic told me the Sylphy's CVT fluid needs changing every 60,000 km, costing 800 yuan—enough for three Lavida maintenance services. The most frustrating part is the base-model Sylphy doesn't even have parking sensors, while the Lavida comes standard with four. But the Sylphy's keyless entry is really convenient—it unlocks automatically when you approach, unlike the Lavida where you have to take out the key and press the button. Which one to buy depends on your priorities: the Sylphy for hassle-free ownership and cost savings, the Lavida for better build quality and driving dynamics.
I've driven two generations of the Sylphy and the current Lavida. The Sylphy's air conditioning cools down three seconds faster, while the Lavida's vents can freeze mineral water. The rear middle seat of the Sylphy is almost completely flat, whereas the Lavida's floor hump is high enough to rest your feet on. The Lavida's steering wheel feels as heavy as an arm exerciser, while the Sylphy's wheel can be turned effortlessly with one hand. On the highway, the Lavida remains rock-solid during lane changes, whereas the Sylphy requires slowing down in advance. The Sylphy's fuel consumption display never exceeds 6.5, while the Lavida's consumption with air conditioning in summer can go straight up to 7.2. During maintenance, the Sylphy's fill ports are all in obvious places, while the Lavida's air filter is hidden like it's playing hide and seek.
