
The Bluebird is a sedan series launched by in 1959. The 2021 Bluebird adopts Nissan's V-Motion front grille design language, featuring a semi-surround design with chrome trim on the front grille and standard boomerang-style headlights. The vehicle dimensions are 4683mm in length, 1780mm in width, and 1465mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2700mm. In terms of power, the latest Bluebird is equipped with a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum power of 93 kW and a peak torque of 154 Nm. The transmission system is paired with either a 5-speed manual or CVT gearbox. In terms of features, the 2021 Nissan Bluebird comes with intelligent voice control, allowing voice commands for navigation, music, communication, weather, and other in-car applications, along with an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot. The new car also offers ten years of free basic service data, covering traffic generated by more than ten services, including intelligent voice assistant, weather forecast, intelligent route planning and navigation, real-time traffic conditions, vehicle condition detection, maintenance services, violation queries, electronic fence, stolen vehicle assistance, and OTA online upgrades.

The Bluebird is actually a classic family sedan from . My first encounter with it was in the 1990s in my relative's garage. Born in 1957 and discontinued around 2000, it spanned a full half-century, earning its reputation as a living fossil among Japanese cars. The most iconic U12 and U13 series were globally popular in the 1990s, with their rugged and durable 2.0L SR20 engines. Nowadays, spotting a modified Bluebird on the road is a rare treat, and fellow enthusiasts affectionately call it 'Old Bluebird.' Its design, featuring four square headlights paired with a chrome grille, exudes a strong retro vibe.

I remember the Bluebird was a common sight on the streets when I was a kid, with its boxy body resembling a moving biscuit tin. After being domestically produced in the 1990s, it was called the Fengshen Bluebird in China. The 1.6L and 1.8L naturally aspirated engines were particularly fuel-efficient—my dad's car ran for 200,000 kilometers without any major repairs. The small spoiler on the trunk lid was a signature feature of the high-end trim back then, and the dark green velvet seats felt like a sofa. The fourth generation even came with a car phone, which was considered a luxury feature at the time.

Back in the day, we auto mechanics loved working on Bluebirds the most – their parts layout was exceptionally well-organized. Take the model coded U13 for example: that 2.0L V6 engine in the engine bay only made 140 horsepower, but it was paired with a remarkably smooth four-speed automatic transmission. The chassis used MacPherson struts with multi-link suspension, making it more comfortable over speed bumps compared to the Accord of the same era. The final batch of Bluebirds in 2002 even came equipped with a color LCD screen displaying fuel consumption and outside temperature – absolute cutting-edge tech for that time.

Anyone who has driven a Bluebird knows its steering is exceptionally light, with a small turning radius, making it very agile for U-turns even in crowded markets. I still occasionally drive my friend's U13—though the fabric seats are worn, they still provide excellent support. The throttle response is leisurely but very linear, giving it a classic Japanese charm. The trunk can fit three large suitcases, which is why many unlicensed airport taxi drivers chose this car back in the day.

As a car reviewer, I must say the Bluebird changed Chinese people's perception of Japanese cars. Alongside the Camry and Accord, it was known as one of the 'Three Japanese Musketeers,' pioneering the introduction of ABS and dual airbags in the 200,000-yuan market segment. The later versions' eagle-eye headlights and wood-grain interior directly influenced the design language of the subsequent Teana. Interestingly, the current Sylphy's English name is actually the successor model to the Bluebird series.


