Why is the Sylphy called one of the 'Three Slow Aunties on the Road'?
2 Answers
Due to its relatively slow acceleration and weaker power performance, the Sylphy is commonly referred to as one of the 'Three Slow Aunties on the Road' along with the Levin and Corolla. Vehicle Specifications: From the vehicle specifications, it can be seen that the entry-level 1.5L naturally aspirated models of Toyota's Levin and Corolla have a maximum horsepower of 121 HP and a peak torque of 148 Nm, while the entry-level 1.6L naturally aspirated model of Nissan's Sylphy has a maximum horsepower of 122 HP and a peak torque of 155 Nm. These power figures are indeed somewhat lacking compared to competitors in the same price range. The Meaning of 'Slowpoke Cars': In reality, the term 'slowpoke cars' does not reflect bias against specific car models but rather dissatisfaction with certain drivers. Although highways no longer have dedicated overtaking lanes, it is still recommended to stay in the middle lane as much as possible, leaving the leftmost lane for those who wish to overtake.
Having driven the Sylphy for several years, I believe there are several main reasons why it's nicknamed one of the 'Three Grandmas of the Road.' Firstly, its acceleration is truly sluggish. When starting from a red light, the throttle response is delayed, and the small engine is designed more for fuel efficiency rather than strong performance, lacking the powerful push-back feeling of sportier cars. I often get honked at by other drivers because it takes a long time to reach higher speeds, especially when overtaking on highways. Secondly, its low fuel consumption is a major advantage, averaging 6L/100km, which saves a lot on gas. However, this also means the power output is mild and suited for steady, cautious driving. The Sylphy's CVT transmission is smooth but lacks excitement, and the soft suspension provides good shock absorption, making it as comfortable as sitting on a sofa at home—but at the cost of less agile handling. Lastly, its user base mostly consists of middle-aged individuals or homemakers who prioritize safety and stability over speed, hence the playful 'grandma' label. Overall, the nickname stems from its economical and conservative positioning—it's cost-effective and worry-free for city driving, but occasionally affects traffic flow.
