2002 Nissan Primera Hatchback P12 Photos, engines & full specs

Starting in 2002, the third generation of the Primera was available in a hatchback shape to please those who needed more trunk space but liked sedans more.

After introducing the Primera in 2001 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Europe, Nissan added the hatchback to the lineup in the following year. It continued a tradition that started with the Primera's first generation, the P10, in 1990. But now it was the 2000s, and the automaker had thrown all the technology it had in its basket into one car. Not only was the Primera P12 available with a rearview camera, but it also featured an infrared front camera that helped with the adaptive cruise control and an automatic braking system. Remember that it was 2002 when many cars were still offered without ABS. But not the Primera and its sibling, the hatchback.

Primera's styling had many bio-design influences but still sported many new-edge-inspired lines. Its front fascia, for instance, featured the flying-wing-themed grille that was broader than that of the previous generation. This was flanked by futuristic-looking headlights with a rhomboidal, swept-back shape. In addition, Nissan added another air intake in the lower part of the bumper to help cool the engine. Depending on the trim level, the automaker also added a pair of round fog lamps in the apron.

From its profile, the Primera Hatchback showed an almost identical shape to the sedan. It featured an arched line for the car's greenhouse with the roof followed by a sloped-down line for the tailgate. Unlike the sedan, though, this version had thicker C-pillars. Moreover, the broad rear window was fitted with a wiper. The corner-mounted taillights were tall and narrow, flanking the trunk opening. Nissan offered the Primera with either steel wheels for the lower trim levels or with a set of alloys.

Nissan installed a futuristic interior for the Primera P12. The dashboard sported a broad instrument cluster that sat on top of it, with the dials and gauges placed in the middle, not fronting the driver. Below, customers had the option to order the car with an infotainment system that could be controlled via a panel mounted underneath it. It featured a DVD-based navigation system, a climate control panel, and a stereo. Furthermore, it was also equipped with a reversing camera. The front mild bolstered bucket seats were comfortable and separated by a center console that housed an armrest with a storage compartment, two cup holders, the handbrake, and the gear stick. Behind, the split-folding (60/40) bench seat could easily accommodate three passengers and could expand the trunk size from 450 liters (15.9 cu-ft) to 1,812 liters (64 cu-ft).

Nissan offered the Primera Hatchback with a choice of three gasoline and two diesel engines at the start of sales. A third version followed later. The base models were fitted with five-speed manuals, while the punchier ones were mated with six-speed gearboxes. A CVT was also in the offer for selected versions.