NISSAN Bluebird Hatchback Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Nissan introduced the Bluebird in Europe in 1986 after it opened its new factory in the UK, and the model was produced in three body shapes.

During the mid-80s, automakers tried to figure out if customers would like mid-sized hatchbacks instead of sedans. After all, there were several advantages in such type of bodywork over the sedan since they offered bigger and more accessible trunks. That's why Nissan produced the T12 Bluebird with a liftgate, along with the station wagon and the sedan versions.

With a wedged-shaped bodywork, the Bluebird hatchback just followed the trend of other European automakers from those times. The car's front fascia featured rectangular headlights and a grille, with body-colored bumpers that sported black rubber trims. On the sides, the carmaker didn't consider painting the door handles or mirrors, the same as most other vehicles from those times. At the back, the car sported a sloped-down tailgate and a set of extra side windows behind the rear doors. To cut costs, Nissan used the same rear doors as the other versions of the Bluebird, the sedan, and the station wagon, respectively.

Inside, the squared-looking style continued on the dash with straight lines. Even the vents were squared with horizontal slats. The only rounded shape was on the inboard side of the instrument cluster. It was the era o electronic watches, and Casio was the king of the new generation. Nissan added plenty of features to the car, such as power windows and locks, power mirrors, a tape player, and a digital clock on the dashboard. In the back, the folding bench increased the trunk volume from 324 liters (11.4 cu-ft) to 1145 liters (40.4 cu-ft).

Under the hood, Nissan played safe with a choice of three 2.0-liter engines; two gasoline and one diesel. The gasoline units provided enough power to embarrass other cars, while the diesel was sluggish but shined with its impressive fuel efficiency.