Nissan Dayz 2: a compact kei car with great capabilities

Compact Nissan Dayz 2 is a bright representative of the Japanese class kei-car, which combines efficiency, maneuverability and modern technology. The second generation model, introduced in 2019, was a logical continuation of the successful line, but with significant improvements in design, safety and equipment. This car is ideal for urban environments, where small dimensions, low fuel consumption and ease of parking are important.

In Japan Dayz 2 It is positioned as a family or youth car that can be driven from the age of 18 thanks to preferential tax conditions for kei cars. However, its popularity goes beyond the borders of the land of the rising sun: the model is actively imported to Russia, Ukraine and other CIS countries, where it is valued for its reliability and accessibility. In this article we will look at technical specifications, operating features, compare with competitors and give practical advice to future owners.

Technical characteristics of Nissan Dayz 2

Under the hood Nissan Dayz 2 is installed three-cylinder petrol engine volume 0.66 l turbocharged to kei car standards. The motor develops power up to 52–64 hp depending on the modification and works in tandem with CVT or manual transmission. Despite the modest numbers, the car demonstrates excellent dynamics in city traffic thanks to its light weight (about 800–900 kg).

Fuel efficiency is one of the key advantages of the model. Average fuel consumption in the combined cycle is from 4.2 to 5.1 l/100 km (according to Japanese standard JC08), which makes Dayz 2 one of the most economical cars in its class. In this case, the tank volume 30–32 l provides a power reserve of up to 600–700 km at one gas station.

• 🔧 Engine: 0.66 l, 3 cylinders, turbo (series HR12DDR)
• ⚡ Power: 52–64 hp at 6400 rpm
• ⛽ Fuel consumption: 4.2–5.1 l/100 km (JC08)
• 🔄 Transmission: variator Xtronic or 5-speed manual transmission
• 📏 Dimensions: 3395×1475×1640 mm (length×width×height)

Feature Dayz 2 is four-wheel drive (optional), which is activated automatically when the wheels slip. System e-4WD uses an electric motor to power the rear axle, which improves traction on slippery roads without significantly increasing fuel consumption. However, it is worth remembering that this is not a complete 4WD, but rather an auxiliary function for urban environments.

⚠️ Attention: During operation Nissan Dayz 2 with all-wheel drive e-4WD Avoid long off-road driving. The system is designed to temporarily connect the rear axle and may overheat under heavy load.

Options and equipment

The model is offered in several trim levels, which differ in the level of equipment and price. Basic version Dayz 2 X includes a minimal set of options, while the top Dayz 2 Highway Star equipped driver assistance system, rear view camera And multimedia complex with support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto.

Among the key options available in various modifications:

• 🎛️ Adaptive cruise control (in top versions)
• 🚨 Collision warning system (Forward Collision Warning)
• 🔦 LED headlights with automatic adjustment
• 🔊 Audio system with 6 speakers and support Bluetooth
• 🌡️ Automatic climate control (optional)

Interior Dayz 2 made in a minimalist style with an emphasis on ergonomics. Despite its compact dimensions, the interior is more spacious than many competitors, thanks to a well-thought-out layout. Rear seats fold in proportion 60:40, which allows you to increase the volume of the trunk with 130 l to 700 l. However, the high floor in the rear may create discomfort for taller passengers. 180 cm.

Equipment	Engine	Transmission	Drive	Price (Japan, yen)
Dayz 2 X	0.66 l, 52 hp	Manual transmission / CVT	Front	from 1,300,000
Dayz 2 G	0.66 l, 64 hp	CVT	Full (e-4WD)	from 1,550,000
Dayz 2 Highway Star	0.66 l, 64 hp	CVT	Full (e-4WD)	from 1,800,000

Pros and cons of Nissan Dayz 2

Nissan Dayz 2 has a number of undeniable advantages, but also some disadvantages that you should know about before purchasing. Let's look at them in detail.

Benefits

• ✅ Economical: fuel consumption 4–5 l/100 km - one of the best in the class.
• ✅ Compactness: ideal for parking in tight yards and city traffic jams.
• ✅ Reliability: Japanese build quality and proven technical solutions.
• ✅ Ownership price: low taxes (in Japan) and inexpensive maintenance.
• ✅ Technologies: the presence of security systems even in basic versions.

Disadvantages

• ❌ Noise: The three-cylinder engine vibrates and is noisy at high speeds.
• ❌ Dynamics: poor acceleration on the highway (acceleration to 100 km/h for 13–15 sec).
• ❌ Comfort: hard suspension and high noise level in the cabin.
• ❌ Patency: low ground clearance (140 mm) limits driving on bad roads.

Particular attention should be paid noisiness: at higher speeds 80 km/h In the cabin you can hear the engine running and the noise from the wheels. This is a typical problem for kei cars, but Dayz 2 it is more pronounced than some competitors (for example, Honda N-Box or Suzuki Spacia).

Comparison with competitors

In the kei car class Nissan Dayz 2 there are several direct competitors, including Honda N-Box, Suzuki Spacia And Daihatsu Tanto. Each of them has its own characteristics, and the choice depends on the buyer’s priorities. Let's compare the key parameters.

Model	Engine	Power	Consumption (l/100 km)	Trunk volume (l)	Price (from, yen)
Nissan Dayz 2	0.66 l, turbo	64 hp	4.2	130–700	1 300 000
Honda N-Box	0.66 l, turbo	64 hp	4.0	150–800	1 400 000
Suzuki Spacia	0.66 l, turbo	64 hp	4.1	110–650	1 250 000
Daihatsu Tanto	0.66 l, turbo	64 hp	4.3	140–750	1 350 000

Compared to competitors, Nissan Dayz 2 stands out:

• 💰 Price: one of the most affordable models in the class.
• 🚗 Design: more aggressive appearance compared to Spacia or Tanto.
• 🔧 Reliability: simple design and proven components from Renault-Nissan.

However, according to comfort And soundproofing the model is inferior Honda N-Box, and by practicality — Daihatsu Tanto (the latter has more options for transforming the interior). If efficiency and price are your priority, Dayz 2 will be an excellent choice. If comfort is more important, you should take a closer look at N-Box.

Operation and Maintenance

Service Nissan Dayz 2 does not require large expenses due to its simple design and availability of spare parts. The maintenance schedule includes changing the oil every 10,000 km or once a year, as well as checking the brake system, suspension and electronics every 20,000 km. The cost of maintenance in official Japanese services is approximately 10 000–15 000 yen for the visit.

Particular attention should be paid to the following points:

Turbine condition (listen for whistling)

Oil level and color (there should be no metal shavings)

CVT operation (smooth shifting)

Suspension condition (knocks when driving over bumps)

Electronics (operability of sensors and cameras) -->

One of the common problems Dayz 2 is clutch wear in versions with a manual transmission during aggressive driving. The owners also note seal leaks after 80,000–100,000 km mileage However, these problems are not critical and can be eliminated by replacing consumables.

⚠️ Attention: During operation Nissan Dayz 2 In Russian winter conditions, avoid long trips at high speeds with a cold engine. A turbocharged engine is sensitive to overheating, and its service life is reduced with frequent “cold” loads.

Spare parts for Dayz 2 available as original (from Nissan), and analogues from Denso, NGK and other manufacturers. Prices for consumables (filters, spark plugs, brake pads) are 20–30% lower than for European cars of the same class. For example, a set of brake pads will cost 3,000–5,000 rub., and the spark plugs are in 1,500–2,500 rub. per set.

Owner reviews

Real reviews from owners Nissan Dayz 2 help to form an objective opinion about the model. Most users note reliability, efficiency And ease of control, but there are also criticisms.

Positive Feedback

• 👍 "The car is ideal for the city: it can be parked anywhere, the consumption is 4.5 liters - a dream!" (Alexey, Moscow)
• 👍 "During the year of operation there was not a single breakdown. Service is cheap, spare parts are always available." (Ivan, St. Petersburg)
• 👍 "I like the design better than competitors. The cabin is comfortable, despite its size." (Maria, Yekaterinburg)

Negative reviews

• 👎 "It is very noisy on the highway, especially after 90 km/h. The engine roars like a tractor." (Dmitry, Novosibirsk)
• 👎 "The suspension is stiff, you can feel all the holes. Not suitable for country trips." (Oleg, Kazan)
• 👎 "The rear seats are uncomfortable for adults. Only for children or short trips." (Elena, Krasnoyarsk)

Many owners also note that Dayz 2 performs best in urban conditions, while on the highway its dynamics and comfort leave much to be desired. If you plan on frequent trips out of town, it's worth considering more powerful alternatives (e.g. Nissan Note or Toyota Yaris).

What do Japanese owners say?

In Japan Nissan Dayz 2 valued for its low cost of ownership and favorable tax conditions. However, many note that after 3-4 years of operation, minor problems with electronics begin to appear (for example, parking sensors that have been activated or glitches in the multimedia system). Tuned versions with a modified bumper and LED optics are also popular.

Tips for choosing and purchasing

If you decide to buy Nissan Dayz 2, here are some practical recommendations to help avoid mistakes:

1. Decide on the package. If security systems are important to you, choose versions Highway Star or G. For minimalists, a basic one is suitable X.
2. Check the car's history. When buying used Dayz 2 request a mileage and accident report (for example, through CarVertical or JDM Expo).
3. Pay attention to the transmission. A CVT is more reliable than a manual transmission, but requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km).
4. Assess the condition of the body. Kei cars are often driven in harsh conditions, so check the underbody and arches for corrosion.

When importing from Japan, please note year of manufacture: models 2020+ are equipped with more modern security systems and also have improved sound insulation. Average price of a used one Dayz 2 (2019–2021) in Russia is 800,000–1,200,000 rub. depending on mileage and configuration.

⚠️ Attention: When completing customs clearance Nissan Dayz 2 make sure that the correct engine size is indicated on the vehicle title (658 cm³). Otherwise, problems may arise with registration due to inconsistency with the customs declaration data.

If you are buying a car for car sharing or taxi, give preference to versions with CVT and all-wheel drive e-4WD - they are more resistant to intensive use. A front-wheel drive version with a manual transmission is also suitable for personal use.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

❓ Is it possible to operate Nissan Dayz 2 in Russia without conversion?

Yes, Nissan Dayz 2 can be legally operated in Russia, but it is necessary to go through the customs clearance and registration procedure. Main nuances:

• The car must comply Technical regulations of the Customs Union (lights, tires, first aid kit, etc.).
• Engine capacity (658 cm³) avoids higher taxes, but check the current rates in your area.
• In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the headlights with a European standard (if they are not adjustable).

❓ What is the resource of the Nissan Dayz 2 engine?

With proper maintenance three-cylinder turbo engine HR12DDR able to pass 200,000–250,000 km without major repairs. Key durability conditions:

• Regular oil changes (5W-30 or 0W-20) every 10,000 km.
• Using high-quality fuel (at least AI-92).
• Avoiding prolonged operation at high speeds (above 4,000 rpm).

If you drive aggressively or ignore maintenance, the resource may be reduced to 150,000 km.

❓ Which tires are better to choose for Nissan Dayz 2?

Recommended tire size for Dayz 2 — 155/65 R14 or 165/60 R14. Optimal options:

• Summer: Toyo Proxes CF2 (comfort) or Yokohama BluEarth (economical).
• Winter: Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 (Velcro) or Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 (studded).

Tire pressure should be 2.0–2.2 bar (front axle) and 1.8–2.0 bar (rear axle).

❓ Is it possible to install gas equipment on Nissan Dayz 2?

Technically install HBO on Dayz 2 maybe, but it's not recommended for the following reasons:

• Small turbocharged engine (0.66 l) is sensitive to detonation that can occur when running on gas.
• In Japan, such cars are not designed for LPG, and it is difficult to find certified equipment.
• Fuel savings will be minimal due to low gasoline consumption (4–5 l/100 km).

If you still decide to install HBO, choose systems 4th generation with correction of ignition angles.

❓ Where is the best place to buy spare parts for Nissan Dayz 2?

Spare parts for Dayz 2 can be purchased:

• Official dealers: original parts, but more expensive (for example, Nissan Parts).
• Online stores: Amayama, Buyee, JDM Parts (shipping from Japan).
• Local suppliers: in Russia - Exist.ru, Autodoc (analogues from Denso, NGK).

Average prices for popular spare parts:

• Oil filter - 500–800 rub.
• Brake pads (set) - 3,000–5,000 rub.
• Spark plugs (NGK) — 1,500–2,500 rub. per set.