The Daewoo Nubira, marketed as the Holden Nova in Australia, was a compact and mid-size car manufactured by Daewoo Motors from 1997 to 2003. The second generation, introduced in 2002, offered a hatchback body style alongside the traditional sedan. This article focuses on the 2.0 i 16V CDX hatchback variant, produced between 2002 and 2003, equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 126 horsepower. This trim level represented a step up from the base models, offering increased equipment and performance, but remained positioned below any potential sportier or more luxurious offerings within the Nubira range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Daewoo |
| Model | Nubira |
| Generation | Nubira Hatchback II |
| Type | 2.0 i 16V CDX (126 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.2 l/100 km (19.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 126 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4400 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | T20SED |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 900 l (31.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4280 mm (168.5 in.) |
| Width | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Height | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Rear track | 1454 mm (57.24 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Nubira 2.0 i 16V CDX utilized the T20SED engine, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved combustion efficiency. The 16-valve configuration (four valves per cylinder) enhanced breathing and contributed to the engine’s 126 horsepower output at 5400 rpm and 180 Nm (132.76 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and affordability over outright performance. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a relatively direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, though it wasn’t particularly sporty in its feel.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0-liter Nubira offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration to 60 mph took approximately 8.6 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph). Compared to the base 1.6-liter engine, the 2.0-liter provided noticeably more power, especially during overtaking maneuvers or when carrying a full load of passengers. However, it didn’t possess the punch of more powerful engines found in competing vehicles. The five-speed manual transmission allowed for reasonable driver control, but the shift quality wasn’t particularly refined. The suspension provided a comfortable ride, but handling was somewhat soft and lacked the precision of more focused compact cars. The steering, while hydraulically assisted, offered limited feedback.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CDX trim level represented a mid-range offering in the Nubira lineup. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and anti-theft alarm. The hatchback body style offered increased practicality compared to the sedan, with a versatile cargo area that could be expanded by folding down the rear seats. The trunk offered 370 liters of space with the seats up, expanding to 900 liters with them folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The Nubira Hatchback II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with independent wishbone suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup aimed to provide a comfortable ride, but it wasn’t designed for aggressive handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard equipment, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The tires were typically 185/65 R14, providing a reasonable balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Daewoo Nubira, and specifically the 2.0 i 16V CDX hatchback, was generally viewed as a practical and affordable option in the compact car segment. Critics praised its spacious interior and generous standard equipment, but noted its unremarkable driving dynamics and somewhat bland styling. Compared to rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus, the Nubira offered a lower price point but lacked the refinement and driving enjoyment of those vehicles. Fuel economy was reasonable, but not class-leading. Reliability was generally considered acceptable, though Daewoo’s reputation at the time was still building.
Legacy
The Daewoo Nubira, despite its relatively short production run, established a foothold for the brand in several markets. While Daewoo eventually became part of General Motors, the Nubira’s legacy lives on in subsequent models. The 2.0-liter T20SED engine proved to be a reasonably durable unit, and well-maintained examples can still be found on the road today. In the used car market, the Nubira 2.0 i 16V CDX hatchback represents an affordable and practical option for those seeking a no-frills, reliable vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s age and potential maintenance needs, as parts availability may be limited.
