The Nissan Cedric Y34 3.0i V6, produced from 1999 to 2001, represents a significant iteration of Nissan’s long-running Cedric lineage. Positioned as a premium, full-size sedan, the Y34 generation aimed to blend traditional Japanese luxury with contemporary technology. This particular variant, equipped with the 3.0-liter VQ30DD V6 engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-to-upper range within the Y34 lineup, offering a balance of performance and comfort. The Cedric, historically a staple of the Japanese domestic market (JDM), catered to buyers seeking a spacious, well-appointed vehicle for both business and family use. While never officially exported to the United States in large numbers, the Y34 Cedric has gained a following among JDM enthusiasts in North America.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Cedric |
| Generation | Cedric (Y34) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0i V6 (240 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg, 24.8 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 150 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 240 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 309 Nm @ 3600 rpm (227.91 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ30DD |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.3 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1875 kg (4133.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275 kg (606.27 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4860 mm (191.34 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Y34 3.0i Cedric is Nissan’s VQ30DD engine, a 3.0-liter, naturally aspirated V6. This engine is part of the highly regarded VQ family, known for its smooth operation, reliability, and relatively high output. The VQ30DD utilizes a 60-degree V-angle, contributing to its balance and reduced vibrations. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and employs Nissan’s continuously variable valve timing control system (CVTCS) on both intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize performance across the rev range. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Paired with the VQ30DD is a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and comfortable shifts. While not offering the sportiness of a manual gearbox, the automatic transmission was well-suited to the Cedric’s intended role as a luxury cruiser.
Driving Characteristics
The 240 horsepower and 227.91 lb-ft of torque produced by the VQ30DD, combined with the four-speed automatic, provided the Y34 Cedric with respectable, though not overtly sporty, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in approximately 7.1 seconds. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for comfortable cruising and effortless highway merging. While the engine delivered adequate power for overtaking maneuvers, it lacked the urgency of some of its competitors, or even the higher-output variants within the Cedric lineup. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Cedric, the automatic version felt slightly less responsive. The focus was clearly on providing a refined and relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0i V6 Automatic trim of the Y34 Cedric typically included a comprehensive list of standard features. These included power windows, power locks, power mirrors, air conditioning, a high-quality audio system, and woodgrain interior trim. Upholstery was generally cloth or leather, with higher-spec models offering premium leather options. Optional extras could include a navigation system, sunroof, and upgraded sound systems. The interior design emphasized spaciousness and comfort, with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard layout was functional and aesthetically pleasing, typical of Japanese automotive design of the era.
Chassis & Braking
The Y34 Cedric utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and comfortable ride. The suspension consisted of independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup aimed to balance ride comfort with handling stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The Cedric’s chassis was tuned for a comfortable ride rather than aggressive cornering. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Cedric Y34 3.0i V6 Automatic was generally well-received in the Japanese market. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some noted that the automatic transmission lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, and that the car’s styling was somewhat conservative. Compared to other trims, such as the lower-displacement 2.0-liter models, the 3.0i V6 offered a significant performance upgrade. Fuel economy, at 20.6 US mpg combined, was reasonable for a full-size sedan of its era. Reliability was generally considered to be excellent, a hallmark of Nissan engineering.
Legacy
The Nissan Cedric Y34 3.0i V6 Automatic has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle. The VQ30DD engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, can provide many years of service. In the used car market, the Y34 Cedric is appreciated by JDM enthusiasts for its classic styling, comfortable ride, and relatively affordable price. While not as sought-after as some of the more iconic JDM sports cars, the Cedric Y34 represents a well-built and refined example of Japanese automotive engineering from the late 1990s and early 2000s. Parts availability can be a challenge outside of Japan, but a growing aftermarket support network is emerging to cater to the increasing demand for these vehicles.
