Nissan’s adventurous, new five-door crossover, the Dualis will hit Australian roads in December and one thing is certain: it is one of a kind, there’s nothing else quite like it on the road.

From its strong exterior style to the wrap around cockpit interior layout, the Dualis is just the right size for people looking for a versatile and impressive driver’s vehicle. The key design elements that turn Dualis into a crossover can be found above and below the waistline.

The sleek silhouette of the cambering roof suggests sporting agility. Dynamically angled A-pillars meet the roof at its highest point at the top of the windscreen, from where it falls away, coupé-like, towards the rear. The roofline culminates in a subtle flick up into a small spoiler integrated into the tailgate surround.

Dualis features a sports car inspired glasshouse proportion accentuates the athleticism of the overall design. The side profile follows the movement of the roofline and finishes with the small upswept triangular third window first seen on Murano.

Dimensionally, Dualis sits between small car hatchbacks and SUVs. It has a wheelbase of 2,630 mm, it is 1,623 mm tall, 1,783 mm wide and 4,315 mm long. It is about 100 mm longer than a typical hatchback but 150 mm shorter than a typical SUV. Similarly, it is taller than rival hatchbacks by between 100-150 mm yet up to 130 mm lower than an SUV.

Powered by a compact 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 102 kW at 5,200 rpm and 198 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. This latest generation lightweight engine delivers great power and economy. The engine is available with either a six speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with six-speed M-Mode.

CVT is a computer controlled ‘stepless’ transmission providing a virtually limitless number of ratios, ensuring the engine is always working as efficiently as possible, resulting in smoother acceleration as well as better fuel economy and lower emissions.

The four-wheel drive system incorporates some of the most sophisticated technology available on the 4x4 market. Developed by Nissan, the ALL-MODE 4x4 system allows secure and relaxed driving with advanced electronics taking care of all traction needs.

The system has three modes, selected via a switch on the centre console. In 2WD, the system is permanently set in front-wheel drive, ideal for fine weather on-road use. When the Lock setting is pushed, however, the system switches to permanent four-wheel drive mode with drive split 50:50 front to rear.

The most often used mode, however, is ‘select-and-forget’ Auto, in which the system is left to its own devices. Sensors linking the engine’s ECU with the four-wheel drive and ABS controller constantly monitor wheel slippage and automatically send signals to the electromagnetic centre clutch mounted just ahead of the rear axle to apportion torque correctly.

The front suspension features a sub-frame mounted strut-type system with combined coilover-strut assemblies and a forward lower link. The sub-frame has compliant rubber mounts to isolate road noise and vibration from the platform, improving both general refinement and ride comfort. Fully independent multi-link rear suspension has been used for precise handling and high speed stability. In addition, the rear shock absorbers are tilted to ensure minimal intrusion into the boot area.

Handling and manoeuvrability are aided by the adoption of electric power steering. This state-of-the-art system offers greater assistance at lower speeds with more steering feel provided as speeds rise. Safety is a key strength of the vehicle, too. A rigid body shell providing maximum passive safety is matched by a plethora of active safety features including the latest generation VDC – standard on the Ti models and optional on ST – which includes brake torque control and engine torque control.

Disc brakes all round with standard anti-lock (ABS) are boosted by Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).

The entry-level ST comes standard with dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, power windows and mirrors, in-dash single CD player, remote central locking, cruise control and air conditioning and is priced from $28,990* for the six-speed manual and $30,990* for the CVT equipped model.

The ST option pack adds vehicle dynamic control (VDC), dual side and curtain airbags and 16-inch alloy wheels for an additional $2,000.

The highly specified Ti grade gains a number of significant features including heated power front leather seats, six-stack in-dash CD player with bluetooth compatibility, VDC and dual side and curtain airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, auto headlamps and rain sensing wipers and is priced from $33,990* for the manual and $35,990* with the CVT transmission.

According to Nissan’s marketing general manager, Ross Booth, the Dualis is designed to appeal to owners with an active life style.

“Dualis is the first true compact crossover, it combines the flexibility of a compact hatch with the functionality of an SUV."

“The Dualis offers great driving dynamics for around town and has the versatility of a command driving position and ALL MODE 4x4 system for outdoor pursuits,” said Mr Booth.