Nissan Cefiro I (A31) photos

Launched in September 1988, the first-generation Nissan Cefiro (chassis code A31) was introduced as an all-new mid-size four-door sport sedan positioned alongside the Nissan Laurel and Skyline in the brand's lineup. Built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the R32 Skyline and C33 Laurel, the A31 featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension, with advanced options including HICAS-II four-wheel steering, DUET-SS electronic suspension control, and the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system on select variants. Its sleek four-door sedan bodywork stood out with a low hood line, flush projector-style or multi-reflector headlamps, and frameless-inspired sporty proportions. Power came exclusively from Nissan's smooth RB-series inline-six engines, including the 2.0-liter single-cam RB20E, the twin-cam naturally aspirated RB20DE, and the turbocharged RB20DET in the domestic market, while a 2.4-liter RB24S engine was offered in several export regions. Transmission choices consisted of a five-speed manual gearbox along with four-speed and later five-speed automatic transmissions. At launch in Japan, Nissan marketed the A31 with a pioneering semi-custom ordering system that allowed buyers to freely combine engine, suspension, interior fabric, and exterior color configurations. Facelifts in 1990 and 1992 refreshed the front grille, bumpers, tail lamps, and interior trim while simplifying the trim hierarchy. Sold primarily in Japan as well as across Southeast Asia, Oceania, and Latin America, the A31 Cefiro later became an icon in the tuning and drifting communities.