The Maesima UF100 series I Avellca or the NV-997 in some markets. It continued to be called Celento in certain markets. It is a midsize car which was manufactured by Maesima from 1997 to 2004. This generation continued the success of previous generations in further establishing the brand’s presence in the North American, European and Oceanic regions. Introduced as the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis hit causing some issues for the company with production.
Introduced in 1997, the body was all-new bringing back the liftback, wagon and sedan variants but due to the growing financial crisis ended up using the venerable UF-platform. As a result, the suspension remained unchanged with a McPherson struts up front and torsion beam rear. Handling was tweaked and improved from the previous model, with a more European tune for more poise while still safe. The exterior was larger and longer than its predecessor while featuring a more aerodynamic design.
The Xz, STz models remained the American trim lines while Tz grade was initially dropped. The sedan and wagon models continued joined by a new liftback variant, they were still produced in Anikatia at the main factory facilities in Namju. The 5-speed manual transmission was mostly unchanged but the ratios were revised for improved performance and acceleration, while the 4-speed automatic an electronically controlled unit from 4FG180-DBA from GF Friedrichshafen remained largely unchanged.
All Avellca models received a more ergonomic interior, remote central locking and standard safety equipment like drivers airbag, anti-lock brakes and 4-wheel disc brakes. The DOHC variant of the award-winning MCG-engine family was made standard across the range this MC-GF2154N-FHv version of all-new 2.2-liter 4-cylinder producing 92 kW (123 hp) and 178 Nm (103 ft-lbs), this allowed the Avellca to average around 30 MPG (36 MPG Imperial, 7.7 Litres per 100 km, 13.0 Kilometres per litre)* in manual trim. The MCG series engine was introduced in 1990 with a SOHC and DOHC variants later developed and replaced the long-running MCO series of 4-cylinder petrol engines. It was critically acclaimed and awarded engine of the year for 1994.
While the uncertainty and chaotic atmosphere led to production delays as the factory shut down due to political riots, shortages and security concerns. Emergency international loans from the IMF and internationally supported democratic reforms were swiftly undertaken which saw the DSRA replaced with the Republic of Anikatia. Maesima was one of the lucky companies able to avoid bankruptcy finally achieving full private ownership again.
Following the political and economic crisis in Anikatia started by the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis the UF100 series I Celento would undergo a mid-generation facelift for 2001 following the collapse of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Anikatia. Among this crisis was a wave of new optimism but unfortunately, funds were still scarce in this new climate. So the refreshed Avellica was very mild, a slightly modified front and rear fascia with more body coloured panels replacing the plastic cladding. Improvements to the engine largely towards improved fuel economy. Additional refinements to the ride and handling were made in the UF100 series II which was sold until 2004.
All models were offered with competitive warranties and servicing deals which helped to establish the Maesima brand against its competitors.
Trims
Avellca 2.2L Sedan Xz 5MT: $6,819
(*+10% in 1999 value equal to 8,925.00 (+10%) in 2010 Autiomation units)
Avellca 2.2L Liftback Xz 5MT: $6,844
(*+10% in 1999 value equal to 8,958.00 (+10%) in 2010 Autiomation units)
Avellca 2.2L Wagon Xz 5MT: $6,807
(*+10% in 1999 value equal to 8,910.00 (+10%) in 2010 Autiomation units)
Avellca 2.2L Sedan Xz 4AT: $6,919
(*+10% in 1999 value equal to 9,056.00 (+10%) in 2010 Autiomation units)
Avellca 2.2L Liftback Xz 4AT: $6,896
(*+10% in 1999 value equal to 9,026.00 (+10%) in 2010 Autiomation units)
Avellca 2.2L Wagon Xz 4AT: $6,907
(*+10% in 1999 value equal to 9,041.00 (+10%) in 2010 Autiomation units)
Avellca 2.2L Sedan STz 4AT: $8,329
(*+20% in 1999 value equal to 10,902.00 (+20%) in 2010 Autiomation units)
Avellca 2.2L Liftback STz 4AT: $8,372
(*+20% in 1999 value equal to 10,958.00 (+20%) in 2010 Autiomation units)
Avellca 2.2L Wagon STz 4AT: $8,270
(*+20% in 1999 value equal to 10,824.00 (+20%) in 2010 Autiomation units)