Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. continues to envision new possibilities realized by EVs. Nissan New Mobility Concept is a sustainable, efficient and convenient mode of transportation focusing on the increase of elderly and single households. It is a concept car for Sustainable Zero-emission Society.

Four keywords outline the NISSAN New Mobility CONCEPT:
Innovative – New two-seater compact mobility for various needs and occasions
Easy – Size which enables anyone to drive and park easily
Safe – Maneuverability equivalent to motorbikes with greater safety
Clean – No emissions while driving

NISSAN New Mobility Concept is a user-friendly, ultra-compact 100% electric vehicle with no emissions which is expected to be utilized in various situations in everyday life.

Nissan will study the use of this vehicle for a variety of services, such as:
• ’seamless mobility service’, a highly efficient and convenient public transportation service linking public transportation and EVs supported by IT,
• ‘2-mode EV car sharing’, where the vehicle is used as a private commuter vehicle in the mornings and evenings, and as a corporate car during business hours, and, contributing to the revitalization of communities with improved mobility in both urban and tourist locations.

Suffice to say, Nissan is gearing up for a busy 2010.

After spending the better part of last year trying to regain its footing in the auto industry following the inescapable effects of the global financial crisis, Nissan has finally decided to direct its attention and resources on making 2010 the year of the comeback.

In a recent round-table discussion held at the Detroit Auto Show, Nissan America chairman Carlos Tavares laid out the Japanese brand’s bold plans for 2010, including the upcoming release of eight new models for this year.

Among the models Tavares singled out as primed and ready for the production line include the Infiniti M37 six-cylinder and M56- V-8, the Infiniti QX56 SUV, the 40th anniversary model of the Nissan 370Z, the Nissan Juke, the Nissan NV 2500, the Nissan Leaf, the Nissan Quest Minivan, and a still to-be-named Infiniti model, which, according to Tavares is an “all-new derivative model that will feature different powertrain, features and equipment than currently found in whatever model from which it will be derived.”

From the looks of things, the release of these new models in a year’s time gives us an inkling that Nissan just might be ready to get back into the automotive game.

When it comes to tuning Nissan’s latest generation Z car, owners have more options to choose from then we can shake a stick at. As it comes from the factory the Nissan 370Z is a terrific automobile, but the lure of the aftermarket can be too much for some enthusiasts to resist and whether they are after performance, style or both; Advanced Performance Parts has what they are looking for. Starting out with a set of staggered 20 inch Lexor Oxigin rims housing a Stoptech High Performance brake kit with 6 piston calipers up front and KW coilover suspension all the way around, finishing off the upgrades is an MR Car Design performance exhaust system that ensures the 370Z’s bark is as aggressive as its bite.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the release of the latest version of the Nissan GT-R, which goes on sale on December 7th at Nissan dealers nationwide in Japan. The updated GT-R receives a number of enhancements, including a revised navigation system, recalibrated suspension settings and an improved-flow catalyst system. It is scheduled to go on sale in other global markets beginning next spring.

Since its introduction in the Japanese market in December 2007, the Nissan GT-R has gone through continuous evolution, remaining on the cutting-edge of multi-dimensional performance. The GT-R has also been acclaimed globally, winning more than 50 top awards in various categories since launch. Nissan also supports GT-R owners with exceptional after-sales service.

The latest revisions to GT-R include a new HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system with enhanced entertainment functions. A USB port with iPod®*1 connectivity allows the driver and passengers to enjoy their favorite music in the car, creating an even more pleasant interior environment. *2

In addition, the GT-R’s suspension has been retuned to offer enhanced, premium quality ride comfort, while still providing the driver with a feeling of direct contact with the road surface. The accuracy of the front shock absorbers and springs has been increased and the stiffness of rear suspension radius rod bushings has been strengthened. Rear diffusers with cooling ducts, previously available only on the GT-R SpecV, have been expanded to non-SpecV models, improving cooling performance around the rear floor area.

The exclusive Nissan GT-R SpecV models receive revised rear shock absorber settings, enhancing the characteristic combination of supple ride comfort and flat, predictable handling. In conjunction with this change, SpecV now comes standard with Dunlop tires. The previously standard Bridgestone tires are available as a factory-installed option.

Finally, both the Nissan GT-R and GT-R SpecV achieve improved low- and mid-range engine response, thanks to newly adopted hexagonal meshed catalyst cells that reduce ventilation/airflow resistance.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the new Fairlady Z Roadster, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. In addition, the Fairlady Z Coupe receives minor new model enhancements and a new “Fairlady Z 40th Anniversary” model, which marks the first four decades of the popular Nissan sports car, joins the lineup.

Fairlady Z Roadster

Based on the latest generation Fairlady Z Coupe, the all-new Fairlady Z Roadster is a two-seat convertible with a fully , automatic power-operated, soft top. Along with providing the exhilaration of open-air driving, Fairlady Z Roadster offers high performance, dynamic design and excellent value.

Like the Fairlady Z Coupe, the new Roadster model features significant improvements in performance, style and technology versus the previous Fairlady Z Roadster design. With its shorter wheelbase, reduced weight and advanced VQ37VHR 3.7-liter engine, it gives remarkably high levels of acceleration and handling, while also providing a comfortable interior with minimum wind buffeting – even with the top open.

Key highlights of the new Fairlady Z Roadster include:

• Optimal balance of sports car performance and open-top convertible exhilaration
• Signature Fairlady Z styling with an advanced, fully automatic canvas top
• Air conditionined seats for added occupant comfort, even on hot days
• Available advanced technology, including HDD CARWINGS navigation system with enhanced entertainment features and premium Bose® audio system
• Uncompromised Fairlady Z performance

Eye-catching Beauty With the Top Open or Closed

With its dramatic style and flowing design, the Fairlady Z Roadster achieves a rare feat for most convertibles – looking equally attractive with the top open or closed. With the roof open, the fully lined canvas top stows completely out of sight beneath a metal storage lid. When the top is in the up position, the roofline accentuates the Fairlady Z’s classic long nose/short cockpit proportions.

Like the Coupe, the Roadster’s aggressive exterior design features a dynamic arch-shaped character line that runs from the headlights to the waistline and continues back to the iconic Fairlady Z LED brake lights.

The convertible top itself features an improved texture and rich appearance (versus the previous generation design) by using fabric instead of canvas. The top is available in a choice of two colors – Black or Bordeaux.

Also offered are sculpture-like 18-inch cast aluminum wheels (chrome color coating) designed specifically for the Fairlady Z Roadster, which optimally balance sportiness and elegance. Larger 19-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels are offered as an option with the Version ST.

The Fairlady Z Roadster is available in a choice of eight body colors, including a new, elegant Premium Deep Maroon. All colors are protected with Nissan’s Scratch Shield.

An Interior That Optimizes Open-Air Comfort

The high-quality interior is designed to enhance both driving enjoyment and passenger comfort. Airflow around the cabin is optimized by the front window moldings, while a rear deflector helps minimize wind buffeting when the top is open. With the top closed, a full fabric inner lining helps provide a quality look and feel, while also helping reduce the transmission of outside noise into the roomy cabin.

A choice of four seat upholsteries is available, including special Bordeaux genuine leather-appointed seating that creates a premium and rich interior atmosphere. Also a unique air-conditioning function is installed in seats made of leather and netted fabric offering enjoyable all-season open-air driving. Suede-like kneepads are offered on all models.

A user-friendly switch located in the center console controls the easy operation of the soft top. The automatic roof function locks and releases the top from the windshield header without driver intervention. The soft top can also be opened and closed without getting in the vehicle by pressing the request switch located on the driver and passenger door handles (when carrying the Intelligent Key).

The interior also features a luggage area that can hold a 45-inch golf driver set bag and a space behind the seats suitable for storing items.

Unmatched Driving Performance

The Fairlady Z Roadster’s driving performance is considerably improved, compared to the previous model, through use of a shortened wheelbase, wider track and lighter vehicle weight.

The standard 3.7-liter engine, equipped with Nissan’s innovative Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system, provides quick acceleration response, high power, high torque, improved fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions.

A 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and wide gear ratios offers seamless acceleration, along with improved fuel efficiency (versus the previous 5-speed automatic design) and quiet operation during high-speed driving.

The Fairlady Z Roadster is also available with an advanced 6-speed manual transmission with synchronized rev control that regulates the engine speed to the optimum level, matching the driver’s shifting action when changing gears.

A tight body structure, appropriate for use as a convertible, with both high rigidity and greater collision safety is provided through efficiently strengthening the door and the trunk openings. Driving stability is enhanced by considerably improved torsional rigidity (compared to the previous model).

Advanced Safety, Navigation and Entertainment Systems

The Fairlady Z Roadster also includes a number of advanced safety and security systems, including a SRS door-mounted curtain air bag system.

The available HDD CARWINGS navigation system features enhanced entertainment functions, including an advanced map update system which can be downloaded from the PC or via mobile communications, an iPod®* connection system and terrestrial digital TV receiver.

Also offered is a Bose®** premium sound system, which has been specially tuned for the Fairlady Z Roadster’s acoustics and provides an optimal sound field when the soft top is either open or closed.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., will present various show cars at the upcoming 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, including “Leaf,” an electric vehicle (EV) which is slated for global launch and volume production in late 2010, “Land Glider,” an EV concept car, and “Qazana,” which is an entirely new type of compact sport crossover, which made its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009. Nissan will also showcase the new “Fuga,” Nissan’s top-of-the-line sedan and the new mini MPV “Roox,” both to be launched later this year.

Nissan’s ultimate goal in the environmental field is zero emission. With aim to be a leader in this field, the Nissan exhibits will focus on concept cars including “Leaf” and on the development of related technologies and battery-charging infrastructure, in an effort to communicate the company’s commitment to consumers.

Nissan is also continuing to work on the internal combustion engine (ICE) technology, for the development of environment-friendly technology to improve fuel economy and reduce gas emission. In addition to EV, the Nissan exhibit will feature a wide range of models and technologies such as hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), clean diesel technology and next-generation X-TRONIC CVT.

Land Glider

A new proposal for urban mobility that can be enabled by zero-emission car

• The Land Glider has a potential to become a new means of transportation in urban areas; its linear acceleration and the narrow body, which only an ultra-compact, ultra-lightweight EV can achieve, will help reduce traffic congestion and promote effective use of parking space.
• Shift of the center of gravity by leaning provides a new, exciting sense of driving and a powerful, crisp ride.

The Nissan Versa continues its strong appeal in the marketplace among buyers seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance or roominess. Versa again features one of the highest standard horsepower/torque ratings and the largest interior in the entry-level segment – along with offering one of the lowest priced new vehicles available in the United States, the high-value Versa Sedan 1.6 model with 5-speed manual transmission.

The front-wheel drive Versa is available in two body styles, a 5-door hatchback and 4-door sedan. Versa Hatchback and Versa Sedan models are offered with a long list of standard and available equipment, including available Nissan Intelligent Key™, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and an audio system with Clarion speakers and Rockford Fosgate-powered subwoofer.

The 2010 Nissan Versa, which goes on sale in September 2009, features a number of refinements, including a new grille design, new sport front and rear fascias, body side sills, fog lights and rear spoiler for Versa Hatchback SL models, new wheel treatments and revised interior fabrics and finishers. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is now standard for 1.8 S models, along with standard ABS and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) for 1.8 SL models.

The 2010 Nissan Versa is available in four models: Versa Sedan 1.6 Base and Versa Sedan 1.6 with 107-horsepower 1.6-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and 5-speed manual transmission; and Versa Hatchback and Sedan 1.8 S and 1.8 SL with 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and choice of 6-speed manual, 4-speed automatic or Xtronic CVT™ transmission (CVT available on Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL only).

Revisions for 2010 include:

• New front grille design
• New sport front and rear fascias, body side sills and rear spoiler on Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL
• Revised 15-inch wheel covers and 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels
• New 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheel available on Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL
• Standard fog lights added on Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL
• New Navigation/XM Satellite Radio Package added
• Power and Cruise combined into Power Plus Package
• Moonroof Package now available Versa Hatchback only
• Auxiliary input added to base audio system, Interface System for iPod® added to upper grade radio
• Revised fabrics and finishers, SL Sport interior now standard on Versa Hatchback SL with charcoal interior
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) added to Versa 1.8 S models
• ABS and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) now standard for Versa 1.8 SL models, VDC optional for 1.8 S models

The Nissan Rogue crossover SUV enters its third year of production in 2010, once again offering a unique combination of sporty styling, engaging performance, versatility, safety and traditional Nissan value – including a new high-content 360° Value Package. The award-winning Rogue continues to satisfy both the functional needs of the buyers and their emotional needs – including the versatility provided by a large 58 cubic feet of cargo space.

The 2010 Rogue is available in two models, Rogue S and Rogue SL, each with a standard 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Both S and SL models are available with an intuitive All-Wheel Drive system. Rogue SL models include standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

The new 360° Value Package includes 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, privacy glass, integrated rearview mirror rearview monitor, auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rear spoiler and chrome grille.

Rogue’s interior includes a driver-oriented cockpit, available leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated seats and 6-way power driver’s seat. Utility is enhanced by numerous convenient storage and ultra-functionality features, including an oversized glove compartment, a large center console and an innovative rear cargo organizer. Available technology features include Nissan Intelligent Key™, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and a powerful Bose®–developed audio system with 7 speakers with Nd® Richbass® woofer, AUX input and MP3 playback. Rogue also offers a long list of standard safety features, including front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for improved front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

“Rogue’s original concept of providing great driving performance, SUV versatility and good fuel efficiency in one high-value package resonates even more today with buyers looking for a high-style vehicle that can do it all,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “The addition of the new 360 Value Package is the proverbial ‘frosting on the cake,’ adding some of our most popular features at a great price.”

Sporty Design, Driver-Oriented Interior

Rogue’s exterior is designed to present an image of modern sophistication – both aggressive and sporty. Its dramatic styling includes dynamically arched forms and powerful rear shoulder lines. Rogue features available Xenon headlights, available power sliding glass moonroof with dark gray glass, and an available roof rail system with detachable crossbars (accessory). Chrome door handles are now standard on all 2010 Rogue models.

Rogue is built on Nissan’s proven “C” platform, which provides high body stiffness with extensive use of high-strength steel utilized to reduce body weight. Rogue features a 105.9-inch wheelbase and 182.9-inch overall length – among the longest in class, compared with leading small crossover competitors – providing ample rear seat proportions and one of the longest interior lengths. The body also features large front door openings for easy ingress and egress.

Rogue’s interior, like its exterior, is designed to stand out in class with its sophisticated integration of a cockpit-like driver’s space and exceptional utility. The driver’s seat position offers excellent visibility, enhanced by an available seat lifter with up to two inches of seat height adjustability. Rogue’s instrument panel layout and steering wheel are designed for easy readability and operation while also providing a sporty look and feel.

An available drive computer (standard on SL) includes displays for distance-to-empty, average fuel consumption, average speed, elapsed time and outside temperature. Available steering wheel-mounted controls include audio, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and cruise control (cruise control is standard on all models).

Leather-appointed seating surfaces and heated front seats and mirrors are also available, along with a fold-down front passenger seat (standard on SL) – which allows more than 8.5 feet of front-to-rear cargo space for carrying long items such as wood or ladders. A rear 60/40 split-fold bench seat, oversize glove compartment, and versatile center console all contribute to Rogue’s impressive functionality.

Rogue’s roomy cargo area has a number of available utility features, including a unique cargo organizer (available on SL only). When needed, the organizer pops up – with a one-touch open button – from its hidden space below the flat cargo floor. A portion of the cargo floor snaps into a vertical position, revealing a flat recessed space with removable, vertical cargo nets. The system helps prevent items such as sports equipment and grocery bags from rolling loose around the cargo area while driving. Rogue also features a washable, removable tray that fits below the cargo area floor to hold wet or dirty gear and tools and a rear tonneau cover to keep luggage and other items out of sight. Rogue’s everyday utility features also include a variety of cupholders, memo/pen holder, coin holder and cell phone/sunglass holders.

Among the advanced technology features available on Rogue are a Nissan Intelligent Key™ and a powerful Bose®-developed audio system with 6CD in-dash changer, 7 speakers with Nd® Richbass® woofer with MP3 capability and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately). Also available is a Bluetooth® Hands- free Phone System.

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Engaging Performance

While maintaining its functionality as a family vehicle, Rogue’s creators also recognized the target buyers’ desires for a higher level of acceleration, handling and fun-to-drive attributes than offered by traditional small crossover SUVs. Rogue delivers on this promise with an advanced drivetrain anchored by its powerful 2.5-liter engine, 4-wheel independent suspension and refined, intuitive All-Wheel Drive system.

Rogue’s standard QR25DE 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder is rated at 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft torque (167 hp, 170 lb-ft CAL emissions), tuned to provide ample torque in the low-to-mid rpm range for smooth, powerful acceleration and quick initial response from a standing start. The engine features an aluminum block, reduced piston and piston ring friction and increased thermal efficiency (over the previous generation 2.5-liter engine design), 9.6:1 compression ratio, and large diameter intake port and exhaust manifold.

Every Rogue comes with a standard Nissan Xtronic CVT™, combining smooth, linear and responsive acceleration feel with high-efficiency operation. Rogue’s CVT utilizes adaptive logic control and a high-speed central processing unit. Its advanced shift control offers the optimal shift pattern according to the driving situation and driver’s demands, using input from driver operation, vehicle speed, road gradient, turning condition and acceleration force to adjust shifting patterns accordingly.

Rogue fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg City/27 mpg Highway for 2-wheel drive models and 21 mpg City/26 mpg Highway for all-wheel drive models.
Rogue AWD models feature an advanced, intuitive All-Wheel Drive system with yaw moment control or front-wheel drive. The system provides stable starts on dry or slippery roads and excellent all-weather performance and traction. Every Rogue also features standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)

Rogue’s standard 4-wheel independent suspension provides a balance of ride comfort and driving stability. The front suspension includes subframe-mounted independent struts with coil springs, high-performance shock absorbers with rebound springs, and a stabilizer bar. The rear independent multi-link suspension includes aluminum-alloy upper links, high-performance shock absorbers with rebound springs and stabilizer bar. The rear suspension design allows maximum luggage space (versus a rear strut design), as well as driving stability. Responsive steering is provided by an Electric Power-assisted Steering (EPS) system. Every Rogue also comes equipped with standard power-assisted front and rear vented disc brakes with standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Rogue S models come with 16-inch steel wheels and P215/70R16 tires, while 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/60R17 tires are standard on Rogue SL models.

Standard safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for improved front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection; front seat Active Head Restraints; 3-point front/rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners, load limiters and adjustable upper anchors for front seating positions and LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren).

Every Rogue also offers child safety rear door locks; Zone Body construction featuring front and rear crumple zones and occupant zone; Nissan Immobilizer system and anti-theft alarm system; and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

A number of option packages are offered in 2010, including the new 360° Value Package with 16-inch aluminum–alloy wheels, privacy glass, integrated rearview mirror rearview monitor, rear spoiler, chrome grille overlay.

Also available is a Premium Package with Bose® premium audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), foldable cargo organizer, tonneau cover, front fog lights, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Nissan Intelligent Key™, Xenon headlights (AWD only) and more; and a Leather Package with leather-appointed seating surfaces, steering wheel and shift knob; heated front seats and mirrors; power 6-way driver’s seat, one-touch up/down driver’s window and more. A power glass moonroof is also offered.

The Nissan Sentra continues to hone its reputation as a stylish, roomy, fun-to-drive compact sedan with a number of enhancements for the 2010 model year, including revised styling, new interior treatments, refined trim and option package content and newly available technology features such as an advanced Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® Real-Time Traffic Information (XM® subscription required, sold separately).

For 2010, Sentra is offered in six trim levels – 2.0, 2.0 S, 2.0 SR (with sporty exterior styling features), 2.0 SL and two performance-oriented models, SE-R and SE-R Spec V (please see separate 2010 Sentra SE-R press materials for information on these models). Sentra 2.0 models feature a standard 140-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a fuel-efficient Nissan Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) on all models except the Sentra 2.0, which is offered in a choice of CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission.

All 2010 Sentras receive revised headlights and taillights, while the 2.0, 2.0 S and 2.0 SL feature new grille and front fascia designs. Three new exterior colors are also offered – Anodized Orange, Espresso Black and Aspen White. Inside, Sentra offers revised seat cloth and door trim and the instrument panel accents and illumination have been revised.

Other major changes include the separation of leather seating into an optional package on the Sentra 2.0 SL model and the addition of new Technology and Navigation Packages for the SL model. In addition, the Convenience Package is added as an option for the 2.0 SR model and the Sentra 2.0 SL adds standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS). Wheel designs have also been revised for 2010, with new 16-inch wheel covers (2.0 S) and new 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (2.0 SL).

Sentra is again available with a range of unexpected amenities – ranging from the luxury of leather-appointed seating to the convenience of Nissan’s Intelligent Key™ keyless entry system.

“Buyers in the compact sedan segment expect a car with good fuel economy, durability, safety, reliability and affordability and Sentra meets and exceeds these expectations,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “But Sentra doesn’t stop there; it goes above-and-beyond and offers a completely unexpected level of style, roominess, responsiveness and versatility – attributes that set Sentra apart in the segment.”

A Stylish Sedan Designed for Active Lifestyles

Built on Nissan’s global “C” platform, Sentra’s exterior reflects Nissan design language and offers styling cues found on other distinctive Nissan products. The profile includes a long wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, crisp character lines and large door openings, while in the rear the high deck accentuates the roomy cabin and cargo area.

For 2010, all models offer revised headlight and taillight designs, while Sentra 2.0, 2.0 S and 2.0 SL models also receive a new, refined front fascia and grille. The 2.0 S and 2.0 SL also feature new fog light covers and new body side moldings with chrome inserts and a new chrome trunk finisher.

The Sentra 2.0 SR, which was introduced in the mid-2009 model year, continues with its new sporty appearance package – which includes a sport grille, unique front and rear sport fascias, side sill spoilers, rear decklid spoiler with integrated brake light, smoked headlights and taillights, driving lights, exhaust finisher and “SR” badging on the rear deck.

“With the enhancements to the Sentra 2.0, 2.0 S and 2.0 SL, along with the dynamic, sporty look of the new 2.0 SR, Sentra maintains it fresh, eye-catching and high-quality appearance,” said Castignetti. “Like every Nissan, Sentra beautifully blends stylish design with other important attributes such as performance, roominess, comfort and utility.”

Inside, the interior continues the sporty, functional theme of the exterior, with the use of high quality materials, large gauges and a spacious, flexible center console. For 2010, all Sentra 2.0 models receive new cloth seat trim, with upgraded cloth on 2.0 S, 2.0 SR and 2.0 SL. The instrument panel has been revised with new accent trim, chrome HVAC knob accents and a new instrument panel coin holder. The instrument illumination has been changed to a new reddish orange color, and all models feature new audio head units, with a 4.3-inch color display on Sentra 2.0 SL.

Sentra’s interior is designed to accommodate five full-size adults in comfort, with an ample passenger volume of 97.7 cubic feet. Along with the roomy, social space of the interior, Sentra’s trunk provides 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space and is designed to accommodate long, bulky and “unexpected” items through the use of an oversized pass-through opening. Combined with the 60/40 split double-fold rear seat (the cushion folds forward, allowing the seat back to fold down), Sentra offers exceptional cargo flexibility for carrying snowboards, hockey sticks and even bikes.

Other storage solutions include a rear seat armrest with cupholders that can accommodate a 20-ounce bottle and 32-ounce drink cup, extra instrument panel storage next to the driver’s door, and a large glove compartment that can fit a 8×11-inch writing tablet or a large-sized map book. The center console offers multiple storage options, including an adjustable cup holder design and cell phone space.

Along with ample roominess, Sentra is offered a wide array of premium equipment, including available leather-appointed seating, Nissan Intelligent Key™ keyless entry system, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and premium Rockford Fosgate-powered audio system with 8-channel amplifier and 8 speakers. New for 2010, Sentra adds standard Interface System for iPod® (except 2.0).

Responsive and Fun-to-Drive

Sentra’s powerful 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine designed to combine responsive acceleration with good fuel economy and efficient operation. It is mated to a standard Xtronic CVT™ or 6-speed manual (Sentra 2.0 only).

The advanced 2.0-liter Nissan MR20DE aluminum block engine is designed to offer an exceptional balance of responsive acceleration, excellent low and mid-range torque and increased thermal efficiency. The engine is rated at 140 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque. Up to 90 percent of the torque is achieved by 2,400 rpm – providing comfortable driving and excellent fuel consumption in real world driving when mated to the Xtronic CVT.

Fuel economy is rated at 34/26 miles per gallon City/Highway with the CVT and 31/24 miles per gallon with the 6-speed manual transmission (Sentra 2.0 only).

The 2010 Sentra again offers responsive handling. The front suspension is an independent strut design with coil springs and stabilizer bar. The rear features a torsion beam with integral stabilizer bar, with the rear shock absorbers mounted below the trunk floor for improved trunk roominess. Sentra’s ride comfort has been enhanced through use of special “ripple control” shock absorbers, an insulated front cradle-type subframe with pendulum engine mount system, roller-type front strut bearings and large, tuned rear beam isolators.

Standard safety features for the Sentra include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection; and front seat Active Head Restraints. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are added as standard equipment on the 2.0 SL (optional on all other models).

Four Well-Equipped Models

The 2010 Sentra 2.0 is offered in four well-equipped models, starting with the Sentra 2.0 with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a choice of Xtronic CVT™ or 6-speed manual transmission. Standard features include electric power-assisted steering, 15-inch wheels and tires, suede-like cloth interior, oversized glove compartment, power windows and door locks, rear folding seat, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input and much more.

Sentra 2.0 S adds 16-inch wheels, P205/55HR16 tires, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD RDS audio system with MP3 playback capability, Interface System for iPod®, upgraded cloth, Vehicle Security System, trip computer, cruise control, Remote Keyless Entry, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and more.

The 2.0 SR takes its sporty styling cues from the high-performance Sentra SE-R, adding a unique exterior treatment including sport grille, driving lights and rear spoiler. It also offers 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

The top-of-the-line Sentra 2.0 SL is available with standard cloth seats or optional leather-appointed seats. Standard SL equipment includes 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with power trunk release, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), leather-wrapped steering wheel, 4.3-inch color audio head unit with iPod® and Bluetooth® controls, driving lights, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS) and “SL” badging on the rear decklid.

Available options and packages include Convenience Package (2.0 S, 2.0 SR models), ABS and VDC Package (2.0), VDC Package (2.0 S, 2.0 SR), and four packages exclusive to the 2.0 SL – Navigation Package, 2.0 SL Premium Package, 2.0 SL Premium Package Plus and 2.0 SL Tech Package.

Prices

The popular Nissan Pathfinder, which expanded its lineup in 2008 with the addition of an available 5.6-liter V8 engine, continues in the 2009 model year with revised packaging and equipment availability, including the addition of standard 18-inch machined aluminum alloy wheels on Pathfinder LE V6 models (previously standard on LE V8 models only). Other changes include the addition of standard side and curtain supplemental air bags on all models and a new auto door lock function. Two new exterior colors are also available for 2009.

With standard three-row seating and the choice of two powerful engines, Pathfinder again combines first-class amenities with rugged family adventure capabilities. The refined Pathfinder interior offers a range of amenities, including available leather-appointed seating, heated steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with twist start, Nissan Navigation System with 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and RearView Monitor.

Pathfinder’s 5.6-liter DOHC V8 engine is rated at 310 horsepower and 388 lb-ft of toque, which helps it to achieve 7,000 lbs of maximum towing capacity. Also available is Pathfinder’s proven 266-horsepower 4.0-liter version of the award-winning Nissan VQ-series V6 engine. Both engines are available with 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive, giving buyers a wide range of engine/driveline configurations to meet their specific performance needs and desires. All 2009 Pathfinders are built on a high-strength, fully boxed, all-steel frame based on the full-size Nissan Armada SUV.

“Pathfinder continues to stand out as an innovative, rugged SUV capable of handling adventures both on- and off-road,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “The refinements for 2009, including standard side and curtain supplemental air bags, make what we believe is one of the best designed and thought-out family SUVs and even better value for 2009.”

A Powerful, Rugged Exterior

Throughout its 23-year history, Pathfinder has maintained an iconic exterior design, while also remaining fresh and dynamic. The exterior was refined for the 2008 model year, including new front and rear styling treatments, enhancing its unique combination of sophistication and rugged, go-anywhere looks.

Large headlamps, angled strut-style grille and a sweeping hood hint at the power underneath, while Pathfinder’s broad shoulder line, large integrated fender flares covering purposeful wheel and tire combinations and distinctive C-pillar with high-mounted rear door handles give the Pathfinder a family resemblance to the larger Nissan Armada SUV.

A long wheelbase of 112.2 inches allows for a roomy three-row cabin while providing ride comfort and stability. Pathfinder’s manageable 192.5-inch overall length and short front and rear overhangs enable drivers to feel comfortable driving or parking the capable SUV on almost any terrain.

Additional exterior highlights include standard roof rails with integrated front and rear grips and a rear tailgate design with flip-up rear glass hatch opening and rear privacy glass. Pathfinder also offers side running boards on SE and LE trims, fog lights (standard on all trim levels except S-V6), available heated outside mirrors and power slide and tilt moonroof.

Two new colors – Red Brick and Navy Blue – add to Pathfinder’s palette of eight total exterior colors: Desert Stone, Super Black, Storm Gray, Silver Lightning, Avalanche and White Frost (a special three-stage pearl paint).

An Interior Design To Enhance Active Family Lifestyles

The Pathfinder interior – refined in 2008 with a new instrument panel center stack design, revised front center console and standard color 7.0-inch Multi-Function Information Display (except S-V6) – continues to offer standard three-row seating and exceptional utility and storage capacity.

Standard seating features include flat-folding 3rd row seat, 40/20/40 split separate-folding 2nd row seats with easy one-touch release lever for 3rd row access and an available fold-down front passenger seat.

Storage areas are plentiful, including eight cupholders and an overhead console with sunglass storage. Utility is also enhanced with four 12-volt outlets (two on instrument panel center stack, one for 2nd row and one cargo area), front seatback pockets, plentiful passenger assist grips and available rear reading lamps (standard on all but S-V6), outside temperature gauge (standard on LE) and cargo net (standard on all but S-V6).

Additional standard equipment includes power windows with driver and front passenger auto-up/down and safety reverse, power door locks with new auto door lock function, tilt steering wheel, Remote Keyless Entry, trip computer and climate control system.

The Nissan Navigation System, available on LE models, includes a 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive. Other available technology includes Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with twist start, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately). Other available features include a first aid kit, dual-zone automatic temperature control (standard on all but S-V6), rear air conditioning, power-adjustable pedals (standard on all but S-V6), leather-appointed 1st and 2nd row seats, power moonroof, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, Bose® audio system, power-adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seats with driver memory package, leather-appointed steering wheel (standard on all but S-V6), wood grain trim and DVD entertainment system with 7.0-inch color rear monitor and rear seat wireless headphones.

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A Choice of Two Advanced Powerplants

The 2009,Pathfinder is available with a choice of two engines – a powerful 5.6-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 engine producing 310 horsepower and 388 lb-ft of torque and a 266-horsepower 4.0-liter V6. The V8 engine is offered with the Pathfinder LE 4×4 configuration, while the V6 is offered in S, SE and LE 4×4 and 4×2 models. Backing both engines is a standard electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission.

The transmission, which is specially tuned for each engine application, features a wide gear ratio spread for maximum acceleration performance and a Direct Control System to provide smooth shift quality.

Pathfinder’s Endurance V8, assembled at Nissan’s advanced engine facility in Decherd, Tenn., is shared with the full-size Nissan Titan pickup and Nissan Armada SUV. The engine’s advanced design includes features such as an aluminum engine block with cast iron cylinder liners, chain-driven dual overhead camshafts with silent single-stage timing chain for quiet operation and durability, and electronic drive-by-wire throttle for precise control. For greater efficiency, graphite-coated pistons, microfinished forged steel crankshaft and microfinished camshaft help reduce friction. Maximum towing capacity with the V8 is a full 7,000 pounds.

Pathfinder’s advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6 is rated at 266 horsepower and 288 lb-ft of torque. This specially tuned engine, created for SUV and truck applications, is part of Nissan’s award-winning VQ engine series found in the 350Z, Maxima, Altima, Murano and Quest.

The 4.0-liter version features a longer stroke than the 3.5-liter version (92.0 mm versus 81.4 mm), and includes Electronic Throttle Control with secondary mapping in 4LO (4×4 models), Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain, microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, molybdenum-coated pistons and lightweight aluminum block. Maximum towing capacity for V6-equipped Pathfinders is 6,000 pounds.

Again in 2009 Pathfinder is offered with several advanced 4×4 systems. The Pathfinder LE V8 4×4 features a special full-time XN All-Mode 4-wheel drive system that can instantly distribute torque to all four wheels whenever road conditions warrant (up to 50 percent can go to the front wheels on demand), resulting in optimal traction with improved fuel economy and enhanced cornering capability.

Pathfinder V6 4×4 models are available with a part-time 4-wheel drive system (S, SE) or an All-Mode 4-wheel drive system that includes 2WD/AUTO/4H/4LO modes and electronically controlled transfer case (LE V6).

Standard on all Pathfinder models is a responsive engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system and 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with G-sensor and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD).

The 2008 Pathfinder utilizes Nissan’s “F-Alpha” platform, with a fully boxed, all-steel ladder frame providing a solid mounting point for the stylish body and the four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension, as well as a standard integrated tow hitch.

Pathfinder’s long-travel front suspension is an all-steel double-wishbone design with coil-over shocks and large stabilizer bar. For smooth ride quality and optimized handling, the rear suspension is an independent double-wishbone design with the coils located on the toe control link (offset spring and shock) with stabilizer bar. Standard underbody component protection puts a plate under the radiator.

Wheel packages vary by Pathfinder model. S-V6 models offer standard 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P245/75R16 tires, while 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P265/65R17 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires are offered on SE-V6. LE-V6 and LE-V8 models feature special 18-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels and 265/60R18 BFGoodrich BSW tires. All Pathfinders provide a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and full-size spare tire.

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Standard Safety Equipment

The 2009 Pathfinder includes a long list of standard safety features and equipment, including Nissan Advanced Air Bag System, featuring dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor. For 2009, all Pathfinder models receive standard supplemental front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and roof-mounted supplemental curtain air bags for side impact and rollover head protection for outboard passengers in all three rows.

Other features include Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones; energy absorbing steering column; front seat Active Head Restraints and 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants, including the 2nd row center position; adjustable 2nd and 3rd row head restraints; LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system; Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Four Well-Equipped Models

The 2009 Pathfinder is offered in a choice of four models: S-V6, SE-V6, LE-V6 and LE-V8 (4×4 only). Pathfinder S-V6, SE-V6 and LE-V6 come with a standard 266-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission and in a choice of 4×2 or 4×4. The Pathfinder LE-V8 features a 300-plus horsepower 5.6-liter V8 with standard 5-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive. Every model comes with standard three-row seating.

Pathfinder SE-V6 models feature 17-inch wheels with P265/65R17 tires, 7.0-inch multi-information display, 8-way power driver’s seat, power-adjustable foot pedals, unique seat fabric, AM/FM/6CD audio system with MP3 capability, illuminated steering wheel audio controls, first aid kit, rear cargo net, automatic temperature control with rear air conditioning, 2nd row fold-down center armrest, leather steering wheel and shift knob, front fog lights, rear reading lamps, body-color outside mirrors and side running boards.

Pathfinder LE models add enhanced levels of style and luxury. The LE-V6 includes new 18-inch bright machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels, body side molding with chrome inserts, leather-appointed 1st and 2nd row seats and door inserts, heated steering wheel, Bose® audio system with 10 speakers and subwoofer, 4-way power front passenger seat, wood grain trim, driver memory package (seat, mirrors and pedals) with programmable remote keyfobs, heated outside mirrors, automatic on/off headlights, RearView Monitor, auto day/night rearview mirror, compass, roof rack crossbars, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ. The Pathfinder LE-V8 adds the 5.6-liter V8, XN All-Mode 4×4 system and special badging.

For 2009, a number of revisions have been made to Pathfinder’s available option packages. SE models are available with a new SE Journey Package, with automatic on/off headlights, HomeLink Universal Transceiver, auto dimming rearview mirror with compass, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, RearView Monitor and roof rack crossbars. The SE Premium Package now includes the Bose® 6CD audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ. The SE Leather Package adds leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, heated outside mirrors and 4-way power front passenger seat.

Also available are a DVD Mobile Entertainment System, with a 7.0-inch color monitor and rear seat wireless headphones); HDD Navigation Package with 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive; Power Moonroof; In-Cabin Microfilter; Bodyside Color Moldings; and Splash Guards.

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Prices

Packages

The original Nissan Murano, launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, set new standards for style and sportiness in the expanding mid-size crossover sport-utility vehicle marketplace, becoming, in essence, a “class of one.” The all-new, second generation 2009 Murano elevates that unique position through a “super evolution” of the original design – with a new exterior, interior and enhanced technology. Murano’s new premium driving feel results from a combination of a new advanced platform, continued refinement of Murano’s standard V6 engine and new, second-generation Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission).

“The 2009 Murano is an upgrade, not just compared to the previous generation vehicle, but the entire crossover SUV segment,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “With its unique combination of modern design, dynamic performance, new ‘business class’ interior and overall refinement, Murano continues to stand out as the most distinctive, refined vehicle in class.”

The 2009 Murano’s new exterior features a wide front end with a dynamic front fascia design, a wide grille with large integrated headlights, strong body side character lines with pronounced 18-inch or 20-inch wheels and tires and a distinctive rear end set off by an expansive rear glass area and LED taillights.

Murano’s newly designed interior plays on the “mobile suite” theme, complete with new instrument panel and center stack design, new seat design with available double-stitched leather-appointed seating surfaces, use of premium materials such as leather and aluminum, a variety of storage compartments and ambient lighting.

The 2009 Murano is powered by a revised 265-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 backed by a new advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), with a front-wheel drive or an advanced all-wheel drive drivetrain. Murano also features a new D-platform, as well as new suspension, body structure and state-of-the-art steering for improved ride comfort and precise handling.

Multiple technology features are available on the 2009 Murano, including standard Push Button Ignition and available Intelligent Key, RearView Monitor, integrated iPod® connectivity, DVD Mobile Entertainment System with 9-inch screen, 11-speaker Bose® audio system and an enhanced touch screen Nissan Navigation system with voice activation XM® NavTraffic real-time traffic information (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive.

“All of these features combine to create a crossover that is a standout in its class,” said Bosley. “One of the strengths of the new 2009 Murano is that you get the total package – design, performance, safety and technology in one refined, quality vehicle.”

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New, Dramatic Styling

One of the most striking aspects of the 2009 Murano is its new body, which imparts a “modern art” feel, but still maintains the “Murano-ness” that consumers have enjoyed since the first generation’s debut. “When someone looks at the 2009 Murano, they’ll instantly know what it is by its distinctive Murano style,” said Bosley. “The new Murano’s design takes its cue from the original vehicle and adds a more rewarding sense of style and individuality. Others have tried to imitate it, but there is only one true Murano.”

Murano’s new front end features a distinctive grille treatment with wide front headlights – with available quad-cylinder style High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional projector headlights adding an even more imposing view. A new hood sweeps into the sculpted, dynamic bodylines, with pronounced wheel arches and 18-inch or 20-inch wheels providing an aggressive stance.

Integrated fog lights are available on Murano SL and LE models. Large chrome door handles and available roof rails with adjustable crossbars (accessory) add both functionality and visual accents.

The Murano’s redesigned rear end features a unique rear glass shape, rear air deflector and large rear LED taillights that accent the body side character line. Dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers provide an appropriate “final” look to the 2009 Murano.

New available exterior features for 2009 include rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power liftgate, enhanced RearView Monitor with rear view camera and a large, dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2 nd row skylight – a new feature that provides an open-air experience for Murano passengers without compromising head room.

Eight exterior colors are offered on the 2009 Murano, including three all new colors – Deep Sapphire, Tinted Bronze and Saharan Stone.

A New “ Mobile Suite” Interior

Inside, the new Murano lives up to its “mobile suite” design theme, with an interior exemplifying warmth and modern style. From the sweep of the new instrument panel, to the new telescoping steering wheel design, to the wide console and ambient lighting, Murano owners feel a sense of warmth and security from the first time they open the doors.

The 2009 Nissan Maxima, which makes its world debut at the 2008 New York International Auto Show, marks a return to the longtime Nissan flagship sedan’s roots as a commanding 4-door sports car – a vehicle that is unique in both appearance and driving feel, with renewed relevance for today’s active and ambitious sedan buyers. In other words, the Maxima is back.

The all-new 2009 Maxima will be offered as two well-equipped models, Maxima 3.5 S and Maxima 3.5 SV, and is scheduled to arrive at Nissan dealers nationwide in early summer 2008.

“Maxima has always enjoyed a certain ‘duality’ – a unique fusion of sedan practicality with the soul of a sports car,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “In recent years, however, competitive vehicles have caught up with Maxima in ‘sporty’ looks and performance. For 2009, Nissan is reclaiming its rich 4-Door Sports Car heritage with an infusion of emotional design, driving excitement and advanced technology – creating a silky, stimulating sports sedan like no other on the road today.”

2009 Maxima: Reborn at the “Ring”

“Do-overs” are sometimes allowed in sports but rarely in the automotive industry. Yet midway through the development of the new-generation Maxima a mulligan was indeed granted. Rather than continue with an evolution of the previous highly successful Maxima design, the creators of the 2009 Maxima stopped and rethought the entire direction.

Inspired by the concurrent top secret development of the 2009 Nissan GT-R supercar, they threw away positioning words like “conservative” and “balanced” and concentrated instead on new concepts like “addictive performance,” “striking,” “commanding” and “powerful.”

High targets were established, including the goal of creating “the best performing front engine, front-wheel drive car in the world,” along with class-leading acceleration, braking, handling, workmanship and cockpit design.

“We aren’t walking away from the strengths of the last generation Maxima, which was rated the top-ranked vehicle in AutoPacific’s 2007 Vehicle Satisfaction Award for Luxury Mid-Size Cars and a winner of Strategic Vision’s 2007 Total Quality Award? for Best Medium Car Ownership Experience,” said Castignetti. “However, complacency breeds complacent vehicles. The new Maxima demanded taking risks in order to ultimately come up with a much more exciting and rewarding vehicle.”

Three key areas were singled out for change: exterior design, which needed to be more aggressive, with more personality and attitude; a “super” cockpit, creating an interior that combines a driver orientation with high quality, roominess and user-friendly technology; and class-leading performance, enhancing what previous generation owners called “Maxima-ness.”

To further push the performance envelope, the development team challenged themselves to concentrate their efforts on “emotional engineering” – to experience Maxima with the five senses in a purer, more visceral manner, rather than through CAD drawings and computer simulations.

As each designer and engineer set and exceeded higher and higher targets, they realized that confirmation of the results would require validation on the road. But not just any road. Members of the development team traveled to Germany’s famed Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit – not coincidentally the site of much of the GT-R’s performance development work – to test Maxima prototypes. Special attention was placed on body rigidity, suspension and steering, along with honing Maxima’s competitiveness against some well-established European sports sedans.

“A number of product changes came directly from the Nürburgring trials, including enhancements to the braking and transmission systems,” said Castignetti. “But more importantly, it gave notice to the entire Nissan organization that the new Maxima is back solidly in the performance arena where it rightfully belongs.”

Aggressive Design

While seeking to create a simple-yet-strong presence, the designers of the new Maxima’s exterior also wanted to re-assert Maxima’s breakthrough personality – establishing a “wow” level of style that would clearly distinguish it from segment competitors.

The exterior design theme for the new Maxima is “Liquid Motion” – focusing on the flow of its powerful and beautiful surfaces, like the undulation of a wave. The look starts with Maxima’s aggressive stance and powerful fender volume, which is not unlike many exotic sports cars on the market today. This deeply sculpted body/fender treatment is seldom used for mass market vehicles because of the engineering and manufacturing complexity required to physically accomplish it. Maxima’s new stance is created by a slight reduction in wheelbase and overall length, along with a wider front and rear track.

Maxima’s new look imparts a strong, premium presence. The large, wraparound L-shaped headlights add a unique dimension to the overall design, while the light surrounds suggest a powerful “turbine” appearance of energy and strength. The upturned headlight shape combines with a wide grille, large bumper opening and bulging “catamaran-style” hood to give Maxima a formidable expression, setting the tone for the rest of the vehicle.

The powerful Maxima form continues along its profile, with careful layering of the bumper, hood and fender parting lines. The polished, elegant motion spreads from the deep-waisted rear fenders through distinctive Maxima-style C-pillars and high trunk lid.

Dimensionally, versus the previous generation, the new Maxima measures the same width at the doors but wider at each fender, which not only helps project a sporty appearance but also allows a reduction in the visual gap between the fenders and wheels and tires. Maxima’s dynamic performance stance is accented by 18-inch and available 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with low-profile performance tires.

Another new styling feature is the available Dual Panel Moonroof, which is traditionally offered only in luxury segments. The Dual Panel Moonroof includes a front section that moves like a normal moonroof (positioned farther forward than typical), with a very wide opening to provide an open-air motoring feeling. There is also a fixed translucent rear section that provides light to rear seat passengers. The overall design gives the appearance that the entire roof is composed of black glass. The Dual Panel Moonroof includes dual power sunshades for both the front and rear glass sections, adding a level of convenience.

At the rear, Maxima features a new 12-LED L-shaped taillight design, with a pair of side marker bulbs for added visibility during night driving.

“Maxima’s breathtaking new exterior gives it a commanding, almost coupe-like appearance, with plenty of driveway appeal,” said Castignetti. “It’s one sedan that will definitely be noticed by the next door neighbors, along with a lot of other people.”

Maxima is available in a choice of eight exterior colors: Winter Frost, Super Black, Navy Blue, Tuscan Sun, Radiant Silver, Mystic Jade, Precision Gray and Dark Slate.

Leading-Edge Sports Sedan Performance Platform

For five previous generations, Maxima has been built on a front-wheel drive (FWD) platform. Yet with the new Maxima’s development team everything was open for discussion, including the benefits of front-wheel drive versus rear-wheel drive (RWD). Although there are well-known advantages of RWD in terms of sporty handling, it was ultimately decided that by switching Maxima from its previous platform to Nissan’s new “D platform,” which was first introduced on the current Nissan Altima Sedan, Hybrid and Coupe, the target Maxima performance could be delivered – without giving up the added FWD benefits of lower costs, lower weight and enhanced roominess versus a RWD platform.

“As demonstrated time and again with the new Altima, the new Nissan D platform is an amazing piece of engineering – providing responsive handling while virtually eliminating the torque steer often associated with high horsepower FWD applications,” said Castignetti. “For the new Maxima, we’ve continued to refine the D platform, creating what we believe is one of the best-performing front-wheel drive car in the world, far above other FWD vehicles in its class. It’s a level of performance that we think will be highly addictive.”

In creating driving performance worthy of Nissan’s flagship, the Maxima’s body and chassis engineering teams worked together to create a secure feeling, virtually no torque steer during acceleration and a level of nimbleness that ultimately makes a car fun to drive.

A range of enhancements helped achieve these targets, including increasing body rigidity and adjusting the wheelbase and track dimensions. Body rigidity was increased by 15 percent and front strut mounting rigidity was increased by 100 percent, with all-new structures added to the engine compartment and additional reinforcement applied to the instrument panel structure. Maximas equipped with the Sport or Premium Packages feature a panel behind the rear seat that improves torsional rigidity by 17 percent versus models with a fold-down rear seat (a rear trunk pass-through is utilized with this panel).

The 2009 Maxima has a wheelbase of 109.3 inches, a decrease of 1.9 inches versus the 2008 Maxima, and width has been increased by 1.5 inches to 73.2 inches. The front and rear track measurement of 62.4 inches represents increases of 1.4 inches front and 1.2 inches rear over the previous model.

Additional “D platform” enhancements include the use of aluminum suspension links, revised suspension geometry, new technology shocks, revised steering and suspension geometries, a lower engine mounting and application of a new Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), all of which contribute to minimal torque steer and improved handling prowess.

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A Refined Engine and CVT

Compared to the previous generation, the new Maxima offers more horsepower and torque, providing quicker acceleration response and a special “Maxima Sound” – a satisfying, sporty sounding exhaust note. For 2009, Maxima again features a standard 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 engine, enhanced and refined to take its driving performance to new levels.

The revised engine features a modular engine design with microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum coated lightweight pistons, a resin intake collector, digital knock control, six individual coils (one per spark plug) and a cross-flow coolant pattern. Also utilized are a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), a variable induction system, a silent timing chain and electronically controlled throttle.

In refining the award-winning VQ-series V6 for use in the new Maxima, engine development engineers focused on three areas – increasing air intake, increasing fuel burn efficiency and lowering exhaust backpressure. Steps utilized to improve air intake included increasing intake manifold collector port diameter, adding a second power valve in the intake manifold, changing intake collector material to resin for less mass and more flow, redesigning the shape of the intake valves and increasing the throttle chamber diameter. Fuel burn efficiency was improved by increasing the engine’s compression ratio to 10.6:1 (from 10.3:1), changing the piston shape for reduction of friction and weight, and adding exhaust-side continuous valve timing control (quad valve timing system). Exhaust backpressure was reduced through optimizing the exhaust system layout.

The 2009 Maxima’s 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 is now rated at 290 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque (estimated), increases of 35 horsepower and 9 lb-ft of torque over the 2008 Maxima.

Significant development time was also spent on enhancing the sporty engine sound for an increased “exhilaration feeling.” The new Maxima also utilizes additional sound absorption material and a new “sound creator” to enhance induction sound. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance has been improved through a number of measures, including adoption of a new six-point engine mounting system. The system, which replaces the previous generation Maxima’s four-point mounting, includes upper and lower torque rods, high rigidity front and rear aluminum brackets and front and rear switchable control mounts to improve NVH performance under high engine torque conditions.

The Nissan Frontier, a no-compromise pickup forged with premium hardware, extraordinary power and off-road athleticism, continues to be a leader in the mid-size truck segment. Improving its already impressive packaging, the 2009 Frontier gets updated with a new front fascia grille and headlight design and new 16-inch and 18-inch wheels. Additionally, a PRO-4X off-road model is added, along with new Frontier Crew Cab LE/PRO-4X Value Truck Packages (VTP) that offer an array of popular optional equipment at a greater value than if purchased separately.

The 2009 Nissan Frontier continues to offer an unmatched level of on- and off- road performance with the use of a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine with best-in-segment horsepower, torque, towing and payload specifications. With its strong performance, combined with good fuel mileage (17 city, 21 highway, King Cab 2WD), the Frontier is a fitting truck for work or play.

“The Frontier offers the capability and styling of a full-size truck, off-road performance credentials, innovative versatility and interior comfort. It’s designed and built for those who are active, love the outdoors and want to maximize their life experiences,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “And, the new Crew Cab LE and PRO-4X Value Truck Packages for 2009 make an already a strong value an even easier way to enjoy a new Frontier.”

The 2009 Frontier is offered in both King Cab and Crew Cab body styles and in 4×2 and 4×4 driveline configurations. The Frontier, like the previous generations, is assembled at Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Bold Truck Styling and Innovative Versatility

The mid-size Nissan Frontier emulates many of Nissan Titan’s full-size features, including its bold, expressive and adventurous exterior styling. Frontier utilizes signature Nissan truck themes, including an angled strut grille, large bumpers, short front and rear overhangs and large, stamped steel, geometric fender flares. For 2009, Frontier features a restyled front fascia/grille design and new headlight design. LE models offer new 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, SE models feature new 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and PRO-4X models receive new machine-finished 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Two new exterior colors are available for 2009 – Red Brick and Navy Blue.

Frontier again offers Crew Cab SE and LE Long Bed models. Measuring more than 13 inches longer than the Crew Cab’s standard bed, the Long Bed models offer the roomy interior of the Crew Cab plus the usable bed space of the King Cab.

Frontier offers levels of innovation in areas where it matters most to truck owners – the bed. Both Frontier King Cab and Crew Cab models offer an available high-utility bed that includes a factory-applied spray-on bedliner and the Utili-track™ tie-down system. The Utili-track system, first introduced on Titan, provides ultimate cargo hauling flexibility through the use of five special “C” cross-section rails mounted in the bed (two channels in the bed floor, and one each on the bed side rails and the bed header panel). Removable utility cleats slide into the channels, providing a wide range of attaching points for securing cargo.

In addition to the tie-down cleats, a full range of accessories is offered for use with the channel system, including bed dividers, sliding cargo trays and modular storage units.

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New Frontier PRO-4X Off-Road Model

Frontier’s all-new PRO-4X trim offers drivers outstanding off-road flexibility, pairing Frontier’s already impressive list of standard equipment features with the PRO-4X’s off-road performance enhancements.

The PRO-4X features Bilstein® off-road high-pressure shock absorbers, additional skid plates on the oil pan and transfer case, an electronic rear differential locker, 2- or 4-wheel limited-slip (ABLS) and unique machine-finished 16-inch aluminum-alloy off-road wheels with large BFGoodrich P265/75R16 Rugged Trail tires.

Inside, the PRO-4X receives styling cues that differentiate it from the rest of the Frontier lineup including leather-appointed red-stitched shifter knob (M/T only) and steering wheel, chrome accent ring around the white-faced meter gauges and trip computer. The PRO-4X Value Truck Package (Crew Cab) adds unique black leather-appointed front seats with red stitching, along with 8-way power driver’s seat, 4-way power passenger’s seat, heated front seats, dual heated outside mirrors and rear fold-down center armrest.

PRO-4X King Cab models receive a factory-applied spray-on bedliner, bed rail caps, Utili-track channel system and four adjustable tie-down cleats (standard on Crew Cab). All PRO-4Xs feature body-colored grille and bumpers, outside mirrors and door handles and fog lamps. Added comfort and convenience features include cruise control, remote keyless entry power windows and door locks and dual power outside mirrors.

Multi-Flex, High-Use Interior

Just as the high-utility bed offers Frontier owners an exceptional level of flexibility and utility, Frontier’s interior features outstanding functionality combined with comfort and intelligent design. Both Frontier King Cab and Crew Cab feature large rear doors (rear hinged on King Cab) for easy access to the rear seating and cargo areas.

The Frontier King Cab features flip-up rear seats and both cab styles offer excellent cab storage and flexibility. Removable storage boxes are tucked beneath the rear seats, while the front passenger seat folds flat for added load carrying capacity (not available on leather-trimmed models). A dual glove box with lock, damper and lamp, center console storage, one-liter bottle storage integrated into the front doors and a multitude of cupholders and power points are standard. Frontier Crew Cab also offers an available leather-appointed interior and available tilt and sliding moonroof.

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Power for an Active Lifestyle

The heart and soul of the Frontier is its rugged F-Alpha platform. Starting with a full-size, fully boxed ladder frame, the F-Alpha platform provides a rugged foundation on which to build. Constructed of high tensile-strength steel, which is 90 percent stronger and 22 percent lighter than conventional steel, the platform improves structural rigidity for rock-solid performance on- and off- road.

Frontier’s long 125.9-inch wheelbase helps enhance ride comfort and stability, while the overall length of 205.5 inches (King Cab and Crew Cab Regular Bed) is a perfect “activity size” for buyers who don’t need a true full-size pickup.

The 2009 Frontier shares its suspension layout and many component designs with the Titan, including its all-steel double-wishbone front suspension and solid axle rear suspension with overslung leaf springs and a long suspension stroke for optimized off-road dynamics.

Frontier provides exceptional acceleration, towing capacity and all-around off-roading ability, due in large measure to its powerful engine – a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The 4.0-liter DOHC V6 is based on the award-winning Nissan VQ engine series used in the 350Z, Maxima, Altima, Murano and Quest, but is specifically tuned for the unique demands of truck use. Besides smooth torque delivery, the V6 offers excellent fuel efficiency and smooth operation.

The 4.0-liter V6 design includes a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain, microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, Teflon®-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, forged crankshaft, digital knock control system, high capacity muffler, lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads and 105,000-mile spark plugs.

The Frontier V6 is assembled at Nissan’s advanced engine production facility in Decherd, Tenn., which also produces Titan’s 5.6-liter V8.

An advanced 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, with 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft torque, is also available on the base Frontier King Cab 4×2 model.

For 2009, Frontier is again offered with a choice of transmissions – a smooth 5-speed automatic, a 6-speed manual or 5-speed manual transmission (King Cab 4-cylinder models). Frontier 4×4 models include a shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel drive system with 2WD/4H/4LO modes operated by an electronically controlled part-time transfer case. An advanced off-road traction system is available with 4×4 models. It includes a 4-wheel limited slip system, which helps transfer power to the drive wheels with more grip on low traction surfaces.

The available Hill Descent Control feature allows slow hill descent without the constant application of the brake pedal. Hill Descent Control must be engaged by the driver (via a switch) and is available only when the transfer case is engaged in 4H or 4LO (it works in both forward and reverse). It can be activated at speeds up to 21 mph in 4H and 15 mph in 4LO.

Hill Start Assist allows the driver to stop on an incline, release the brake pedal and not roll back for up to two seconds while the driver moves their foot to the accelerator for a smooth, controlled start. HSA is available on 4×4 models in 2WD, 4H and 4LO. HSA is designed for rugged, low-speed off-road driving situations.

All key underbody hardware is tucked up to the frame rails for a minimum 8.9 inches (4×4) or 8.6 inches (4×2) of running ground clearance on XE, SE, PRO-4X and LE models. Every 2009 Frontier also offers good approach and departure angles for exceptional off-road capability.

Other Frontier driveline components include engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and standard 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Frontier is offered with a range of available wheels and tires, including 16-inch off road style wheels with rugged P265/75R16 white-letter tires and 18-inch wheels with P265/60R18 tires.

Frontier’s maximum towing capacity is rated at up to 6,500 pounds (maximum, when properly equipped).

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Advanced Safety Systems, A Variety of Models and Packages

The 2009 Frontier includes a long list of safety equipment, including Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (which includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor), 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Also offered are supplemental front seat side-impact air bags and available supplemental curtain air bags for side impact and rollover protection for front and rear outboard passengers, 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants, including center position (Crew Cab) and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system (Crew Cab).

The 2009 Nissan Frontier King Cab is available in five well-equipped models: Frontier XE (4×2, 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual transmission only); Frontier SE I4 (4×2, 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission); Frontier SE V6 (4×2 or 4×4, 4.0-liter V6, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission); Frontier LE (4×2 or 4×4, 4.0-liter V6, 5-speed automatic transmission); and PRO-4X (4.0-liter V6, 4×2 and 4×4, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission).

The 2009 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is offered in SE, LE and PRO-4X models, in regular or Long Bed body styles, each offered with a standard 4.0-liter V6 and a choice of 4×4 or 4×2 drivelines. Frontier Crew Cab SE models are offered with either 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions, while Crew Cab LE and PRO-4X models are available with the 5-speed automatic transmission only.

Available options and packages include the XE Preferred Package, SE Power Package, Value Truck Package (SE, LE and PRO-4X only), Moonroof Package (Crew Cab only), Side & Curtain Air Bag Package, Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS), Technology Package and Traction Package (4×4 AT only).

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Pricing

Packages

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled Nissan LEAF, the world’s first affordable, zero-emission car. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.

NISSAN LEAF

Slated for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe, Nissan LEAF ushers in a new era of mobility – the zero-emission era. The car is the embodiment of Nissan’s radical, transformative vision for the future and the culmination of decades of investment and research.

“Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment – one in which all Nissan employees can take great pride,” said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. “We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality – the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero – not simply reduced – emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey – for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.”

Key characteristics of the LEAF include:

1. Zero-emission power train and platform
2. Affordable pricing
3. Distinctive design
4. Real-world range autonomy – 160km (100 miles)
5. Connected Mobility: Advanced intelligent transportation (IT) system

The “LEAF” name is a significant statement about the car itself. Just as leaves purify the air in nature, so Nissan LEAF purifies mobility by taking emissions out of the driving experience. Pricing details will be announced closer to start of sales in late 2010; however, the company expects the car to be competitively priced in the range of a well-equipped C-segment vehicle. Additionally, Nissan LEAF is expected to qualify for an array of significant local, regional and national tax breaks and incentives in markets around the world. As an added benefit, because the vehicle has less mechanical complexity than a traditional gasoline-powered car, Nissan LEAF is designed to be friendly to the wallet as well as to the environment.

ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY

Nissan LEAF is powered by laminated compact lithium-ion batteries, which generate power output of over 90kW, while its electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm. This ensures a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered automobiles.

Unlike internal-combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, Nissan LEAF’s power train has no tail pipe, and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. A combination of Nissan LEAF’s regenerative braking system and innovative lithium-ion battery packs enables the car to deliver a driving range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge*. (*US LA4 mode)

Extensive consumer research demonstrates that this range satisfies the daily driving requirements of more than 70% of the world’s consumers who drive cars.

And, Nissan’s approach makes charging easy and convenient. Nissan LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in just under 30 minutes with a quick charger. Charging at home through a 200V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours – ample time to enable an overnight refresh for consumer and car alike.

REAL-WORLD CAR

The engineers and designers behind Nissan LEAF worked to create a competitively priced real-world car that would enable Nissan to lead mobility into the zero-emission era. To ensure comfort, spaciousness and cargo capacity, Nissan LEAF employs a completely new chassis and body layout.

”Our car had to be the world’s first, medium-size, practical EV that motorists could afford and would want to use every day. And that’s what we’ve created. The styling will identify not only Nissan LEAF but also the owner as a participant in the new era of zero-emission mobility,” said Masato INOUE, Product Chief Designer.

DISTINCTIVE DESIGN

Even the smallest details can yield tremendous effect.

Nissan LEAF’s frontal styling is characterized by a sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights that employ a blue internal reflective design that announces, “This car is special.” But the headlights do more than make a statement. They are also designed to cleverly split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing wind noise and drag. And, the headlights provide yet one more benefit in that they consume just 10 percent of the electricity of conventional lamps, which helps Nissan LEAF to achieve its world-class range autonomy.

Through bright trim colors inside, Nissan LEAF creates a pleasing and stylish cabin environment. An environmentally friendly “blue earth” color theme originates from the Aqua Globe body color of Nissan LEAF’s introductory model. This theme is carried into the interior through blue dashboard highlights and instrument illumination.

CONNECTED MOBILITY IT SYSTEM

Nissan LEAF employs an exclusive advanced IT system. Connected to a global data center, the system can provide support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day.

The dash-mounted monitor displays Nissan LEAF’s remaining power – or “reachable area” – in addition to showing a selection of nearby charging stations.

Another state-of-the-art feature is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions – even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.

“The IT system is a critical advantage,” says Tooru ABE, Chief Product Specialist. “We wanted this vehicle to be a partner for the driver and an enhancement for the passengers. We also wanted this vehicle to help create a zero-emission community, and these IT features will help make that possible.”

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY AND ECO-FRIENDLY INNOVATION
Nissan LEAF is a critical first step in establishing the era of zero-emission mobility; however, Nissan recognizes that internal-combustion engine (ICE) technologies will play a vital role in global transportation for decades to come. Because of this, Nissan is implementing its zero-emission vision through a holistic approach, which provides consumers a comprehensive range of eco-friendly technologies from which to choose.

For some consumers, Nissan LEAF will be the perfect match, and the only car they will ever need. For others, Nissan LEAF will be a logical addition to the family fleet – the optimal choice for the daily commute, for example.

While zero-emission is the ultimate goal, the company is committed to ongoing innovation in eco-friendly technologies that increase efficiency and reduce emissions. As a result, Nissan offers a comprehensive suite of automotive technologies, including CVT, Idle Stop, HEV, Clean Diesel, and ongoing research and investment in FCV technology.

WORLDWIDE PARTNERS

Zero-emission mobility programs under the banner of the Renault-Nissan Alliance include partnerships with countries such as the UK and Portugal, local governments in the Japan and the USA, and other sectors, for a total of nearly 30 partnerships worldwide.

In these partnerships major efforts focus on three areas:

1. Development of a comprehensive charging infrastructure through public and private investment,
2. Incentives and subsidies from local, regional, and national governments, and
3. Public education on the individual and societal benefits of zero-emissions mobility.

ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE PRODUCTION

Nissan LEAF is the first in the company’s forthcoming line of EVs and is a major milestone in the realization of the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s vision for zero-emission mobility. The first of Nissan’s EV’s will be manufactured at Oppama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for Smyrna, Tennessee, USA. Meanwhile, lithium-ion batteries are being produced in Zama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for the USA, the UK and Portugal, and other sites for investment are under study around the world.

The popular Nissan Armada, which was restyled and enhanced for 2008, continues to be refined for 2010 with revised equipment and package offerings – helping Armada retain its leading position as the full-size adventure SUV of choice for active, discerning families. For example, for the 2010 model year the equipment previously included in the Armada LE Preferred Package (heated front seats, power quarter glass flip-out, power folding outside mirrors with puddle lamps and turn signals, memory setting for driver’s seat/mirrors/pedals and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System) and Armada LE Tow Package (receiver hitch with 7-pin wiring harness, larger battery, 3.357:1 gear ratio) now comes standard on the Armada LE base model.

The 2010 Armada also features new 20-inch Chrome Clad wheels on the Armada LE equipped with the Technology Package. In addition, a moonroof is now available with the Armada SE Driver’s Package and 2nd row Captain Chairs are available on all Armada LE packages. The major revisions from the 2008 redesign carry over to the new year, including the refined front fascia, headlight and fog light designs, revised one-piece roof rack design, revised rear fascia, and new exterior color palette.

The 2010 Armada also continues to offer the previous year’s new 3rd row power folding 60/40 seat (optional LE), revised interior colors, fabrics and accents and new combination meter illumination. Available Armada technology includes a Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with twist start (standard LE, optional SE), Bose® sound system with Music Box Hard Drive and 3rd row speakers and amplifier (standard LE, optional SE), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System (standard on LE), available Nissan Navigation system with a XM NavTraffic® system with real-time traffic information (XM® contract required, sold separately) and an 8.0-inch screen for the optional DVD Entertainment Package.

Armada also continues to offer an advanced, standard 5.6-liter V8 producing 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque, with available Flexible Fuel Vehicle technology (FFV) – which allows drivers to use traditional gasoline or an alternative fuel such as E85 (containing 85 percent renewable ethanol and 15 percent gasoline).

Refined Yet Rugged Exterior, Versatile Interior

Armada’s distinctive styling mixes modern cues with traditional ruggedness, with an aggressive front fascia, halogen headlights and fog lights, one-piece roof rack and available 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (LE model). With its wide stance, long wheelbase and short front and rear overhangs, Armada combines stability, maneuverability and exceptional cargo room.

Additional exterior features include a large body-color grille (SE, chrome on LE), chrome front door handles, chrome dual power-adjustable heated side mirrors (with power folding, puddle lamps and integrated turn signal on LE models), side step rails, privacy glass for the 2nd and 3rd rows and rear tailgate (power tailgate optional on SE, standard on LE), separate tailgate opening glass and manual flip-out rear quarter windows (power-operated on LE models). All models are also offered with a standard rear bumper-mounted rear proximity sensor system (back-up obstacle warning). A front proximity sensor/sonar system is also available.

The 2010 Armada is offered in eight exterior colors: Desert Stone, Timberline, Blizzard, Galaxy Black, Silver Lightning, Smoke, Red Brawn and Majestic Blue.

Armada’s interior is highly functional and ergonomic, without sacrificing style and ruggedness. Available features include a 3rd row power folding seat (LE), heated steering wheel (LE), steering wheel illuminated controls, gated shifter, lockable glove compartment and wood grain accents (LE). Available technology features include and advanced audio system with 3rd row audio speakers and amplifier (LE), Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with twist start (LE, optional SE), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System (standard on LE), an 8.0-inch screen for the optional DVD Entertainment Package and an Nissan Navigation system with a XM NavTraffic® system with real-time traffic information (XM® contract required, sold separately).

The 2010 Armada delivers impressive room and versatility, including ample 2nd row legroom, up to 8-passenger seating, standard fold-flat 2nd and 60/40 split fold-flat 3rd row seats and large cargo space behind the 3rd row seat. Additional utility and storage space is offered by a full-length overhead console with six map lights, center console with large storage capacity, multiple pockets and bins throughout the cabin, up to 14 cupholders and four 12-volt power outlets (two in front, one 2nd row, one for cargo area).

In front, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and available 4-way adjustable front passenger’s seat provide comfort and luxury, and leather-appointed seats are available in the 1st and 2nd rows (standard LE, optional SE). 3rd row occupants are placed higher than the 2nd row to facilitate easier conversation and better visibility for the occupants. Other luxury features include standard dual-zone climate control, rear air conditioning, remote keyless entry, power adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, and AM/FM/6CD audio system with steering wheel controls and MP3 playback capability.
Also available are fold-flat 2nd row captain’s chairs with a removable 2nd row center console and an 11-speaker Bose® audio system with dual media capability, allowing use of radio and CD at the same time (headphones must be used to listen to second audio source) and RearView Monitor. Two interior colors are available, Sand and Graphite.

It’s already the one bright spot in the affordable sports car market, but now Nissan is going for gold with a special version of the storming 370Z coupe. Not for shrinking violets, the new 370Z Yellow lives up to its name in spectacular fashion.

Ultimate Yellow is the paint job and it signals a 370Z with everything that people expect of the 331PS sportster along with a rare exclusivity – there will be a limited number of Yellows available – and a potent visual impact that takes the 370Z’s muscular looks to new heights. Some cars were just born to be yellow.

The 370Z Yellow gets design cues that nod at the racing 370Zs from the European GT4 series. The wheels are 19-inch RAYS forged alloys and along the flanks are special 370Z graphics, both items setting off the gleaming yellow body to perfection.

Inside the contrast could not be greater: the theme here is black leather and suede. There’s an integrated satellite navigation system, illuminated entry plates, special mats and a BOSE audio with eight speakers and a six-CD autochanger. The sophistication continues with heated seats, cruise control, speed limiter and all the other features from the 370Z GT Pack on which the special Yellow model is based.

The 370Z Yellow is, like all the new-generation versions of this world famous sports car dynasty, powered by an enthusiast’s delight of a V6 engine. It pumps out 331PS at 7000rpm backed up by a meaty 270lb ft of pulling power.

With a six-speed manual box (a seven-speed automatic is optional), the Yellow sprints from rest to 62mph in 5.3sec and goes on to a restricted top speed of 155mph. A synchronised rev control during downchanges reminds you just how good the engine sounds – even when just trundling to the shops.

The Yellows for the UK are available from all participating Nissan dealers but definitely from all High Performance Centres where its big brother the GT-R is exclusively sold. The first cars will be available from September with prices from £31,650 (manual gears) or £33,050 (automatic).

The designers at Nissan were on to something when they came up with the Altima Coupe. By taking a relatively attractive Altima, loosing two doors, tightening the back glass and stretching the rear sheet metal to pronounce a metal step over the rear wheels, they have created a very stylish sports coupe, a package that looks like something that would normally cost much more to own. When you choose the tried and true VQ35 engine, a power plant that Nissan used in everything from the 350Z to the FX35, you also get a sport tuned suspension and 18 inch split five spoke rims standard. The sleek two door profile and rear over fenders make the Altima Coupe a vehicle that would make Inifiniti owners jealous.

Our Nissan Altima Coupe 3.5 SE came with a $3,200 Premium Package that will definitely help when it comes time to impress the ladies. The package upgraded the Coupe with luxury comforts like soft leather, 7 speaker Bose audio system and HID headlamps. This bumped the $26,890 base price of a V6 powered Altima Coupe up to $31,560.

Did we mention that our SE came with another acronym, CVT, continuously variable transmission? Top Speed recently had a four door Altima equipped with the same transmission not too long ago, but this time the Coupe came with Nissan’s Xtronic version that allows the driver to shift manually. However, the 270 HP from the V6 and excellent coupe styling, make this Altima an entirely different kind of animal.

The name Nissan is become synonymous with the word Nurburgring; the pair is popping up everywhere, most recently when the Japanese automaker’s first true super car, the GT-R, lapped the German racetrack in just 7 minutes and 26 seconds. Shifting gears over to Nissan’s newest Z car, while we here in the U.S. get the 370Z Nismo as a factory tuned option, Nissan owners in Europe get to drive a special Nurburgring Edition. This special edition 370Z will be limited to only 80 units and will be priced at €50,400.

The Nurburgring Edition is inspired by the Z cars that recently participated in the Nurburgring 24-hour endurance race. The cars will be painted in Premium Ultimate Yellow and will feature special decals, the factory exhaust will be swapped out for a more sonorous Cobra system and there will be a numbered plaque to identify each model. However the nicest feature will be the 19 inch OZ alloy wheels. The modifications will only be superficial; the 3.7 Liter V6 goes untouched, still making 331 HP. A nice touch from Nissan is that with every Nurburgring Edition comes a €150 gift card, redeemable at the ‘Ring.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the release of its all-new Skyline Crossover this summer.
The all-new Skyline Crossover makes its foray into the crossover segment with a unique and distinctive design, that arrives from a fusion of a coupe with an SUV. The luxury crossover utilizes smooth, soft-to-the-touch and high-quality materials to provide an elegant and personalized interior space.

Powered by a VQ37VHR engine with VVEL technology, the powertrain delivers high response and high torque for an exhilirating driving experience. The powertain also offers cleaner emissions and good fuel-efficiency. Powerful, seamless and continuous acceleration is realized by mating the powertrain to a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode. Stable handling and supple ride comfort are optimally balanced for a pleasurable drive.
The all-new Skyline Crossover will be showcased at Nissan Galleries nationwide starting April 18, 2009.

Less than a year after the introduction of the all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe – a vehicle that reset the bar for affordable sports car design and performance – comes its dramatic new stablemate, the 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster. The seductively styled Z® Roadster offers everything the hardtop Z® Coupe does – and more. As in more classic open-air sports car driving excitement. More sun, moon and stars. And more refinement than any Z® convertible that has ever come before – including a standard automatic latching power top and Nissan Intelligent Key™. Also offered are an array of technology and convenience features, including the first-ever Z® Roadster-available heating and cooling ventilated net seats, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, satellite radio and advanced Nissan Navigation System. The 2010 370Z Roadster is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan retailers nationwide in late summer.

“As expected, the 370Z Roadster delivers an exhilarating connection to the air, wind and environment on top of the new Z® Coupe’s exceptional levels of performance,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). “But perhaps unexpected for a car this sporty is its greatly enhanced refinement and quality – as seen in features such as its one-touch, auto-locking convertible top and beautifully crafted interior.”

A Truly Authentic Roadster

The 370Z Roadster’s most obvious departure from the 370Z Coupe is its convertible top. The soft-top roof was designed with an emphasis on three key areas: to provide a sleek silhouette matching the new Z®’s stunning styling with the top up or down, to offer easy single-action open-close operation, and to provide an enjoyable top-down experience with reduced wind turbulence and all-climate driver/passenger comfort.

With convertible top in the closed position, the design provides a sophisticated sloped-back appearance, the perfect balance between the soft top and the Z® body design. The shortened windshield and aerodynamically rounded rear deck enhance the Z®’s kinetic and dynamic character lines. When in the down position, the convertible top is concealed beneath a full body-color hard tonneau cover, which extends forward to help create the Z® Roadster’s classic “double cockpit” style interior.

The standard black cloth convertible top features a fabric inner liner, which provides a quality appearance and helps reduce noise intrusion into the cabin, along with an enlarged (versus the previous generation Z® Roadster) glass rear window with an integrated electric rear window defroster. The top operation takes approximately 20 seconds start-to-finish and is controlled by either a center console-mounted switch or by a button located on the doors. The automatic latch system secures the top to – or releases it from – the windshield header without driver intervention. The shape and position of the glass wind deflector, located between the fixed headrest bars, has been optimized to reduce turbulence into the cabin.

Like the new 370Z Coupe, the Z® Roadster’s new exterior is more aggressive in appearance and lighter and tighter in structure than the previous generation. The wheelbase is nearly four inches shorter (100.4 inches versus 104.3 inches) and overall length is reduced by 2.6 inches (167.2 inches versus 169.8 inches). The new Z® Roadster features an aluminum hood, door panels and trunk for reduced weight. At the same time, the body structure was extensively revised, improving rigidity and stability. The 370Z Roadster includes additional structural reinforcement (over the 370Z Coupe), including in the A-pillars and side sills.

The Z® Roadster’s exterior design incorporates the look and feel of the new Z® Coupe, including its signature long nose/short cockpit proportions, vertical door handles and distinctive new headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce “boomerang” shape. High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard.

The 370Z Roadster is offered in seven exterior colors: Solid Red, Magnetic Black, Brilliant Silver, Platinum Graphite, Pearl White, Monterey Blue and a special premium color, Black Cherry.

Inside the stunning exterior, true to its sports car heritage, the Z® Roadster’s interior is completely driver-centric, with its three-layer design grouping items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place – so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive, top up or down.

The Z® Roadster features high back black woven “Carbon” cloth seats with 8-way manual driver’s/4-way manual passenger’s seat adjustments. Touring models include unique leather-appointed “net” seats with 4-way power/4-way manual operation on the driver’s seat (4-way power on the passenger’s seat). These second-generation net seats are exclusive to the Z® Roadster and have integrated heating and cooling functions – ideal for open air driving no matter what the outside temperature. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are also standard.

The Z® Roadster’s 2-seat layout includes a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger’s seat. The instrument panel retains the traditional Z® 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer now include an “initial sweep” function, coming alive when the car is first started.

The sporty steering wheel is a new “oval” 3-spoke design, which offers baseball-style stitching, improved thumb grips and palm rest areas for improved feel on long drives. The surface of the leather-wrapped wheel is “shaved” to provide a more kidney-like shape to better fit in the hand. The manual transmission shifter is specially padded to improve the accuracy of diagonal shifts and to feel softer in the hand for forward and backward motions.

Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature and a center console box with a non-intrusive cover design.

Other features include automatic climate control, two 12-volt power outlets, three cupholders (two in door panels, one in center console) and an AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.

The Touring model adds a 6CD Bose® audio system with eight speakers (includes dual subwoofer) and MP3/WMA playback, XM™ Satellite Radio (XM™ subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink™ Universal Transceiver and aluminum-trimmed pedals. This is the first time Bluetooth® and XM™ satellite radio have been available on a Z® Convertible.

The optional Navigation Package includes the touch-screen Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with XM NavTraffic™ real-time traffic information (XM™ subscription required, sold separately), 9.3GB Music Box hard drive for digital music storage and playback and a USB fort for iPod® connectivity. The new navigation system offers a number of enhancements (versus previous Nissan Navigation System designs), including four times higher screen resolution, wireless music player audio streaming capability (via Bluetooth®), on-board Zagat restaurant ratings database, an in-dash DVD player and XM NavWeather™ weather information display (XM™ subscription required, sold separately).

The 370Z Roadster interior is available in Black cloth or for 370Z Touring Roadster models, a choice of Gray, Black or Wine leather-appointed net seating.

Open Air, Open Roads – An Unbeatable Combination

Roadster or Coupe, the new Z®s share one of the most advanced drivetrains available for affordable sports cars today. The Z® Roadster’s long list of cutting edge performance-focused technologies includes a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), choice of 7-speed automatic transmission or close-ratio 6-speed manual with available “SynchroRev Match” (the world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission), refined 4-wheel independent suspension and 4-wheel vented disc brakes (with available Nissan Sport Brakes).

“The new 370Z Roadster lives in the same sweet spot of performance, style and value that the Z® Coupe does,” said Castignetti. “Open air driving just begs for open roads and the new 370Z Convertible is the perfect companion.”

Compared to the previous generation 350Z Roadster, the new Z® convertible picks up 26 horsepower and 2 lb-ft of torque (332 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm, compared with the previous 3.5-liter V6’s 306 horsepower @ 6,800 rpm and 268 lb-ft of toque @ 4,800 rpm).

Along with its larger displacement, the 3.7-liter engine gives better power delivery all the way to the 7,500 rpm redline, improved low-end power and more high-end torque, creating an entirely new driving experience. Key to the enhanced performance is the VVEL system, which is able to optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time. Since the VVEL system can adjust to open the valves slightly, it improves fuel efficiency by reducing camshaft friction and fuel waste. It also provides cleaner emissions by allowing for quicker warm-up of the catalyst and by stabilizing combustion when the engine is cool.

The 2010 Z® Roadster is offered with a choice of two new advanced transmissions – a close-ratio 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic. The 6-speed manual is available with SynchroRev Match™ (included in the optional Sport Package), which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The SynchroRev Match™ function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less vehicle intervention.

The available 7-speed automatic includes Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode.

Drivers can use the standard paddle shifters or the shift lever. The 7-speed’s wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency, while the Adaptive Shift Control is designed to adjust to the driver’s driving style.

Estimated fuel economy for the 370Z Roadster is 18 mpg City/25 mpg Highway for both the 7-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions – increases of 1 mpg City/2 mpg Highway for the automatic and 1 mpg City/1 mpg Highway for the manual transmission versus the 2009 350Z Roadster.

The Z® Roadster also utilizes the Z® Coupe’s advanced 4-wheel independent suspension. The double-wishbone front suspension (which replaces the lower multi-link setup in the 350Z) uses lighter forged aluminum arms and a lightweight rigid aluminum-alloy cradle, along with a lighter stabilizer bar with a 35 percent improved lever ratio. The 4-link rear suspension is also stiffer and lighter, with the rear cradle entirely integrated into a single part. “High response” shock absorbers are utilized on each corner for improved ride comfort.

The standard 370Z Roadster wheel and tire package features 18×8.0-inch front/18×9.0-inch lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/50R18 front/P245/45R18 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A summer tires. Available as part of the optional Sport Package are 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A P245/40R19 front/P275/35R19 tires.

The Z®’s standard 4-wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The optional Sport Package includes Nissan Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors (versus 12.6-inch front/rear standard rotors) with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers.

Steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced with the addition of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load. A Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system is standard.

The Nissan 370Z Roadster’s list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; door-mounted curtain air bags; and seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Other standard equipment includes Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Two Well-Equipped Models

The new Z® Roaster is offered in two well-equipped models – 370Z Roadster and the 370Z Touring Roadster. The Touring model includes the heated and cooling leather-appointed power net seats, HomeLink™ Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker Bose® audio system, XM™ Satellite Radio (XM™ subscription, sold separately) and aluminum-trimmed pedals.

Only two option packages are offered (Touring model only): the Sport Package, with 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match (6-speed manual transmission only) and Viscous Limited Slip Differential; and the Navigation Package, with Hard Drive-based Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and USB connectivity.

The GT1 spec Nissan will be powered by the VK56DE V8, the same engine used by Nissan in the GT500 class of the Japanese Super GT racing series. The 600 HP produced from the 5.6 liter motor should be enough to make the 1250 kilogram chassis competitive. Balancing out the GT-R is a rear mounted Ricardo six speed transaxle. Quite possibly the nicest parts, and the only ones that could be used on a street car, are the beautiful 18×13 inch RAYS forged racing wheels.

The team has launched a website GTRLive.tv where fans of Godzilla and the hamburger logo. The GT1 spec GT-R will make its competition debut on May 3rd at Silverstone and compete in three more races in 2009 before launching an all out attack on the GT1 circuit in 2010.

What does this mean for GT-R enthusiasts? There is a strong probability of Nissan releasing an even more powerful, better handling LM version of the GT-R. A machine that would make the future GT-R Spec V seem more like a Sentra.

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced an expansion of the popular Nissan Sentra line-up with the addition of a sport-styled Sentra FE+ 2.0 SR model. The Sentra FE+ 2.0 SR is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan retailers nationwide beginning on April 17, 2009. The Sentra FE+ 2.0 SR has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $17,760, the same price as the Sentra FE+ 2.0 S model. The full 2009 Sentra lineup now features seven models, ranging from the entry-level Sentra FE+ 2.0 to the performance-oriented Sentra SE-R Spec V.

“With so much attention being paid to high value, high mileage vehicles like Sentra today, we want to offer customers a range of choices within the lineup – so they can find the perfect level of equipment, sportiness and performance to fit their needs and budgets,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, NNA.

The new Sentra FE+ 2.0 SR was created in response to customer demand for a sportier looking Sentra without going all the way up to the high-performance Sentra SE-R and Sentra SE-R Spec V models. The “SR” starts with a standard Sentra 2.0 S and adds sport-inspired exterior enhancements, including SE-R-style front and rear fascias, side sills and rear spoiler; sport grille; dark chrome bezel headlights and dark smoked bezel taillights; 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; exhaust finisher; and “SR” trunk lid badge. It is available in six exterior colors, including the limited Sentra SE-R/SE-R Spec V colors, and will be offered with a Charcoal cloth interior.

Along with a range of models, the 2009 Sentra is available with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. All models except the SE-R and SE-R Spec V are equipped with a fuel-efficient 140-horsepower (135 hp CAL emissions) 16-valve 2.0-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine. Estimated fuel economy is 34 mpg Highway/26 mpg City (Sentra FE+ 2.0-liter with CVT).

The 2009 Nissan Sentra SE-R and Sentra SE-R Spec V models feature sporty styling, enhanced performance and additional standard equipment (versus non-SE-R models) and a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (rated at 177 horsepower in the SE-R and 200 horsepower in the SE-R Spec V). Available Sentra transmissions choices (depending on model) are the advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) and 6-speed manual.

“We’ve been inviting customers to take a closer look at Sentra for its value, style and performance. Now we’re adding one more reason – more choice,” said Castignetti.

The Nissan Qazana makes its first ever appearance at the Geneva Motor Show today. Inspired by a simple desire to have fun behind the wheel, Qazana shows that mind-numbing motoring could be a thing of the past.
Officially it’s a showcar, a study into how a small car of the future could look. But with the announcement that a small crossover – a baby brother to Qashqai – will be built at the company’s Sunderland factory in the UK, Qazana’s significance should not be underestimated.

“The Qazana concept is an intelligent, all-wheel drive crossover which is masculine, agile, lean, and designed for the tough city streets. Our team at Nissan Design Europe in London realised this image with the motif of a modern day beach buggy and four-seat motor-bike,” explains Atsushi Maeda, Studio Chief Designer, Nissan Design Europe.

According to Matt Weaver, project lead designer at NDE, Qazana was designed to be sophisticated but fun. “It’s a hugely optimistic car, which is no bad thing in these difficult times. Had it been created in the 1960s, it would have counted camper vans, bikes and buggies as its rivals. Infused with that same spirit, there’s nothing quite like it available today.”

Challenges tradition

In the same way that Nissan re-wrote the rule-book when it introduced Qashqai two years ago, so Qazana is ready to do it again. By approaching the small car market from a totally different direction, Qazana invigorates, stimulates and rejuvenates the traditional town runabout.

Compact dimensions

Compact overall dimensions (4060mm in length, 1570mm tall, 1780 wide and a wheelbase of 2530mm) mean Qazana would be ideally suited to the urban environment. Yet its advanced specification and energetic styling suggest an ability that goes far beyond the city walls.

By mixing SUV and sports car styling cues, NDE’s design team has created a highly individual Crossover quite unlike anything else on the road. The tall stance, truncated rear styling and short front and rear overhangs underscore its feeling of robustness and strength, but the low roof line, assertive side window graphic and broad shoulders hint at a sporting ability absent in traditional all-wheel drives.

At the same time, rounded elements – notably the wheel arches and bonnet – evoke a friendly ambiance and provide a link with existing Nissan Crossovers. Indeed, Qazana has the signature Crossover design detail in the rising window line at the rear, also found on Murano and Qashqai.

Says Weaver: “Qazana follows in Qashqai’s wheel tracks by challenging convention. Externally Qazana adds a number of existing Nissan design cues – including a variation on the ‘boomerang’ rear light theme from 370Z – to a highly distinctive shape that’s unlike anything else in the company’s current design portfolio.”

Crossover styling

The profile is dominated by the prominent wheel arches and by the body’s high waistline, which combine to give an impression of strength and which contrast vividly with the slim side windows. Echoing a style first seen on Mixim, Nissan’s high performance electric coupé concept shown at the 2007 Frankfurt Show, the glasshouse resembles a crash helmet visor.

Although it appears at first glance to be a two-door coupé, Qazana has a further pair of rear-hinged half doors to ease access to the rear compartment. All the doors are electrically operated and for safety reasons the rear pair can only be activated once the fronts have been opened. With no conventional B-pillar, access to the interior couldn’t be easier.

One notable feature of the roof-line is the virtually straight cant rail above the doors which adds further to the strength of the profile. The roof itself has a pair of thin glass inserts running the full length of the roof which allow slithers of natural light into the cabin.

This contrast between sporty performance and all-terrain potential is underlined by the venturi-style skid plate at the rear of the vehicle, Qazana’s extended ground clearance and the soft rubber spats which edge the wheel arches and help to disguise the vehicle’s long suspension travel. The graphite coloured spats contrast vividly with the bold exterior colour, a unique shade called White Titanium, and the strikingly styled
20 inch black chrome alloy wheels.

Distinctive frontal aspect

The car’s face is dominated by four headlamps. Two lower circular lamps set within the bumper contrast with a pair of daylight running strips mounted high on the wings on either side of the bonnet: the look is of a rally car preparing for a night stage.

While the full width grille, dominated by Nissan’s centrally mounted badge, is an interpretation of current Nissan styling, its construction is not. A one-piece acrylic moulding, no cooling air can pass through the grille. Instead, the lower portion of the bumper, finished in a contrasting graphite colour, is dominated by a number of large holes for air to reach the radiator. See-through acrylic mouldings are also used for the door mirrors.

The interior has been designed as an extension of the exterior thanks to a clever interplay between hard and soft materials. Rather than being completely enveloped in leather for example, elements of the lightweight carbon fibre seat structure are on permanent view, appearing to have ‘broken through’ the covering. The centre portion of the backrests features a mesh material, allowing fresh air to circulate around the occupants.

Like the seats, the metal sections of the centre console seem to have forced their way through the leather covering while the internal door-frame is part exposed so that the door pull appears to be hewn from solid metal.

Motorcycle inspired interior

Adding further to the mechanical feel of the interior, the shape of the centre console and armrest has been inspired by the fuel tank and seat of a sports motocycle. Paul Ray, senior interior designer at NDE, is a keen rider. “I enjoy the sensation of being at one with my bike and wanted to capture that feeling in Qazana,” he says.

“The way the structure appears through the fabric of the interior also reflects motorcycle design and construction.”

Accentuating the practical side of the car, Qazana has ‘floating’ seats centrally mounted over a one-piece rubberised floor covering, creating an openness in the cockpit. Grooves cut in the flooring are replicated on the seats themselves.

The dashboard is dominated by a centrally mounted screen. As well as doubling as a navigation display, it will deliver vital information relating to Nissan’s next generation fully electronic ALL MODE four-wheel drive with torque vectoring system and other advanced technical processes found on board, including integrated communications systems. Using an intuitive touch-screen interface, the driver will be able to adjust the air-conditioning and other key vehicle settings.

Alfonso Albaisa, Vice President, Nissan Design Europe, says: “When it comes to design, Nissan has developed a reputation for constantly delivering something different. The global success of Qashqai has proven that the car buying public is fed up with the conventional… but we are not prepared to sit on our laurels. Qazana might seem a radical solution but important elements of the concept do point to a future Nissan production vehicle.

Is it now okay to modify the Nissan GT-R? After all if Nissan is getting into the aftermarket game with Godzilla, maybe a factory-fresh car isn’t as perfect as we though.

Along with the GT-R SpecV, Nissan will unveil the GT-R with Nismo Club Sports Package at the Tokyo Auto Salon that starts today. Nismo engineers worked on the Chassis Package, carbon bucket seat and titanium exhaust system, to improve the car’s performance on the race circuit. When fully equipped with the Club Sport Package, the GT-R can outrun the standard car by a full second on the Sendai Hi-land racetrack.

The best part is that if the modifications are done by certified Nismo Technical Masters, it won’t void the factory warranty. The only bad part is try finding one in the U.S.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced a new limited-production Nissan GT-R SpecV model, which goes on sale at seven specially selected Nissan dealers throughout Japan on February 2, 2009. The GT-R SpecV is targeted specifically at enthusiast drivers who desire race car-level performance in a street-legal vehicle.

Developed around the multi-dimensional Nissan GT-R sports car, which was introduced just more than one year ago to universal global acclaim, the new SpecV model builds on the original’s “ultimate supercar that anyone can enjoy driving anywhere, at anytime” philosophy – taking it to an entirely new level of “oneness between man and machine.” The SpecV model includes unique body, interior and performance equipment and modifications, raising the GT-R’s unmatched performance to even higher levels.

The GT-R SpecV’s new exterior features include a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts. The SpecV is available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal (RP) body color. Inside, the SpecV’s unique two-seat interior (non-SpecV GT-R models also include a two-place rear seat) offers special Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats, while carbon fiber insets embellish the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.

Performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine’s twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration, while also allowing the engine to operate at a lower speed for improved fuel economy. Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.

The GT-R SpecV is also equipped with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) since September 2008. The lighter unsprung weight provided by the new wheels, together with the enhanced braking capability, an exclusive suspension and high-grip tires, combine to deliver the SpecV’s exceptional performance.

The SpecV will be sold at the following seven dealer outlets, each of which is staffed by mechanics with special GT-R SpecV training and who are knowledgeable of racing circuit driving.

Dealer outlets selling the SpecV
Ibaraki Nissan Sales Co., Ltd. Mito Sennami Outlet
Nissan Prince Tokyo Sales Co., Ltd. Kamedo Outlet
Nissan Prince Nagoya Sales Co., Ltd. Fukiage Outlet
Nissan Prince Osaka Sales Co., Ltd. Horie Kawaguchi Outlet
Nissan Prince Hyogo Sales Co., Ltd. Nada Outlet
Nissan Prince Kagawa Sales Co., Ltd. Takamatsu Outlet
Yamaguchi Nissan Sales Co., Ltd. Ogori Interchange Outlet

Suggested nationwide retail price (including consumption tax) 15,750,000 yen

The 2009 Nissan 370Z is the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan 350Z since its introduction in 2003. The new model builds on the strengths of its predecessor, with a brilliant balance of power, performance, handling and style. The engine was from Renault, the car was designed in America by an Indian! This is the Z’s Indian connection!

Now, Nissan has revealed complete pricing details for its new 370Z in order to help prospective customers to start arranging for finances.

• The base model with, six-speed manual car will be sold at just $29,930 in the US(Rs.15Lakhs equivalent), but the seven-speed automatic will set you back $31,230.
• The touring model will come for $34,460 with manual transmission, while the touring automatic should be $35,760.
• The adrenalin rush will be brought by a seriously nasty Sport Package with 19-inch alloys and sticky Bridgestone Potenzas, meaty brakes and the all-important LSD out back is a mere $3,000, meaning you could have what it takes to duel with a Cayman for just $32,930.

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) gets an early start on the new year with the announcement of pricing of the all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe and a revised marketing tagline. The new Zâ goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* starting at $29,930 for the 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission and $31,230 with the new 7-speed automatic transmission. The new Zâ is also offered in a 370Z Coupe Touring model, which is priced at $34,460 with the 6-speed manual and $35,760 with the 7-speed automatic transmission.

Two option packages are offered: the Sport Package, priced at just $3,000, with 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, aerodynamic front and rear spoiler, larger Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match (6-speed manual transmission only) and Viscous Limited Slip Differential; and the Navigation Package, priced at $1,850, with Hard Drive-based Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and Interface System for iPodÒ.

As the most powerful Zâ ever produced, the new 370Z hits dead center in the sports car “sweet spot” of performance, design and value – with less weight, more power and enhanced handling, quality and style. With a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, choice of two advanced transmissions and a full array of driver-oriented interior features, the new 370Z is designed to be one of the top performance values in the world.

Also today Nissan announced the rollout of a revised marketing tagline: SHIFT_the way you move. Previously, SHIFT_ was used with multiple complement words, which varied by product or media application. The move to one set phrase “the way you move” reflects alignment of the direction Nissan is taking to meet changing consumer needs and wants.

“SHIFT_ has always been the core of Nissan’s DNA. It is rethinking the ordinary, changing your point of view, and being original, forward thinking and challenging,” said Christian Meunier, vice president, Nissan Marketing, NNA. “Our commitment to the philosophy of SHIFT_ has become even more critical as we look to the future and the pressures of economic and environmental change that are affecting consumer behavior in how they interact with and impact the world.”

All Nissan national marketing materials will include the new SHIFT_the way you move tagline beginning in January.

About the 2009 Nissan 370Z

The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z, the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Zâ since its reintroduction as a 2003 model, solidifies the strengths of its predecessor with an unmatched balance of performance, style and value. Nearly every piece and component of the 370Z has been rethought or redesigned (compared to the previous 350Z) – a shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials, larger engine with 26 more horsepower, a new 7-speed automatic transmission, an available world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching 6-speed manual transmission, a new high quality interior design and new available technology features.

The 370Z’s new aerodynamic body is more compact and offers a more aggressive stance. Attention to details such as the new “boomerang” headlights and taillights increases its dynamic presence, elevating the overall styling to much higher quality and emotional levels. The dramatic new interior utilizes a driver-centric three-layer design which groups items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place – so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive.

Performance has been enhanced with a more rigid body structure, better power-to-weight ratio and a new 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL). Crisp handling is provided by a refined 4-wheel independent suspension, while steering and braking systems, including available Nissan Sport Brakes, have also been upgraded. Available technology features include Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTrafficâ with Real-Time Traffic Information (XMâ subscription required, sold separately) and 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and a Bluetoothâ Hands-free Phone System.

The new Zâ is offered in two models: 370Z and 370Z Touring. In addition to the 370Z’s long list of standard equipment, the 370Z Touring adds heated leather-appointed power seats, HomeLinkÒ Universal Transceiver, BluetoothÒ Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker BoseÒ audio system, XMÒ Satellite Radio (XMÒ subscription, sold separately) cargo cover and aluminum pedals to the long list of standard ZÒ features and equipment. Also available is a premium paint color, Chicane Yellow.

The Nissan NV2500 Concept is, as its dimensions suggest, a multi-tasker of large order. One of the largest concept vehicles Nissan has ever produced, the NV2500 Concept, offers fresh design and fresh thinking – including a 3-Zone interior and flexible utility and storage solutions.

Not only does the NV2500 Concept provide an original take on Commercial Vehicle (CV) design, it also provides a preview of Nissan’s entry into the CV market in North America. With Nissan CVs already sold in 73 percent of the world’s markets, including Japan, China, Mexico, Europe, South America, Australia and the Middle East among others, Nissan will enter the CV business in North America in 2010.
The line will incorporate three all-new products in three years, as well as products from the global stable. As a result, in the mid-term, Nissan will offer a multi-segment CV lineup up to class 5 gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR).
The three new products are being developed by Nissan specifically for the North American market and will be built at Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Canton, Miss. Nissan is investing $118 million to expand Canton’s production to manufacture CVs.

“The Nissan NV2500 is a rolling idea lab – bringing a new perspective to the Commercial Vehicle segment,” said Bruce Campbell, vice president, Design for Nissan Design America, Inc., which developed the NV2500 Concept. “We see the NV2500 Concept as an ongoing exploration of ways to make these vehicles more than just a box on four wheels. Our goal is to enhance utility through creative design solutions, providing a platform for a wide variety of specific professional applications.”

In this configuration, the Nissan NV2500 Concept is designed for construction use. It bears the logo of Habitat for HumanityÒ only to illustrate the partnership between Nissan and Habitat. Over the past three years, Nissan has donated $3 million in cash, vehicles and house sponsorships, along with thousands of hours of work volunteered by Nissan employees.

The NV2500 Concept’s “wall-less” mobile office/workspace design includes a computer workstation, fold-down conference table, numerous storage compartments, cargo/tool tie-down racks, nearly six feet of interior height and an awning-style side panel that opens to create a standing outside workshop table.

“Aside from construction site applications, the NV2500 Concept, with its unique configuration and array of features, could be used in infinite ways by infinite users. Whether a mobile Farmers’ Market booth, a hot-air balloon launch or chase vehicle or to support a beachside surfing school, the usage possibilities of Commercial Vehicles are endless,” he said.

A Solid Workhorse Foundation

The NV2500 is conceived first and foremost as a powerful, multi-purpose utility vehicle. Built on a modified Nissan Titan full-size pickup all-steel, fully boxed ladder frame, engine choices would be selected for competitive power and fuel efficiency. Other under-skin components include an automatic transmission and solid rear axle. The wheels are a special 20-inch billet aluminum design, while the Michelin tires include a special tread pattern designed for a good payload capacity and fuel efficiency.

Dimensionally, the NV2500 Concept has a 147.6-inch (12.3-foot)) wheelbase and measures a full 19.5 feet bumper-to-bumper. It stands 8 feet tall and is 6.6 feet wide. Inside, from the front of the passenger compartment to rear door, there is room to carry objects up to 10.5 feet long with the passenger seat moved out of the way.

The NV2500’s exterior design is highlighted by a wide grille, pronounced wheel arches, stepped roofline, well-defined fenders and unique window and roof treatments. Along with wraparound-style windshield/front door windows, the NV2500 Concept features lower door-glass cutouts and an oversized, fixed-glass roof panel that stretches from behind the B-pillars to the rear doors – adding a visual lightness to the design and illumination to the interior.

The NV2500 Concept’s roof panel includes integrated solar panel technology to power interior equipment, lights and accessories. Additional exterior features include large, retractable outside mirrors, motorized flip-down AMP Research side and rear door steps, LED headlights and taillights, and dual-purpose tow hooks located in the grille that also serve as steps for easier access to the engine compartment.

The most intriguing aspect of the exterior, however, is the multi-use doors. On the driver’s side, the Titan King Cab-style Wide Open Door offers unfettered access to the front of the vehicle, with integrated storage compartments for carrying items such as tool/safety vests, ear protection and first aid kit. In the rear of the NV2500 Concept are vertical 60/40 split cargo access “barn” doors with additional storage compartments and power rear step for walk-through capability and easy access.

The passenger side features a combination of a 90-degree opening vertical door directly behind the front passenger door and an awning-style clamshell panel that hinges upward and locks in place, creating a protected, standing workshop table on the outside and an open “picture window” view from the fold-down interior work desk. The passenger side door also has integrated workshop tool storage with fitted compartments for power saws, drills, screwdrivers and drafting equipment.

“The entire rear wall of the NV2500 Concept opens up so, for example, the construction supervisor can see and communicate with associates without leaving the desk,” said Campbell. “It also serves as an additional, flat workspace that is protected from the elements, providing unlimited flexibility for whatever task might arise.”

An Innovative 3-Zone Interior

Inside the commanding NV2500 exterior is a 3-Zone interior that combines simple, organic solutions with elements of advanced technology.

“The NV2500 Concept challenges the traditional thinking regarding show vehicles, not only in size but in its approach to technology,” said Campbell. “Though it features a number of high-tech features such as a RearView Monitor, navigation system and wireless PC, wherever possible we also used ‘lower-tech’ solutions such as the manually adjusting multi-position passenger/workstation seat and the double-sided workbench that manually converts from an inside table to an outside work surface.”

The NV2500 Concept’s front Driver/Passenger Zone is anchored by a wide instrument panel with a customizable navigation/audio/climate display. The instrument panel also has an accessory power outlet and a built-in retractable power cord. Overhead is a full ceiling storage console with visor shelves, center shelves and a cooling fan that can be powered by the roof-mounted solar cells. Located behind the driver’s seat is a customizable, lighted storage closet designed to hold hardhats, flashlights and work boots – complete with a mudroom-style grated floor for drainage.

Additional storage is provided in the center console’s locking compartment and the instrument panel’s floating shelf. The wide, front-passenger seat can swing rearward on a sliding arm, manually moving and locking into position in front of the workstation console located behind the driver’s seat or pivoting toward the work table. The workstation includes an oversized computer monitor and computer with laser-projected “easy clean” keyboard.

“The passenger seat functions as both a traditional forward-facing seat and a comfortable, swiveling desk chair,” said Campbell. “All elements of the interior are designed to be multi-functional and highly durable, able to stand up to the rigors of heavy use at a job site or other real world locations.”

As fitting of a true work truck, the centerpiece of the NV2500 Concept is the third zone, the Conference Center/Cargo Bay Zone. Dressed in its construction office configuration, this zone includes a fold-down inside/outside workshop table.

With the awning-style side panel in the open position, the table can also flip 180 degree to become a standing-height work surface. Lights on the awning illuminate the table.

Mounted in the ceiling above the side panel is a built-in laser blueprint printer. The wall also includes 110/220W power outlets and areas for the built-in shop vacuum’s air hoses. The opposite wall is dominated by sustainable wood slats for tying down or securing cargo. The engineered sustainable wood flooring includes a custom version of the Titan’s popular Utili-trackÔ cargo tie-down/sliding cleat system. The Utili-track channels run from rear door to front bulkhead on the passenger side of the vehicle. There also are multi-position integrated tie-down hooks and functional task lighting throughout the cargo area.

“The key to the NV2500 Concept’s interior is ingenuity as much as innovation,” Campbell said. “Every element needs to serve high-utility needs for multi-tasking users.”

About Nissan Commercial Vehicles (CV)
Nissan North America, Inc. is entering the CV business through a significant investment in North America as part of a global commitment to the CV segment. Three all-new Nissan CVs are being developed by Nissan specifically for the North American market and will be built in the Nissan manufacturing plant in Canton, Miss., as part of a multi-segment product range of vehicles up to a class 5 gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).

Nissan will forge partnerships with Cummins Inc. for the engines and ZF Friedrichshafen AG for the transmissions. The first Nissan commercial vehicle is scheduled to be launched in the first half of 2010.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the all-new, fully redesigned Fairlady Z sports car, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide.
In the nearly 40 years since the first-generation S30 model debuted in 1969, the Fairlady Z has earned a reputation as one of the most desirable sports cars in the world, with approximately 1.7 million units in global sales to date.
The latest Fairlady Z, while embodying the first generation’s signature “Z-ness” in terms of high performance, design and high value, incorporates dramatic advances in dynamic performance and perceived quality. The Z also offers a strong feeling of “newness,” as expressed by its fresh exterior and interior styling and new performance features.
The new Fairlady Z’s enhanced performance characteristics are a result of its shorter wheelbase, reduced weight and the adoption of the larger, more powerful VQ37VHR 3.7-liter V6 engine. It also offers the world’s first 6-speed manual transmission with synchronized rev control or a newly developed 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode. The combination of more horsepower, new transmissions and a refined suspension helps the Fairlady Z deliver the superior acceleration, cornering and stopping capabilities expected of a true world-class sports car.

Helping the driver take full advantage of the new performance levels is a redesigned interior that aims for “oneness” between the driver and the cockpit, combining sports car functionality with an impression of stellar quality. And, along with its world-class dynamic performance and dynamic design, the new Fairlady Z once again offers exceptional value, giving customers the confidence of having made a wise purchase decision.

Highlights of the all-new Fairlady Z follow.

A Refined, Sculptural Exterior That Is Pure Z

The Fairlady Z’s unmistakable front-engine, rear-drive body proportions only hint at the overwhelming performance inherent under its beautifully sculpted skin. Further notice of the exhilarating driving experience that awaits is given by its iconic “Z-ness” – from the dynamic character line that runs from the headlights to the rear, delineating the waistline and cabin arch to the flared rear fenders that strongly accentuate the drive wheels.

The headlights and the rear combination lamps function as the “stop, flick and pullout” motions that end brush strokes in calligraphy. Their treatment produces a “boomerang motion” that has the intended effect of drawing all the styling elements together.

The wheelbase of the new Fairlady Z has been shortened by 100 millimeters from that of the previous model, offering not only crisper handling and dynamic performance but also a more aggressive sport stance. The new Fairlady Z weighs approximately the same as the previous model, despite its enhanced equipment features and the body rigidity measures that have been adopted to improve safety performance. Significant weight savings were achieved by using aluminum for the hood, door panels and hatchback and by optimizing various body structures.

A raised Z emblem is integrated in the side turn lamps, adding an appropriate touch to the vehicle known world over by a simple letter, Z.

The Fairlady Z comes in a choice of eight attractive body colors, including three all-new Nissan colors: Premium Ultimate Yellow and two three Pearl-Coat (3P) colors – Premium LeMans Blue and Brilliant White Pearl. All exterior colors are standard with Nissan’s Scratch Shield, which self-repairs minor scratch marks in the paint surface.

An Interior That Blends Sports Car Functionality With Superior Quality

The new Z’s cockpit design pursues a sense of solid security and a feeling of unity with the driver. For example, a wire frame was added to the shoulder portions of the driver’s seat for better support. The cushion and main section of the seatback are covered with a slide-resistant suede material. A low driver’s seat hip point keeps the body from shifting laterally, providing support for withstanding powerful cornering forces. These features, along with a lumbar support, enable the driver to maintain a proper driving posture at all times.

The interior features a new suede cloth, Forte Suede, which can be attached to three-dimensional panel surfaces (something that was not possible with the types of trim cloth used previously). This high-quality, dense suede cloth has a pleasing tactile feel and imparts a soft, embracing sensation to the cockpit area. The lid of the center stack storage bin is covered with Sofilez, a new, soft-touch synthetic leather that is embellished with double stitching. Meticulous attention was also paid to the material, firmness and finish of the driver’s kneepad, providing comfortable support for the inside knee. The center armrest is thoughtfully rounded to avoid interfering with the driver’s shifting action.

In addition, the layout of the pedals and steering wheel was revised for easier operation, enabling the driver to execute driving actions quickly. In addition, the front pillars are positioned so as to allow the driver to see ahead easily on curves, while maintaining wide visibility to the right and left sides.

The new Fairlady Z’s three large-diameter, independent meters feature a sporty design, excellent legibility and superior functionality. The diameter of both the tachometer and speedometer was increased and the shape of the steering wheel rim was extended outward on both sides to expand the visible area of the meters. The traditional trio of ancillary gauges, a signature Z design from the first-generation, now has an oil temperature gauge as befitting a true sports car (instead of an oil pressure gauge).

This newest model is the first in the Fairlady Z series to adopt Nissan’s Intelligent Key system and a push-button engine starter. When the “Engine Start” button is pushed, the needles of the tachometer, speedometer and the trio of three gauges swing in unison as the engine comes to life.

Other refinements for this generation Z include a glove compartment on the passenger side and there is sufficient space behind the seats for carrying small items without folding the passenger’s seatback forward. An accessory case is provided that can be used to hold the vehicle inspection certificate. The luggage area can hold two golf bags, and ease of loading/unloading items has been improved. There is also a Bose sound system and an HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system (factory-installed option).

A choice of three interior colors is offered: Persimmon Orange, which expresses an emotional mood; Black that creates a calm, composed ambience; and Gray, which gives the interior a bright, cool and modern look.

Dramatic Advances in Responsive, Linear and Stable Performance

The new Fairlady Z is powered by the VQ37VHR engine with Nissan’s Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system. It generates maximum power of 247 kW (336 PS) at 7000 rpm and maximum torque of 365 N-m (37.2 kgfm) at 5200 rpm. Combining power with ease of driving, this remarkable engine accelerates effortlessly and smoothly all the way to the high-speed range.

The Fairlady Z comes with the world’s first 6-speed manual transmission with synchronized rev control that regulates the engine speed to the optimum level, matching the driver’s shifting action when changing gears. Also offered is a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode that lets drivers enjoy the direct shifting sensation of a manual gearbox along with world-class shift response.

The chassis combines a double-wishbone front suspension with a multi-link rear suspension. In addition to adopting a dual-flow-path construction and internal rebound springs, the shock absorbers incorporate high-responsive ripple control to provide both excellent handling response and supple ride comfort.

Aluminum-caliper opposed-piston Akebono brakes are fitted at all four wheels for driving ease in urban areas and in congested traffic, together with stable braking performance on winding roads and in high-speed cruising.

All of these features combine for an enhanced feeling of high performance, heightening the sensation of driving.

Major Safety Features and Environmental Performance

Every new Fairlady Z comes equipped with a long list of standard safety features, including:

• Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
• Nissan’s high-strength, safe Zone Body construction
• Body construction for mitigating pedestrian injuries (with pop-up engine hood)
• Dual SRS air bag systems for driver and passenger
• SRS side air bag systems for driver and passenger
• SRS curtain air bag systems
• Active Head Restraints
• Seatbelts with a pretensioner and load limiter
• And, low-friction seatbelts in both seats

All Fairlady Z models are certified as U-LEVs, emitting 50% fewer emissions than the levels mandated by Japan’s 2005 exhaust emission regulations. The new Z features a recyclability rate of more than 95% (as calculated according to the guideline adopted by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. in 1998 concerning the definition and calculation method of the recyclability rate of new cars). The Z also offers a reduction of interior volatile organic compounds (VOC).

Huey Lewis once sang “It’s hip to be square.” Few believed him. Mathletes wax poetic about the superior geometric efficiencies of a cube in terms of volume v. surface area. And get little respect. Cavemen discovered that a round stone rolls better than a square one. And, as a consequence, gave birth to the traffic jam. In 1998, Nissan introduced the original Cube, an aptly named box-on-wheels, to minor consumer interest. Perhaps, like homo erectus, the Cube was simply ahead of its time.

But times change, and so did the Cube. In 2002, an all-new second generation Nissan Cube was introduced in the Japanese market. More spacious inside, more glass outside, more power under the hood and, more importantly, a few more angles and curved surface details added to its compact, slab-sided exterior. Quintessentially Japanese, this new Cube took Tokyo by storm. A pocket-sized fun-and-function cocktail mixing the charm of Godzilla and the wit of Mothra, buyers were smitten. And so, it turns out, Huey was right after all.

Like the Nissan GT-R before it, the Nissan Cube soon found an audience outside of Japan – not in person, but through its exposure in fashion and automotive magazines, videos and on the Web.

Reboot to today, more than 10 years since its original appearance, and the Nissan Cube is ready to meet the world in person, coming to America in spring 2009 in an all-new, dramatically rethought third generation design that is clever, quirky, witty, fun and uniquely functional. And still totally square.

More than just unique geometry, however, the new 2009 Nissan Cube is also conceived as a totally different take on an automobile – a car that doesn’t want to be defined as car. “With its unique blend of fashion and function, Cube imagines a life less ordinary,” said Al Castignetti, vice president, Sales, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). “Cube is as much of a Mobile Device as it is an automobile, something that enhances life like people’s digital devices do. Cube is a vehicle that people of all ages can fall in love with, even when they don’t love cars.”

Evocative Yet Rational

Though its uniquely styled, asymmetrical body makes a standout statement against the backdrop of today’s look-alike entry-level vehicles, Cube presents a range of strong rational arguments for purchase as well.

Along with its projected fuel economy of over 30 mph Highway (equipped with the CVT transmission, actual EPA estimates not available at this time), Cube offers an alphabet of standard safety equipment – including an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), six air bags (including front, side and curtain supplemental air bags) and front seat Active Head Restraints.

“The new Nissan Cube is not, by any measure, a pure ‘youth car,’ though it especially meets the needs of young adults’ lives in the sense that it is social, expressive and practical,” said Castignetti. “And like many entry-level vehicles, Cube will be purchased by young consumers with the help or influence of their parents. We believe the combination of value, fuel economy and safety will be especially reassuring to parents involved in such decisions.”

A “Bulldog in Sunglasses”

The all-new 2009 Nissan Cube builds on the previous generation Cube’s non-traditional design with an improved stance and an added sense of dynamic movement. With Cube’s long wheelbase relative to its overall length (a 99.6-inch wheelbase against a 156.7-inch overall length) and wide track, the wheels, in effect, are pushed out to each corner – providing exceptional space utilization and a confident-looking stance that has been compared to a “bulldog in sunglasses.”

“The designers, engineers and planners’ effort and passion in creating the next generation Cube was unheard of – perhaps only exceeded in recent memory by that of the Nissan GT-R development team,” said Castignetti. “They were constantly drawing, cartooning, adding thoughts and ideas, which is how the image of the bulldog emerged and evolved. This was not a traditional development process.”

Along with its stance, the “incognito canine” look is aided by the wide headlights and grille treatment, the small but substantial body proportions and the short “tail” section. In the rear, the bar-type taillights reinforce the wide, anchored feel. The Cube’s creators also sought to maintain a sense of “pure design,” reducing the number of character lines to give simplicity and freshness to the styling.

Another unique aspect of the Cube’s exterior is the greenhouse. The A-pillars are positioned far outward and relatively upright, giving a wider range of forward visibility. The front door windows utilize a “photo frame” design patterned after a personal photo frame, while the asymmetrical wraparound side/rear window creates enhanced rear diagonal visibility for lane changes and reverse parking.

“The ‘geometric circle shape in the square’ rear window is Cube’s signature,” said Castignetti. “Though there are D-pillars on both sides of the Cube, the visual effect of the narrower passenger-side pillar is quite remarkable in the overall appearance, a look aided by the asymmetrical back door.”

Unlike typical top-hinged or clamshell-style utility rear doors, Cube features an easy-access refrigerator-style opening, which makes it possible to open or close it even if parked tight against other cars in parallel parking spaces or when backed in against a wall or other obstacle.

The back door opens fully when space allows for loading groceries, luggage or large-sized objects – or to a limited-access position (about eight inches) when space is restricted for retrieving or loading a backpack or other small objects. The one-hand door handle operation is designed for easy use, even while carrying things in the other hand or arm.

The 2009 Nissan Cube is available in eight mild-to-wild exterior colors: Chrome Silver, Steel Grey, Bitter Chocolate, Scarlet Red, Caribbean Blue, Moss Green, Super Black and White Pearl.

A “Casual Lounge” Interior

The centerpiece of the new Cube’s universal appeal is its “social space” – the surprisingly roomy interior that offers room for five in a lounge-like comfort. “Cube is not wasteful in terms of its footprint, carbon or physical. It creates a third space, in addition to home and school, for interacting with friends. It’s a space that is highly changeable and adaptable to owners evolving lives, with plenty of room for personalization,” said Castignetti.

Cube’s clever, inspired and surprisingly open occupant space was conceived with a “Jacuzzi Curve” layout and “floating meter pod” driver’s area. It combines “casual lounge”-style passenger seating with a relaxed driving experience. The interactive interior is anchored by its curve-themed architecture, such as the subtle wavy shaping of the instrument panel, door panels, seat shapes, armrests and the iconic circular/oval shapes of elements ranging from air conditioning vents, door pulls and climate controls.

The comfortable Cube seating includes 6-way manual driver’s seat and 4-way manual front passenger’s seat, along with a “lounge sofa” style sliding rear bench seat.

The reclining rear seat can be adjusted to three positions – full rearward (providing ample legroom), mid-position (3.9 inches forward) or front position (6.0 inches forward). The rear seat also is positioned higher than the front seats, theater style, enhancing rear passenger comfort and visibility.

“In some ways, the Cube is like the big cardboard appliance boxes you used to play in as a kid – they could be clubhouses, race cars, forts, whatever your mood and imagination wanted at the time,” said Castignetti. “The new Cube’s interior leaves room for imagination and personalization, yet also starts with a solid functional purpose.”

Stress-Free Driving, Room For Personalization

Cube’s stress-free driving experience is the result of a number of factors: an extremely tight 32.8-foot curb-to-curb turning radius, a tall seating position made possible by the tall body height, an extremely short hood “invisible length” (the area of the hood panel that the driver is unable to see) and the good rear visibility for parking and backing up.

“Our studies show that one of the most stressful aspects for young or inexperienced drivers is parking, particularly parallel parking,” said Castignetti. “Cube is extremely adaptable to parking environments in terms of its compact exterior dimensions, good visibility and easy steering.”

Other interior features include the “floating pod” instrument panel with asymmetrical light blue and white gauges, which are designed to make it easier to distinguish between the speedometer and the tachometer. The gauge needles “sweep” when the engine is started to add a sense of flair, while the gradation effect gives a natural ambience similar to the glow of the white moon and the blue earth. Sub-gauges are concentrated for enhanced visibility. The three-spoke steering wheel is available with leather wrapping and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

Convenient storage spaces and cup/bottle holders are abundant throughout the Cube interior – including six cupholders (instrument panel, front center console and rear armrests) and five bottle holders (door panels and center console). There are also detachable multi-hooks for holding bags or hats, which can be moved from place to place – including the instrument panel and rear passenger doors.

The “shelf expression” concept features two “shelves” located on top center and passenger side of the instrument panel. Not designed for holding objects when the Cube is in motion, they provide convenient spaces for placing keys, cell phones or digital music players when the vehicle is parked. The shelves can be personalized with accessory wood-like trim or shag carpeting. Cube’s “Magic Rubber Bands,” another clever Cube accessory item, are colorful rubber straps (red, yellow, orange or silver) that slip into cutouts on the door armrests to secure items such as maps, nametags, photos, towels or small stuffed animals.

“The interior concept is really about the Cube conforming to the users’ needs, rather than the other way around – you can put your favorite items anywhere you want, not where the vehicle tells you to,” said Castignetti. “The designers demanded that every aspect of the Cube interior be delightful, as well as functional.”

The Cube interior design also incorporates a series of subtle “Water Drop” concentric circles, inspired by nature and the calming way that ripples move outward from a drop in water. The circles can be seen in items ranging from the roof headliner to the cupholders to the climate control design.

A Wide Range of Available Features

Cube’s heating and cooling system provides quiet, efficient operation with easy to recognize and use knobs and switches. Other standard equipment offered on the 2009 Nissan Cube includes power windows with driver’s side one-touch auto down feature, Remote Keyless Entry system, power door locks with auto-locking feature, variable intermittent windshield wipers and intermittent rear window wiper, rear window defroster with timer, cargo area courtesy light and hooks, 12-volt power outlet and adjustable front seat belt upper anchors.

Available Cube technology features include Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six speakers, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Interface System for iPod® and a rear sonar system.

The Cube interior is offered in two color environments, Wall Gray and Graphite. Wall Gray, available in a quilted suede-like fabric with special “natural wave” stitching only, is designed to create a relaxing contrast between the warm, light gray upholstery and warm off-black interior accents. The warm off-black Graphite interior, available in two cloth grades, provides a combination of relaxation and more traditional “driving enjoyment” attitude.

“The Cube interior is a great example of how an inexpensive, high value vehicle can be done well – quality design, quality materials and the features and equipment that the user needs with room for personalization, rather than forced customization,” said Castignetti.

Unexpected Power and Driving Ease

Just as Cube has its own unique take on styling and interior design, the engineering team took a fresh approach to performance – creating a vehicle that is easy to drive and easy to handle in traffic.

The emphasis for Cube’s performance credentials is squarely on fun-to-drive, rather than exhilaration. Cube combines an advanced 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder with a new-generation Nissan Xtronic CVTÔ (Continuously Variable Transmission) for good acceleration response, smooth operation and fuel efficiency. Torque is rated at 127 lb-ft.

The MR18DE engine, also utilized in the popular Nissan Versa, is designed to be powerful and responsive, while also delivering excellent fuel economy. Fuel economy is projected to be over 30 miles per gallon Highway with the CVT transmission (actual EPA fuel economy unavailable at this time).

The Xtronic CVT, unlike conventional stepped gear automatics, operates as essentially “one gear” through use of a belt and two pulleys. By infinitely varying the working diameters of the two pulleys, the transmission eliminates the “steps” between gears, resulting in a smoother, more efficient operation by keeping the engine in its optimum power range under a variety of driving and load conditions.

Cube’s new generation CVT adopts a new CVT oil warmer for enhanced warm-up performance in cold conditions (reducing friction). It also includes an advanced Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), which detects the driving situation and style (economy, normal, sports) and communicates with the engine control – helping optimize both fuel economy and driving pleasure.

The 2009 Cube is also offered with a 6-speed manual transmission with a new shift control system, triple cone synchronizers (1st and 2nd gear) and reverse synchronizer system. The 6-speed manual is available with Cube 1.8 and Cube 1.8 S models.

“The Cube has a strong power-to-weight ratio, which combined with the advanced CVT, gives it a surprisingly spirited driving feel. Throw in the small turning radius, good outward visibility and the smooth suspension feel and you have the perfect formula for navigating through traffic with confidence and ease,” said Castignetti.

Cube’s suspension combines an independent MacPherson strut front design with stabilizer bar with a torsion beam rear with integrated stabilizer bar. Its comfortable, flat ride is a result, in part, of the “Ripple Control” shock absorbers and the high body stiffness. Other standard equipment includes vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power-assisted steering, power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes and 15-inch wheels with P195/60R15 tires.

Cube’s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), seat-mounted driver and front-passenger side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

Cube also offers standard front-seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Three Well-Equipped Models

The 2009 Nissan Cube is offered in three well-equipped models: Cube 1.8, Cube 1.8 S and Cube 1.8 SL.

A full range of dealer accessories allows buyers to expand their Cube world with items such as an illumination kit with 20 selectable colors, illuminated kick plates, rear cargo organizer, pet blankets, wheels, aero kits and more.

“We know that self-expression is important to many potential Cube buyers, so we’ve provided the room and accessorize to help with personalization,” said Castignetti. “However, Cube is far from a blank or empty canvas that buyers must equip on their own. Cube is a different kind of box than other vehicles on the market, with an abundance of personality right off the assembly line.”

Smart Simplicity
“Economical, affordable, functional and adaptable, the 2009 Nissan Cube offers an unmatched sense of ‘smart simplicity.’ It builds on a Cube DNA of distinctive spirit and non-automotive style, and adds an enhanced level of humanistic charm and clever design,” said Castignetti. “If cars could talk, Cube would be likely to say, ‘Nice to meet you.’ Come this spring, America gets its chance.”

Nissan, in cooperation with Steve Millen Sports Cars revealed at the SEMA Show a customized version of the 2009 Maxima.

Nissan likes to think of the Maxima as its “4-Door Sports Car”, so it receives the full aftermarket treatment from well-known Nissan race driver and builder Steve Millen. Modifications include engine airflow management improvements, rear roof and deck lid spoilers, custom wheels and tires and a two-tone black-and-silver paint treatment. Like any good SEMA project, many of these parts can already be purchased for your commuter 2009 Maxima.

WITHIN JUST A FEW YEARS, CITIES ALL OVER THE WORLD WILL BE AT NEAR BURSTING POINT. IF MANKIND WANTS TO RETAIN THE LEVEL OF PERSONAL MOBILITY IT CURRENTLY ENJOYS – AND IF THE CITY IS TO SURVIVE – THE ONLY WAY FORWARD IS FOR A RADICAL RETHINK OF THE TYPE OF CARS DRIVEN THERE. ONE SOLUTION COULD BE A CAR LIKE NUVU, DESIGNED FOR THE CITY OF THE NOT-TOO-DISTANT FUTURE.
“Nuvu is literally a ‘new view’ at the future of the city car. It is electric, of course, but as far as Nissan is concerned, for tomorrow’s city cars that is a given. No, the most important aspect of Nuvu is the interior design which provides great comfort and space in an intelligent package designed to make best use of our crowded roads and limited parking slots.”
There is about to be a seismic shift in the urban landscape. Within the next fi ve to seven years, some 55 percent of the world’s population will live in the city, threatening total gridlock. Unless something is done, the irony of the phrase ‘personal mobility’ will be self-evident.

Look around at the cars in a typical city traffi c jam today and the vast majority will have only one occupant and four empty seats. Some might have two occupants, a few three. But fi nd one with four occupants or more and you’ll be doing very well. Today, we buy a family car knowing that we’ll only ever need to use it to its full potential one or perhaps two percent of the time. Tomorrow, things will be different.

Tomorrow, things have to be different.

“There is a new generation coming up who, fi nally, are questioning why we do the things we do. They are asking themselves, for example, why they are buying a large car when they know that for 99 percent of the time they will be in it on their own,” says François Bancon, General Manager, Exploratory and Advance Planning Department, Product Strategy and Product Planning Division, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

“It is our job to provide personal transportation that is better suited to people’s needs and to what the environment – in all senses – can cope with.”

Nissan’s vision for the future of urban transportation is encapsulated in Nuvu, a ‘new view’ of the type of car we will be driving in the middle of the next decade. Compact – it’s just 3 meters long – Nuvu is a concept vehicle with unique 2+1 seating. It is aimed at urban dwellers who don’t want to compromise on their personal freedom or their comfort, yet who appreciate that ‘something has to give.’’

Nuvu is agile, easy to drive, even easier to park. And it is, of course, an electric vehicle (EV). As Bancon says: “We believe zero emission vehicles are one of the key solutions for tomorrow’s city car.”

Nuvu is described as a moving oasis, a haven of green tranquility in the urban jungle. To underline this message, Nuvu incorporates a witty representation of its green credentials: across its all-glass roof are a dozen or so small solar panels.

Shaped like leaves on a branch, the power they generate is fed to the battery using a ‘tree trunk’ within the car as a conduit. Nuvu also uses natural, organic and recycled materials within the cabin.

Nissan has already announced plans to introduce an all-electric car in Japan and the US in 2010 and to mass-market it globally in 2012. Nuvu is not that car, though it does share some of the technology that will feature in the planned production vehicle. Rather, it is a concept of how a Nissan EV might look in the near future.

In the longer term, Nissan foresees a future based around a line-up of zero emission vehicles regardless of their size, category and usage. Nuvu – or its production equivalent – is just one element of this emission-free future.

Continuing the theme of compact urban motoring, with outstanding green credentials – but this time for the more immediate future, Pixo is an accessible city car which offers low emissions and consumption at an extremely accessible price.
Pixo is a five-door, four-seater with a roomy interior and generous luggage space thanks to its efficient design and packaging. It has a lively highly efficient three cylinder 1.0-litre engine. Thanks to its brand new lightweight construction, with resulting benefits in performance, very low fuel consumption and emissions, Pixo will be among the best value eco-cars in the small city car category.
Pixo is 3565 mm long, 1470 mm tall and 1600 mm wide. It has a wheelbase of 2360 mm.
Built in collaboration with Suzuki Motor Corporation, at state-of-the art facilities in Delhi, India , Pixo is a brand new four-seater competing in the fast growing A-segment. Unlike some of its immediate rivals, however, Pixo is far from a micro car. It has five doors to ease ingress and egress to and from the rear seats but remains sufficiently compact to be agile to be ideal for city driving.
Unusually in this class, Pixo is also available with a full four-speed automatic, reinforcing its suitability as a town car that’s perfectly capable of longer journeys when needed.
Sales start from late spring 2009.

Combining true driving pleasure, distinctive and sporty design and a driver-oriented interior with excellent fuel mileage, the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid is a hybrid like no other. The Altima Hybrid, which joined the Nissan lineup in the 2007 model year, continues to offer the efficiency and fuel economy of a hybrid drivetrain with the performance and excitement typical of any Altima.

“Hybrids are top-of-mind for buyers seeking low emissions/high fuel-efficiency vehicles, but not all hybrids are created equal,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “When developing the Altima Hybrid, Nissan engineers had a requirement to make it a Nissan-style hybrid, not just a fuel efficient car. This is a key reason that the Altima Hybrid has done so well when stacked up against the competition, such as in the recent comparison by a leading automotive enthusiast magazine, which called the Altima Hybrid ‘the best’ among the hybrids tested.”

For the 2009 model year, the Altima Hybrid adds a standard auto door-lock function and four new exterior color choices (nine total): Red Brick, Navy Blue, Sonoran Sand and Mystic Jade.

Altima Hybrid has been certified to meet California emissions requirements and is sold in states that have adopted California emissions regulations: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. These eight states are among the strongest markets for hybrid vehicles.

The Altima Hybrid is part of Nissan’s ongoing efforts in the area of environmental protection and vehicle efficiency. The company’s aim is to provide the right technology to the right market at the right time and right value to the customer.

In addition to Altima Hybrid, Nissan offers a wide application of its advanced Xtronic CVTä (Continuously Variable Transmission) in its 2009 passenger cars and crossovers and Flexible Fuel Technology (FFV) in the 2009 Titan pickup and Armada SUV. Nissan has also announced plans to develop electric vehicles as a strategic direction embedded in Nissan GT 2012, Nissan’s new mid-term business plan, with the development of safe and low-cost lithium-ion batteries. A Nissan electric vehicle is scheduled for introduction in the U.S. and Japan in 2010. By 2012, Nissan has announced its plans to mass-market electric vehicles to consumers globally.

Cutting-Edge Hybrid Technology

The Altima Hybrid powertrain mates a refined version of Nissan’s QR25 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and standard electronically controlled CVT with an advanced electric drive motor/generator that increases fuel economy while maintaining low tailpipe emissions. Altima Hybrid is rated as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) and emits almost no evaporative emissions.

“Altima Hybrid’s drive system creates a synergy between its electric motor and its gasoline engine, offering efficiency and excitement in the same attractive package,” said Castignetti.

The advanced energy drive system shares duties between the gasoline-powered 4-cylinder and the emissions-free electric motor – allowing Altima Hybrid to run solely on electric power if appropriate, especially during stop-and-go driving. If extra performance is needed, the gasoline engine starts instantly and smoothly adds power as required.

Altima Hybrid is estimated to have a hybrid system net power rating of 198 horsepower (148 kW). EPA fuel economy is estimated at 35 mpg City and 33 mpg Highway. Combined with Altima’s standard 20-gallon fuel tank, the Altima Hybrid has a projected driving range of up to 700 miles between fill-ups.

The Altima Hybrid utilizes regenerative braking technology to recharge the hybrid system’s batteries, meaning Altima Hybrid doesn’t have to “plug in” to maintain a sufficient store of electric energy.

In order to recharge the battery, a generator places resistance on the driveshaft during braking. Altima Hybrid’s Regenerative Brake System calculates braking force generated by brake pedal operation and controls the regenerative brake force to convert kinetic energy into electric energy, optimizing energy regeneration. The system converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy to usable electric energy that is stored in the system’s 244.8V Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery for eventual use by the electric motor.

The Altima Hybrid utilizes proven technology and components from Toyota Motor Corporation that are mated to Nissan’s refined 2.5-liter engine.

Nissan’s proven QR25 4-cylinder engine has been refined for use in the fourth generation Altima, with a larger intake manifold, increased compression ratio and reduced friction characteristics compared to the previous generation. The engine also features continuously variable valve timing, modular engine design, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum-coated lightweight pistons and electronically controlled throttle.

Helping provide smooth acceleration and maximize powertrain efficiency is Altima Hybrid’s hybrid system-specific eCVT, which works in conjunction with the Hybrid Vehicle-Electric Control Unit (HV-ECU) to determine which power source or combination of power sources will turn the wheels.

Altima Hybrid’s electric motor produces high torque at low rpm, allowing it to utilize its Electric Vehicle (EV) mode to power the car from a standing idle and through initial acceleration without the assistance of the gasoline engine. While this stage of acceleration is a typical gasoline-only powered vehicle’s least fuel-efficient stage, Altima Hybrid offers much of its fuel-efficiency benefits here.

Altima Hybrid’s all-electric mode, called Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, powers the vehicle in this initial acceleration phase. After the electric motor provides initial acceleration, the gasoline engine quietly starts and assumes the load of powering the vehicle. The gasoline engine works independently through cruising speeds until the vehicle reaches speeds at which fuel efficiency declines.

When loads require, the electric motor restarts again and aids the gasoline engine in powering the Altima Hybrid. This allows the gasoline engine to remain in its ideal rpm range while the axle torque simultaneously increases due to extra power contributed by the electric motor.

A digital display on the speedometer indicates when the Altima Hybrid is running solely on electric power. The Altima Hybrid’s available DVD navigation system also features a real-time display showing how the hybrid system directs the flow of energy.

“Altima Hybrid feels remarkably smooth – most drivers will never be aware of the transitions between the electric and gasoline power sources,” said Castignetti. “Mostly what they will feel is highly responsive acceleration and the seamless delivery of power under almost all driving conditions.”

A Pure Altima Experience

The Altima Hybrid is one of three distinct choices for Altima buyers in 2009, along with the Altima Sedan and the Altima Coupe – each delivering a rewarding, engaging driving and ownership experience.

Serving as the foundation for all 2009 Altimas, including Altima Hybrid, is Nissan’s advanced “D” platform. The platform includes a subframe-mounted front suspension, shock absorbers with rebound springs and equal-length half-shafts that are nearly parallel to the ground – virtually eliminating traditional front-wheel drive torque steer.

Altima’s exterior features an aggressive stance, a strong wedge character line and signature Altima-style taillights. Inside, Altima utilizes refined workmanship, high-quality materials and a long list of available amenities. The Altima Hybrid shares exterior and interior designs with the 2009 Altima Sedan – with the exception of unique Hybrid badging and hybrid power/charge display in the driver information display.

The 2009 Altima Hybrid also comes equipped with a number of standard safety features, including Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

Other standard equipment includes front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, front seat Active Head Restraints, the LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

One Well-Equipped Model

The 2009 Altima Hybrid is offered in one model, the Altima Hybrid, and with several optional equipment packages. Standard equipment includes the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and hybrid electric components, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), eCVT transmission, 4-wheel power-assisted disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), electric power rack-and-pinion steering, 4-wheel independent suspension and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Comfort and convenience features include standard Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with Push Button Ignition and a dual-zone automatic temperature control that includes an Altima Hybrid-specific electrically powered A/C that continues to provide cooling when the gasoline engine is stopped.

The Altima Hybrid also offers an impressive list of available convenience features, including leather-appointed seating, Bluetoothâ Hands-free Phone System, RearView Monitor, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Nissan’s Advanced Navigation System with real-time Energy Flow Display.

The 2009 Altima is assembled at Nissan North America – Smyrna Manufacturing.

The Nissan Rogue crossover SUV, introduced as an all-new model for 2008, was created as a whole new way to make driving fun – combining 27 miles per gallon estimated highway fuel economy with spirited performance and SUV utility.

Rogue received a number of prestigious awards in its first year, including “Best New Small Crossover” by Kiplinger’s magazine, Parents Magazine “Best Family Cars for 2008” award, AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Award (VSA) for Compact Crossover SUV segment and MotorWeek’s “Driver’s Choice Award for Best Small Utility.” In addition, the 2008 Rogue received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NTHSA) highest rating – 5 stars – for side-impact crash safety.

Enhancements for the 2009 Nissan Rogue include new auto speed-sensing door locks; fold-down front passenger seat, driver seatback pocket, dual-level center console tray and mood lighting for SL models; drive computer and outside temperature display added to SL models; two luggage side cargo hooks and dual visor vanity mirror illumination for SL models; the Leather Package option is now available for Rogue FWD SL models; and Bluetoothâ Hands-free Phone System and Nissan Intelligent Key™ added to the Rogue FWD Premium Package.

“The Rogue had what we consider an All-Star rookie season, proving once again that the Nissan’s philosophy of providing good fuel efficiency and great driving performance in one high-value package resonates with today’s new vehicle buyers,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “Rogue was designed to satisfy both the functional needs of the buyer and their emotional needs with aggressive, performance-oriented styling, a powerful engine, responsive handling, a driver-focused cockpit and thoughtful everyday utility – and it continues to do so in 2009.”

The 2009 Nissan Rogue is available in two models, Rogue S and Rogue SL, each with a standard 170-horsepower (167-hp CAL emissions) 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVTÔ (Continuously Variable Transmission), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Both S and SL models are available with an intuitive all-wheel drive system with yaw moment control. Rogue also offers a long list of standard safety features – including front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

Aggressive Design and Attitude

Rogue’s exterior is designed to present an image of modern sophistication – both aggressive and sporty. Its sleek, masculine styling includes dynamically arched forms and powerful rear shoulder lines.

“Although people buy small crossover SUVs for their utility, the designers of Rogue sought to create a vehicle that makes you first consider its power, style and sophistication – like a high-end designer briefcase or bag,” said Castignetti. “All the necessary compartments and storage spaces are there, they just don’t scream ‘utility’ at you.”

Rogue features available Xenon headlights, available power sliding glass moonroof with dark gray glass, and an available roof rail system with detachable cross bars (accessory).

Rogue is built on Nissan’s “C” platform, which provides high body stiffness with extensive use of high-strength steel utilized to reduce body weight. Rogue features a 105.9-inch wheelbase and 182.9-inch overall length – among the longest in class, compared with leading small crossover competitors – providing ample rear seat proportions and one of the longest interior lengths. The body also features large front door openings for easy ingress and egress.

A Driver-Oriented, Ultra-Functional Interior

Rogue’s interior, like its exterior, is designed to stand out in class with its sophisticated integration of a cockpit-like driver’s space and exceptional utility. The driver’s seat position offers excellent visibility, enhanced by an available seat lifter with up to two inches of seat height adjustability. Rogue’s instrument panel layout and steering wheel are designed for easy readability and operation while also providing a sporty look and feel, with reddish-orange illumination and silver gauge surround rings.

An available drive computer (standard on SL) includes displays for distance-to-empty, average fuel consumption, average speed, elapsed time and outside temperature. Available steering wheel-mounted controls include audio, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and cruise control (cruise control is standard on all models).

Leather-appointed seating surfaces and heated front seats and mirrors are also available, along with a fold-down front passenger seat (standard on SL) – which allows more than 8.5 feet of front-to-rear cargo space for carrying long items such as wood or ladders. A rear 60/40 split-fold bench seat and oversize glove box with partition that measures more than half-a-cubic foot in volume are standard. Also available is a highly versatile, dual-level center console storage with hidden functionality features.

Rogue’s roomy cargo area has a number of available utility features, including a unique cargo organizer (available on SL only). When needed, the organizer pops up – with a one-touch open button – from its hidden space below the flat cargo floor. A portion of the cargo floor snaps into a vertical position, revealing a flat recessed space with removable, vertical cargo nets. The system helps prevent items such as sports equipment and grocery bags from rolling loose around the cargo area while driving. Rogue also features a washable, removable tray that fits below the cargo area floor to hold wet or dirty gear and tools and a rear tonneau cover to keep luggage and other items out of sight. Rogue’s everyday utility features also include a variety of cupholders, memo/pen holder, coin holder and cell phone/sunglass holders.

Among the advanced technology features available on Rogue are a Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ and a powerful Bose®-developed audio system with 7 speakers and subwoofer with MP3 capability and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately). Also available is a Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver garage door opener and Xenon headlights.

Engaging Performance

While maintaining its functionality as a family vehicle, Rogue’s creators also recognized the target buyers’ desires for a higher level of acceleration, handling and fun-to-drive attributes than offered by traditional small crossover SUVs. Rogue delivers on this promise with an advanced drivetrain anchored by its powerful 2.5-liter engine, 4-wheel independent suspension and refined, intuitive All-Wheel Drive system.

Rogue’s standard QR25DE 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder is rated at 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft torque (167 hp, 170 lb-ft CAL emissions), tuned to provide ample torque in the low-to-mid rpm range for smooth, powerful acceleration and quick initial response from a standing start. The engine features an aluminum block, reduced piston and piston ring friction and increased thermal efficiency (over the previous generation 2.5-liter engine design), 9.6:1 compression ratio, and large diameter intake port and exhaust manifold.

Fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg City/27 mpg Highway for 2-wheel drive models and 21 mpg City/26 mpg Highway for all-wheel drive Rogues.

Every Rogue comes with a standard Nissan Xtronic CVT™, combining smooth, linear and responsive acceleration feel with high-efficiency operation. Rogue’s CVT utilizes adaptive logic control and a high-speed central processing unit. Its advanced shift control offers the optimal shift pattern according to the driving situation and driver’s demands, using input from driver operation, vehicle speed, road gradient, turning condition and acceleration force to adjust shifting patterns accordingly. Available paddle shifters provide an added level of sporty performance and driver control.

Rogue is available with an advanced, intuitive All-Wheel Drive system with yaw moment control or front-wheel drive. The system provides stable starts on dry or slippery roads and excellent all-weather performance and traction. Every Rogue also features standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS).

Rogue’s standard 4-wheel independent suspension provides a balance of ride comfort and driving stability. The front suspension includes subframe-mounted independent struts with coil springs, high-performance shock absorbers with rebound springs, and a stabilizer bar. The rear independent multi-link suspension includes aluminum-alloy upper links, high-performance shock absorbers with rebound springs and stabilizer bar. The rear suspension design provides maximum luggage space (versus a rear strut design), as well as driving stability.

Responsive steering is provided by an Electric Power-assisted Steering (EPS) system. Every Rogue also comes equipped with standard power-assisted front and rear vented disc brakes with standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Rogue S models come with 16-inch steel wheels and P215/70R16 tires, while 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/60R17 tires are standard on Rogue SL models.

Standard safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection; front seat Active Head Restraints; 3-point front/rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners, load limiters and adjustable upper anchors for front seating positions and LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren).

Every Rogue also offers child safety rear door locks; Zone Body construction featuring front and rear crumple zones and occupant zone; Nissan Immobilizer system and anti-theft alarm system; and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

“Like all of our Nissan SUVs, including Armada, Pathfinder, Xterra and Murano, Rogue is ready for anything life offers,” said Castignetti. ”Distinctive style, roominess, ultra-functionality, 27 mpg highway fuel efficiency, exhilarating driving performance and outstanding value – Rogue has it all.”

Exclusivity comes courtesy of a stylish hard top load cover providing a unique design yet still retaining a high cargo volume. Add a load bed protector and reversing sensors for an OTR price of £23,795 and the UK’s number one choice for pickups looks set to continue at the top of the pack.
The new hard top was sculpture-led by Nissan’s own design centre based in Paddington, London to ensure a perfect blend with the Navara’s svelte looks. The side windows therefore have a simulated shoulder line to emulate those of the cabin while the styling lines of the cabin roof integrate with those moulded into the hard top.
The result is a visually arresting design with a distinctive look made all the more stylish by the use of privacy glass and a gloss black finish to the rear pillars, creating a continuous sweep from one side to the other. Further continuity with the pickup body is provided by a rear door handle cover finish matching that of the tailgate handle.

There’s a choice of Black metallic, Starburst Silver, Storm Grey, Cayman Blue and Arctic White paint, which either match, or complement, the Navara palette of colours.

As well as stylish good looks the X-BACK hard top is immensely practical, with a standard load liner and a total volume of more than 1.8 m3. It is fully compatible with C-Channel accessories, including the tool box. An unimpeded view from the cabin to the load area is provided by clear glazing for the front window.

The high quality finish continues inside with all internal surfaces trimmed in a dark grey carpet with the exception of the rear door which has the same paint finish as the exterior.

Added safety is provided by an internal lever that allows the rear door to be opened from the inside.

The new hard top is made from the composite material SMC, which is similar to glass reinforced plastic but with a uniform layered construction making it particularly tough and light for easy installation. The high quality finish is also resistant to minor impacts, its heat expansion properties are identical to the steel body panels and last, but not least, SMC can be recycled.

The X-BACK hardtop has been subjected to a tough regime to prove its endurance, including weathering and impact tests, thermal cycle testing and extensive road testing. As a result, just like the Navara, it comes with a 3 year/ 60,000 mile warranty.

Like all other Navaras, the X-BACK offers SUV levels of comfort, refinement and performance while still offering ‘go anywhere, do anything’ qualities. There’s ample room for five plus one of the largest load beds in its class.

The potent 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine punches out 171 PS and an awesome 403Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, yet it remains economical, achieving 28.8mpg on the combined cycle. And with all that torque it doesn’t hang about between gears either. Drive is transmitted to the road by a tried and tested four-wheel drive system.

Navara Aventura X-BACK customers will want for nothing. The extensive spec includes side bars and chunky chrome back bumper, 17″ alloys, electric and heated door mirrors, front fogs, automatic headlamps with washers, rain sensing wipers and roof rails.

Moving inside there’s Bluetooth phone integration, premium audio with MP3 compatibility and 6CD autochanger, DVD sat nav, dual zone climate control, a leather steering wheel with audio controls, a trip computer, cruise control, rear dark tinted glass, an electric glass sunroof, leather seat trim and electrically adjustable front seats – which are also heated.

Full safety features include front, side and curtain airbags plus active front headrests.

The 2009 Nissan 370Z will make its world debut this November at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It comes to replace the current 350Z, a very successful model launched only five years ago.

The 2009 370Z will keep the same general shape as the current 350Z, but will be more aggressive and more sportier.Iits shark fin-style headlamps -featuring LED technology- have clearly been inspired by those fitted to the company’s Maxima luxury saloon.

The big changes are under the hood, where Nissan placed the same VQ37VHR powerplant found in the Infiniti G37 — a V6 displacing 3.7 liter — delivering at least 330 hp.

Renault also reported that they might use the new Z platform to resurrect the defunct Alpine brand.

The 2009 Nissan 370Z will compete with models like Porsche Cayman or BMW M Coupe.

The coupe will go on sale in 2009, and the roadster is expected to follow 2 years later. Prices are expected to range between $30,000 and $40,000.

The Nissan Xterra, created as tough, essential gear designed to inspire and facilitate outdoor enthusiasts’ activities wherever they go, receives a number of enhancements for the 2009 model year – including a redesigned front end appearance, new Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights (Off-Road only), new wheel designs, new seat materials and colors (with leather-appointed seats standard on SE models), new trim level content and standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

The changes to the second generation Xterra enhance the differentiation between the four available Xterra models – X, S, Off-Road and SE – making it easier for buyers to determine the exact Xterra model for their particular needs and lifestyles. Optional equipment packages have also been simplified with two packages, Technology Package and X Gear Package, offered for 2009.

For a limited time, beginning at the 2009 Xterra’s sales launch in July 2008, the content of the Technology Package – including an advanced Rockford Fosgate® audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately, automatic transmission models only), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, steering wheel audio controls and auxiliary input jack – will be provided at no charge with every 2009 Xterra S, Off-Road or SE.

“Xterra, one of the best thought-out and designed vehicles in the segment, just got even better – especially with the Technology Package offered on every 2009 Xterra at no additional cost,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

“Since inception, Xterra has represented an authentic expression of adventure-focused design, both in aesthetic appeal and real-world functionality. With the enhancements for 2009, Xterra is even more in tune with the needs and desires of its active sports enthusiast owners.”

Once again in 2009, the U.S.-built Xterra offers outstanding quality and reliability, along with strong on-road and off-road performance credentials. All 2009 Xterra models feature an advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine, rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, along with a rugged “F-Alpha” truck platform for adventure-ready performance. The “F-Alpha” platform is shared with the full-size Nissan Titan pickup and Armada SUV. Xterra is available with a choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions and in a choice of part-time 4-wheel drive or 2-wheel drive.

Revised Exterior, Enhanced Interior for 2009

While staying true to the original Xterra design concept of offering drivers “everything you need, and nothing you don’t,” the 2009 Xterra offers a number of exterior and interior refinements that helps keep the design fresh and exciting.

Xterra’s signature exterior styling features include large flared fenders, a versatile roof rack with latchable lid and a rear bumper design with side steps for easy access to the roof rack. It also offers a large, powerful looking hood and headlights and Nissan SUV-style angled strut grille. For 2009, the shape of the grille and front bumper fascia have been modified and there are two new grille treatments – a Sandblast Aluminum finish for X, S and Off-Road models and Satin Chrome finish for Xterra SE models. SE models also receive a newly designed body colored side molding treatment. X and S models receive a newly designed black headlight inner housing surround.

Other exterior enhancements include new Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights built into the roof rack air dam as a standard feature for Off-Road models, along with new side-step and roof rail colors and a new 4×4 badge on Xterra 4-wheel drive models. New wheel designs are also featured on all models, including a new 16-inch bright machine-finished wheel for the Xterra Off-Road. There are also two new exterior colors, Navy Blue and Red Brick.

As in previous years, Xterra features a long wheelbase for a smooth ride and ample interior room, yet overall length is highly manageable due to the short front overhang – helping to enhance maneuverability in off-road hill climbing and trail situations.

Xterra’s flexible interior is spacious enough for up to five adults and their gear, with ample leg room, headroom and cargo room. A standard 60/40 split folding stadium-style rear seat with removable seat bottom cushions and an available fold-down front passenger seat (SE and Off-Road models) create added utility for hauling long recreational gear.

For 2009, the interior features a new center instrument panel cluster with a new fascia and new HVAC switches, new standard leather-appointed seating on SE models, new seat cloth an X and S models and new, unique seat cloth on Off-Road models.

Standard interior features include sporty reclining front bucket seats, footrest, dual front and rear 20-ounce cupholders, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, Remote Keyless Entry and cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls.

Xterra’s versatile cargo area is highlighted by an available Easy Clean cargo surface and a total of 10 cargo area utility hooks – six on the floor/sides and four on the ceiling (floor hooks can carry up to 110 pounds). There’s also an available built-in first-aid kit and space to securely carry jugs up to a one-gallon size. Securing bike racks and other accessories or gear is made easier with an available adjustable channel system in the cargo floor, similar in design to the Utili-track™ system offered on the Nissan Titan and Frontier pickups.

While maintaining its off-road adventure authenticity, the 2009 Xterra also offers a few necessary amenities, including an available premium 300-watt Rockford Fosgate®-powered audio system with eight speakers and subwoofer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, MP3/WMA capability plus aux-in jack, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately).

A Rugged, Truck-Based Platform

Underneath its unique exterior design, every 2009 Xterra features a fully boxed, all-steel ladder frame and a rugged suspension featuring a steel double-wishbone front suspension and solid axle leaf spring rear suspension, with stabilizer bars front and rear. Xterra Off-Road models feature Bilstein high-performance gas shocks, a rear tire deflector and skids plates covering the oil pan, fuel tank and transfer case (4WD only).

Powering Xterra is a standard 4.0-liter DOHC V6, rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft torque. The engine is an increased displacement version of Nissan’s VQ engine series found in the 350Z, Maxima and Altima. It features a longer stroke (than the 3.5-liter version) and has been specifically tuned for SUV and truck applications.

Like others in the VQ family, the 4.0-liter version includes such advanced design features as lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads, Continuous Valve Timing Control (CVTCS), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain and microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces. Other engine features include Teflon®-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, digital knock control system, 105,000-mile spark plugs and high capacity muffler. The engines’ Electronic Throttle Control system includes secondary mapping in 4LO (4WD models).

Two advanced transmissions are offered with the 2009 Xterra. An available electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission, based on the transmission used in the both the Titan and Armada (with an emphasis on acceleration, fuel economy and shift quality), or a 6-speed manual transmission based on the 350Z design but tuned for driving performance and fuel economy.

Xterra is offered in 4×2 or 4×4 configurations. Xterra 4×4 models feature a part-time 4WD system with 2WD/4HI/4LO modes and electronically controlled transfer case. Xterra Off-Road models include two advanced off-road technologies – Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist – as well as an electronic locking rear differential.

Other driveline components include engine speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD).

Wheel and tire packages include 16-inch steel wheels with P265/70R16 tires for Xterra X models and new-design 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P265/70R16 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires on Xterra S models. Xterra Off-Road models feature new 6-spoke 16-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels with BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A tires. New 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with P265/65R17 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires are standard on Xterra SE.

Advanced Safety Systems

Xterra’s list of safety features and equipment includes Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors, driver and front passenger side-impact supplemental air bags and 3-point front/rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors. For 2009, all Xterras also come with standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

Other standard equipment includes the LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Available Models and Packages

The 2009 Xterra is offered in four models – X, S, Off-Road and SE. The Off-Road model is available in 4-wheel drive only, while the X, S and SE are offered in both 2WD and 4WD configurations. Xterra SE comes with a 5-speed automatic transmission only, with X, S, and Off Road offering a choice of 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic.

The entry-level Xterra X grade offers a long list of standard features, including Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), power windows, locks and mirrors, Remote Keyless Entry, cruise control, engine speed sensitive power-assisted rack and pinion steering, 60/40 split fold-flat 2nd row seat and Nissan Advanced Airbag System (AABS).

Standard features for Xterra S include 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with BFGoodrich Long Trail tires, driver’s seat lumbar support, Sandblast Aluminum step rails, Easy Clean Cargo surface and C-Channel cargo floor with four moveable hooks and front tow hook (4×4).

2009 Xterra Off-Road models feature Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights in air dam, silver headlight inner color, black bodyside molding, fold-flat front passenger seat with backboard, unique cloth seat fabric (including red/graphite and charcoal/graphic combinations), sunglasses holder (overhead console), Off-Road badge on lower front doors, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Unique Xterra Off-Road model performance equipment includes 265/75R16 BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A off-road tires, rugged 16-inch wheels, Hill Descent Control and Hill Assist, electronic locking rear differential, high performance Bilstein gas-filled shocks and oil pan, fuel tank and transfer case skid plates.

The top-line Xterra SE features standard 5-speed automatic transmission, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/65R17 BF Goodrich Long Trail tires, leather-appointed seating, silver headlight inner color, trip computer, sunglasses holder, step rails, body-colored outside mirrors, door handles and bodyside molding, XM® Satellite Radio with antenna (XM® subscription required, sold separately), fold-flat passenger seat with backboard, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Two optional packages are available for 2009 – a Technology Package (Xterra S, Off-Road and SE models only) with Rockford Fosgate®-powered audio system with an in-dash 6 CD changer, 8 speakers and subwoofer, steering wheel audio controls, XM® Satellite Radio pre-wiring (manual transmission models) or XM® Satellite Radio receiver and black antenna (automatic transmission models) (XM® subscription required, sold separately), auxiliary input, and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; and an X Gear Package (S and SE models only) with roof rack crossbars, fog lights, first aid kit, cargo net and gear basket.