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.
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.
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.
First launched in 1982, the Micra is now in its third generation and has fast become the best-selling Nissan car in Europe. Over 1.3 million units of the previous Micra have been sold between 1993 and 2002. Micra’s B-platform is the first ever to be shared within the framework of the Renault-Nissan Alliance.
The culmination of a two-year project to develop a range-leader which would add spice and dynamism to the Micra range, the 160SR is intended for enthusiastic drivers.
Central to the 160SR’s character is the 1.6-liter 16 valve four cylinder twin cam engine. An all-aluminum low friction design, the engine is also notably lighter than similar capacity units from rival manufacturers. To produce sharper, sportier handling the suspension has been stiffened and the power steering modified to give greater feel and feedback.
Nissan revealed the new Teana premium sedan at the 2008 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.
“When we introduced Teana in 2004, it sent a clear signal that Nissan was serious about growth in China,” said Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO, Nissan Motor Company Ltd. “The all-new Teana again demonstrates our commitment to high quality and world-class products for the Chinese consumer,” continued Ghosn.
Teana was designed under the concept of modern luxury and relaxation. Defined by a bodyline that is a graceful and sweeping arc, the new Teana embodies sophistication. Known as a pioneer of the “modern living” concept through its first generation, the Teana evolves the interior design to focus on relaxation for all passengers.
Teana is available with the combination of the highly regarded V6 engine (VQ25DE and VQ35DE versions) and XTRONIC CVT. This combination provides both high performance yet refined long distance cruising. For China, a four-cylinder in-line engine (MR20DE) is also available, designed to maximize fuel economy and performance.
As market rivals start to catch up with the segment defining QASHQAI, Nissan has already moved the goalposts: the top selling compact Crossover has expanded its offer with a seven-seat version. Called QASHQAI+2, the newest Nissan builds on the success of the original QASHQAI by adding space and versatility to create the first Family Crossover.
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“QASHQAI has become an instant success in Europe. Its distinctive style appeal to buyers seeking something different: but that’s only part of the story. Dynamic design, generous interior space, top quality materials and genuine driving enjoyment all contribute to make QASHQAI a huge European success. Now comes the seven-seat QASHQAI+2 to add a new dimension to the range… and to ensure Nissan continues to offer something no other manufacturer in the market segment can match.”
Simon Thomas, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Nissan Europe