Nissan Titan - a lot of truck

Pickups are a way of life for many people, whether it is for recreation, work, farm & ranch, or simply because a driver likes them. Pickups have improved in recent years, from merely utilitarian into near-luxury vehicles. Earlier this summer, my wife Judy and I had a 2010 Nissan Titan for our weekly test evaluation and I really enjoyed it. It was a top-of-the-line model LE 4x2.

The Titan is available in four trim levels – XE, SE, Pro-4X, and the LE. The Titan does not come with a wide variety of choices. Our test model was a four-door crew cab. The only other choice is an extended cab. All Titan pickups are powered by a 5.6 liter V-8 engine and a five speed automatic transmission. This is a slight drawback in the pickup market for those wanting some engine choices for more fuel economy.
Pickups are improving their ride quality each year, but bumpy roads always present a challenge. The Titan chassis consists of an independent front suspension and leaf-spring rear suspension, which helps in off-road situations. Most pickups attain a rattle or two over time, but improvements are coming every year. Most pickups are adding more sound deadening materials and tightening parts. Our test model Titan had a really quiet cab for most of the highway riding, but there was a small rattle from inside the dashboard that never could be located.

The Titan provided easy handling and a fairly tight turning radius, which is not always possible in a full-size pickup. When I was on some very curvy roads, there was almost a connection with the road as the Titan held tightly without any feeling of leaning or slippage. Overall, I was very impressed with the road handling, especially curvy roads and backwoods trails.

The exterior of the Titan is attractive and distinctive, but there have not been many changes to set it apart from the competition. Our test model had an upgraded Heavy Metal Edition for an extra $1370. This added tremendously to the rugged, outdoor appearance. It included a heavy chrome grille, large chromed 2- inch wheels, and chromed step rails. All this heavy-duty chrome gives the outward appearance of this being a very aggressive pickup and sometimes perception becomes reality.

The interior is really nice – not premium or luxury, but very functional and comfortable. There are small cubby-holes and storage compartments everywhere. The center console box is large, able to hold a variety of fairly large items, including my wife’s purse. This cab arrangement is conducive to adequately make this truck an alternate work-place during the day. Standard equipment on our test model included Captains chairs for the front seats with touch-button adjustments and both fully heated. The rear passenger seat fold down flat for easy cargo room in the back. The interior includes a lot of leather and wood trim to give it an attractive appearance.

The standard sound system is a Rockford Fosgate premium audio that includes auxiliary inputs. There are two power outlets on each side of the center control panel, which I think is quite useful. It allows the plug-in of two cell phones, or other accessory items, at the same time. So many times, it is necessary to unplug something from the dash area so that a cell phone can be recharged. This was a very nice touch.
The cargo area is available in a couple of different sizes. Nissan has added a fairly large lockable compartment behind the left rear fender. This is almost a hidden area and works well for locking small items in a pickup. Our test model included the Util-Track tie-down system that included C-channel rails along the walls and floor. There were four movable tie-down cleats located in the rails. These were easy to move and easy to use and are ideal if you use the bed for carrying larger items that need to be secured on a regular basis, such as a riding lawn mower or a four-wheeler ATV.

The base rear-wheel-drive XE model starts at $26,320 and this includes the V-8 engine. Our test model LE had a long list of standard equipment and had a base MSRP of $36,420. With the destination charges and that Heavy Metal Chrome package added, the bottom sticker price came to $38,995. I had hoped for a little bit better gas mileage, but average out at just 19 mpg. This was better than the EPA ratings of 13 city and 18 highway. Maybe I just didn’t push it hard enough.

Overall, I really like the Titan. It may not fit everyone’s desires or needs, but if the fit is there, it is a great pickup truck that provides a lot for the driver.

by Alan Gell - MyCarData

3:53 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Nissan Leaf - Charged up again

It was about this time fourteen years ago when my college roommate – an electrical engineering student – and I departed our fraternity in Flint, MI to drive the 45 minutes to a non-descript facility in Troy, MI. I arranged for us to get a preview of the upcoming GM EV1 electric car for the school newspaper. It was exciting to drive the car of the future. Despite all of the nonsense you’ve heard from actors and comedians, the EV1 was a very decent car that GM put significant effort into producing. It was eerily quiet, nearly as fast as a Z28 Camaro from 0-60 mph, and looked cool. It also cost the price of a new Mercedes and had a 60-mile range. In the end, as my roommate calculated driving back to Flint in my Geo, the math didn’t add up.

That was fourteen years ago. Now, a new generation of electrical engineers is re-working the formulas. Last week, I drove the Nissan Leaf for the first time at the company’s headquarters in Nashville, TN.

In person, the car looks bigger than I imagined – close in size to a Toyota Prius or Honda Insight. An ultra-aero exterior improves range and reduces wind noise. Headlamps are placed to direct air over the body and around the drag-inducing mirrors. An underbelly pan and rear spoiler help the air depart cleanly to improve range. LED headlamps, thin vertical taillamps, chrome door handles, and 16” alloy wheels look cool.
Leaf’s next-decade interior takes parts from the Prius and Honda Civic, with the entirely different purpose of efficiently moving a car without a gasoline engine. There’s no need for a tachometer, engine temperature gauge, or oil pressure monitor. More relevant, the NAV system shows a circumference of drivable range at any given time while a monitor shows power usage from the climate control, electric motor, and other systems so drivers can intelligently manage their energy usage. Owners can schedule battery charging for non-peak hours (even from their iPhone), turn on A/C remotely, and talk on their Bluetooth-enabled hands-free phone.

If the dashboard didn’t clue you in, driving the Leaf confirms this is no normal automobile. Pushing the starter button doesn’t so much start the car as enable it to move. Engage “D” with the center-positioned “joy pod” by pulling down. Step on the “throttle” and the car whirs away without fuss. It is so quiet that electric motors for the windshield wipers and climate control were upgraded to luxury standards so passengers wouldn’t hear them in the absence of engine noise.

Our route took us through city streets before jetting onto the freeway and up to an easy cruising speed of 80 MPH. The flat torque curve inherent to electric motors is like a turbine at take-off – there’s no shifting gears, just smooth constant thrust. Low center of gravity, thanks to the battery placement, lets the car sachet though Tennessee farm country like an ice skating pixie. Regenerative brakes capture energy during deceleration and direct it back to the batteries, increasing the car’s range. Nissan promises a useful driving distance of 100 miles per charge and a top speed above 90 MPH. It runs 0-60 mph in 10s, plenty quick enough to dash busy freeways. An ECO mode conserves energy by making the throttle less sensitive and the regenerative brakes more aggressive.

According to Nissan, 90% of the U.S. population drives less than 100 miles a day on average. Nearly three-quarters drive less than 50 miles per day. Charging takes 20 hours on 110V home plugs, 8 Hrs. on a 220-V hard-wired outlet, and less than 30 minutes on the commercial charging stations utilities are rapidly installing.
Safety was paramount in the Leaf’s design. It comes with a full array of airbags and meets all federal crash standards. The battery pack is placed in the center of the car, under the floor, to protect it in an accident. The pack was also subjected to full water immersion, deep freezing, and extreme hot temperatures.

My college roommate is now off designing networks for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, but I’ll look forward to getting his opinion on the Leaf when we meet in Detroit auto show next January. Compared to the EV1, the Leaf goes further, holds more people, and costs significantly less. After the $7,500 Federal Tax Credit, prices start at $25,280. Other states and municipalities offer up to $6,000 each. In some parts of California, the total credits reduce the Leaf’s price to under $13,000! Many people will like the new math. Early U.S. models come from Japan, but production begins in Smyrna, TN during 2012. I would not have the Leaf as my only car, but it would do everything I need 99% of the time. A decade and a half later, I’m charged up again for the future of electric cars.

By Casey Williams - MyCarData

3:49 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Nissan Leaf Battery Electric Vehicle Named Ward's "10 Best Engines"

100% electric drive system is first zero-emission winner in award’s history
Ward’s today announced that Nissan LEAF’s 100-percent electric, zero-emission drive system is included on its prestigious ‘10 Best Engines’ list for 2011. It is the first time in the 17-year history of the magazine’s ‘10 Best Engines’ that the selection committee has chosen a power system which doesn’t have an engine and will never burn a drop of gasoline.

“We engineered Nissan LEAF to have drive characteristics that would impress drivers, whether you’re comparing it with other electric vehicles or those powered by internal combustion engines,” said Carlos Tavares, Chairman, Nissan Americas. “The inclusion of Nissan LEAF in Ward’s ‘10 Best Engines’ demonstrates that the Nissan LEAF can compete with all top vehicles, no matter the propulsion system.”

For 2011, 38 competitors were considered, marking the largest group in the history of the award. The competition included both naturally aspirated and forced induction internal combustion engines, diesels, hybrid electrics and the all-electric Nissan LEAF. The editors evaluated the vehicles based on horsepower and torque; noise, vibration and harshness; the engine’s technical attributes; and their relevance among direct rivals.
The all-new Nissan LEAF features a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor powered by a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery manufactured at the Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC) operation in Zama, Japan, which is a joint-venture of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and NEC Corporation. Both motor and inverter have been developed by Nissan, and the power system generates 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. The power is transferred to the wheels through a single-speed reduction gear.

Unlike a conventional internal combustion engine, Nissan LEAF delivers maximum torque from start, providing smooth, consistent acceleration. Performance in the low-to-medium speed range is equivalent to that of a vehicle powered by a V6 gasoline engine. This power system provides a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience consistent with consumers’ expectations for traditional, gasoline-powered vehicles.
The 2011 Nissan LEAF goes on sale this month in selected markets in the United States and will be available nationwide in 2012.

Source Nissan - MyCarData

3:48 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Nissan NV - New commercial van pricing

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced that the 2012 Nissan NV, the company’s first entry into the commercial vehicle market in the United States will start at $24,590. The NV is the culmination of 75 years of Nissan commercial vehicle experience in the global marketplace.

The 2012 NV, which has been designed and conceived as a solution to the needs of today’s commercial van customers, will be produced at Nissan’s Canton, MS. assembly facility. It is scheduled to go on sale through a select network of Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide beginning in spring 2011.

The NV lineup offers durable body-on-frame construction and choice of standard roof or industry-exclusive high roof configurations. Models include the NV1500 with standard 4.0-liter V6 engine, the NV2500 HD with a choice of 4.0-liter V6 or 5.6-liter V8 and the NV3500 HD with standard 5.6-liter V8. All 2012 NV models are equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The NV is available in two grades, S and SV, each delivering smart functionality through a combination of the comfort and roominess of a pickup with the utility of a cargo van.
Key Nissan NV highlights include:
Full access rear doors (maximum opening angle of 243 degrees)
Reinforced integrated cargo area mounting points for durability and ease of cargo management system installation

Vertical side walls in cargo area maximize usable space
Water repellant cloth seating surfaces
Durability patch built into the front seat bolsters to hold up to commercial use
Multifunctional lockable center console offering space to hang files and store a laptop
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan NV Standard Roof models include:

Model/Roof/Engine
NV 1500 Standard Roof S V6 $24,590 USD
NV 1500 Standard Roof SV V6 $26,190 USD
NV 2500 Standard Roof S V6 $25,590 USD
NV 2500 Standard Roof SV V6 $27,190 USD
NV 2500 Standard Roof S V8 $26,490 USD
NV 2500 Standard Roof SV V8 $28,090 USD
NV 3500 Standard Roof S V8 $28,190 USD
NV 3500 Standard Roof SV V8 $29,790 USD

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan NV High Roof models include:

Model/Roof/Engine
NV 2500 High Roof S V6 $27,990 USD
NV 2500 High Roof SV V6 $29,590 USD
NV 2500 High Roof S V8 $28,890 USD
NV 2500 High Roof SV V8 $30,490 USD
NV 3500 High Roof S V8 $30,590 USD
NV 3500 High Roof SV V8 $32,190 USD

About the 2012 Nissan NV
Scheduled to launch in spring 2011, the Nissan NV is available in three models, NV1500, NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD, and in two roof configurations – Standard Roof and High Roof. The NV is the first commercial van to offer rugged body-on-frame construction combined with a High Roof, offering most users the ability to walk, stand and work in the cargo area.

The NV’s rugged, masculine design combines a full-length hood with access to the engine for service and maintenance, along with signature Nissan styling cues such as large headlights and vertical grille. The broad bodysides project a serious commercial vehicle appearance and provide ample room for company logos and advertising messages. The tall, wide doors offer easy access to the cargo area.

Inside the cab is a roomy comfortable interior with wide, supportive seating and an expansive instrument panel. The passenger seat includes a segment-exclusive fold-down feature, providing a convenient worktable. An available lockable center console offers innovative storage compartments and space to hold binders, hanging file folders and a laptop computer. Other convenient storage spaces include a wide overhead console (available with High Roof models), underseat storage drawers (NV2500 HD and NV3500 HD models) and large door pockets.

The NV also provides exceptional utility, thanks to a long, wide cargo floor, square-top wheelwell housings and nearly vertical sidewalls. Along with maximizing cargo space, the sidewalls accommodate aftermarket storage systems without excessive modification. The cargo area also features a full-length inner panel to prevent cargo from denting the vehicle’s outer skin (SV models). There are also multiple integrated reinforced mounting points for durable installation of cargo customization equipment.
Powering the rear-wheel drive Nissan NV is a choice of two powerful yet fuel-efficient engines – a 4.0-liter V6 rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.6-liter V8 rated at 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque. Both are mated to a standard 5-speed automatic transmission.

Source Nissan - MyCarData

3:46 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Nissan Rogue - goes Rogue

As gas prices and fuel economy standards rise during this decade, there can be no doubt that the compact crossover market is going to take off like a rocket. Vehicles like the Chevy Equinox, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Toyota RAV4 dominate the market. But, let’s not forget the Nissan Rogue.

Nissan designers were wise to give their Rogue styling based on the popular mid-size Murano crossover. The Murano has been one of my favorite vehicles since driving the first-generation on a long-distance road trip in 2003. As much as any other SUV, it looked upscale and drove the same way.

Rogue sits a little lower on its Sentra-based chassis than most other crossovers, giving it firm and planted appearance. That also eases entry and exit for passengers. An eggcrate grille with chrome “medallion” center and large air intakes through the bumper dominates the front. Clear lens headlamps wrap from the bumper tops into the hood and to the vehicle sides. Wheel well flanks were flattened to contrast with the otherwise sculpted sides, arching roof, and rising windowlines. The rear parts air with flush window glass and wrap-around taillamps. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels look as good as they work. From some angles, the Rogue looks a little frumpy, but is generally pleasing.
My favorite part of the Rogue is its interior. Unlike some other compact SUVs, nothing about the Rogue’s cabin feels low rent. You immediately notice a spacious interior, ample rear legroom, and sportiness. Our test vehicle came with a three-spoke steering wheel that includes audio and cruise controls. It was rubber instead of leather, but felt good all the same. Supportive and comfortable bucket seats were perfectly upholstered in a canvaslike material that should prove weather- and kid-proof. A dash-mounted Garmin navigation system, XM Satellite Radio, large drinkholders, easy-to-use climate controls, and large analog gauges take the Rogue several steps above steerage. A manual shift mode in the console allow drivers to control the powertrain as they wish.
Murano envy continues when you put the Rogue in drive and power away. With 170-horsepower available from a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, drivers will want to tap-tap the transmission often. The continuously variable trans. (CVT) is basically gearless with belts that adjust on pulleys to find the optimum gear ratio. Stepping hard on the gas brings the eerie sound of a high-powered weed-eater, but quickly seems normal. Automatic all-wheel-drive, electronic stability programming, and four-wheel anti-lock brakes tell slick roads to, “Bring It On!” Around town, or flat out on the Interstate, the Rogue seemed quick and determined. Fuel economy is rated 22/26-MPG city/highway.
Driving the Rogue is definitely related to the Murano, but also other great-handling Nissans like the Sentra, Altima, and Maxima. Everything about the vehicle feels more solid and refined than you would expect. Steering is firm, but precise while the four-wheel independent suspension rumbles over rough pavement without unsettling anything and is actually fun on curvy roads. Highway trips are also a joy as the steering tightens up nicely at speed and the chassis settles in for a high-speed scamp.

While I had the car, I picked up my parents and grandmother for lunch. Four of us had no problem fitting inside and my grandmother’s walker slid into the cargo area with room to spare. While sitting in back, I noticed the door panels were molded in hard plastic instead of soft vinyl as in the front – an apparent concession to either cost or children’s sticky fingers. As my dad pointed out, there is a bit of road noise in the rear, but nobody ever said the Rogue was an Infiniti. I doubt few owners will ever notice.

I only have one problem with the Rogue - its $27,105 price tag. It is a nice little crossover, but it is hard to swallow a Sentra-based wagon that is nice, but not an Infiniti in any way, that commands a price near $30k. I would like the Rogue much more with a price tag about $5,000 less. It will take a bit more to command prices in that league.

Still, Rogue was named “Best New Small Crossover” by Kiplinger’s magazine and earned MotorWeek’s “Driver’s Choice Aware for Best Small Utility.” NHTSA gave it 5 stars for side-impact crashes. In virtually all ways, the Rogue is a star, proving it is ready for the coming battle for your compact crossover dollars.

2011 Nissan Rogue SV AWD
Five-passenger, AWD Crossover.
Powertrain: 170-HP 2.5-litre I4,
CVT auto. trans.
Suspension f/r: Ind./Ind.
Wheels: 17”/17” f/r.
Brakes: disc fr/rr with ABS.
Must-have features: Style, handling.
Fuel economy: 22/26-MPG city/hwy.
As tested price: $27,105.

By Casey Williams - MyCarData

3:44 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Nissan Juke - mini ute, major cool

This crazy bug-looking mini-crossover pulled up in front of the United terminal at the airport, looking like a vision with its California plates and West Coast style. Its design draws from motorcycles and rally cars, but is most remembered by the big yellow mantis eyes that are visible from the helm. Four doors, Beetle shell, and a bit of Z DNA throw us to a future where utes are mini and Jukes are cool. I hopped in.

When the Juke was introduced at Rockefeller Center last March, one had to wonder if Nissan had unplugged from the Leaf’s grid and rolled too far off the trail. The company was aiming to lure youth with a cool car that crosses the all-road performance and fun of a European rally car with the screaming delight of a motorcycle. If commentary while driving the Juke is any indication, the car is as likely to attract as many fun-loving empty nesters as avant garde college kids.

Crossing the illuminated “Juke-lit” kick plates takes passengers to a world of two-wheelers and technology. Elements like the two-coat pained center console that was designed to remind us of a fuel tank, matching bits on the doors, hooded instrument binnacle, and piano black gloss around the center controls brings in motorcycle style. Bolstered two-tone sport seats, gear selector high up like in a race car, and push button ignition (with passive entry) would comfort performance drivers. A rear view camera, in-dash navigation, real-time traffic monitoring, power moonroof, automatic climate control, and 60/40 split/fold rear seats add convenience. Heated leather seats would only make a better perch from which to sling this shot down the road.
Revving more like a motorcycle than a motorcar, the 1.6-litre Direct Injection DOHC four-cylinder, fortified by a turbo, generates 188 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque. Front-drive models are available with a six-speed manual transmission, but all-wheel-drive funsters like our test car come standard with a continuously-variable (CVT) automatic. A manual shift mode simulates shift points so the CVT behaves less like a weedeater and more like a Getrag-6. Getting major bang for minor buck, the little turbo banger turns in 25/30-MPG city/hwy.

Juke’s rally car heritage can be found in the way its four wheels act as electronically-enabled stabilizers. Nissan’s “torque-vectoring” all-wheel-drive can shift power between the front and rear axles, as well as side to side between the rear wheels depending on where the system detects the most friction.

Controlled through a cool screen in the console, there are also three different throttle, transmission, and steering response settings. “Normal” is used for everyday driving and lets the CVT move through its range at will. “Eco” mode reduces throttle sensitivity to conserve fuel. My favorite, “Sport” mode, quickens the steering, moves the CVT through pre-set gear ratios as in a typical automatic transmission, and makes the throttle much more sensitive. Punch the gas, and the car reacts. Put it into a corner and a big curve-eating grin comes across your face.

The Juke torque-vectored its way through winter’s anger with skill, never putting a wheel wrong even when old ladies in old cars were kissing face with ditches and fast food restaurant dumpsters. Powertrain migrations could easily be confused with a Subaru’s in the way they masterfully make use of every bit of friction to move the car in one’s intended direction. Besides poor weather performance, the AWD system helps control understeer on dry pavement, giving the Juke remarkable balance. When AWD can’t hold its own, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, and grippy 17” sport tire-tread alloys stabilize rapid demons.

Wearing snow shoes or track shoes, good on slippery streets, and a real star with torque vectoring AWD on the slinky twisties, the Juke is a pro. Like an automotive Johnny Weir, it is a little flamboyant in its look, but brings game and is the consummate professional on the fly. Impressed, I get out. With an as tested price of $24,260, competitors include the Mini Countryman, Subaru Impreza, and Jeep Compass.

2011 Nissan Juke SV
Five-passenger, AWD Crossover.
Powertrain: 188-HP 1.6-litre T4,
CVT auto trans.
Suspension f/r: Ind./Ind.
Wheels: 17”/17” f/r.
Brakes: disc/disc fr/rr with ABS.
Must-have features: Cool performance.
Manufacturing: Japan.
Fuel economy: 25/30-MPG city/hwy.
As-tested price: $24,260.

By Casey Williams - MyCarData

3:42 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Nissan Rogue SL - gone for a second time

Nissan’s gone Rogue for the second time!

There, now that I have your attention, let’s look into the second-generation of the vehicle that launched Nissan into the car-based compact crossover sports utility vehicle market in 2008, joining a lineup that had until then only had the midsize Murano crossover.

Nissan has had a good run with its small trucks and truck-based SUVs. But when the compact crossover market exploded in the late 2000s with CUVs from Chevrolet, Pontiac , Ford, Mercury, Toyota , Kia, Hyundai, Honda and Land Rover, it took them a while to take the compact Sentra platform and make it a tall, small station wagon. Nissan’s recipe was to plant it on a 105.9-inch wheelbase, add a bit of ground clearance, make it seven inches taller, and give it a choice of front- or all-wheel-drive. Since then, they have added the smaller Juke, more of a crossover sports sedan. But for now, it’s time for a Rogue trip.

· Rogue reality – Take some Murano, add some Sentra and Venza, and the result was the Rogue. The design has been freshened for 2011 with a more streamlined nose with chrome grill that flanks a flattened V-shaped central grill with Nissan emblem. Large headlights sit in slightly scalloped recesses for a more interesting look, while the smooth bumper gets a wide lower air intake flanked by inset fog lights and some lower air dams. A slight edgy design line forms the upper fender line, while flattened flares frame P225/55R18-inch Dunlop radials in 10-spoke alloy wheels. A design line runs aft off the front fender flares to become a rounded shoulder line that melds into the large taillights, while the lower window sill line rises up to form a graceful curved D-pillar that meets the rounded roofline. That arching roof line has buff alloy roof rails as it meets a rear spoiler over the rear window – optional crossbars make it more functional. There’s a nice new dash of chrome in the side door guard molding, chrome door handles and a new chrome hatchback trim over the license plate. The black lower fascia has a single stainless steel exhaust pipe tip. For those who want more bling in their Rogue, a Krom Edition exists with different 18-inch wheels and a center-exit sport-tuned exhaust. It’s a cleaner design thanks to the second-gen updates, encased in a 183.3-inch overall length, one of the longest in its class, Nissan says. But there are more stylish compact crossovers out there, like the new Kia Sportage.

· Rogue roominess – Black over gray shades the nicely detailed interior, which starts with a padded dash and door tops and a cowled gauge package with chrome-ringed 160-mph speedometer with inset gas gauge, and 8,000-rpm tach with inset temperature gauge. They flank a white-on-black LCD trip computer display (distance-to-empty, average fuel consumption, average speed, elapsed time and outside temperature). The leather-trimmed three-spoke steering wheel has audio system and Bluetooth cellphone controls on the left, and cruise controls on the right, but is only tilt-adjust. The dash center gets a gentle redesign to accommodate a Bose sound system center speaker on top, then there are infinitely adjustable air vents over a new Nissan Navigation System with smallish 5-inch color touch screen display. Its graphics look a bit like some aftermarket navigation systems I could name, but are clean and easy to read except in direct sun, when the display washes out. The screen handles a good AM-FM-XM Satellite audio system with XM NavTraffic and a new rear-view camera. Shift to the “audio” screen in nav mode, and you get a window on the right with next turn arrow, expected arrival and miles to address – smart! Underneath it, three big dials for the powerful a/c system and a 12-volt outlet. Two big cup holders sit aft of the gearshift, lit at night by a small amber LED spotlight overhead. There’s another 12-volt outlet and MP3 and USB audio ports under the center arm rest, with lots of storage room. Interior notes - the glove box door opens low into a passenger’s knees, but reveals a big storage area. The door map pockets are small, without a water bottle holder usually seen these days. I still don’t like the placement of the power mirror control and stability control buttons, out of sight on the lower left side of the steering wheel. Inputs made on the touchscreen make “klock!” sound, which is different. The navigation screen gets a birds-eye and flat view, nice at this price level, But it’s a bit dark in here despite the alloy and gray touches – maybe some fake wood would do the trick. ; The gray leather bucket seats are firm and supportive, the driver getting 6-way power adjustments and power lumbar support. Both front seats get dual-level heaters. Access to the rear seat is just fine, with good head and leg room for two adults on a low bench, three in a pinch. Rear seaters get a dual cup holder at the rear of the front console, but no center armrest. There’s ample storage room aft of the seats - 28.9 cubic feet, expandable by dropping the 60/40 split-fold bench seat down. No third row seat, but there is a removable cargo tray under the carpeted floor for muddy boots, etc. The rear hatch opens high enough for a 6-footer to stand under – just. And the fold-down front passenger seat lets you haul something long, making for more than 8.5 feet of front-to-rear cargo space. Ultimately, there’s some nice bits of luxury and precision in here, only a bit of wind noise from the side mirrors and roof rack at highway speed in a mostly quiet cabin.

· Rogue road manners – Under the hood is a standard 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder with 170 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque. It’s hooked to an Xtronic CVT (continuously-variable transmission) with switchable overdrive. That means the engine revs rise until it finds its sweet spot under acceleration, and the CVT’s belts and pulleys do the ratios instead of gears. The first-gen Rogue I tested four years ago hit 60-mph in 8.5 seconds, the engine hovering around 5,000-rpm as the CVT spun its way to the ideal torque spot. Our second-gen Rogue, with the same engine and front-wheel-drive as well, did it in 8.7. That still pretty good compared to a RAV4 and CR-V, which are closer to 10 seconds in their sprints to 60-mph, while the new 176-hp Kia Sportage matches the Rogue. Passing power was good, but you have to get used to the engine revs climbing and staying there, unlike the rise and fall of an engine with a regular gearbox. Rogue fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg City/28 mpg Highway for the front-wheel-drive model; we netted an indicated 21- to 25-mpg in mixed driving, better than the average 17-mpg we got with the last one we tested. Based on Nissan’s “C” (read: Sentra) platform, with subframe-mounted front independent struts with coil springs and a rear independent multi-link suspension with aluminum upper links, the ride was firm and responsive for a crossover. It was also comfortable. We could point this crossover into a turn and it would stay planted, only showing a touch of understeer when pushed, aided by standard stability and traction control. It had almost sedan-like handling and nimble. I’m still not a fan of the electric power-assisted steering, which had a stiff on-center feel, but it was precise. The all-wheel power (11.84-inch front/11/68-inch rear) disc brakes had a good pedal feel and control with ABS and brake force distribution and brake assist, with solid stops with minimal ABS intrusion when used hard. For safety, dual-stage front air bag; front seat-mounted side impact air bags; and roof-mounted curtain side impact air bags with rollover sensor.

· Nissan numbers – The Rogue comes two ways - Rogue S and our Rogue SV. The starter Rogue S is $20,810 for the S. Our SV with SL package was $27,070, with standard 6-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, rear view monitor, Bluetooth hands-free cellphone system, keyless entry and start, leather-wrapped steering wheel, 18-inch alloy wheels, navigation system, Bose 7-speaker audio system with subwoofer, auto-dim rearview mirror, automatic Xenon headlights, moonroof, climate control and front fog lights. For comparison, the Kia costs less, and has a few more horsepower and the most dramatic styling of the competitors. It was also pretty nimble, but its electric steering was too artificial. The RAV4 is almost as quick, and pretty nimble, as is the RAV4, although they both cost more. And there’s others in the crowded field to consider, like the nice Chevrolet Equinox and its GMC sister, the Terrain, plus the Ford Escape, VW Tiguan, Hyundai Tucson, Mitsubishi Outlander, etc.

· Bottom line – The Rogue is no cad. It’s a roomy, comfortable, sure-footed crossover with solid performance and handling. The restyle was minor, making a simple look nicer, but it blends in a bit with the world around it. Still, with a price that’s less than some of the imports and even some of the domestics, with the right options, the Rogue could be a smart choice.


Vehicle type - 5-passenger compact crossover

Base price - $27,070 (same as tested)

Engine type – aluminum DOHC, 16-valve in-line four

Displacement – 2.5 liters

Horsepower (net) – 170 @ 6,000 rpm

Torque (lb-ft) – 175 @ 4,400 rpm

Transmission – continuously variable transmission

Wheelbase – 105.9 inches

Overall length – 183.3 inches

Overall width – 70.9 inches

Height – 66.3 inches

Front headroom – 39.3 inches

Front legroom – 42.5 inches

Rear headroom – 37.6 inches

Rear legroom – 35.3 inches

Cargo capacity – 28.9 cu. ft./57.9 with 2nd row folded

Towing – up to 1,000 lbs.

Curb weight – 3,429 lbs.

Fuel capacity – 15.9 gallons

Mileage rating – 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway

Last word – A nice choice for a Rogue trip

By Dan Scanlan - MyCarData.com

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Honda, Nissan and Toyota Donate $3.75 Million Each for Japan

The massive earthquake followed by the even more devastating tsunami that struck the north-east coasts of Japan last week has brought together the country’s biggest automakers including Honda, Nissan and Toyota, which announced today that they will donate $3.75 million each for relief and recovery efforts in communities affected by the disaster.
In addition to the contribution in money, Nissan said it is also studying further relief efforts including complimentary provision of vehicles, such as trucks and forklifts, donation of medical supplies and daily commodities including blankets, antiseptics and masks, gift matching donation from Nissan employees, promotion, and support of blood donation activities.
Honda announced that it will donate a total of 1,000 power generators along with 5,000 gas canisters to the people left without electricity, while Toyota is considering the provision of goods and services as needed.
The three automakers have also announced the closure of some of their factories in Japan. From March 14 through March 20, Honda will suspend all production activities at its plants in Sayama, Saitama, Ogawa, Tochigi, Hamamatsu and Suzuka, plus all facilities in the Tochigi area, where damage was more serious. From March 15 through 20, Honda will also suspend production at the Kumamoto factory.
Nissan announced that operations at the Tochigi and Iwaki plants are suspended until March 18, while the Oppama, Kyushu, Shatai and Yokohama plants will be closed until March 16. As for Toyota, officials announced that the Hokkaido, Tohoku, Miyagi and Iwate plants are closed, with all employees having been evacuated to safe areas. The factories will remain closed at least until March 16.
Other automakers affected by the earthquake include Mazda, Mitsubishi, Subaru and Suzuki, which have either suspended or slowed down production because of supply shortages.

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2011 NISSAN LEAF

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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."

 

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 Nissan LEAF include:
• Zero-emission power train and platform• Affordable pricing• Distinctive design• Real-world range autonomy - 160km (100 miles)• 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.

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:
• Development of a comprehensive charging infrastructure through public and private investment,• Incentives and subsidies from local, regional, and national governments, and• 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.

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2011 NISSAN 370Z GT Edition

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Before the Datsun 240Z burst onto the scene more than four decades ago, the sports car was preserve of Europe and America. Until that point, Japan's motor industry hadn't contemplated anything as bold. But that classic rear-wheel drive 'Z' showed Nissan was a quick learner and it instantly captured the imagination of sports car enthusiasts all over the world.

The spirit of that pioneering 'Z' lives on in the latest Nissan 370Z. Like the 240Z, the 370Z - launched in 2009 - is powered by a six-cylinder engine and provides genuine excitement thanks to its performance oriented rear-wheel drive chassis. Like its forebear, its name indicates the size of engine under the bonnet: the original had 2.4-litres while the 370's V6 power pack displaces 3.7-litres.

But times change. Where the 240Z made do with 150bhp, the Nissan 370Z has more than double that, while 40 years of chassis development mean the latest version has levels of ride comfort, handling ability and safety that the original could only dream about.

And it's just got better. The Nissan 370Z GT Edition offers more for less. As well as 19inch RAYS forged alloy wheels in place of 18inch wheels, special body colours and unique GT stripes, the GT Edition actually costs less than the standard car.

As the name implies, the GT Edition highlights Nissan's presence in GT racing on the world stage. As well as its continuing commitment to Super GT in Japan, Nissan has been one of the leading lights in the new GT1 World Championship, winning the prestigious Tourist Trophy in 2010 with the fearsome GT-R. The Nissan Z family has been a race winner in the FIA GT4 European Cup since its inception and competes annually in various 24 hour races - the highlight being the Nürburgring 24 hours.

The Nissan 370Z GT4 Cup race car has raced toe to toe against competition from Aston Martin, Porsche and BMW across Europe in the real world while it is also the racing gamers' vehicle of choice in the virtual world.

An innovative link with Gran Turismo 5 game for PlayStation® 3 has seen cyber racers compete against each other to win a drive in a real 370Z GT4 cup car. The 2011 GT Academy series is about to start with on-line gamers ready to swap the virtual world for the real thing.

The best will become part of the Nissan GT Academy, a motor racing ladder that could take top drivers from local series through the European Blancpain Endurance series right the way to international GT1 World Championship.

Nissan 370Z GT Edition in detail

The Nissan 370Z GT Edition recognises its heritage with a nod to the 1970s and the birth of the original Z car: special side stripes.

Grey 'GT' stripes running along the flanks of the car contrast with the each of the special edition's three body colours - metallic black, pearl white and Black Rose, the latter shade exclusive to GT Edition. The exterior is set off by the standard 19inch RAYS forged alloy wheels, which are finished in a dramatic anthracite colour.

The Nissan 370Z GT Edition introduces a number of significant suspension and equipment improvements which have also been adopted by the standard Coupé. In deference to the higher average speeds routinely enjoyed in Europe, the changes have been engineered by technicians from Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE). The principal modification has been to retune the dampers to provide the ideal balance between ride comfort and high-speed handling.

Equipment changes include the arrival of a rear view parking camera as part of the Nissan Premium Connect satellite navigation option and the standard fitment of a tyre pressure monitoring system. The advanced seven-speed automatic option now has a snow mode which, when applied, sets the car off in second gear and controls engine revs to prevent wheel spin on ice or snow. Refinement is enhanced by revisions to underbody insulation to reduce road noise.

Unchanged is the Nissan 370Z's exceptional 3.7-litre V6 engine. A development of the unit that powered the 350Z, the all-alloy 24-valve twin cam not only develops more power and torque but is also more response, more refined and more fuel efficient.

The addition of VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology helps deliver electrifying performance, the engine developing 328PS and an impressive 363Nm of torque. It is coupled to a short throw six-speed sports manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic.

When in S-Mode, the manual transmission features Nissan's Synchro Rev Control to ensures perfect rev matching when the driver is changing gear, delivering perfect 'heel and toe' changes every time.

Sensors on the clutch and on the gear lever itself monitor driver actions to blip the throttle on down shifts and maintain constant engine revs when changing up. As the sensors detect clutch pedal movement, the SRC system is primed, coming into operation when the gear lever is moved. By matching this information to vehicle speed, SRC knows whether the driver is slowing for a corner or changing up through the 'box.

Downshift Rev Matching is a feature on the automatic gearbox, too, which also has Adaptive Shift Control which learns a driving style and adjust shift patterns accordingly.

The Nissan 370Z's chassis is a car enthusiast's dream: double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear end makes the most of Nissan's agile FM (Front Midships) rear-drive platform.

With a shorter wheelbase, wider track and stiffer shell than its predecessor, the Nissan 370Z has starred on track as well as on road. The innovative GT Academy programme takes computer gamers who have become Gran Turismo experts on PlayStation 3 and turns them into real race drivers. Now in its third season, winners will again race for a place on the grid in a GT4 race prepared Nissan 370Z at the Dubai 24 hours in January 2012 and, perhaps, on to the GT pinnacle, GT1.

Be assured that this is the real thing. Inaugural GT Academy champion Lucas Ordoñez will race in the Le Mans 24 hours with a Nissan-powered Le Mans Prototype car. Ordonez said: "Two and a half years ago I was at home racing on the PlayStation. I'm now a racing driver thanks to PlayStation and Nissan. I can't wait to race at the most famous race in the world in June for the SIGNATEC NISSAN team; it really is a dream come true. "

"The 370Z is an iconic sports car and the GT Edition underlines its appeal to enthusiasts everywhere," said Pierre Loing, Vice President Product Planning, Nissan International SA. "The combination of outstanding performance and the dramatic looks of this very special Nissan 370Z more than lives up to the heritage of its illustrious forebear while its strong links to the race track shows its true pedigree."

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1970 Nissan Skyline GT-R Microcar Replica

We know what you’re thinking but stop right there. What you are looking at here isn’t the result of some crafty photoshop business - it’s the real deal; an actual factual microcar replica of a 1970 Nissan Skyline GT-R coupe that was created by Japanese tuning firm Liberty Walk Performance. The scaled down, single-seater clone of Nissan’s first-generation Skyline GT-R is based on a quad-bike and it’s perfectly drivable.
This is not the first time we’ve shown you a microcar replica from Liberty Walk Performance as some of you may remember the…Lambormini Murcielago snapped by our own Phil Alex at last year’s Tokyo Auto Salon.
The Japanese company has not yet added pricing info on the Skyline GT-R buggy on its website, but just to get an idea, the Lambormini starts from 1.88 million Yen, which comes to about US$23,250 or €16,750 at today’s exchange rates. Feast your eyes on the photo gallery and a couple of videos after the jump. 

Gallery

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Nissan Murano Cross Cabriolet 2011

Having been invited out to the seaside town of Del Mar in California for the presentation of the new Murano CrossCabriolet, we were intrigued at the chance to take Nissan's polarizing convertible out for a spin. That's right, the Murano convertible. How did things play out in California? Interesting, to say the least. 
With the Murano CC, Nissan has gone outside the box to create its own niche. Looks aside, the Murano CC has done what it set out to do: garner interest, spur conversation, expand the model range, and change (not necessarily raise) the bar for mid-size crossovers. For all the ups and downs, read on.

It's a crossover...convertible

Nissan's Murano CC is a two-door convertible crossover that sits at the top of the Murano heap, creating a unique halo vehicle for the brand's crossover segment. While the CC's design is a love-it or hate-it affair, there's no doubt that we can all agree on one aspect: it doesn't come off nearly as badly as those photoshops which alluded to an aftermarket convertible conversion.
This proper execution is thanks to a significant redesign of everything from the windscreen / A-pillar back, while keeping external dimensions similar to that of its hardtop counterpart. Nissan has also found a way to retain the Murano's "J-Motion" belt line that, with the top down, adds a sense of continuity when following the invisible roofline back from the A-pillar.
Revisions to the standard Murano include cutting out the rear doors while infusing the front units with a healthy dose of Enzyte to the tune of 7.9 inches. Surprisingly, ingress and egress weren't too hampered even with more than half a foot of metal added on (although that may have simply been due to this writer’s lankiness). Losing all that rigidity meant that Nissan had to reinforce the body architecture...a lot. Locations deemed essential bracing points were the area formerly known as B-pillar, the floor, and the sills.
The fully automatic top, available in black or beige, drops in approximately 25 seconds; however, unlike many modern drop-tops, it can only be operated when the vehicle is parked. That means no slow-rolling raising/lowering should rain decide to ruin your day while puttering in traffic.

The Murano CC on the road 

Under all the new fuss is Nissan's familiar 3.5-liter V6 - now rated at 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft - and an Xtronic CVT, both of which do their part to scuttle the all-wheel drive CC around with relative ease. It's no rocket, but then again it's not supposed to be.
Under normal driving conditions, the CVT works like a dream, still prompting a grin at mankind's technological advances; unless putting the pedal to the proverbial metal, acceleration is smooth and uninterrupted.
Ride quality may have been a tad fluttery when rolling over some of San Diego's not-so-well-paved roads in a convertible crossover on 20-inch alloys, but this is to be expected when lobbing off a vehicle's roof, B-, and C-pillars. On the boulevard, however, the ride was smooth and relaxing as expected.
Top-up motoring is fairly standard for a convertible, meaning there are compromises to be made in sound quality due to the soft top and lack of bulletproof glass. With the top down, all that has to be said is this: turbulence mitigation is lacking. One cohort expressed that she was "swimming in [her] hair", but the most noticeable issue was the lack of rear seat belt retainers, which led to an unsophisticated flapping at highway speeds. Other than a bit of buffeting, though, sky-filled driving was a pleasure.
Steering feedback is a different story. Even in the premium market, where ease of use and lack of effort are lauded incessantly, the electronically assisted steering of the CC was beyond feather-light. TOO beyond feather-light. When maneuvering around a parking lot, it was almost impossible to feel any communication between the driver and the tarmac. Not until reaching cruising speeds did it feel like anything was actually happening. Some would say that's the point, but what's steering without feedback?

What's the point? 

As Nissan puts it, the Murano is a car for empty-nesters. With the Murano CrossCabriolet, the brand hopes to appeal to higher income ($125,000+ / year) Murano-esque consumers who are slightly younger, "savvy" and adventurous, but with kids in high school.
The CC is a crossover convertible, meaning this Murano looks to kill two birds with one stone: owning a convertible and maintaining utility, meaning offering a usable convertible as a second household car instead of a third. Whether or not that is truly the case, only time will tell.
Either way, with over 900 pre-orders and significant interest, the response is there. As for whether or not we'll see another generation, well, that depends on if there are enough Beetle convertible owners and middle-age moms out there who want to keep their car, possibly get some sun, and increase utility.
At $46,390 (plus $810 D&H) is it the car for me? No, but it could be for some people. The bottom line is this: nit-pickery and little flubs aside, kudos to Nissan for being brave enough to break the mold and then put the result into production. 


photos 

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