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

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

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

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

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

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

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

350Z com Rodas "22"

350Z com Rodas "22"

Nissan Juke - Interesting and inexpensive

After driving more than 100 cars, trucks and sport utilities a year for four decades, it’s hard to find something new, something that stands out as very different.

Perhaps the 2011 Nissan Juke doesn’t fall into the category of “very different,” but it comes darn close and Nissan’s latest effort to build something that stands out from the crowd appears to be a success.
The delightful little 4-door (perhaps a 5-door hatch would be more descriptive) Juke is a winner from its quirky styling to its smile-inducing drivability. We adored it from the minute we sat behind the wheel last summer in Vancouver to the day we had to give it back to the supplier after a couple of weeks of testing on both coasts.

So just what is the Juke? Technically, it’s a small crossover. It has no direct competitors in the compact crossover ranks and may more aptly be compared to the new Mini Countryman at one end of the spectrum and the new Scion tC at the other end. We think it will appeal to all ages, but Nissan has it directed at the younger crowd.

The styling may put you off from the get-go. It’s kind of a love it or hate it thing. One automotive pundit noted that years ago Nissan dubbed its Infiniti FX as the “bionic cheetah.” “Perhaps,” he wrote, “the Juke should be called the ‘bionic frog.’”

Indeed its headlights rise above the fenders for a frog-like profile. Think of a swimming alligator with its eyes above water. Huge wheel bulges and a swept-back roof line also give the Juke some of its unique appearance.
Although it has its downsides — cramped rear-passenger quarters, for instance — once behind the wheel and on the road, the Juke is so downright pleasing we were won over as were some auto scribes who voted in the Texas Truck of the Year competition in which the Juke shocked everyone by winning the Compact Crossover of Texas award against several more traditional competitors. Those Texans sure have a sense of humor.

The heart of the Juke, and the one thing that makes driving it smile-inducing is its 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine making 188 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque mated to either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual. The power is directed at the front wheels unless you opt for all-wheel drive, available across the three available trim lines, and then torque can be shifted from front to rear and/or left to right as needed for sharper handling; it’s especially good in snow.
Weighing in at just over 3,000 pounds, the Juke is impressively quick off the line, and capable of giving the driver the satisfaction of merging into traffic without the least bit of drama.

The Juke has been measured from 0 to 60 in anywhere from 6.5 seconds to about 7.5 seconds, depending on your magazine of choice. Let’s call it about 7 seconds with the manual and a tick or two more with the automatic.
The manual is a blast to drive, easy to shift and with a good-feeling clutch. But most people will opt for the automatic, and with the automatic comes a range of choices to fit all personalities.

Nissan offers a choice of driving experiences with three settings — Econ, Normal and Sport. The Juke turns a bit soft and lethargic in the Econ mode, but it also yields slightly better fuel economy. Normal seems, well, normal. But Sport is the sweet spot as the suspension tightens up and the throttle response becomes more aggressive. Nissan also provides the sensation of a six-speed automatic with defined shift points in the sport mode.

In our encounter with the Juke in Vancouver and more recently during our stint back in our own testing grounds, we were as impressed with the little vehicle’s road-holding ability and it’s quickness. As a bonus, the Juke’s short wheelbase (99.6 inches) and tight turning radius (36.4 feet) make it a dandy vehicle for negotiating tight spaces.

The downside to enjoyment of the muscular little engine is perhaps a bit less gas mileage than you might expect. But we consider the trade-off well worth it as Juke measured 27 mpg city, 32 mpg highway for the 2WD CVT and 24/31 manual. Mileage drops to 25/30 for all-wheel drive. There is no manual transmission option for AWD.

Another downside is that Nissan recommends higher-priced premium fuel.
The biggest drawback to the Juke is space. But remember this is a small vehicle. Front seat room is excellent, the seats are comfortable and the sight lines are good. The problems arise in back. It’s possible to house two adult passengers, but they will have to negotiate for legroom with those in front; and head room is not in abundance for those with long torsos. Think of the Juke as a personal two-person vehicle that can haul a fair amount of cargo or a vehicle for a small family with mom, pop and two small kids.

If all seats are in use the luggage area is rather slim measured at 10.5 cubic feet, but it will open to 36 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. You’ll have to remove the headrests to assure the seats fold flat.
Nissan has done a good job designing the interior of the Juke with less flamboyance than the exterior. The dashboard has a pleasing look, gauges are well done (although some fade out in bright sunlight); knobs are large and operation of controls is intuitive. Storage up front is also in good supply.

Juke offers considerable standard equipment on the base S trim for $19,710 including destination charge. Equipment includes full power accessories, cruise control, keyless entry, air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker stereo with CD player and iPod integration, and steering wheel controls.
Move up to the SV starting at $21,010 and a sunroof, automatic climate control, push button start and the transmission settings come standard. The SL trim starts at $23,300. All-wheel drive adds $1,500 across the lineup, and a CVT adds just $500 in the top two trim levels. Our test vehicle, a front-wheel drive manual-shift SV came in at $21,010.
Juke is responsive, appealing and a bit quirky and that makes us happy.

Nissan Frontier PRO-4X

El Paso is a long drive from East Texas. It was the week after Christmas and my wife and I wanted to see our son and his wife. He is stationed with the U.S. Army at Fort Bliss.

As the Texas Public Relations department says, “It’s a whole ‘nother country.” After driving from the tall, beautiful pine trees of East Texas, past the oil fields of Midland & Odessa, and into the desert area of west Texas, I fully understand that statement.
We were fortunate to have a new, 2011 Nissan Frontier for our test drive vehicle.

It proved to be a good road vehicle for the long trip across Texas as well as a useful addition at our farm before we left. The Nissan Frontier is almost a rarity. Small pickups are becoming more difficult to find in the marketplace. Former “small” has metamorphosed into a regular size pickup. Regular size pickups are almost the same size that heavy-duty model used to be. If you can find a small pickup, it probably is not able to serious hauling and heavy work. Worse yet, if it is able to do all that heavy-duty work as a small pickup, then it probably won’t be capable on road trips. That’s the uniqueness of the new 2011 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X. It can perform in all settings so well that it really does deserve a very serious look by pickup truck shoppers.

Approaching the military base, we were driving through the mountains and tackling steep climbs and steeper descents. To our left, we could see across the narrow Rio Grande river and into Mexico. The speed limit along this stretch is 80 mpg and the little Frontier chugged along without even a sputter. It handled so well.
The Frontier is small enough to be very maneuverable in heavy traffic, yet it can carry or tow heavy cargo. The traffic in El Paso was much thicker and challenging than rush-hour in the DFW area, but it was nimble and could change lanes very easy. The four-wheel drive model is rated to tow up to 6100 lbs. Prior to our road trip to El Paso, I hooked up a 16 foot flatbed and brought several large round bales of hay back for my animals. There wasn’t even a hiccough on the job. The standard power is a V-6 engine that produces 261 horsepower and is matched with a five speed automatic transmission. Instead of a typical belt, Nissan uses a very quiet timing chain that is very durable and saves on maintenance costs over the long run.

Nissan has added a two speed transfer case on the four-wheel drive model and that really gives this little pickup serious off-road capability. There is a rotary dial on the instrument panel that allows the driver to easily switch between 2 and 4 wheel drive. The PRO-4X model includes off-road wheels, off-road tires, and Bilstein off-road shock absorbers. Skid plates have been added under the PRO-4X model that help protect the chassis components as well. This model also includes standard hill descent control and hill-start-assist control.
Our test drive model was a beautiful dark gray Extended Cab model called “Night Amor”. It probably would have been helpful to have a full-size crew cab to carry a lot of our son’s left-behind-at-home stuff to him. After he graduated from the University of Oklahoma, he “forgot” about all of his “stuff” left at home, much like every other 20-something male in his generation. My wife noted that having a lot of his items still left at home means we have to make another trip at another time.

The standard Frontier pickup has a fuel efficiency of about 19 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. The PRO 4X edition is a four-wheel-drive model that averaged about 19-20 mpg on our trip. That is the down side. During the road trip, it was necessary to stop often, or so it seemed. Fuel prices were higher over the holiday period. There were long stretches without availability of services in the western area of Texas. The plus side is that if we had encountered bad weather, snow, or ice, I had the knowledge and feeling of security that this little pickup would help me out during an emergency. Having four-wheel drive during the winter months can certainly be an advantage.

Base MSRP for the standard model Frontier pickup is $26,170. The base price for the PRO-4X four-wheel drive model is $29,060. Options are available such as heated seats, heated mirrors, and a moon-roof. Our test drive model included two 12-volt DC power outlets, which were handy for us to charge our cell phones and use a portable GPS unit. There are numerous pocket and door storage holding areas. The Extended Cab model did not provide very much space for cargo, and is really tight for adults or even large children.
I really liked the new Nissan Frontier PRO-4X. It really is a capable and useful small pickup. I probably would have added a few extra items and increased the gas mileage. (Actually, I would increase the mileage ratings a lot!) It was difficult to adjust the seats and/or foot pedals for the long trip. An adjustable steering wheel or adjustable pedals would have helped tremendously. As it is, it certainly deserves a look-over. If you are in the market for a small pickup, check it out a Nissan dealership. Small pickups are a premium item in today’s market, but Nissan might just have success with this new Frontier.

350z com rodas aro "19"

350z com rodas aro "19"

Nissan 350Z Roadster + rodas 20 Vossen

O conversível e já belissimo e espetacular Nissan 350Z  Roadster recebeu uma caprichada em seu visual externo, e que caprichada!!!


Além de contar com um kit da VeilSide, o Nissan 350Z Roadster ainda recebeu um novo jogo de rodas aro 20 da marca Vossen e um capô em fibra de carbono.

Nissan March

The Nissan March is a supermini produced by the Japanese automaker Nissan since 1982. From 1992 until July 2010 over two million March/Micra cars were built in Europe at the NMUK plant in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, UK. The original March/Micra (chassis name K10) was introduced in October 1982 as a challenger to the highly successful Honda City. It was intended to replace the Nissan Cherry as the company's competitor in the supermini sector, as the Cherry model itself had progressively become larger with each successive generation.

The second-generation K11 was built and launched in Japan in early 1992, and released in Europe in the fourth quarter of the year. The Micra (as it is known in Europe), was the second model after the Primera built in Nissan's NMUK plant in Sunderland. It was powered by brand new all-aluminium 1.0 L (CG10DE) and 1.3 L (CG13DE) DOHC 16 valve engines, with 55 PS DIN (40 kW/54 hp) and 75 PS (55 kW/75 bhp) respectively (higher outputs in Japan), both with ECCS (Electronic Concentrated Control System) fuel injection.

In late 1997, a Facelift version was introduced, and were built from late 1997-early 2003. The cumulative visual changes from the first models included a revised front grille and headlights, redesigned front and rear bumpers, oval instead of round side repeater indicators, minor changes to internal controls, slightly desaturated colours on the rear light lenses, a redesigned rear wiper which rests horizontally instead of vertically, the centre high level brake lamp being reduced in size and mounted at the top of the rear window, instead of on the parcel shelf, and a radio aerial repositioned from the top of the right-hand A-pillar to the middle of the roof towards the rear.

The next version of the March/Micra, the K12, was unveiled in 2002 Paris Motor Show as the Nissan mm Concept. It was introduced to the Japanese market in late 2002 and to Europe in early 2003. The car was radically redesigned: it featured a new, 70 mm longer wheelbase (developed with Renault) and an even more curvy exterior that was taller and slightly wider. Its most distinctive feature was a pair of prominent headlamps that extended to the wing-tops. Other additions included a sliding rear seat and the option of keyless ignition on higher specification models.

In late 2007, the Nissan March/Micra was facelifted again. It has had several cosmetic tweaks: every model now features the standard racing grille taken from the K12 160 SR; the front headlights have been tidied up (incorporating light blue-tinted sidelights) and the grilles housing the indicators are edged in chrome. In addition, the B-pillar trims are no longer colour-coded. Inside, there are new seat fabric designs, and the dashboard features parts taken from other Nissans. New equipment includes an audible speed warning, bluetooth connectivity with the vehicle and reversing sensors. All models (save for entry-level) are fitted with sport bumpers and spoilers on the sides and rear.

The first sketches of the latest generation Nissan March/Micra were unveiled on 1 October 2009, referred to as W02A, later referred to in Nissan press releases as K13. Nissan has stated that the model will be built in five countries, but only four are confirmed so far: Thailand for the Japanese and South-East Asian market, India for the local and European markets, Mexico and China for the local market. Nissan launched the new Nissan Micra globally on 2 March 2010 at the 80th Geneva Auto Show in Switzerland. It will be sold in more than 160 countries, including Thailand in March 2010, India in July 2010, and Europe in November 2010.

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Wallpapers Nissan March

Frontier Nissan 2011 Em três novas Versões

No ano passado Chicago Auto Show, a Suzuki mostrou três versões da Frontier Nissan Equador. Esses três conceitos foram o RMZ-4, Quad e Quay, cada um projetado para transportar uma superbike, um quad e um barco, respectivamente. Desde então, temos conduzido um equador e soube que o caminhão da produção será vendida por 17.995 dólares, mas ainda não vi nenhum na estrada (Suzuki Chris Brown América observou que o Equador só começaram a chegar nas concessionárias).Avancemos para o Chicago Auto Show 2009 e nós estamos olhando mais três do Equador "conceito" de caminhões, como Suzuki tenta provar que este é o caminhão mais sintonizador-friendly do planeta.

No ano passado Chicago Auto Show, a Suzuki mostrou três versões de sua picape Nissan Frontier reformulado, do Equador. Os três conceitos foram o RMZ-4, Quad e Quay, o que representou caminhões para transportar uma superbike, um quad e um barco, respectivamente. Desde então, temos conduzido um equador e soube que o caminhão da produção será vendida por 17.995 dólares. Avancemos para o Chicago Auto Show 2009 ea Suzuki Motor Corp americana finalmente está pronto para introduzir o "novo" com o Equador - o esperar - três caminhões conceito. Este trio de caminhões, no entanto, foram personalizados por 4-Wheel & Off-Road, Off-Road e revistas Truckin '.

Suzuki acaba de lançar informações de preço para a sua novíssima picape Equator de médio porte, e, não surpreendentemente, os macacos perguntar o preço de sua plataforma Nissan Frontier mate. Para 2009, o Equador terá início às 17.995 dólares, apenas algumas centenas de dólares mais do que a fronteira em 17.460 dólares. Essa soma de base você irá obter um motor 2.5L de quatro cilindros com 152 cavalos de potência e 171 lb-ft de torque em um pacote de cabine estendida, com uma transmissão manual de cinco velocidades e tracção a duas rodas. É claro que aqueles que querem ou precisam de mais pode optar por um potente motor 4.0L V6, de cinco marchas da transmissão automática, tração nas quatro rodas e quatro portas reais. Um totalmente carregado RMZ-4 modelo irá facilmente superar a marca de US $ 30.000.

Também preço é o recém-reformulado Grand Vitara, que é equipado com uma escolha de dois novos motores. Base modelos de quatro cilindros começa mudando de mãos em menos de $ 20.000, enquanto que os modelos de alto nível de luxo com um motor 3.2L V6 de ligar todas as quatro rodas começam em 25.649 dólares.