2013 Nissan Pathfinder【Video】

Nissan has officially launched the 2013 Pathfinder, the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder Loses Weight, Gains Fuel Economy imageWhile exact specifics on safety equipment haven’t been released, it’s safe to assume that Nissan will at least make available all the latest gadgetry.

The new seven-passenger Pathfinder now rides on a unibody platform, which is generally lighter and offers more a carlike ride and handling characteristics. Four-wheel-drive models can tow up to 5000 pounds. That's down from 6000-7000 pounds on the 2012 model, but Nissan deems 5000 perfectly adequate for most Pathfinder customers.

Powered by Nissan's 260-horsepower, 3.5-liter DOHC V6, the Pathfinder still has enough muscle to tow 5,000 pounds (last year's V8 model could tug up to 7,000).

Nissan hasn't announced pricing, but says that a base model should start around $28,000 when it arrives later this year.




Press Release


Nissan Launches Reinvented 2013 Pathfinder - More Style, Comfort, Room, Innovation and Best-in-Class Fuel Economy

• 500-pound weight reduction from 2012 Pathfinder, aerodynamic design, new powertrain delivers 30 percent fuel economy improvement over last generation
• Best-in-class city, highway and combined fuel economy of 20/26//22 MPG*
• Most interior passenger volume, front headroom and legroom in class**
• Highest standard towing capacity in class**
• On sale at Nissan dealers nationwide this fall

NEW YORK/DETROIT - Nissan today unleashed the all-new 2013 Pathfinder SUV, a complete makeover featuring a sleek, aerodynamically styled exterior, a premium interior, class-exclusive user-friendly technology and a new unibody platform and advanced drivetrain that helps it achieve best-in-class fuel economy while maintaining class-lead towing and off-pavement capabilities.

The all-new vehicle design sheds 500 pounds of mass compared to the outgoing model yet maintains the Pathfinder's SUV-ruggedness while delivering up to 26 miles per gallon on the highway. With its blend of capability, including class-leading standard towing capacity of 5000 pounds, and modern amenities, such as a class-exclusive Around ViewTM Monitor, the 2013 Pathfinder is the next-generation SUV.

"Unveiling our next-generation Pathfinder is a major follow-up to the introduction of the all-new Altima sedan," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "With its bold new design, best-in-class fuel economy and family adventure capabilities, our dealers can't wait to share this new model with customers in their showrooms."

The 2013 Pathfinder's fuel economy has improved more than 30 percent over that of the 2012 Pathfinder. Both the FWD and 4WD 2013 Pathfinder models lead their segments in fuel economy across the board.

City, highway and combined average fuel economy numbers are 20 (City), 26 (Highway) and 22 (Combined) mpg for the FWD version and 19 (City), 25 (Highway) and 21 (Combined) mpg for the 4WD version. This significant increase over both the outgoing model's fuel economy as well as that of the competition was achieved primarily through a new, aerodynamic vehicle design, 500 pounds of weight reduction, reduced engine friction and the application of a class-exclusive, next generation Xtronic CVT®.

Also playing a significant role in the Pathfinder's excellent fuel economy is the fact that it is now one of the lightest vehicles in its segment, with the FWD model tipping the scales at a mere 4149 pounds. Even the 4WD Pathfinder weighs only 4290 pounds.

Nissan teased the new Pathfinder earlier this year, showing a concept exterior design model in January. Today marks the first official look at the production model, which goes on sale nationwide this fall.

New Chassis Meets Consumer Shift

Truck-based SUV sales peaked in the mid-2000s and have declined steadily as consumer demands shifted to more refined, fuel efficient crossover SUVs. The 2013 Pathfinder is built with unibody construction, vastly reducing its weight by eliminating the fuel-penalizing mass of a traditional SUV's truck-based frame. In addition to making the Pathfinder a lighter vehicle, the new unibody chassis design increases Pathfinder's structural rigidity over the previous model. This improves ride and handling, while reducing overall noise, vibration and harshness, delivering an outstanding mix of responsiveness, refinement and ride comfort. The Pathfinder's rigid platform is also key to maintaining the trailer-towing capability expected from an SUV - the vehicle has a standard towing capacity of 5000 pounds, which is the best standard towing capacity in the segment.**

"It's no secret that the industry has shifted as gas prices have increased," says Al Castignetti. "But while traditional SUV customers are looking for improved fuel economy, they still demand a vehicle that can do all the things they need, like carrying seven people, towing, and providing the surefootedness in all conditions of a four-wheel drive."

Weight reduction is one of the key components in Nissan's drive to improving vehicle performance across the board. The just-introduced all-new Nissan Altima also is the lightest vehicle in its class.

Bold Design
Pathfinder's design conveys modernity while paying homage to the three generations of Pathfinders before it. The new unibody platform provided the designers an opportunity to create a more aerodynamic exterior without compromising headroom or cargo capacity. In fact, the new Pathfinder has more interior space than the previous model thanks to more efficient packaging.

Moving upscale in appearance, the new exterior styling presents a smart fusion of signature Nissan styling cues and dynamic strength. The look is adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong, stable stance.

The upper body features an open cabin with a low beltline and thin A- and D-pillars, which flow smoothly into the rugged, durable-looking lower body. Pathfinder's design incorporates front and rear spoilers, rear tire deflectors and rear suspension fairings to help achieve what is expected to be among the best aerodynamic performances in the segment. Other exterior details include a wide chrome grille and large aerodynamic headlights, recessed front windshield wipers, chrome door handles and large rear combination lights.

A panoramic dual-panel moonroof, with sliding opening front panel and fixed rear glass panel which extends over the 2nd and 3rd rows, combines with the large windows to create an open, airy interior environment.

"With its new aerodynamic shape, the styling is a major step forward in the evolution of the SUV - retaining its people and cargo hauling utility without looking quite so utilitarian," said Castignetti. "It's fitting that a vehicle that tackles adventures in a whole new way also now looks the part."

Interior
Pathfinder's all-new interior design features versatile and comfortable seating as well as premium materials and advanced technology. The vehicle seats seven passengers comfortably, and is best-in-class in terms of front headroom, front leg room and overall passenger volume. Additionally, Pathfinder is now the only vehicle in the segment with a 3rd row seat recline.

The new Advanced Drive-AssistTM Display, located in the center of the instrument display between the tachometer and speedometer, features a 4-inch color display that is customizable, easy-to-use and integrates key information right in front of the driver. A separate touch-screen monitor, mounted in the middle of the instrument panel, provides intuitive interaction and control of the available navigation system and other vehicle systems and settings.

Technology and Innovation
The all-new Pathfinder also features EZ Flex Seating SystemTM with LATCH AND GLIDETM. LATCH AND GLIDETM is an industry first 2nd row tip-up seat for use with a child safety seat, which also provides easy access to the 3rd row while keeping the child seat securely fastened. The 2nd row also features a 60/40 split-fold seating with a segment best 5.5 inches of seat travel. Class-exclusive features include Easy Fill Tire Alert and the segment-first availability of an Around ViewTM Monitor.

Other available amenities include leather-appointed seating, heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, programmable Nissan Intelligent Key®, Nissan Navigation System, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 13-speaker Bose® Premium Audio system, Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), Dual-Zone Climate Control, RearView Monitor, remote engine start and tri-zone entertainment system.

New Powertrain
All 2013 Pathfinders come equipped with an advanced 260-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine matched with a next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission). It is also the only vehicle in class with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD modes for the available intuitive ALL-MODE 4x4-i system. The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder will be offered in 4x4 and 4x2 drive configurations and in four models - S, SV, SL and Platinum.

Pricing and Additional Details
Pricing on all models will be announced closer to the fall on-sale date. Additional information is available at https://www.facebook.com/nissanpathfinder and https://twitter.com/nissanpathfindr.

Manufacturing
Pathfinder is assembled at Nissan's Smyrna assembly plant in Smyrna, Tennessee. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine is assembled at the company's Decherd, Tennessee powertrain plant.

Chicago Auto Show: 2013 Nissan 370Z facelift【Video】

Nissan has unveiled the 2013 370Z, ahead of its debut at the Chicago Auto Show. The biggest change to the updated Nissan 370Z takes place up front. Gone are the fangs that accented the lower air dam.

Exterior updates include a refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights, a red reflector added to the rear fascia, revised 19-inch aluminum alloys for the Sport Package, and newly restyled standard 18-inchers for the base model.

On the inside, the 370Z will get a new dark finish fuel gauge trim, and if you opt for the NISMO tuned 370Z, you will get a Bose sound system complete with sub-woofer and two additional speakers.

The 2013 370Z is powered by a 332 horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine and choice of 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic transmission. For even more power, buyers can opt for the NISMO 370Z that is powered by a 350-hp 3.7L V6 and a standard close-ratio 6-speed manual.




Press Release

2013 NISSAN 370Z PREVIEWED AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW - NEW FRONT FASCIA AND NEW WHEELS LEAD ENHANCEMENTS

If it's February in Chicago, it's time for one thing - sports cars. Bringing a taste of hot performance to the Windy City winter, Nissan today debuted the revised 2013 Nissan 370Z on the floor of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. The new Z®, which is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide next June, features a number of enhancements designed to keep the legendary sports car fresh and exciting. For 2013, the Nissan 370Z will once again be available in Coupe, Roadster and NISMO Z configurations.

The updates for the new model year include:

• Refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights

• Red reflector added to rear fascia (replaces previous black center cover)

• Revised 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (Sport Package equipped models)

• New 18-inch wheels for 370Z Coupe

• Red-finished brake calipers (Sport Package equipped models)

• Dark-finish fuel gauge trim

• Euro-tuned shock absorbers (Sport Package equipped models)

• And two new exterior colors - Magma Red and Midnight Blue

The NISMO 370Z also adds a new Bose® Premium Audio Package with two additional speakers and two subwoofers, premium gun metallic dark-finish 19-inch wheels, and Nissan GT-R style high-rigidity brake hoses and performance brake fluid. The NISMO 370Z does not adopt the new front fascia/rear reflector, Euro-tuned shocks or Midnight Blue exterior color.

"Since the original 1970 Z® was first introduced our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013, though subtle, go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

As in 2012, the 2013 370Z Coupe and 370Z Coupe Touring will each be available with a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine and choice of 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic transmission. The 2013 370Z Roadster and 370Z Roadster Touring will be offered with the same engine but with the 6-speed manual offered only with the Touring model (the 7-speed automatic transmission is available with both).

The Nissan NISMO 370Z, a tuner-Z® enthusiast's dream, will once again cap off the lineup - offering racing-inspired exterior and interior styling, a specially tuned suspension and unique super-lightweight forged alloy wheels. Its 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine is matched with an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design, muffler tuning and optimized ECM (Engine Computer Module) control - creating 350 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. Only one transmission is available, a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission with standard SynchroRev Match®, which allows rev-matched heel-toe-like downshifting.

Additional details on the 2013 Nissan 370Z will be available closer to the June on-sale date.

Detroit Auto Show: Nissan Pathfinder concept

Nissan will unveil two concept vehicles, including the next-generation Pathfinder SUV and an electric powered commercial van at the Detroit auto show next month.

The Nissan Pathfinder was launched in 1986, and was last granted a redesign for the 2005 model year. The next-generation Pathfinder goes on sale in fall 2012.

Nissan will also highlight the versatility of the NV200 van by demonstrating one configured as a food truck with a “local Detroit flair.” The van will be used for media hospitality during the show’s two press days.




Press Release

NISSAN ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR 2012 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

The worldwide debut of two concept vehicles will highlight Nissan's presence at the upcoming 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. An all electric van concept, which underscores Nissan's leadership in zero emissions vehicles and the Nissan Pathfinder preview concept, which provides a sneak peek at the next generation of Nissan's longest running nameplate in the U.S., will be unveiled during the NAIAS press preview days, beginning Monday, January 9.

In addition to full access to Nissan's global concepts during both days of the show, media interviews will be available with Nissan team members. Nissan Chief Executive Officer, Carlos Ghosn will also be the opening keynote speaker at the Automotive News World Congress on Tuesday, Jan. 10 in Detroit.

Nissan NAIAS Highlights:

• The Pathfinder Concept, which previews the all-new look, style and attitude that Nissan will bring to the SUV segment when the next-generation Pathfinder goes on sale in fall 2012 at Nissan dealers nationwide.
• Nissan's innovative electric van concept. This concept previews a future production version of a full electric vehicle designed to provide businesses or families with flexible, roomy cargo space, while offering a dramatic CO2 footprint reduction.
• A Nissan NV outfitted as a "Food Truck" with a local Detroit flair showcases the vehicle's flexibility and user-friendly features, but acts as a culinary cornerstone for media hospitality throughout both press days.
• Monday evening - Nissan media reception at Cheli's Chili Bar in Downtown Detroit from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. with a special guest and special announcement - Media credentials required for admission.

Nissan PIVO 3 concept【Video】

Nissan has releases the Pivo 3 concept, which will be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in next month.

The exterior design proposes a new direction, leaving the round surface language for a more “serious” and aggressive treatment made of sharp edges and angled surfaces, which is more in line with the current trends.

A good size for tight cities, the Pivo 3 is just three metres long and has a wide-enough steering angle to allow you to make a U-turn on a road that's just four metres wide. It has a zero turn gap, so if the front wheels can make the turn, the rear wheels will follow without scraping the body side.

Inside, the cabin is elegantly equipped with premium leather, metallic trim and a digital instrument cluster. There's also a McLaren F1-style seating arrangement which doesn't look very comfortable.

The driver-focused interior incorporates side-view monitors (which take the place of mirrors), Nissan’s Around View Monitor system that minimises blind spots, and an ultra-wide display for GPS and other information.



Press Release

Highlights of the Nissan Exhibit at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show

YOKOHAMA, JAPAN (November 8, 2011) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., will present a selection of new production vehicles, prototypes and three concept cars at the upcoming 2011 Tokyo Motor Show.

Highlights of the show include:

• Three concept EVs: PIVO 3, a smart urban EV of the near future; ESFLOW, a pure EV sports car; and TOWNPOD, a cross-genre EV for business or leisure
• Smart House of the Future: Enables electricity supply from Nissan LEAF, solar panels and fuel cells
• Next-generation light commercial van prototype: All-new NV350, delivering improved convenience and styling
• Special advanced technology exhibit displaying Nissan's latest innovations in zero emission mobility and safety.

An overview of the concept cars and technologies to be exhibited are as follows:

PIVO 3 - The smart urban commuter EV of the near future

• Automated Valet Parking (AVP) enables PIVO 3 to automatically drive, locate a parking space and park without driver assistance in the infrastructure equipped parking lots envisioned for the future. It can also charge itself and return to its driver at the AVP exit when called by smartphone.
• Compact 3-seater body under 3-meter long, narrow-tread rear tires and IWM (in-wheel motors) with wide steering angle allows PIVO 3 to make a U-turn on a road only four meters wide. The highly maneuverable PIVO 3 has zero turn gap, so if the front wheels can make the turn, the rear wheels will follow without scraping the body side.
• Refined exterior styling with bold surfaces and a new stance.
• Controls integrate seamlessly with high-grade interior.
• Central driving position provides a totally new driving experience.
• Realization of near future mobility that not only links car and driver but also connects the car to the community with sustainable energy.

ESFLOW - Dynamic driving in a zero emission future

• World debut made at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2011.
• Pure EV sports car concept offers an exciting new dimension in sports car handling and performance, using technology pioneered in Nissan LEAF.
• Rear-wheel drive two-seater configuration.
• Two independently controlled midship-mounted electric motors, each driving a rear wheel, with active optimization of vehicle dynamics and driving feel suits individual preferences and road characteristics.
• Laminated lithium-ion batteries mounting position engineered for ideal front-to-rear balance.
• Dramatic styling with wrap-around windscreen for enhanced visibility over low hood made possible by EV package.
• 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) in under five seconds.
• Over 240 kilometer (150 mile) cruising range on one charge (US LA4 mode).

TOWNPOD - Cross-genre EV for the free-thinking enterpreneur

• Unveiled at the Paris Auto Show in September 2010.
• Fashionable and functional vehicle flexibly adapts to user needs.
• Exterior melds stylish coupe and roomy van design elements.
• Engaging front seat styling. Rear cargo space is functionally designed for professional utility, including rear seat storage area in back of front seats.
• Three split doors and a split open sunroof ease access in tight spots while greatly improving loading/unloading convenience and ability to carry taller objects.
• Touch-screen display links to driver's smartphone to provide convenient support for busy professionals.
• Zero emission mobility offers guilt-free driving enjoyment for the environmentally conscious user.

NV350 - Next-generation light commercial van delivers capacity, convenience and style

• Improved fuel economy.
• Contemporary exterior styling expresses solid presence.
• Functional interior styled to emphasize spacious feel.
• Keyless pushbutton ignition, a world's first in a commercial vehicle. Nissan Intelligent Key^TM, dash-mounted shift lever and foot-operated parking brake also exceed expectations in the LCV category.
• Cargo area up to 3 meters in length, 50:50 split fold-forward rear seats, and embedded mounting nuts in interior side panels provide flexible cargo handling and adaptability to user needs.
• Japanese market launch scheduled for summer of 2012.
• ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY - Toward Zero Emission Mobility
• Nissan's EV technology offers exciting new benefits exemplified by the Smart House of the Future and EV-based Smart Community, which will be introduced using motion displays.

NSH-2012 Smart House of the Future
Nissan will display its Smart House "NSH-2012", an implementation of the "LEAF to Home" (V2H*) electric supply system, which uses power stored in Nissan LEAF's batteries. The Smart House combines solar panels, fuel cells and Nissan LEAF's batteries to maintain a steady power supply to the home, independent of weather conditions. Even during a power outage in a disaster, solar power and Nissan LEAF batteries can continue to supply the home with electricity.
* V2H stands for "vehicle to home", that is, supplying electricity to the home from power stored in an electric vehicle's batteries.

EV-based Smart Community
A broader application of the "LEAF to Home" electric supply system, Smart Communities integrate renewable energy and a bi-directional electric grid to enable new lifestyles. Motion displays show how EVs make this possible in three contexts: homes, buildings and communities.
Next-generation mobility with PIVO 3
A multi-media presentation of PIVO 3 functions, such as Automated Valet Parking, which link to the "smart city" infrastructure of the future and use cloud computing to enable intelligent and convenient next-generation mobility.

PURE DRIVE^TM - Boosting fuel efficiency with a suite of technologies
PURE DRIVE^TM is Nissan's initiative to boost environmental performance in conventional-fuel powertrains. Cutaway models and videos will introduce PURE DRIVE^TM technologies including clean diesel, hybrid, stop/start system and XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Nissan Safety Shield - Towards zero fatalities
Nissan has set an ultimate goal of reducing the number of automobile accident fatalities or serious injuries involving its vehicles to substantially zero. Nissan's Safety Shield concept defines pre- and post-crash conditions to guide the active development of technologies to address safety all around the vehicle. Nissan will introduce nine technologies by the end of 2011 to create a virtual "Safety Shield" for our customers. Video presentations and interactive displays will illustrate these innovations.

2013 Nissan GT-R【Video】

Nissan has released the details for the 2013 GT-R. The 2013 Nissan GT-R goes on sale November 24 in Japan and arrives in European showrooms in January 2012.

The package includes revised suspension settings, extra brake cooling (front and rear), and aluminum-alloy wheels from the Spec-V made by Rays (with black quartz chrome color coating). The front spoiler with carbon air duct has been exclusively made for this edition and is installed as a set,and a host of interior upgrades like Novillo leather trim in black, with palladium silver accents, an Alcantara-covered M steering wheel, door sill finishers featuring an M3 checkered flag logo, and a handbrake lever with the M Power logo.

The 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 engine in the 2013 GT-R now produced 545-hp, an increase of 15-hp over the 2012 GT-R, and torque has been pushed from 448 lb-ft to 463 lb-ft. Fuel economy has been modestly improved, to 20 mpg on Japan's 10-15 mode cycle.

So how special is this run? How about a grand total of 40 examples, all finished in Frozen Silver and featuring black hood intakes, dark chrome exterior trim, black 19-inch M3 GTS wheels,




Press Release

Nissan Releases the 2012 Model Year Nissan GT-R

YOKOHAMA, Japan (November 7, 2011) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the launch of the 2012 model year Nissan GT-R. The new model goes on sale November 24 in Japan and arrives in European showrooms in January 2012.

At a glance:

• More power (550PS), improved economy and lower emissions
• Unique asymmetric suspension settings on RHD cars
• Enhanced transmission shift feel
• Special race tuned oils used in differential
• Body strengthened for even greater handling finesse
• Ceramic brakes option according to model
• New Bose® Precision Sound System woofers
• Rear view camera now standard
• New version ‘For TRACK PACK' enhances GT-R's pure performance (RHD only)

Significant improvements to the engine, chassis and transmission, plus a new lightweight "For TRACK PACK" version (currently available in some market such as Japan, UK), which accentuates the pure performance potential of the GT-R are the key changes to Nissan's flagship model for the 2012 model year.

When it was launched, the iconic GT-R created a new type of super car. Performance and handling were exceptional, of course, but more importantly the car's potential was accessible to all drivers under all conditions. It was greeted with universal praise but Nissan's policy of constant development means the GT-R continues to evolve.

The latest version, which is due on sale in Europe in January 2012, is the most efficient yet. It offers even greater performance but this is allied to improved economy and lower emissions to provide further excitement to drivers and passengers.

As well as more power, the 2012 MY GT-R has a newly developed asymmetric suspension which compensates for greater weight on the driver's side in RHD models, enhanced transmission ‘feel' and a stronger body for extra rigidity and ever better handling.

There's also the arrival of a new "For TRACK PACK" version (currently available in some markets such as Japan, UK) which inherits the DNA of the Spec_V model and turns the GT-R into a light-weight two seater for the ultimate in trackday performance.


2012 MY Nissan GT-R Overview

1. Mechanical Features

Engine
By improving the GT-R's engine efficiency, its fuel economy has been decreased from 12L. to 11.8L/100 Kms, while engine output rises significantly from 390kW to 404kW (550PS) from /6,400rpm with maximum torque of from 612 to 632Nm(64.5kgfm) from 3,200 to 5,800 rpm.

Engine response and torque at mid- and low-speeds, and power at high revolutions, has been significantly improved, mainly due to:

• Improved intake efficiency - Better air flow resistance, which has been reduced by the addition of an intake manifold fitted to the head of each unit and the use of resin in the enlarged air intake duct for the intercooler.

• Improved exhaust emissions efficiency and enhanced control. Reduced air flow resistance thanks to a more compact under floor catalyzer which improves emissions efficiency and reduces weight. Improved exhaust valve cooling performance by the adoption of a newly-designed metallic sodium-filled valve. At the same time, valve control timing, the air mixture ratio and ignition timing have been improved.

Transmission
Shift feels and quietness has been refined thanks to a strengthened design of the shift fork arm and a firmer fixing bearing for the flywheel housing. A special differential oil R35 COMPETITION Type 2189E (75W140), which was developed for competition is now used in every version of GT-R.

Body
As well as greater power and torque, the reinforcing of certain areas around the rear part of the engine compartment and dash panel deliver more responsive handling while a greater sense of the vehicle's grip on the road is transmitted to the driver.

At the same time, more precise production methods, accompanied by advancements made in the vehicle body, have improved the inter-vehicle detection capability. This was achieved by changes in the positioning of the sensor and more rigid, highly-damped vehicle body, and by adding a more accurate acceleration sensor in areas with higher sensitivity in the vibration testing of each vehicle body.

Suspension and brakes
Accounting for the added weight of the driver in a right-hand drive vehicle coupled to the fact that the propeller shaft for front wheels is located on the right side of the vehicle; the GT-R's suspension in RHD versions has been set asymmetrically. For the front suspension, there's a harder spring rate on the left side while at the rear the suspension arm has been installed upwards on the left side and downwards on the right. This means an imbalanced wheel load when the car is stationary, but which is equalized during driving, providing improved responsiveness, smoothness and steering feel, as well as enhanced cornering stability and riding comfort (for RHD only).

NCCB (Nissan Carbon Ceramic Brakes) are available as a factory-installed option for the GT-R Premium Edition and EGOIST grade. These brakes accentuate the car's agile road hold and supple ride feel thanks to a dramatically-reduced spring weight and refined, sharp braking performance unique to carbon ceramics. (In addition, service parts prices for the rotors and pads have been reduced.)

2. Interior

The quality feel of the instruments placed in front of the driver have been enhanced by the addition of blue lighting inside the tachometer ring to match the shift position indicator light giving a more sophisticated atmosphere in the cockpit.

Rear View Camera device will be standard on all models.

The Bose® sound system woofers, have been changed to Bose® Precision Sound System woofers that were developed for the EGOIST grade to further enhance sound quality.


3. "For TRACK PACK" (currently available in some markets such as Japan, UK)

"For TRACK PACK" (currently available in some markets such as Japan, UK) is a new version in the GT-R line up, designed for customers who want to enjoy a more visceral driving experience in their Nissan GT-R.

Jointly developed with NordRing Company in Japan, it features revised suspension settings, extra brake cooling (front and rear), and aluminum-alloy wheels from Spec-V made by Rays (with black quartz chrome color coating). The front spoiler with carbon air duct has been exclusively made for this edition and is installed as a set.

To reduce the car's weight, this edition is a two-seat configuration with quilted fabric mats in place of the rear seats. The front seats are covered with leather and high-grip fabric, newly developed for the "For TRACK PACK" version and which firmly holds the driver in place during even the most spirited of trackday action (RHD only).

With the latest 2012MY version, the legend that is the Nissan GT-R continues to evolve.

2012 Nissan Leaf Prices

The 2012 Nissan Leaf will now pack more standard features — and a noticeably higher price. Starting July 25 the second model year Leaf will be available for order in the Southeastern United States and Illinois.

The uplevel 2012 Nissan Leaf SL starts at $38,100, reflecting a $3,530 price increase over the 2011 model, said Nissan in Tuesday's pricing announcement. Nissan has deleted the Leaf SL-e model for 2012. That version was priced at $34,570 for the 2011 model year and was part of a federal electric-vehicle project through a special U.S. Department of Energy grant. The 2012 Leaf goes on sale this fall.





Press Release

NISSAN TO LAUNCH ALL-ELECTRIC LEAF AS UPGRADED 2012 MODEL IN NEW U.S. MARKETS


Nissan North America Inc. is expanding availability of the all-electric Nissan LEAF to U.S. consumers for the 2012 model year, with upgrades based on feedback from the thousands of owners who already have driven several millions of miles in the first 100-percent electric car for the mass market.

The Nissan LEAF, enriched with additional standard equipment including quick charging and cold-weather features for the 2012 model year, now will be available for order in the Southeastern United States and Illinois.

"Many enthusiastic consumers have eagerly anticipated ordering a Nissan LEAF of their own, and now we can make zero-emissions mobility a reality in more markets," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, Nissan North America. "In response to direct feedback from Nissan LEAF owners, the features that customers want most will come standard on the 2012 Nissan LEAF - including quick charging and cold-weather features."

Nissan on July 25 will open up the ordering process to consumers with existing reservations in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Washington, D.C.

After the prioritized ordering phase for existing reservations in those markets, Nissan on Aug. 4 will open new reservations and orders to the general public, both in these new markets, as well as places where the Nissan LEAF already has been on sale (Arizona, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington). Expected delivery of the first 2012 Nissan LEAFs will begin in the fall.

The MY12 vehicle features product enhancements that incorporate feedback from early LEAF drivers, including standardizing the most popular options. These features include:

• DC Fast Charge capability standard on Nissan LEAF SL: The vast majority of MY11 consumers have opted for the DC fast charge port, which allows the vehicle to be charged at 480V - reducing charging time to under 30 minutes for charging the vehicle to 80 percent from a fully depleted state. As DC fast charge stations proliferate across the country, Nissan expects this feature to become even more popular. For 2012, fast-charging capability will be standard on the SL trim level.

• Cold weather features standard on Nissan LEAF: As the Nissan LEAF rolls out to U.S. markets with colder climates, cold weather features become standard equipment on all trim levels of the Nissan LEAF. These include a battery warmer, heated steering wheel, and heated seats in both the front and rear.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price of the 2012 Nissan LEAF is $35,200 for the SV trim level, and $37,250 for the SL trim level. The monthly lease price will begin at a highly competitive $369.

Nissan will expand into additional new markets as the year continues. In the fall, orders from existing reservations and new reservations will begin in Connecticut, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York. By the end of the year, Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island will be added as markets where the Nissan LEAF will be available for order.

More than 4,000 Nissan LEAFs have been delivered to U.S. customers, and Nissan, as it begins the next phase of the launch, continues to learn from them. While 82 percent have never previously owned a Nissan, a full 75 percent considered no other vehicle than the Nissan LEAF in their purchase decision. On a whole, these early adopters report that they are using the Nissan LEAF as their primary car, and driving it far more than was originally anticipated. These consumers, most of whom are highly educated and have high income levels, are technologically savvy, environmentally conscious, and consider themselves advocates for electric-car technology.