Nissan reviving Pulsar name for Euro market

The Nissan Pulsar doesn't have what we'd consider a rich history in the US, other than on some models decades ago. However, the nameplate has been part of the Nissan lineup globally since 1978 and has proven popular in Asia and Australia. Now, the brand is teasing a five-door hatch to revive the name and hit European showrooms this fall.

The new Pulsar will be built at the company's recently renovated factory in Barcelona, Spain. It's not clear from the teaser whether this is the same model that is already sold in other parts of the world or a brand new vehicle. Although, Nissan says in the announcement that the car "has been designed to meet the specific demands of European car buyers."

With competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the European five-door hatch market is seriously competitive. It will be interesting to see if Nissan will have something special to bring to the table.
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2015 Nissan Micra

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Nissan, First Drives, Canada

Several years ago, poutine started showing up on the menus of a number of Detroit-area restaurants. For those unfamiliar with the Canadian specialty, it involves serving up french fries, gravy and cheese curds all in one artery-clogging heap. It's not really my thing, but the comfort-food dish has caught hold here in The D, and many absolutely swear by it. In a country where we happily serve Double Down sandwiches, and where competitive eating qualifies as sport, it's hard to believe le poutine isn't spreading like wildfire.

Given Detroit's proximity to Canada, it's not surprising that this culinary creation has managed to find its way across the border. The same thing goes for cars - we Detroiters are routinely privy to lots of Great White North imports. No, we can't buy not-for-US vehicles like the Nissan X-Trail, Mercedes-Benz B-Class (at least, the gasoline version), or now-discontinued products like the Honda Civic-based Acura CSX or EL before it. But Ontario-plated examples of these cars can be seen all the time here in southeast Michigan - it's a far more common occurrence than you might think.

These days, it's rare that an automaker will introduce a model to Canada without offering it up in the United States - especially a car that stands to do big things for a company's presence in North America. But with this 2015 Nissan Micra, that's exactly what's happened; Nissan's US arm has repeatedly stated that there are no plans to offer the car in Yankeeland. Why is the Micra so important? This five-door hatchback enters Canada with the coveted title of being the most affordable new car in the country: just $9,998 Canadian (CAD) to start. In fact, the Micra launches to our north just as the larger, four-door Versa Sedan is phased out in Canada - a vehicle that holds the lowest-cost title here in the US, at $11,990 USD.

To see what all the budget-friendly fuss is about, I headed to Montreal to sample Nissan's latest offering. Is this subcompact hatch better left as a Canada-only special, or should we Americans be allowed to have our poutine and eat it, too? Read on to find out.

Continue reading 2015 Nissan Micra

2015 Nissan Micra originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 May 2014 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan Quest under investigation for inaccurate fuel gauges

After receiving 12 complaints in the last 14 months, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has begun a preliminary investigation into a fuel gauge issue with the 2007 Nissan Quest. Drivers have reported that the fuel level gauge will show there's gas in the tank when there actually isn't - in two cases, the digital distance-to-empty gauge indicated more than 70 miles of remaining range - and it will stall out.

This is the second time the 2007-model-year Quest has been involved in the same fuel gauge issue. In 2010 Nissan recalled seven models, including the Quest, from the 2005-2008 model years because of faulty fuel readings. The 12 vehicles in this latest complaint could have slipped through the cracks then, but we'll find out more when NHTSA updates its progress with the investigation into the estimated 37,656 units.
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Nissan 370Z Nismo freshening coming tomorrow

Nissan is set to bring a special to the Fairlady faithful at the annual ZDAYZ fest. Based on the sole teaser and the event it's being unveiled at, it's pretty clear that Nissan is going to be issuing some kind of update to the Nismo version of its 370Z.

What that update is, though, is unclear. We can see a few small visual tweaks, like the horizontal LED running lights and their associated vertical vent. The grille looks reformed as well. Beyond that, though, it looks like we're stuck waiting for the full details until tomorrow afternoon.

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Tier 1 suppliers call GM the worst OEM to work with

Among automakers with a big US presence, General Motors is the worst to work for, according to a new survey from Tier 1 automotive suppliers, conducted by Planning Perspectives, Inc.

The Detroit-based manufacturer, which has been under fire following the ignition switch recall and its accompanying scandal, finished behind six other automakers with big US manufacturing operations. Suppliers had issues with trust and communications, as well as intellectual property protection. GM was also the least likely to allow suppliers to raise their prices in the face of unexpected increases in material cost, all of which contributed to 55 percent of suppliers saying their relationship with GM was "poor to very poor."

GM's cross-town competitors didn't fare much better. Chrysler finished in fifth place, ahead of GM and behind Dearborn-based Ford, which was passed for third place this year by Nissan. Toyota took the top marks, while Honda captured second place.

PPI also surveyed suppliers of Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, each of which has considerably smaller manufacturing presence relative to the American and Japanese brands (there are only three US factories between the three of them). Mercedes and VW were ranked behind GM, while BMW would have been just behind Toyota.

According to Reuters, this survey serves to illustrate a big issue facing American manufacturers - Japanese brands aren't just on good terms with suppliers, but their relations are actually improving. PPI boss John Henke said the popularity of Toyota and Nissan among suppliers increased considerably, indicating that we "could be entering an era in supplier relations that doesn't bode well for the US Big Three."
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Nissan Canada kills Cube, is US next?

Canadians, say goodbye to the quirky Nissan Cube. In fact, it's too late; it's already gone. The question now becomes whether the boxy model gets the axe in the US as well.

Nissan didn't exactly publicize the Cube's Canadian retirement. An Autos.ca reader noticed that the vehicle was no longer listed on the automaker's official site in the Great White North. He tweeted the company about it and was told, "Yes, the Nissan Cube has been discontinued in Canada."

The news certainly makes you wonder what the future for the model is in the US. The Cube isn't exactly a hot seller here, either. According to Nissan's last sales results, it sold just 356 units in April, down 23.9 percent from a year ago, and 1,604 vehicles from January to April, down 33.7 percent. Annual sales were as high as 23,000 units in 2010, but they started dipping as early as 2011.

Nissan North America Director of Communications, Dan Bedore, tells Autoblog: "Nissan is committed to providing Canadians with exactly the right car to fit their lifestyle. At this time, customers are finding their needs are met with the other great small cars in our lineup like Micra, Versa Note, Sentra and Juke and we are putting our focus behind these vehicle nameplates."

And what of US sales? Says Bedore, "In the US, the 2014 model is in showrooms, now. We have no comment on Cube sales in the US beyond the current model year." Suffice it to say that despite the official "No Comment" from Nissan, we don't expect to see any Cube models in US showrooms for 2015 - this, despite the fact that the model is expected to get a facelift soon for other markets.
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Nissan 'Ride of Your Life' campaign turns an Altima into a race car [w/video]

Nissan definitely makes some exciting vehicles. The GT-R has received continuous improvements to keep it at the head of the pack in the performance car world. And the Leaf might not bring driving intensity, but its technology is quite impressive. However, there is nothing especially thrilling about the Altima. Granted, it races in the Australian V8 Supercars series, but that car really only shares its basic shape with the production version. So it may see surprising that the Japanese automaker is hoping to inject some drama into its midsize sedan with its new Ride of Your Life ad campaign.

The project is pretty clever. Nissan invited several people to the Horse Thief Mile circuit at Willow Springs Raceway for a ride in an Altima racecar. After a few laps with a professional driver around the course, they pulled into the pits, and the passengers got a big surprise. We won't spoil what happens for you. You can check it out in the video below.

The concept is somewhat similar to Toyota's thrill ride ads for the Camry last year. Both promotions try to show that that these four-door, family sedans can be more than just boring transportation. Nissan's commercials will begin airing on TV soon. The automaker hopes to excite potential Altima buyers ahead of its upcoming national sales event.
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Blood-Red Nissan GT-R Gets Bodykit in China

The Nissan GT-R looks like the kind of car which takes its mods well, and wears them with pride, no matter how small or outrageous they may be. Body kits, rims, spoilers and wild paint jobs really make the GT-R come alive, and whatever you do to it, there is a very high likelihood of it looking rather smart once you`re done.

This red example from China is excellent in illustrating the point. The car was spotted at a used car dealership, in the city of Shenzen, in the Guangdong province, and the first thing that strikes you about it is the bright red finish.

However, this what you are looking at is no wrap - the car is actually painted red, and is all the better for it. It also gets a nice wide body kit, a new rear spoiler, and aftermarket rims, with black interiors and red contrasting outer edges.

The car overall looks great, and as we`ve said before, it wears its mods with pride. We don`t know if the car has also had any performance upgrades, but since the GT-R is already stupid-quick, they are not mandatory.

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2013 Nissan Pathfinder: January 2013

We've now had our long-term 2013 Nissan Pathfinder for about a month, and some impressions are starting to solidify, while others remain contentious among the team. Most notable among those contentious items is our Pathfinder's paint color, which was chosen by vote among the Autoblog team.

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This Is the New Nissan X-Trail - Revealed by Leaked Patent Papers

The Nissan X-Trail is a well-regarded contender in the SUV category, being small enough not to attract the gazes of SUV-haters, yet large enough to give ample amounts of interior and boot space, while also being an imposing presence on the road.

However, Nissan will be ditching the boxy shape of the current X-Trail, in favour of a more curvaceous, more up to date look. Now, courtesy of paultan.org, we have three shots of the car, which appear to be leaked patent renderings.

After seeing the photos, we are happy to report that the new X-Trail has retained may of the design cues which made the Hi-Cross Concept such a standout vehicle, at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, and to us, at least, it looks a bit like the Mazda CX-5, from some angles - the Mazda is not a bad looker, either.

Nevertheless, some will still miss the more classic and boxy shape of the current version of the SUV, and this new generation may be just a bit too modern for the more conservative buyers, whom are slowly running out of choices, as manufacturers are making their SUVs increasingly car-like.

News Source: paultan.org

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Report: Nissan Juke to get higher-performance Nismo RC model

It's hard to find more giggles for your crossover dollar than the Juke – regardless of how you feel about the way it looks, the singularly styled nichemobile from Nissan is very entertaining to drive. Yet we've always felt that the platform had more in it, and evidently its Japanese parent agrees, having recently bracketed the googly-eyed turbocharged CUV with a new Nismo model and the barking mad built-to-order Juke R. At present, neither the Juke Nismo or the GT-R-powered Juke R are sold in North America, but the former has already been confirmed for sale here.

Even when it does reach our shores, there will still be a heck of a lot of whitespace between the mild performance upgrades of the standard Nismo and the half-mill R model, and to hear the UK's Car tell it, Nissan has plans to plug that gap, too. According to its report, the automaker will shortly offer a Juke Nismo RC that will have roughly 20 horsepower more than the basic Nismo (which itself has 197 hp, nine more than the base Juke). The RC will apparently feature a lower, stiffer suspension, upgraded brakes and a unique exhaust and intake for a snarlier soundtrack. Both front-and all-wheel drive models are planned, as are manual and CVT transmission choices.

No word yet on the RC's pricing or even North American availability, but the regular-strength Juke Nismo is expected to arrive shortly, and Nissan is also said to have big plans for its performance nameplate, so we wouldn't rule it out.

News Source: Car UK

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Nissan 370Z Touring Modified by K3 Projekt

Aftermarket wheel specialist K3 Project has recently gotten its hands on a 2009 Nissan 370Z Touring and has decided to transform this into a demo vehicle. The coupe, which uses the Sport Package, rides on Projekt1 alloy wheels, which come in a 20-inch size. The rims use a five-spoke design with a massive lip that draws attention to the car.

In addition to that, the vehicle comes with a SunLine Racing carbon fiber front add-on element and lip, with the same material being used for the Evo-R rear diffuser, B pillar cover and exterior mirrors. The 370Z Touring also comes with beefier fenders, new side badging, a carbon fiber engine cover, as well as Carbon Signal red carbon interior trimming.

The tech side of the deal includes a Stillen Generation 3 cold air intake, Invidia cat-backs, Z1 pipes, as well as powder-coated Akebono brakes. The aforementioned wheels use Ichiba spacers, which come in a size of 20 mm for the front axle and 25 mm for the rear one.

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Nissan Resonance Chosen as Best Concept in Detroit

It was undoubtedly among the top picks for everybody who came to the 2013 North American International Auto Show, which took place in Detroit, as everybody loved its rakish profile, sharp lines and excessively-styled body.

We are, of course, talking about the Nissan Resonance concept, which has now been officially chosen as being the Best Concept Vehicle at the famed motoring venue - it would have also been our choice for best concept, as well.

However, the award was not given away by just anybody, and the panel of judges was composed of both active and retired automotive designers. They liked the Resonance a lot, and were impressed to hear that it would be inspiring the creation of the next Murano SUV.

We just hope the Resonance does`t lose too much in its transition from concept to production. We do expect it to be toned down a bit, but since Nissan were bold enough to launch the Juke, which is a very oddball vehicle, then we expect them to have no problem in launching an equally strange Murano.

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Video: Can a car be lifted using rubber bands?

It's quite amazing what it takes to lift a car. We already know the feat can be accomplished using just a pair of phone books, but what about rubber bands? To the Internet! A video series appropriately titled "Will It Lift" attempted to find out by using a massive crane and a Nissan Micra weighing less than 1,800 pounds.

Doing a little math, the trio determined that it would take 180 rubber bands to support the car. A metal bar was placed through the window openings and another was place atop the car, and then attached together using the rubber bands and hooked to the crane. Now these aren't any special rubber bands or anything. They're just eight-millimeters thick, but the stunt is testing the rubber bands' power in numbers.

News Source: YouTube

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Cadillac ELR, Nissan Resonance and Ford Atlas win Eyes on Design awards

This year's annual Eyes on Design awards were presented at the end of press days for the Detroit Auto Show on Tuesday. Given out for the best production and concept car designs that debuted at the show, and voted on by an esteemed panel of actual car designers, this year's award for best production vehicle design went to the 2014 Cadillac ELR. The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette, which was the show favorite among Autoblog editors, apparently did not impress the Eyes on Design judges enough with its all-new vent-festooned design.

The award for best concept design was actually split as a tie among the Nissan Resonance and Ford Atlas concepts. Last year's winners were the 2013 Ford Fusion and the Lexus LF-LC concept.

The Eyes on Design organization also presented a new honor this year called the Catalyst Award to Bob Lutz, former Vice Chairman of General Motors. Lutz is reported to have given a defense of design in his acceptance speech, arguing that advancements in quality across the industry as a whole have made good design a key differentiator for buyers.

News Source: The New York Times

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Nissan Reportedly Working on Green Sub-Z Sports Car

Nissan officials have announced that the Japanese automaker is developing a small sports car, which is set to sit below the 370Z. Details are sparse, but Car&Driver did manage to speak with Nissan’s Vice President, Andy Palmer, who confirmed the news, without giving away any sort of details.

All he said about the new car is that ‘you either love it or hate it’ - it`s that type of car.

However, despite the fact that it sounds suspiciously like a Toyota GT86 / Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ rival, it actually isn`t. In fact, it is a youth-oriented car (think Juke), which would not be a direct competitor to those three, simply because it is slated to be a different type of car, which quite possibly will also feature some sort of electrification.

Still, while it all sounds very good, we have to see it, at least in the form of some sort of concept, before we believe Nissan`s claims, as this is not the first time they have announced a sporty car for ‘the youth’. Back in 2006, they showed off the Urge concept, which was considered for production, and more recently, the ESFLOW concept from 2011, which used the powertrain from the Leaf EV.

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2014 Nissan Versa Note pushes the little hatchback forward

Alright, truth time: The Nissan Versa isn't exactly our favorite car in the subcompact class. It's certainly competent, reliable transportation, but it's hardly an emotional purchase choice. Perhaps this new version of the Versa, then, can change our minds a bit. Meet the Versa Note – the cuter, five-door version of the li'l sedan, making its debut here at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

Aesthetically, the Versa Note is a pretty pleasant-looking thing; we've seen it before in JDM-spec. It's a decidedly aerodynamic thing, too, with a drag coefficient of just 0.29. And because of that – as well as an efficient little powertrain – the Note will achieve up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway.

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Nissan Resonance Concept gives glimpse of next Murano

The Nissan Resonance Concept has bowed at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, giving the world a glimpse at the company's future design direction for crossovers. Specifically, the concept heralds what the next-generation Murano may look like once it touches down. Nissan has already confirmed the successor to the big crossover's throne will be produced in Mississippi for the first time. With a "floating" roof and dynamic head lamp arrays, the Resonance boasts a far more athletic appearance than the snub-nosed current generation. Inside, designers worked up a cockpit aimed at conveying what "the future of first-class space travel might be."

Nissan isn't saying what the upcoming Murano will have under the hood, but the Resonance boasts an all-wheel-drive hybrid powertrain with a small-displacement internal combustion engine and an electric motor. A lithium-ion battery delivers power while a CVT takes care of putting power to the wheels. 

INNOVATIVE NISSAN RESONANCE CONCEPT CROSSOVER FEATURES BOLD, DIFFERENTIATING STYLE

• Signals the future direction of Nissan crossovers with smart, edgy design
• Inspired by a new "innovation era" and optimism for a bright, energetic future
• Elevates the crossover experience with engaging aerodynamic exterior, spacious and sophisticated interior and advanced HEV powertrain
• Global concept aims to present an intelligent, fresh alternative for U.S. consumers

DETROIT (January 15, 2013) – With its boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling and fuel-efficient hybrid-electric powertrain, the Nissan Resonance concept proposes an all-new dynamic and edgy design that once again leads the trend for the crossover category. The global concept makes its world debut today at the 2013 North American International Auto Show.

Said Francois Bancon, Nissan Motor Co. division general manager, Product Strategy and Planning: "When the designers were first working on conceptualizing the Nissan Resonance, they were inspired by amazing scientific advancements in technology and material innovations. They also were inspired by the aspirations of those people who unabashedly embrace innovation and are optimistic about the future. It was about serving those people a concept vehicle that is forward-looking and fuses style with an athletic ride."

While seen as a concept of global relevance, Resonance was created by Nissan Design America, San Diego, CA, under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

An Energetic, Premium Exterior Design that Resonates
Light on its feet, the exterior design signals that Nissan Resonance is pushing the crossover segment forward.

The energetic surfaces show a counterpoint of dynamic fluidity and pure edginess. Nissan's designers worked to express an aerodynamic feel that was lightweight yet also protective, and drew inspiration from the futuristic allure of hypersonic travel.

The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the hood and resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights. The body is strengthened by powerful surfaces and provocative lines and is accented by the flow through the car to the kick-up shape around D-Pillar. These distinct details give the crossover a very advanced yet spacious impression.

The roof's unique "floating" design is created through the use of the thin, steeply raked A-pillars, large full-length glass panel and flowing D-pillar design. The effect created gives the impression of a flowing structure carried by the large windows and overall spaciousness of the cabin.

The body color, named Flare Orange, adds even more energy and warmth to the overall exterior design. Other exterior features include a tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents and 22-inch, full dynamic flow aluminum-alloy wheels.

Inside, a Futuristic VIP Lounge
With the interior, the designers imagined what the future of first-class space travel might be: Welcoming yet exclusive and high-tech yet premium. The resulting "VIP lounge," with its light, buttery leather and premium-stitched seats, exudes genuine sophistication.

Thoughtfully considered details, including sequential welcome lighting, add warmth and drama upon entering the vehicle. The dramatic interior illumination highlights the natural wood pattern in the modern cabin.

An advanced instrument panel floats on a generous console, creating a forum where the driver can access all infotainment and communication features. Technology is graphically layered to give a holographic experience and visual depth is used to separate information in order of importance.

The open glass roof gives passengers a unique panoramic view of the world and floating elements like the roof lining add to the sense of space and airy lightness. The spacious interior atmosphere is enhanced by the sculpted door panels and elegant, deep shape of the center console.

Said Bancon: "The Resonance interior reflects the enlightened modernity of today's crossover buyer, who values an amazing experience over traditional indulgence. The architecture of the cabin is open and structured. Like the exterior, it redefines and pushes the segment beyond convention."

Sustainably Dynamic Performance
Though Resonance is presented strictly as a design concept, its efficient hybrid electric drivetrain signals the desire by crossover drivers to be respectful of the environment without sacrificing driving pleasure. The all-wheel drive Resonance includes Nissan's proprietary "one-motor, two-clutch" system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion gasoline engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system. Resonance also features Nissan's next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

An Other-Worldly Concept for Real-World Customers
The bold Resonance follows Nissan's longstanding leadership in crossover design, demonstrated by such cutting-edge vehicles as Murano, Qashqai and Juke, while pushing the boundaries of design into another dimension.

Concluded Bancon: "Resonance is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging – even polarizing. Its edgy yet sophisticated design, combined with an environmentally sensitive powertrain and intelligent utility provides a clear, exciting view into the future of crossover innovation.

"This design is not meant to appeal to traditional two-box SUV shoppers, but rather to those whose fashion and design choices make a statement. For Nissan, this concept makes our statement about the future of this segment."

News Source: Nissan

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US-Made Nissan Leaf as Cheap as $18,800!

Nissan announced, even before starting preparation for US production of the Leaf EV, that they would also be offering a cheaper entry-level variant, which would be significantly cheaper. Well, now it`s official, and it can be had for as little as $18,800, once the $7,500 federal tax credit and state discount of $2,500 are factored in.

The actual price is $28,800, but since $10,000 is added by the federal and state governments, the price is as low as it is, and it`s welcome news for Nissan, as the Leaf has been struggling for quite a while in the US, with very poor sales, which have only recently just started to pick up.

Aside from the very basic model, the S, they also offer SV and SL trim levels, which add more kit, including leather and sat-nav. Compared to the Japanese-built versions, the SV is $3,380 cheaper, at $31,820, while the SL trim is now $2,410 cheaper, at $34,840.

Bill Hayes, Global VP of Leaf Sales said: "With nearly 50,000 LEAFs on the road globally, we are the leaders in zero emissions vehicles and our class-leading product just got better [ . . . ] From the very outset, Nissan has continuously advanced and refined the affordable zero emissions vehicle ownership experience. Now customers won't have to pay a premium for owning a green car that's really fun to drive, and that's exciting."

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Nissan Leaf becomes least expensive 5-seat EV with massive price drop

In a roundtable interview today at the North American International Auto Show, Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn announced a $6,400 price drop for the base-model 2013 Nissan Leaf. Last year's base model was $35,200, while the new base-level 2013 Leaf S starts at $28,800. Ghosn says the new prices make the Leaf the least expensive five-seater electric for sale in the US.

Some of the lower cost is due to a difference in content from last year's low-end model to this year's. But a sizable portion can be chalked up to the Leaf's production moving from Japan to Tennessee. The 2013 Leaf is not only assembled in the US now, but its lithium-ion batteries and the car's electric motors are manufactured in the same southern state.

The Leaf SV will be priced from $31,820 for 2013 compared to $35,200 last year. The high-end Leaf SL now starts at $34,840, down from the 2012 model's $37,250. These models also have differences in content. One big one is a new 6.6-kWh charger that reduces charging times pretty dramatically.

All 2013 prices will have an $850 destination fee added, but the cars will still qualify for a $7,500 federal income tax credit in addition to various state and local incentives. 

Nissan Brings New, U.S.-Assembled 2013 LEAF to Market with Major Price Reduction

• Addition of a new LEAF S trim level lowers entry price by more than $6,000, or 18 percent
• Available federal and state incentives can bring price down to less than $19,000
• Improved energy efficiency, faster charging times and greater customer choice headline 2013 model year improvements

FRANKLIN, Tenn. – Nissan has announced that U.S. pricing for the new 2013 Nissan LEAF will start at an MSRP of $28,800 for the newly-added S grade, making it the lowest priced five-passenger electric vehicle sold in the United States. Depending on location, some consumers may purchase the vehicle for as low as $18,800 with qualifying federal and state tax credits, putting the LEAF on par with gas-powered vehicles of its size.

Nissan's objective for the LEAF has always been to produce an affordable zero-emission vehicle for the mass market, and the 2013 LEAF is a prime example of that commitment with increased value at every trim level, making it more accessible for more people.

"With nearly 50,000 LEAFs on the road globally, we are the leaders in zero emissions vehicles and our class-leading product just got better," said Billy Hayes, Global vice president of LEAF sales for Nissan. "From the very outset, Nissan has continuously advanced and refined the affordable zero emissions vehicle ownership experience. Now customers won't have to pay a premium for owning a green car that's really fun to drive, and that's exciting."

Nissan recently began U.S. assembly of the 2013 Nissan LEAF at its manufacturing plant in Smyrna, Tenn., a localization initiative that further drives efficiencies by leveraging already-existing equipment and processes while also reducing exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency. The battery packs that power LEAF are built in an adjacent facility in Smyrna while the vehicle's electric motor comes from Nissan's powertrain plant in Decherd, Tenn., further supporting efficient manufacturing.

Eligible consumers can take advantage of a $7,500 federal tax credit, and some states and municipalities offer additional incentives. For example, California residents can get a 2013 Nissan LEAF for as low as $18,800 after the federal tax credit and state rebate of $2,500.

Nissan will also continue its lease offer for the 2013 LEAF, allowing consumers to lease the electric vehicle for as low as $199 per month for 36 months, which includes tax credits and destination charges.

Additions to the 2013 LEAF include: 17-inch alloy wheels and leather appointed interior on SL models, available Around View® Monitor and 7-speaker Bose® energy efficient audio system and a 6.6 kW onboard charger that significantly reduces 220V charging times and is standard on SV and SL models.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2013 Nissan LEAF:

Model	MSRP*
LEAF S	$28,800 USD
LEAF SV	$31,820 USD
LEAF SL	$34,840 USD

About the 2013 Nissan LEAF
Now in its third model year, the Nissan LEAF is the world's best-selling pure electric vehicle with nearly 50,000 cumulative sales worldwide. For 2013, the LEAF features numerous customer-focused upgrades. LEAF is powered by a responsive 80kW AC synchronous motor produced at Nissan's Powertrain Assembly plant in Decherd, Tenn. The 2013 LEAF's output is 107 horsepower, with 187 lb-ft. of torque. Energy is supplied by an advanced 48-module lithium-ion battery made at the new battery plant in Smyrna, Tenn.

The 2013 Nissan LEAF is offered in three well-equipped models, the LEAF S, LEAF SV and LEAF SL. Standard features include 6-way manual driver's seat, 4-way manual front passenger's seat, trip computer (instant and average energy consumption, driving time, outside temperature and autonomy range), Automatic Temperature Control (ATC), center console storage and 3.6 kW onboard charger. Other standard equipment includes Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Start, Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, power windows with driver's window one-touch auto up/down, power door locks with auto locking feature, remote charge door release, variable intermittent windshield wipers, AM/FM/CD with MP3 playback capability and a 12-volt power outlet.

LEAF SV models are upgraded to 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a 6.6 kW onboard charger, cruise control, auto dimming rear view mirror, energy saving hybrid heating system, an upgraded 6-speaker sound system, 7-inch color LCD display, Pandora® link for iPhone users, Nissan Navigation system with CARWINGS telematics and B-mode setting for increased regenerative braking. At an MSRP of $31,820, the 2013 LEAF SV represents a $3,380 savings over a similar 2012 model.

LEAF SL adds leather-appointed seats, 17-inch five spoke alloy wheels, DC 480V fast charge port, automatic on/off LED headlights, fog lights, photovoltaic solar panel rear spoiler and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver. At an MSRP of $34,840, the 2013 LEAF SL represents a $2,410 savings over a similar 2012 model.

Incremental aerodynamic and energy management improvements are expected to give the 2013 LEAF improved range** over previous model years. Final range estimates for the 2013 Nissan LEAF are awaiting EPA test cycle verification.

About Nissan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second-largest automotive company, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, and is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 248,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4.8 million vehicles in 2011, generating revenue of 9.4 trillion yen ($118.95 billion US). With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of 64 models under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero-emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades, including the prestigious 2011-2012 Car of the Year Japan and 2011 World Car of the Year awards.

About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, design, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010 and has been recognized as a 2010 and 2011 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. More information about Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.Infiniti.com.

With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of fuel-efficient and low-emissions vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award.

For more information on our products, services and commitment to Sustainable Mobility, visit our website at http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/.

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* MSRP excludes applicable tax, title, license fees and destination charges. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice.

**Charging times and range estimates may vary depending on driving/charging habits, weather, temperature and battery age. A 6.6W onboard charger is a standard feature on SV and SL trims, and optional feature on the S trim.

News Source: autoblog

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