2008 Ford Escape Hybrid Review - The 34 MPG SUV

Blings:

• Most fuel efficient SUV on the planet
• Cavernous interior
• More masculine exterior appearance
• Easy-to-use Nav system

Dings:

• Brake pedal like stepping on a wet Nerf ball
• No traction control and downgraded NHTSA safety score
• Limited A/C function in electric drive mode
• No audio controls on steering wheel

Ruling: Unless you’re a devoted city dweller, being ‘green’ isn’t worth the added heft and expense.

On Ford’s website for the new 2008 Escape SUV, they boldly advertise “The End of Boredom is Here.” And if it’s true, it certainly isn’t to the credit of the redesigned 2008 Escape Hybrid. Purchasing the Escape Hybrid definitely won’t cure your boredom, but if you’ve got a case of nagging regret for not being more green, then maybe, just maybe, the Escape Hybrid is for you. Yes, Ford’s claim of the Escape Hybrid being ‘the most fuel efficient SUV on the planet’ is valid, but unfortunately, it’s one of the few merits we can find in justifying the purchase of one. Like making a donation to a smooth-talking evangelist, absolving your guilt of not being more green will come at a handsome price; and it’s more than just a financial one.

Now don’t misunderstand, we don’t hate the Escape. It would be foolish to write off a vehicle that has sold over a million units since it’s introduction at the beginning of the millennium. Obviously it’s popular with the American public for being an economical alternative to bigger, bulkier SUVs. In addition, the hybrid drivetrain is an innovative idea. At a minimum, it’s a gateway for helping create automobiles powered by alternative energy sources. So then what could be better than adding a ‘green’, innovative drivetrain to a platform as successful as the Escape, right? Seems like a no-brainer, to use the parlance of our times. But sometimes - like in the case of the Ford Escape Hybrid - the sum of its parts is greater than the whole.

Driving Impressions

The absolute first problem we noticed when driving the Escape Hybrid was not necessarily it’s cacaphony of hums, buzzes and wheezes, the irksome CVT (constantly variable transmission) or its dopey, top-heavy handling. Those items were something we managed to cope with. But what we couldn’t warm up to was the Escape’s horrendous brake pedal feel. Unlike hybrids from other manufacturers who manage to make regenerative brakes feel almost identical to conventional brakes, the Escape Hybrid has a quality which can only be described as stepping on a wet Nerf ball. It’s as flaccid as Alfred E. Newman at Muscle Beach. Easily the worst brake pedal feel in recent memory.

The 2.3 liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine and two electric motors have a total system output of 155 horsepower and 152 lb/ft of torque, which for a vehicle that weighs 300 pounds more than its 3500 pound non-hybrid siblings, makes for sluggish performance. If you’ve never driven one before, a CVT is a transmission that has but one gear which is ‘constantly variable’ in its operation; revving this way and that to match the power potential of the engine. It’s awkward at first and takes a little getting used to. It feels like driving an automatic transmission that’s low on ATF, refusing to upshift. But once you’re acclimated, the CVT helps overcome the Escape’s general sluggishness by matching engine revs to peak torque, giving the Escape more than adequate lane change and highway acceleration.

But for most people interested in the Escape Hybrid, the fuel economy numbers are what really shine. For FWD models, 34 MPG city and 30 MPG highway are quite impressive, as are the AWD numbers of 29 and 27. Under light acceleration below 25 MPH, the Escape is all electric, and although the transition between volts and gasoline isn’t glassy smooth, its acceptable.

Build

Like some other Ford SUV/CUV models, the new Escape is mixed in its build quality. On the freeway, the Escape’s cabin is quiet enough to meditate in, a testament to the quality efforts of Ford engineers. Although tippy and loose in handling, in straight line freeway driving, the Escape has reassuring presence. But since it’s redesign, the Escape has taken a hit - literally and figuratively - in its safety record, which is one of the bigger problems with this vehicle.

Because Ford engineers were not able to figure out how to make the traction control system work with the hybrid drive, there is no traction control available. And although it still comes standard with safety features like antilock brakes, front airbags and full-length head curtain bags, the Escape’s NHTSA safety record has actually suffered. Passenger safety is at least up to 5 stars from 4 in 2007, but it comes at a cost to the person behind the wheel. Driver safety is down to 3 stars from 4 in 2007, performance that many safety experts consider unacceptable.

Interior

One of the highlights besides the Escape’s stellar fuel economy is its redesigned interior. The boxy, square-jawed dashboard exudes the interior found in Ford’s full-size trucks, and the tall cabin almost convinces passengers they’re in a full-size truck. But unlike full-size trucks, the Escape keeps the green theme in full effect with cloth upholstry made of 100 percent recycled material - which could be good or bad depending on what the seats were in a prior life.

The backseat is equally cavernous with ample legroom even with the front seats in full rearward position. The rear cargo area expands from 27 cu. ft. to 66 with the seats folded. It’s a bit of an effort to convert the seats, but once complete, you’re rewarded with cargo flatness absolute. Underneath the rear cargo mat sits the partial culprit of the Escape Hybrid’s hulking weight and dopey handling - the 330V Sealed Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery Pack.

The center stack is well thought out with big, simple buttons and an adequate seven speaker stereo system with CD, MP3 and satellite capability. The touchscreen navigation system is intuitive and also features hybrid consumption readouts for those rabid about fuel economy data. The console also comes with an optional 110V AC outlet, handy for charging items like a laptop computer. At night, the Escape’ instrument cluster glows with an attractive blue hue brighter than a bottle of Aqua Velva.

But a couple glaring oversights still exist. One is the fact that A/C has limited operation in electric mode. If you’re stuck in rush hour traffic on a scorching summer afternoon and the car is operating on battery power, A/C will only work in the MAX A/C position; AKA an F5 tornado. Also, for some inexplicable reason, Ford forgot to put audio controls on the steering wheel. A huge disadvantage when playing radio station war with your passenger.

Styling

In previous generations, the Escape has sported an exterior which some considered less than masculine. It didn’t seem to hurt the Escape’s sales numbers, but for 2008, Ford has gotten machismo with the Escape, squaring off the edges and adding a big faux chrome grille and tasteful accents. Although it looks a lot tougher, looks is where the Escape’s toughness ends. At the end of the day, its still a hybrid vehicle that won’t tow more than 1,500 pounds.

Value

With the Escape Hybrid, value depends on what kind of driving you’ll be doing. Considering that a FWD Hybrid costs more than $3,000 over its gasoline-only V6 equivalent with far more power, you have to be a hardcore city driver or pretty serious about being green to justify the added expense. If you consider the V6 MPG numbers of 18 city and 24 highway, at $3 per gallon of gas, you’d have to drive over 100,000 highway miles to gain back that $3,000 difference. However, if the majority of your driving is city, the added expense will be paid back in only 40,000 miles. The Escape Hybrid is a far better value for urban pavement pounders than it is for the long-haul road warrior.

Who should buy it?

Obviously, people who buy the Escape Hybrid are buying it for reasons other than value. For those who do a lot of city driving, have rather large cargo requirements and don’t mind sacrificing performance and extra cash for an eco-friendly vehicle, the Escape Hybrid is worth a look. If you don’t meet all of these criteria, then look at the gasoline burner.

Conclusion

Although carREVIEW.com consumers rave about the Escape - giving it an extremely high overall ranking - at least for the 2008 Hybrid model, we must disagree. It’s poor braking, handling, lack of traction control, shaky NHTSA safety results and overall general boringness make us want to look elsewhere. But if you simply must have “the most fuel efficient SUV on the planet”, then you’ll find all your heart desires in the Escape Hybrid.

	Build	Interior	Performance	Handling	Styling	Value	Overall
Rating	3.0	3.5	3.5	2.0	3.5	3.0	3.0/C

Ford Verve Concept

Ford Verve concept shows big aspirations for new small cars.
Ford is revealing the Verve. The small car concept showcases the style, technology, premium materials and substantial content that will set it apart when Ford’s new small cars go on sale in North America in 2010. Ford is injecting decades of European small car excellence into a new global family of small cars that are dynamic in design and performance.

Verve aims to transform North American customers’ views of small cars. It will appeal to “Millennials” – the fastest-growing segment of the population – as well as their parents. These customers have grown up with the Internet, mobile phones and 24/7 connectivity, and they believe bigger is not necessarily better, precision is everything and technology rules.

Dynamic personality evident from every angle

Verve comes in both four- and three-door body styles. The four-door is the basis for the production vehicle that will be sold in North America beginning in 2010. The European three-door is being shown to test market reaction to the body style – as a possible additional small car for the North American market.

The Verve concept has a sleek and dynamically poised design. Viewed from the front, the vehicle features:

• A bold, three-bar graphic with a Ford blue oval in the upper grille opening and downsized the lower, inverted trapezoidal grille.
• Pronounced, rearward-stretching headlamps, giving the face of the Ford Verve concept a friendly, open and inviting personality.
• A toned and athletic hood sculpture that’s not overtly muscular.
• Prominent headlamps that feature two projector beams and a light-emitting diode (LED) array.
• Two unique LED side markers flank the front fascia.
• Specially designed 18-inch, 12-spoke two-piece alloy wheels that lend even more drama to the car.

From the side view, the Verve concept has a purposeful look:

• The profile is emphasized by the pillar-less side window shape, mirroring the body’s curving upper contour line. This extends rearward from the angular A-pillar to marry the semi-high-mounted, LED tail lamps sculpted to become part of the fullness of the body shape.
• These elements blend cohesively together and support the panoramic glass roof.
• Subtle chrome bars accent the door handles.
• Brushed aluminum accents the lower grille surround, the rear number plate surround, and the lower edge of the front fog lamps.
• Low-profile tires feature a sidewall stripe that complements the rich Rouge Red body color.

Verve offers surprising spaciousness, quality materials and lots of smart features

The Verve concept interior follows the sensuous curves and contours of the instrument panel shape and features:

• A center stack that decouples traditional elements of the entertainment system – the screen, control elements and the electronics. With these features separated, designers could position controls for optimal ergonomics – in a design resembling the logic of a mobile phone.
• A center console with a tray for mobile phone or MP3 player, and a large bin for a purse or shoulder bag near the handbrake.
• Heating/ventilation controls, highlighted in a lozenge shape at the midpoint of the center stack. They have large twist dials inspired by the sculpture found in high-quality power showers.
• Key electronic systems such as navigation, a dynamic sound system and in-car phone controls.
• Speedometer and tachometer that are uniquely framed by binocular-shaped, short tunnels of jewelry-like brightwork that complement the center stack and contrast the rich interior colors like a fashion accessory.
• A steering wheel sculpted of soft-feel material, punctuated by the Ford oval badge as a rich tactile and visual centerpiece.

Ford’s future small car is being developed as a global car – led by the Verve concept

Verve was developed through Ford’s new global product development system. Ford is building on its European small-car expertise to stake a bigger claim in this critically important segment. Ford’s celebrated small car lineup in Europe includes such top-sellers as the Ford Focus, Fiesta and Ka.

Verve provides a vision for a new world standard for quality, design and comfort. This strategy gives Verve a bold, modern, design along with sophisticated electronics, premium materials, surprising functional space and a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine – all previously unseen in the small car segment.

Ford maintains small-car leadership in Europe with vehicles set apart by their world-class driving dynamics and dynamic designs.

With more than five million vehicles produced in Europe since it was launched in 1998, the Ford Focus is one of the only vehicles in the world to be named “Car of the Year” both in Europe and in North America. It is Ford’s perennial top seller in Europe and, in 2007, was Europe’s top-selling car in its class.

The Ford Fiesta – which is smaller than the Focus – debuted in 1976, and it has sold more than 12 million units in Europe.

The iconic Ford Ka redefined the small city car sector in Europe with its eye-catching and enduring design and fun-to-drive character when it was introduced more than 11 years ago. Sales remain strong – with more than 1 million cars sold.

U.S. sales projected to grow 25 percent by 2012

Momentum in small-car sales is outpacing overall industry growth worldwide. Globally, small car sales have grown from 23 million units in 2002 to an estimated 38 million in 2012. That’s nearly 45 percent of the total expected 85-million unit industry, a level never before achieved. In the U.S., sales of small cars likely will grow by 800,000, or 25 percent – to a record 3.4 million units by 2012.

In fact, small cars and crossovers are the only vehicles with projected near-term growth in the U.S.

Driving the growth in the U.S. market is a group of young people aged 13 to 28 years – dubbed “Millennials.” Today, this group stands 1.7 billion strong worldwide and will represent 28 percent of the total U.S. population by 2010.

As a group, Millennials embrace eco-friendliness, stay in constant touch using modern technology and demand best-in-class products from around the world. This group will grow from representing 19 percent of the driving public in 2004 to amassing 28 percent in 2010.

Every day, 11,000 Millennials in the U.S. come of driving age. When it’s time to buy their first car, nearly half of this group shops the small-car segment.

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Source:
Charlotte Fisher
Design Communications
Ford Motor Company

Marisa Bradley
Product Communications
Ford Motor Company

Ford Confirms Fiesta as Global Name for Small Car

• Ford’s new-generation global small car to be previewed at 2008 Geneva Motor Show. Its worldwide name is confirmed – Ford Fiesta.
• New Fiesta is the first product of Ford’s new global product development process, with versions due for launch also in Asia and North America between 2008 and 2010.
• European production of new Fiesta begins in fall 2008.

COLOGNE, Germany, Feb. 14, 2008 – Ford’s new small car family will use the Fiesta name around the world, the company confirmed today.

Designed and developed in Europe for customers in Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and the Americas between 2008 and 2010, the new Fiesta is the first major product of Ford’s new global product development process. This new small car keeps alive a name synonymous with more than 30 years of success and strong driving dynamics in Europe and is already well known in markets across Asia, Australia and South America. The Fiesta also was offered in the U.S. from 1978 to 1980.

“The new Ford Fiesta captures every aspect of what’s defined Ford as a small-car leader in Europe and builds on it in terms of driving dynamics and design,” said Mark Fields, president of the Americas, Ford Motor Company. “When it arrives in North America in 2010, the Ford Fiesta will set a new standard in the small car segment. Even before it arrives in this market, though, the new Fiesta demonstrates how leveraging our global strengths can yield attractive benefits for customers around the world.”
The dynamic new look for this global family of small cars was previewed in three Ford Verve Concept vehicles which made their debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007, the Guangzhou Motor Show in November 2007 and the North American International Auto Show in January 2008.

In Europe, the new Fiesta will debut first in production guise at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show in March and will go on sale in fall 2008 in three- and five-door hatchback body styles. By 2010, the new Fiesta will be on sale in markets across Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and North America in a variety of regionally tailored models derived from a common platform.

“With the all-new Fiesta, we want to create a world standard for small car quality, design and comfort in a vehicle that is as exciting to drive as it is to look at. We believe this all-new model will attract a whole new generation of small car buyers, whether they are in Britain, Spain, China or California,” said Alan Mulally, Ford Motor Company President and CEO. “The new Ford Fiesta will set the standard for delivering to our customers products they really want and value while taking advantage of our wonderful global resources.”

The new Ford Fiesta brings the dynamic Verve Concept exterior and interior styling to production reality, demonstrating that small cars can be stylish, sophisticated and emotional. It rejects the notion that an affordable small car has to be a commodity.

The new Ford Fiesta also makes major strides in small car craftsmanship, quality of materials and product choice while continuing to represent traditional strengths of practicality, value for money, agility and safety. It also brings a host of big-car features to the small-car segment for the first time.

“The new Ford Fiesta is an example of how good a small car can be,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s group vice president, Marketing and Communications. “The Fiesta is great to look at, great to drive and it has quality you can see, feel and touch. It’s going to be an important growth product for North America.”

A key Ford Fiesta strength throughout its life has been its acclaimed driving quality, and the new model intends to uphold this reputation. Ford’s dynamics engineers also worked hard to enhance Fiesta’s ride comfort and isolate road, wind and powertrain noise from the cabin, and to give the new model an impressively quiet driving quality for a small car.

Fiesta for a New Generation
The all-new Fiesta opens another chapter in the story of the popular Ford small car that has sold more than 12 million units since its introduction in 1976 and represented real change when it came on the automotive scene. While it has moved with the times and fashions over the years, it has remained steadfast in its dedication to providing economical, practical and dependable transportation for people of all ages.

Starting in the early 1970s, the Fiesta project became a personal mission of Ford’s Chairman, Henry Ford II. A passionate believer in small cars, Ford rallied his company to the mission of creating a new model. He personally was involved in every step of the long process that led to the grand opening of the new automotive assembly plant in Almusafes, Valencia, with the attendance of the newly crowned King of Spain, Juan Carlos.

With the global fuel crisis as extra incentive, at the end of 1973, the Ford Board of Directors gave Project Bobcat, as it was originally known, the go-ahead for development and production. Fiesta didn’t get its name until 1974, when Ford whittled down a list of 50 potential names to just five. The final choice went to Henry Ford II, and his preference for Fiesta was entirely appropriate given the creation of the new manufacturing plant in Spain.

In Europe, the new Fiesta will be built at Ford’s Valencia manufacturing facility in Spain beginning in early 2009 alongside the Cologne manufacturing plant, which starts production in fall 2008.
A production announcement for the Ford Fiesta in Asia will be announced in April at the Beijing Motor Show. A North America announcement will come at a later date.

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Source:
Said Deep and Daniel Jarvis
Ford Motor Co.

Ford recalls about 180,000 trucks

WASHINGTON – Ford Motor Co. is recalling about 180,000 light trucks to replace a door handle spring that may break and a fuel hose that may leak.

The spring is on interior side door handles of 2007-08 Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators. About 124,000 vehicles will be recalled for installation of a newly designed spring, Ford told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The company informed regulators that door latches work even if handle springs break, but a recall will be conducted because the doors might open in a crash.

In a separate case, about 57,000 trucks built for the 2006-07 model years will be recalled to replace the fuel rail assembly. A fuel rail crossover hose can leak, Ford told regulators.

The hoses are on 5.4-liter engines in Lincoln Navigators, Ford Expeditions and Ford E-150, E-250 and E-350 vans, according to NHTSA’s Web site.

The company said it has no reports of crashes, fires or injuries related to the two problems.

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Nissan stock soars on surprise profit gain

TOKYO (Reuters) - Shares of Nissan Motor Co (7201.T) surged 14 percent in heavy trade on Monday, posting their biggest one-day rise in seven years after Japan’s No. 3 automaker reported a surprise gain in quarterly profit on a pick-up in global sales.

Nissan, owned 44 percent by Renault SA (RENA.PA), announced after the close on Friday that its operating profit for the July-September quarter rose 12 percent from a year earlier, handily beating the market consensus.

The automaker had been expected to suffer a fall in core profits on weak domestic sales and as demand for the Titan pickup and other high-margin light trucks shrank in its biggest market, the United States, due to heated competition and expensive fuel.

But Nissan’s global sales grew 6.6 percent to 941,000 vehicles in the quarter and group revenue jumped by 13 percent.

The strong results and upbeat outlook from Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn prompted several brokerages, including Nomura Securities, Mitsubishi UFJ Securities and Nikko Citigroup, to raise their ratings on Nissan stock.

“Based on our surveillance of potential new-model effects and other signals to indicate the timing of an earnings turnaround and the next buying opportunity, we conclude that the second quarter was the turning point,” Nikko Citigroup auto analyst Noriyuki Matsushima wrote in a report on Monday, adding he expected earnings to begin turning up.

“This represents a change in our earlier view, in which we had seen a second-half recovery as unlikely. The shares appear undervalued, and we recommend buying.”

Nikko Citigroup raised its rating to “buy/medium risk” from “hold/medium risk,” and lifted its target price by 20 yen to 1,420 yen.

Nissan’s stock ended up 14 percent at 1,283 yen, rising the most in one day since September 29, 2000, when it gained 15.5 percent. A hefty 77 million shares changed hands, more than four time the volume on Friday.

Rivals Toyota Motor Corp (7203.T) and Honda Motor Co (7267.T) also rose, both by 3 percent.

The benchmark Nikkei average (.N225) put on 1.2 percent.

“Nissan’s profit figures were better than expected and sales volumes are rising. This has given investors confidence,” said Koichi Ogawa, chief portfolio manager at Daiwa SB Investments.

“But there are still worries about the dollar and consumption in the United States.”

Nissan’s July-September operating profit was 218.71 billion yen ($1.92 billion), beating an average estimate of 183.5 billion yen in a survey of four brokerages by Reuters Estimates.

Operating margin recovered to 8.4 percent — taking Nissan out of what Ghosn called a “crisis” situation with a margin below 8 percent.

Nissan joined Honda in reporting improved earnings. Its operating profit jumped 48 percent last quarter on brisk sales of its fuel-efficient CR-V crossover. Toyota, the world’s biggest automaker, is due to report on November 7.

Many analysts had expected Nissan to fall short of its full-year targets, which call for operating profit to rise 3 percent to 800 billion yen, partly due to the yen’s recent resilience against the dollar and soaring commodity prices.

Following the earnings announcement, JP Morgan reiterated its “neutral” rating on the stock but said the risk of Nissan missing its full-year estimates had receded and that this would likely be good for the share price over the near term.

“There are signs that the company is recovering from a host of problems, including product quality and inventories, and results were encouraging,” JPMorgan analyst Takaki Nakanishi wrote in a note to clients.

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Nissan and Renault SA Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn poses with the GT-R at its unveiling during the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in Chiba, east of Tokyo, October 24, 2007. (Kim Kyung-Hoon/Reuters)

Source:
Reuters
Photo by Kim Kyung-Hoon/Reuters

Nissan Introduces All-New Nissan GT-R Supercar and 2009 Murano Crossover at Los Angeles Auto Show

– Highly Anticipated 480-Horsepower Nissan GT-R Makes North American Debut –

LOS ANGELES (November 14, 2007) – Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO, Nissan Motor Co., today unveiled two all-new 2009 Nissan production vehicles – the Nissan Murano crossover and the Nissan GT-R – at a press conference at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. The second-generation Murano, which features new exterior and interior designs, along with enhanced performance, goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide beginning in January 2008. The Nissan GT-R, which will be available for the first time ever in the United States beginning in June 2008, makes its North American debut at the L.A. Auto Show, following its global introduction at the Tokyo Motor Show last October.

Pricing of the 2009 Nissan GT-R was also announced – $69,850 for the Base model and $71,900 for the Premium model, which adds a standard Bose® audio system, heated seats and side air bags.

Nissan’s 2007 sales are up through October a total of 4.9%, and Nissan has the largest year-over-year gain of the top six U.S. manufacturers in October.

2009 Nissan Murano
Making its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2009 Murano, elevates its unique position in the marketplace through a “super-evolution” of the original design. The all-new Murano features new exterior and interior designs, enhanced technology and a new premium driving feel resulting from a new, advanced platform and continued refinement of Murano’s standard 3.5-liter V6 engine and advanced, second-generation Xtronic CVT™.

The most striking visual element of the 2009 Murano is its new body, which imparts a “modern art” feel while still maintaining its distinctive “Murano-ness.” The new Murano design also includes an available dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2nd row skylight. Inside, the 2009 Murano lives up to its “mobile suite” design theme with new levels of warmth and luxury.

Other available Murano features include a new foldaway cargo organizer, heated front and rear seats, power liftgate, rain-sensing front wipers and RearView Monitor.

All 2009 Muranos feature a VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque and an advanced Xtronic CVT™ with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) that provides a sporty and smooth driving experience. 2009 Muranos are available in front-wheel drive or with an advanced all-wheel drive system, and all Muranos come standard with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with a Traction Control System (TCS) for all-weather confidence. The 2009 Murano features a new “D” platform, first introduced on the 2007 Altima, which provides a solid foundation and new, lighter suspension components with increased stiffness.

2009 Nissan GT-R
One of the most anticipated vehicles ever created by Nissan is coming to the U.S. in June 2008 – the 2009 Nissan GT-R. No longer the unobtainable object of desire on a video game or in the movies, the GT-R will be available on sale for the first time in North American in June 2008.

GT-R is a multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of “the ultimate supercar that can be driven by anyone, anytime, anywhere” and achieved a lap time of 7:38 around the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife, one of the fastest times achieved by a production-spec vehicle to date.

Under the hood, the Nissan GT-R features an all-new 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 producing 480 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque (estimated), while meeting ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) standards. The engine is backed by an all-new, paddle-shifted GR6 sequential 6-speed dual clutch rear transaxle.

The new Nissan GT-R is built on an exclusive all-new Premium Midship platform. This new platform enables the use of a world’s first independent rear transaxle ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system, which places the transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle, optimizing weight distribution and maximizing handling capability.

Suspension is a special multi-link Bilstein DampTronic system, and the braking system is made up of Brembo full-floating drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads and Brembo mono block six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. Tires are nitrogen-filled Bridgestone high-performance run flat or optional Dunlop high-performance all-season tires, on exclusive GT-R 20-inch wheels.

The Nissan GT-R’s functional styling utilizes advanced aerodynamics, evoking the lines of a well-trained athlete. GT-R’s hybrid body construction combines steel, carbon fiber and die-cast aluminum, and features a low coefficient of drag of 0.27, while achieving high front and rear downforce.

GT-R’s interior balances functionality with a sense of ease and comfort. It features sculpted performance bucket seats for an optimal driving position, a cockpit-style instrument panel with a large center-mounted tachometer and multi-function display – which includes mechanical and driving information, as well as an on-board driving recorder.

Total vehicle adjustability is provided by a “set-up switch” located in the center of the instrument panel, enabling the driver to adjust transmission shifts, shock absorbers and the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC-R) in three settings – Normal, Comfort or “R,” for ultimate handling. Available is a specially designed 11-speaker Bose® sound system, with speakers mounted in rigid aluminum die cast panels, which provides sound quality suitable for a supercar.

About Nissan
In North America, Nissan’s operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissannews.com.

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Source:
Nissan News

Nissan FORUM Concept - a fresh approach to the humdrum minivan

The Nissan FORUM, an exploratory design concept developed by Nissan Design America, Inc. (NDA), represents the next revolution in family transportation.

Answering the challenge of making family passenger vehicles more appealing to both drivers and passengers, FORUM offers a wide array of innovative ideas – from its trackless sliding side doors and elimination of traditional B-pillars, to an interior featuring a multi-position swiveling 2^nd row seat to next-generation entertainment and family communications technology.

A Suite of Technological Innovations. Nissan North America’s advanced minivan design study, the Nissan FORUM Concept, offers an array of innovative family communications systems – including an advanced Bose Media System with proximity sensor-based information controller, a one-button audio muting system, 2^nd and 3^rd row monitoring cameras, and individual seat-mounted speakers for every row. Created at Nissan Design America in La Jolla, Calif. and Farmington Hills, Mich., the FORUM Concept makes its public debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January.

A FORUM For Family Gatherings. The interior of the new Nissan FORUM Concept, which makes its public debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, features a front driver’s zone and rear kids’ zone – brought together into one unified family space through innovative technology. FORUM’s interior also features “Turntable Seating,” a unique 2^nd row seat that can rotate 90 degrees to either side or 180 degrees to face the three-passenger 3rd row seat. FORUM also includes individual audio/entertainment systems with wireless monitors and a console-mounted microwave oven.

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Source:
Nissan News Bureau

Nissan Announces Pricing on All-New 2009 Murano

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 15, 2007) - Nissan North America, Inc. today announced pricing on the all-new, totally redesigned 2009 Nissan Murano crossover with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $1,500 lower on all models versus the previous generation. The 2009 Murano goes on sale this week at Nissan dealers nationwide.

The original Nissan Murano set new standards for style and sportiness when it was first introduced, becoming, in essence, a “class of one.” The all-new, second generation 2009 Murano elevates that unique position with new exterior and interior designs, enhanced technology and a premium driving feel resulting from a new, advanced platform and continued refinement of Murano’s standard 265-horsepower V6 engine (an increase of 25 horsepower over the previous generation) and advanced, second-generation Xtronic CVT™.

“When Murano was introduced in 2003, there were only eight vehicles in the middle crossover segment. Since then, the segment has grown to become the fifth largest in the industry with more than 20 models competing in this segment,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “We’re pricing the all-new Murano to take advantage of the growing interest in the segment, adding standout value to its standout design, features, quality and safety.”

The 2009 Murano is offered in five models Murano S FWD, Murano S AWD, Murano SL FWD, Murano SL AWD and a new Murano LE AWD model (the previous generation Murano included a Murano SE AWD model).

The 2009 Murano S FWD starts at an MSRP of $26,330 and comes fully equipped with intelligent Xtronic CVT™, dual zone air conditioning, power front windows with one-touch auto up/down with auto reverse feature, push button ignition, 60/40 split fold-flat rear seat, auxiliary audio input jack, 18-inch wheels and much more. The Murano S AWD has a starting MSRP of $27,930 and includes the extensive standard features on the FWD, along with Nissan’s intuitive All-Wheel Drive system.

The Murano SL FWD, starting at $27,880 offers all the features on Murano S, plus rear privacy glass, front fog lights, steering wheel audio switches, leather wrapped steering wheel, 8-way power driver seat and 60/40 split fold-flat rear seatback with power return. The Murano SL AWD, starting at $29,480 adds intuitive AWD.

The new Murano LE AWD, starting at $35,910, offers new luxury and technology features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, bi-functional xenon headlights, Bose® audio system with 11 speakers, XM® Satellite Radio, Interface System for iPod®, 7-inch color display, Intelligent Key, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, driver position memory (seat, mirrors, and steering wheel), leather-appointed seats, heated front and rear seats, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, interior wood trim, power liftgate, RearView Monitor and many others.

About the 2009 Murano
The most striking visual element of the 2009 Murano is its new body, which imparts a “modern art” feel while still maintaining its distinctive “Murano-ness.” The front end features a bold grille and wide front headlights, while Murano’s new hood sweeps into the bodyline, with powerful wheel arches and available 20-inch wheels providing an aggressive stance. Murano’s redesigned rear end features a unique rear glass shape for maximum visibility, rear air deflector, large rear LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers.

A new Murano option for 2009 is an available dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2nd row skylight. Three new exterior colors are also offered: Deep Sapphire, Tinted Bronze and Saharan Stone.

Inside, the 2009 Murano lives up to its “mobile suite” design theme with new levels of warmth and luxury. New front seats and a new steering wheel design provide increased passenger comfort, and warmth is provided by a new “Welcome Lighting” ambient lighting system, a new instrument panel design, available wood and aluminum accents and a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat with available power return. Other available features include a new foldaway cargo organizer, heated front and rear seats, power liftgate, rain-sensing front wipers and RearView Monitor.

All 2009 Muranos feature a VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque and an advanced Xtronic CVT™ with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) that provides a sporty and smooth driving experience. 2009 Muranos are available in front-wheel drive or with an advanced all-wheel drive system, and all Muranos come standard with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with a Traction Control System (TCS) for all-weather confidence.

The 2009 Murano is built on a new “D” platform, first introduced on the 2007 Altima, which provides a solid foundation and new, lighter suspension components with increased stiffness. New dual flow path shock absorbers provide sure footing on all surfaces, while a new twin-orifice speed-sensitive power steering system delivers the proper levels of assistance in around-town and high-speed driving.

Push button start is standard, along with iPod® connectivity (LE only). Available technology features include Intelligent Key, Bose® premium 11-speaker audio system, an advanced touch screen navigation system with 9.3GB Music Box hard drive, a new power-operated 9-inch roof-mounted screen (up from the previous generation’s 6.4-inch screen) for Murano’s DVD Mobile Entertainment System and Voice Recognition for audio, Bluetooth® and navigation system.

In North America, Nissan operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissannews.com.

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Source:
Nissan News Bureau

2008 Nissan Armada Review – Living Large the American Way

Pros

• Powerful V8 engine
• Spacious, luxurious interior
• Commanding road presence

Cons

• Too many rattles and buzzes
• Unrefined ride quality
• Guzzles gas

What a difference a few years makes. Not long ago Detroit couldn’t make enough truck based SUV’s, with Explorers, Expeditions, and Suburbans flying off of dealer lots and into driveways all over America. Now, with gas prices hovering over $3 a gallon and global warming on everyone’s mind, the tide seems to be turning against large truck based SUVs. For Japanese manufacturers this must be especially bittersweet, since they have only recently tried to compete in the large SUV market segment. Introduced in 2004, the Armada is Nissan’s answer to the American desire to live large and look good while doing it. Although a bit late to the party, the Armada has plenty of swagger and should draw some eyes away from the usual contenders.

Driving Impressions
The Armada is based on the same platform as the Nissan Titan pickup truck and shares the same engine and transmission. The Armada comes standard with a 5.6 liter V8 that produces 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft torque. This is a sweet engine, with gobs of low-end torque and an eagerness to rev to its 6,000 RPM redline. Jam the throttle and the Armada launches its 5,600 lbs down the road with impressive ease. The 5-speed automatic transmission does an excellent job of managing all this power and features a tow mode should you choose to take advantage of the Armada’s impressive 9,100 lb towing capacity.

Unlike the Titan pickup, the Armada features an independent rear suspension that makes the ride a bit more civilized and less truck-like. The suspension is nice and firm, with only moderate body roll, but when the road starts to undulate the shocks get a bit bouncy and they also have a tendency to clomp over potholes and other surface irregularities. Some more suspension tuning would really help the Armada shed its pickup truck background. The brakes are solid, although the pedal feels somewhat soft and mushy, which was initially a bit discomforting, especially given the Armada’s size and mass.

Build
Although the Armada’s fit and finish looked pretty good at first, when driving on uneven road surfaces there were quite a few rattles and vibrations emanating from the various plastic materials. Wind noise was also a bit excessive on the highway, and certain road surface and wind combinations triggered an alarming vibration in the body of the car, enough to make the roof mounted LCD screen move up and down almost an inch. Nissan will have a hard time winning over drivers used to the solid, clamped down build of a good luxury sedan or other modern passenger car. Like most vehicles sold today, the Armada is equipped with a host of safety features, including Nissan’s advanced air bag system, with front and side curtain airbags, as well as vehicle dynamic stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes.

Exterior
As its name suggests, the Armada commands respect. With 20” alloy wheels, a chrome grill, and a striking majestic blue paint job, the Armada projects the fact that it is one of the largest vehicles on the road. Fortunately, the Armada features a rear view camera and a proximity alarm that beeps loudly whenever you get within a few feet of another object. Even with these features, navigating parking lots can be a bit daunting and the Armada definitely feels more at home on the open highway than on narrow city streets.

Like other traditional truck based SUVs, the Armada doesn’t hide its pickup truck roots, with slightly flared fenders and a roofline that accentuates the size of the front cab. The Armada sits high off of the ground and fortunately features side runners to help with entry and exit, although this could still be a bit tricky for shorter individuals. Additional exterior features include a power rear liftgate and power folding auto-dimming sideview mirrors with turn signals.

Interior
For a car with such a rugged, commanding exterior, the Armada has a surprisingly plush and pampering interior. All three rows of seating are upholstered in soft black leather and the front seats offer power adjustment and seat warmers. Dual zone automatic temperature controls come standard, and there is separate rear audio and climate controls so that everyone stays comfortable. There is also a power moonroof for late night drives under the stars and a Bluetooth hands free phone system for those important conference calls. Driving tunes are provided by a punchy Bose sound system with satellite radio, and for the kids in the back there is a DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones. Despite what the exterior might suggest, this is definitely not just a pickup with a clamshell thrown on the back!

Unlike some other SUVs that claim to seat seven, the Armada has plenty of room to seat seven full sized adults. The middle row features two chairs that are separated by a storage console, each of which easily swings out of the way to provide access to the back row of seats, which fold down for increased storage. Even with the back row up the Armada has a decent amount of cargo space, enough for at least a few suitcases or camping bags.

Value/Who Should Buy It
Whether there will be many folks looking for such large SUVs in the future remains to be seen, especially with the increased popularity of large crossovers that also seat seven but drive much more like a conventional car. With an MSRP of $46,715, the Armada doesn’t come cheap, but does offer a lot of car for the money, both in terms of overall size and available features. Fuel efficiency was somewhat respectable for a vehicle this size, averaging almost 15 mpg, but that was with the car mostly empty. For those in the market for a car to commute with every day and only occasionally take out on the weekends, the Armada is almost definitely a poor choice. But for those who require a vehicle to frequently transport the whole family while also towing a large boat or trailer, the Nissan Armada should be given a second look.

	Build	Interior	Performance	Handling	Styling	Value	Overall
Rating	3.5	4.5	4.5	3.5	4.0	4.0	4.0/B

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Road Trip from Los Angeles to Detroit

smart and Mercedes-Benz demonstrate high environmental friendliness in a real-world test

Detroit – In an unusual long distance test the smart fortwo and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class demonstrated their top position among the most climate-friendly cars. On a trip from Los Angeles via Chicago to the Detroit Auto Show 2008 they demonstrated outstanding fuel-saving qualities in everyday real-world conditions. On the 4,400 kilometre route the smart fortwo mhd recorded an average consumption of just 4.8 litres per hundred kilometres. The two smart fortwo cdis were satisfied with 3.9 litres, and even the business saloon E 320 BLUETEC (US version) consumed an average of just 5.8 l/100 km.

The journey from smarthouse in Venice, a district of Los Angeles to Detroit took seven days. For a large part of the time the route led the test convoy consisting of one smart fortwo mhd, two smart fortwo cdis and an E 320 BLUETEC along the legendary old Route 66. Media representatives from Germany, Italy and the USA took turns at the wheel. They had to cope with lonely highways, desert stretches, mountain passes and busy cities. And a severe spell of winter weather with fresh snow and temperatures of down to minus 15 degrees Celsius increased the challenge and made for tough driving conditions.

Despite these adverse conditions, the participants were impressed by the long-distance qualities of the smart fortwo models - cars that are actually designed for urban traffic. However, the high fuel-saving potential of all test vehicles was even more impressive:

• With its 52 kW/71 bhp 1 liter petrol engine the smart fortwo micro hybrid drive (mhd) showed that consumption of less than 5 liters per 100 kilometers can be achieved as a real on-the-road figure and carried its passengers 100 kilometers on 4.8 liters. This impressive figure is thanks to a new, sophisticated start-stop function that uses the idling phases to completely shut down the engine – for example at traffic lights, level crossings or in s top-and-go-traffic. As soon as the driver releases the brake pedal the engine starts automatically and the journey can continue immediately without a perceptible delay.

• On Route 66 the smart fortwo cdi proved that it rightly deserves the distinction of being the most economical production car with a combustion engine. Thanks to the world’s smallest direct injection diesel engine the 33 kW/45 bhp two-door model consumed just 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers in real-world conditions and traveled approximately 850 kilometers without refueling.

• With the launch of the E 320 BLUETEC in 2006 Mercedes-Benz ushered in a new era of diesel engines in the USA. On the road trip to Detroit its 165 kW/224 bhp three liter V6 engine proved to be at least as economical as a four cylinder engine in everyday use. The average consumption was just 5.8 l/100 km. Moreover, thanks to the BLUETEC modular emission control system the popular business saloon is the world’s cleanest diesel and undercuts the strictest emission limit values worldwide. This is why the E 320 BLUETEC was named ” 2007 World Green Car” by journalists in the USA.

The E 320 BLUETEC has already won lots of fans in America and a European version, the E 300 BLUETEC is now available to customers in certain markets. The petrol version of the environmentally friendly smart fortwo will be available in the USA from this month.

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Source:
Daimler AG

2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR Review

Mercedes-Benz offers a very nice roadster of its own, the SL, this year celebrating its 50th anniversary. At prices ranging from $ 96000 to $ 188000, the most efficient model SL65 AMG comes with a supercharged V12 engine. Mercedes also has a deep-rooted commitment technical partnership with McLaren Technologies, which in the Formula One racing engine Mercedes-Benz, and this relationship have already arisen from the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren and cutting performance of the 722 SLR cut version. The market has learned that the two companies, it is now time for the ultimate Mercedes-Benz roadster, just in time to celebrate the 50th anniversary. In round figures, the price of this amazing roadster will be $ 495000, with destination and delivery charges of $ 2750.

Mercedes-Benz does not have a rear-mid-engine supercar in its range as Ferrari and Lamborghini and Porsche do, so he chose to create, with a lot of technical assistance, and the assembly by McLaren, England, a kind of Long nose, short-deck first mid-engine supercar. The engines were built in Germany by Mercedes-Benz in the home and studio of high performance, the AMG, and shipped to England to be installed in these organizations very special.

The roadster bodies are completely new, not cut-down versions of the SLR coupe bodies. They are entirely made of three layers of carbon fiber in the race for McLaren shop. In carbon fiber reinforced plastic or CFRP, is about five times stronger than steel to crush (or crash) situations, about half the weight. (It is also much more expensive.) The body in one piece, then with a huge V-shaped aluminum girder on each side that is attached to the front of the firewall to bring the engine, transmission, front suspension and steering. The carbon fibre wings and the bonnet full body.

The 626 horses supercharged 5.5 litre V8 nestles under the long, long hood, breathing directly through the star of Mercedes-Benz in the nose of the car, and escaped through a pact mounted l 'before exhaust system that leaves from the bottom edges of wings before. This does three things. It works very well for emissions, while retaining catalytic converters warm. It helps to better breathing engine at high speed. It eliminates a lot of pipes and mufflers under the car, which has a flat bottom for clean aerodynamics. Oh, and four, it is the sound of the V8 engine very close to the cockpit, where it can be appreciated. Read on to lead our impressions to see what we thought of it all.

A glance would tell anyone that the proximity SLR Roadster is something very special, a legitimate 200 mph car. From this point of long, pointed nose and front spoiler on the side exhaust pipes, functional hood vents and fender vents and scissors doors, there is very little front-engine cars that carry with them all kind of visual impact, and two of them are SLR cuts.

The main differentiator is the tight, closely designed convertible top. Once the lock is released and the button, a second push of the button will automatically store and hide it in a simple top 10 seconds. Establish the top is even simpler than that. When the top is down, the decibel from the front fender-mounted exhaust pipes go way, way, but that is part of the car and part of the charm of what you pay for a exoticar like .

The rear bodywork behind convertible top contains a well air brake automatic, which works like the ones used on Mercedes-Benz race cars of the 1950's, which raises automatically will help slow the car and keep the Rear stable in the event of emergency braking. Bedrock roadster rear of a built-in undertray to control airflow and add high-speed stability as well.

The reflex of the extensive list of standard equipment includes semi-aniline leather upholstery fitted to a pair of carbon fibre and bucket seats that can be adapted for the driver and front passenger using different sizes seat pads ; dual-zone automatic air conditioning; A premium sound Bose, a sports multifunction steering wheel with gear-shift paddles, and a navigation system with an AM / FM radio and CD changer-compiled with.

Do not look for a big fancy polished chrome, wood or inside the SLR, because no. This is a very athletic inside, mostly with black, brushed finish on most metal parts that are not erupt in the eye in full sun with the top down. Our silver test car had a black interior with a sort of terra cotta red accent plate, and he was quite satisfied, focusing on the provision of necessary data for the driver, as quickly and clearly as possible by the means of two pods central instrument in the highlands The scoreboard dashboard.

Wow! Would a good place to start, followed by the spirit and the heart-pounding-bending. Although Mercedes-Benz cites a 0-62 mph (0-100 km / h) time of only 3.8 seconds, or about three heart beat, he feels even faster than that, and it will just continue roadworthy, and faster and faster, until you reach a speed of about 200 mph, depending on the winds. Power delivery is very smooth and very linear, more a turbine or a jet engine piston. He is assisted in his mission with a five-speed automatic transmission with three modes of travel, Comfort, Sport and Manual, with a manual by using either the floor shifter or steering wheel mounted paddles for manual movement. In the manual mode, there are three other choices to upshift and downshift speeds, Sport, and Supersport Race.

The manner in which the engine and transmission were centered weight and lowered in the chassis gives the SLR roadster is a built-in the desire to turn left or right very quickly thanks to the quick ratio power steering system. The race quality dual-arm front and rear suspension systems combine with extremely rigid body and chassis to give the beautiful SLR identify the direction and handling en route situations.

If you have half a million dollars uncommitted elsewhere, and if you want a lot of car says a lot about you and the level of performance you need in life, in business, in the automobile and transport, the Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster Make a grand entry, like few other cars in automotive history. Yet it is not in a bad mood or persnickety uncomfortable or very long, readers who wander through the countryside. But this car is also about pulling the country clubs, first of films, sporting events, restaurants and night-clubs with the top and oozing panache of each molecule. Great car all around.
Source: newcartestdrive

2007 Suzuki SX4 Review

It is not a hybrid, it's not a Scion, and it is not a plush toy. This is a Suzuki SX4, but it looks like it may have started life as any one of those three. Instead, what you see here is the least expensive all-wheel drive car in America, which means that the power to all four wheels is no longer the exclusive province of the birth of the well-off and wristed thin. Of course, the small-Giugiaro designed hatchback (which is also sold in Europe as the Fiat Sedici) is inexpensive, about $ 15000, but that's not its only advantage. It is a discount in the Subaru Impreza and driving pleasure.

That's a bold statement to make, but if you can forget the car is relatively bleak fuel economy (23 miles per gallon in the city, but a test drive can make heroic to the average well below 20 mpg), it is quite true. The SX4 a snappy feel-tight steering and responsive to the holding of a dividing line on a ramp or cutting through traffic. It goes like swimming sperm. Its five-speed shifter proletariat is perfect. And it responds to changes in the weight transfer of a small car should easily and without much fanfare.

Although all-wheel drive system does not act as a real contributor in the implementation process, as in an Audi or Subaru, it is available for adverse conditions when a driver does not want to lock the differential in place until at 50 -50 Splitting up front to back. Otherwise, and at speeds of over 36 miles per hour, it is generally 95 percent front-wheel-drive-biased TI in normal mode, or entirely 2WD mode. The small switch is located between the front seats, next to the handbrake. The best fuel economy can be found in 2WD mode, but of course, you carry the weight of the system around all the time, whatever your schedule rallying. Purchasers of the Suzuki should not expect a fuel-efficient city car. They should expect a major greenhouse revver than necessary with all-wheel drive capability. At more than 2800 pounds, the SX4 is hundreds of pounds heavier than a Ford Focus or Nissan Versa. But if this issue if it contributes to the stability of the car? A philosophical question and macroeconomic (please, stay with me) should be: if Suzuki can offer all-wheel drive for less than $ 15000, should not everybody?
Source: suzukiauto