Harte Auto Group

2012 Nissan Versa Seda, Nissan Leaf NISMO RC Concept Make World Debuts at New York International Auto Show

2011-04-28T12:17:00.003-04:00

NEW YORK (April 20, 2011) - An all-new Nissan Versa Sedan designed to bring "innovation within reach" to the entry-level compact segment. A purpose-built race car version of the world's first mass-market all-electric vehicle, the Nissan LEAF. These two vehicles made their world debuts during a media conference at the New York International Auto Show. Both vehicles will be on display throughout the run of the show, April 22nd through May 1st, at New York City's Jacob Javits Convention Center.

The 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan, which goes on sale at Nissan dealers nation wide this summer with a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (M.S.R.P.) of $10,990, features a sophisticated exterior design, well-appointed interior and exceptional room for five adults - including more legroom than many mid-size sedans.

"For many companies, innovation typically starts at the high-end and eventually works its way down the model line. In developing the new entry-level Versa Sedan, we challenged ourselves to find innovative ways to deliver a no-compromise entry-level car," said Carlos Tavares, chairman, Nissan Americas. "We achieved this by enhancing the fuel economy, reducing the emissions, and embracing modern design while continuing to offer a spacious and comfortable interior. All at a very affordable price."

The new Versa Sedan offers a second-generation 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that includes a range of cutting-edge technologies such as a dual injector system and twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC) system - making it one of the most advanced powerplants in its class. Fuel economy is estimated at 30 mpg City, 37 mpg Highway and 33 mpg Combined (CVT transmission), an improvement of five mpg versus the 2011 Versa Sedan. The 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan will be available in three models - S, SV and SL.

Sharing the stage with the new Versa Sedan, the dramatic Nissan LEAF NISMO RC (for Racing Competition) utilizes a production Nissan LEAF powertrain wrapped in a unique 2-door carbon fiber body with removable front and rear sections and a large adjustable rear wing.

Like the production Nissan LEAF, the NISMO RC is powered by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. Unlike other competition vehicles, the NISMO RC has no tailpipe. no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases while being driven, and no exhaust sound. It is projected to have a running time of around 20 minutes under racing conditions.

"We believe EVs can be more than commuter cars. The Nissan LEAF NISMO RC is an example of that thinking. This vehicle is a rolling laboratory for the accelerated development of EV performance and aerodynamic systems, as well as a platform for the development of a new 'green' motorsports series," added Tavares.

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.

About Nissan

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second largest Japanese automotive company by volume, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan and is an integral pillar of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 150,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4 million vehicles in 2010.

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 market 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/.

Driven to Distraction

2011-04-19T14:14:00.006-04:00

Computer-based touch screen controls are becoming ubiquitous in cars. They are used to operate everything from audio to air conditioning. But are they more of a nuisance than they're worth?

The MyFord Touch control and display system includes LCD screens that flank the speedometer and a screen in the center stack.

We live in a touch-screen world. Just ask the designers of the iPhone, iPad or any Android device, and they'll tell you there is no better way of putting a near-infinite amount of information and control within a defined space than on a screen that you can interact with directly. Automakers have been integrating touch-screen interfaces into dashboards for several years now, digitizing the controls for everything from navigation to climate-control systems onto large console-mounted screens with an ever-increasing architecture of menus and submenus that now rival the complexity of desktop PCs.

Take the new $58,000 Hyundai Equus, for instance. It not only has an 8-inch screen in the console for everything from navigation to climate control to camera-based parking guidance, the car also comes with its owner's manual installed as an application on an included iPad.

What's driving the need for in-car screens? "Computerization and wireless technology have greatly increased the range of entertainment options," says John D. Lee, a human-factors expert at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. New cars have satellite radio and Bluetooth links to cell phones, they can play MP3s and read text messages, and many of their computer-controlled systems can be customized by the user. "Screen-based systems make it possible to dramatically increase the number of functions and features available to the driver," Lee says. "Presented as individual knobs and buttons, they would likely exceed the space within arm's length of the driver."

Sounds ideal, right? Not so much.

It's no coincidence that the high-tech feature creep that has necessitated the in-car LCD screen has evolved concurrently with a new concern about the dangers of distracted driving. So far, most distraction-related accidents have resulted from drivers taking their eyes off the road to dial or answer cell-phones, or from the relatively new, boneheaded phenomenon of texting while driving. The statistics are chilling: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 5,474 people were killed and an estimated 448,000 were injured in distracted-driving accidents in 2009. According to the Insurance for Highway Safety, drivers who use handheld devices are four times as likely to get into serious crashes.

Part of the rationale for integrating a wide range of entertainment and telecommunications devices into a vehicle's controls is to deal with the fact that, like it or not, drivers are bringing phones and iPods and various texting devices into their cars. It would seem better for them to hunt for a song or a phone number on a custom-designed 8-inch console screen than to fumble around for those things on the tiny screen of a portable device. Yet as the complexity of a car's operating system has grown, it seems that the auto industry may be learning all the wrong design lessions from gadgets that they are trying so hard to accommodate.

The Problem

Recently, Consumer Reports slammed the MyFord Touch system, which is at the forefront of a new generation of advanced automotive computer interfaces. Ford had previously gained accolades from auto journalists and customers alike for its Sync system, a voice-recognition technology launched in 2007 that allows drivers to control many of a car's functions with voice commands. Voice recogntion has long been considered a holy grail for automotive interfaces, since it theoretically allows drivers to control complex systems without taking their eyes off the road.

Synch resulted from a partership between Ford and Microsoft (MSN Auto's parent company), and its voice recognition was good enough to call up names from the driver's cell-phone contact list, and even to find individual songs and artists by name on an iPod. The new MyFord Touch system - also known as MyLincoln Touch in the new Lincoln MKX - expands on the voice control with one 8-inch touch-screen and capacitive slide controls built into the center console, plus two 4.2-inch screens integrated into the instrument cluster and a series of steering-wheel-mounted multidirectional control pads.

Ford says the system "helps you keep your eyes on the road," but Consumer Reports' senior automotive engineer Thomas Mutchler thought otherwise, calling the system so complicated that it could become a distraction while driving. "The basic idea's OK," Mutchler says. "There's nothing wrong with having multiple ways of making an input. If you have four ways of adjusting climate control, that's fine, but at least one of them should be a good one. The touch-screen and the buttons are small, and it's hard to find the one you want to push."

He then fired off a litany of ergonomic crimes: "The touch-sensitive capacitive switches are finicky and don't work well when it's cold. The steering-wheel comands are menu-driven, so you have to go through a couple of steps to do something that could have been done with the turn of a knob. The voice commands work sometimes and they don't work sometimes, and you feel kind of stupid talking to the car when there's someone else in the car with you."

It's a pretty strong indictment: The system that was supposed to be designed to help you manage complexity so that you don't get distracted ends up being so complex that it becomes the distraction. As you might expect, Ford sees things differently. A spokesman says the system provides a "smarter, safer, simpler way to connect drivers with many in-car technologies and their digital lives." He said that customer feedback on the system has been positive, but that Ford takes feedback from both customers and Consumer Reports seriously when it comes to upgrading and improving the system. Indeed, as software-based operating systems, Sync and MyFord Touch can be updated relatively easily, and some upgrades to the system have already been made.

The 2011 Audi A8's MMI system features a new touch-pad. It's designed for easy interaction, so the driver doesn't have to take his or her eyes off the road for long.

It's Not Just Sync

Ford is hardly the only manufacturer that has had to defend itself against criticism over distracted driving. Just last year, Audi engineers were surprised and shocked after The New York Times ran a picture of the manufacturer's MMI Touch system, which had just been unveiled at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show, under the headline "Driven to Distraction." One Audi engineer said that the system had been designed specifically to mitigate the distracting influence of smart phones, MP3 players and other devices, and that any suggestion that a motorist would stop using these devices if cars stopped integrating their functionality was naive.

Whether it is a good idea in the first place to build "infotainment" systems into vehicles will probably remain an open debate for some time, yet the "complexity and confusion" issue is surely made worse by the fact that every manufacturer has its own take on how the technology should be implemented, guaranteeing almost zero standardization.

Audi's MMI system in the A8 has a touch pad that can be reconfigured digitally and that can interpret finger gestures. Mercedes-Benz's Comand system has a dialing puck and an optional dual-view screen that lets passengers and drivers see different things. Lexus has a center-console-mounted Remote Touch mouse with force feedback to enter commands on the screen. And these interfaces are by no means consistent with a brand; some cars have basic touch-screens, others have pucks, dials or multidirectional buttons. Almost all manufacturers have some sort of voice control, but commands are so varied that drivers can end up calling out a thesaurus-worth of synonyms - "Heat!" "Temperature up!" "Warm!" "I'm freakin' cold, turn on the heater!" - just to get anything done.

It Isn't Going Away

Regulators and safety advocates would certainly like to see most of this technology removed from the driving experience. But most automotive experts agree that screen and voice-control systems are here to stay. There are guidelines for good interactive system design; the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers published a 90-page document outlining the best practices for the industry in 2006. It's long-winded and a bit dated, but Lee of the University of Wisconsin-Madison summarizes the basic wisdom of the document in a few points:

Complex displays that require the driver to search for information using glances longer than two seconds should be avoided.

The interaction should not "time out" or force the driver to attend continually to the task. The driver should be able to interrupt the task easily and return attention to the road.

Visual information should be placed near the driver's line of sight.

The display should be easily readable with text and icons that can be seen at a glance.

Sounds simple, right? But the guidelines are voluntary. Even NHTSA, which is working on its own guidelines, isn't planning on forcing automakers to build their systems to any particular standard.

In the meantime, it seems that confusing systems are the inevitable growing pains of an industry stumbling to find its footing in the fast-moving world of information technology. Despite his concerns about Consumer Reports' criticisms of MyFord Touch, Mutchler sees plenty of room for hope about touch-screens.

"Ford's problem isn't one of ambition, it's one of execution," he says, pointing out that the Toyota Highlander and Chrysler's new UConnect system use large touch-screens with simple menu structures. "Everyone's going to go to this sort of system eventually. Research has shown that touch-screens are more intuitive to use. The next step is the one that quite a few researchers are worried about. What's the impact of a constant flow of Facebook updates or text messages being read to you constantly and you wanting to respond to them constantly? I don't think there's a great answer yet on how you can respond to that cognitive load and still drive a car."

Sam Foley is a Connecticut-based automotive journalist who has written for GQ, Forbes, USA Today, the New York Post and various other publications.

Tell us what you think of the digitizing of cars, helpful or distracting?

First Test: 2011 Nissan 370Z Touring

2011-04-01T15:14:00.005-04:00

A Dollar-Per-Grin Win

By Nate Martinez

At Nearly $42,000, a fully loaded 2011 Nissan 370Z Touring isn't cheap-in fact, the car is pricey enough to merit a mild case of sticker shock. But upon closer inspection of its expansive spec sheet, followed by a multi-day test drive, the shock fades while the athletic coupe's intrinsic value grows.

Consider the 370Z's impressive attributes. There are the 14-inch front, 13.8-inch rear Akebono brakes that haul the 3362-pound Z to a stop from 60 mph in only 102 feet (a BMW M3 Coupe with Competition Package does it in 110 feet, a GT-R in 101 feet). These massive four-piston front, two-piston rear binders clamp hard on Nismo's optional $580 R-Tune performance brake pads designed to withstand temperatures of up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the quickest-stopping Z we've ever driven. And we've driven many, many Zs over the years.

There are the featherweight 19-inch aluminum wheels forged by Japan's renowned Rays Engineering, a supplier of the AT&T Williams Formula 1 team. Even now, only a handful of six-figure supercars roll on such fancy footwear. The rims, along with adhesive Bridgestone Potenza RE050A rubber, a taut suspension setup, and a vicious limited slip differential (all part of the Sport Package), help the 370Z Touring attain a 1.01 g average on the skidpad. That's slightly stickier than a mid-engine, no-option $60,000 Porsche Boxster S at 1.0 g, mind you.

Straight line acceleration adds to its value. The 3.7-liter V-6's 332 horses and 270 pound-feet of torque send the Z to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while a quarter-mile passes in 13.4 seconds at 105.2 mph. A rocket it isn't, yet for the segment it occupies, the stats aren't disappointing.

Although you'll have to cough up the Sport Packages $3,030 entry fee to attain such laudable performance, every dollar is money well spent. The option group includes "zero-lift" front and rear spoilers that cut the Z's drag coefficient to a slim 0.29 Cd from the standard car's 0.30 Cd, and though you'll never feel the 0.01 difference in Cd, you will have gained some pub fodder.

The Navigation Package with nearly every facet of multimedia is also worthy of its $2,150 price. The 7-inch VGA monitor is a capable navigation screen and serves as a DVD movie screen when the car is parked (but really who watches DVDs in a parking lot?). A Bose-supplied stereo comes with an iPod input, 9.3-gigabyte hard drive, and streaming Bluetooth capability. Of course, you can connect your mobile phone via Bluetooth, too, though the sound quality and connection strength was patchy.

One of the best new-for-2011 amenities is the rearview camera, which eases any skittishness when reversing. It is included in the Navigation Package, but if you don't opt for the group, you can still get a standalone $750 in-mirror monitor.

The 2011 model year also brings the 370Z Roadster's synthetic suede door and seat inserts to the coupe. The soft, cozy material gives the comfortable, attractive cabin a higher-quality feeling. Leather-wrapped electronically adjustable seats remain standard in the top-level Touring, and support your bum and back with cushioning.

After driving the 2009 370Z three years ago, editor-at-large Ron Kiino had this to say about the then-new car's handling: "The most alluring aspect of the new Z is the sense it imparts: It feels sharp, direct, and balanced, a well-honed santoku knife to the 350Z's blunter and bulkier cleaver."

Kiino's observations still hold true for the 2011. The Z sticks hard and goes fast, and with the center console knee pads and supportive seats, you're always set in the proper position to command its athletic moves. The process usually goes like this: Following an electronically orchestrated downshift or two will help from the controversial SynchroRev Match (the technology's fun factor wilts the longer it's used), the car's inner santoku knife takes over, allowing you to play IronChef with delicious pieces of hot pavement. Dab the Akebonos, mash the floor-mounted accelerator, and prepare for a stupid grin to be plastered on your face.

Santoku sheathed, the Z rides firm, as expected, yet it is not overly jarring. The main source of in-cabin din are the massive 245/40R-19 front, 275/35R-19 rear Bridgestones. Compared to our long-term 370Z Roadster, the coupe serves as the ideal long-distance tourer by virtues of side visibility, overall civility, and cabin quietness.

Getting what you pay for isn't a problem in the 370Z Touring. After three years, we continue to admire its comfort level, style, and, of course, performance. In an automotive world filled with expensive sports cars touting questionable bang-for-your buck returns, the Z carries on as one of the best values around, especially in the dollar-per-grin category.

2011 Nissan 370Z Touring

Base Price: $36,070

Price as Tested: $41,945

Vehicle Layout: Front Engine, RWD, 2-pass, 2-door coupe

Engine: 3.7L/332-hp/270-lb-ft DOHC 24-valve V-6

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Curb Weight: (F/R Dist) 3362 lb (54/46%)

Wheelbase: 100.4 in

Length x Width x Height: 167.2 x 72.6 x 51.8 in

0-60 MPH: 4.9 sec

Quarter Mile: 13.4 sec @ 105.2 mph

Braking, 60-0 mph: 102 ft

Lateral Acceleration: 1.01 g (avg)

Mt Figure Eight: 24.7 sec @ 0.76 g (avg)

EPA city/hwy fuel econ: 18/26 mpg

Energy Consumption, City/Hwy: 187/130 kW-hrs/100 miles

C02 Emissions: 0.93 lb/mile

Infiniti M Hybrid - Remember

2011-03-18T11:34:00.000-04:00

Are Our Cars Making Us Lazy?

2011-03-15T12:29:00.004-04:00

Automated systems are ubiquitous in today's high-tech autos. Some are essential, others not so much.
By Sam Foley of MSN Autos

While automated features are nothing new on the automotive landscape, some believe we have gone too far, too fast.

In 1940, the now defunct American carmaker Packard introduced its ultraluxurious 180 Series touring sedan with a minuscule feature that would change the automotive landscape forever. The company outfitted the posh 4-door with powered windows rather than a standard crank-driven system - push a button, the window went down; push it again, the window went up.

This feature was a marvel of engineering. It was also probably the first completely frivolous auto amenity. But more importantly, it sparked the development of hundreds of automated systems - electromechanical or, more recently, digital - designed to handle tasks that motorists could otherwise do for themselves.

By the mid-1940s, power windows were everywhere, next seen on Ford Lincoln Custom limousines, then shortly after in Cadillacs, followed by Buicks and so on. Before the end of the decade, power seats made their debut, and power steering arrived in the early 1950s.

In 1957, Cadillac introduced the most automated automobile of its time: the Brougham. A limited-edition version of the Cadillac Eldorado, the Brougham was designed to be the most luxurious car in the world. It was assembled by hand; came with slick, rear-facing "suicide" doors; and had a list of "world first" features, such as an automatic starter, a transistor radio, memory seats and a trunk that opened and closed with the push of a button.

While the Brougham's feature list was impressive, it left many driving purists wondering: Are all of these technologies designed to make driving more pleasurable really necessary, or are they just making us lazier drivers? This sentiment is gaining momentum once again in today's high-tech automotive world - and not just from driving enthusiasts.

The downside of Automation
As incredible as the Brougham was back in the day, modern vehicles such as the Lexus LS 460 put it to shame in terms of available high-tech bells and whistles. An optioned-up LS 460 can have rain-sensing automatic wipers, an auto-closing trunk lid, auto-adjusting high beams, power windows and sunshades, power door closures, a voice-controlled GPS navigation system, an electronically controlled braking system that overrides simultaneous gas- and brake-pedal application, and an automated system that will parallel-park the car for you.

These features are not just the province of the luxury-vehicle segment anymore. The 2011 Chrysler Town & Country minivan can be outfitted with a power liftgate, dual power side doors and power-folding third-row seats, as well as the usual complement of power front seats, power mirrors and electrochromic dimming mirrors. Push all the buttons at once, and the vehicle's dozens of motors whir and buzz in a battery-straining ballet, letting the kids spill out the sides unsupervised while the groceries dump out the back and into the driveway.

While all of these features are meant to be helping hands, their benefits often blind motorists to their drawbacks. And it's definitely worth considering exactly what all this automation is doing to us as drivers.

As it turns out, automated systems can cause some pretty distressing problems. For instance, power windows have long been recognized as a child safety hazard. A 2004 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study estimated that power windows killed an average of five children per year. Regulators have now required that all vehicles from the 2008 model year forward use automatic window controls that are less likely to be triggered by children.

And there is a cultural issue at stake as well: the loss of skills that occurs when humans voluntarily abdicate responsibility to machines. Consider the breakdown of navigational skills due to our reliance on GPS devices. Many people no longer pay attention to landmarks and other geographic indicators as they drive, and the skill of map reading is fading as well.

Even some proven safety systems have drawbacks. Performance-driving enthusiasts have long held a low opinion of stability-control systems. They believe that because the technology saves bad drivers from their own mistakes, they are more likely to drive beyond their abilities.

"The performance community is always going to have a backlash against technology; that's just their personality," says Christopher Nowakowski, a human factors researcher at California PATH at the University of California at Berkeley. Nowakowski allows that crash data suggest that stability control does save lives. Nevertheless, he says the data don't measure the influence of sloppy, overconfident drivers on other people's accidents.

The Lexus LS 460 can can be outfitted with rain-sensing automatic wipers, an auto-closing trunk lid, power door closers, a voice-controlled GPS navigation system, and an automated system that will literally parallel-park the car for you.

Driving on Faith
Nowakowski is keenly aware of how automated driving is becoming, and of the impact of technology on human behavior. "These types of systems can be beneficial, but the more automation you have, the more you can lull people into a false sense of security," he says. And research done by California PATH shows that drivers are willing to invest a surprising amount of faith in automated systems.

Nowakowski and his colleagues tested a highly sophisticated Nissan adaptive system that used both lidar (light detection and ranging) and vehicle-to-vehicle wireless communication to allow one car to follow another at surprisingly tight distances. "We're told that we're supposed to keep two seconds of distance between us and the car in front of us at highway speeds," he says, "but no one really does that; the gap is closer to 1.6 seconds for most drivers. But with this system, we found that people were perfectly willing to accept the vehicle following the car ahead of it with only a 0.6-second gap."

Human Handlers
Advanced automotive automation technologies aren't just cruising around on academic test tracks. Earlier this year, Google researchers began driving fully autonomous cars on public roads to test the real-world readiness of the technology. The cars had human handlers at the wheel to make sure that none of their vehicles' mistakes turned lethal, and by all accounts, the vehicles performed well. Nevertheless, researchers such as Nowakowski have concerns about what could happen if such technology is commercialized.

"As you start to get vehicles that are highly automated, ones that can steer themselves and maintain speed and make turning decisions, what are you doing as a driver?" he asks. "Obviously you're going to start texting and doing whatever will keep your attention level up, because you don't want to just sit there and watch what the car's doing. We know this is a problem with airline pilots that have highly automated planes, and their job is to sit there for eight hours and watch a bunch of numbers that don't move; we know they don't do this very well." (This phenomenon was made tragically clear in February 2009, when the sleep-deprived pilot of Colgan Air Flight 3407 failed to react to the signs of icing on his plane while it was on autopilot. The resulting crash killed all 49 people abroad.)

Plus, as anyone who's ever seen his computer unexpectedly freeze knows that technology is only as good as the people who make it. This was shown spectacularly at a press demonstration of Volvo's pedestrian-avoidance technology earlier this year. The system is designed to apply full braking power automatically whenever an equipped vehicle's camera and radar sensors detect a pedestrian. Unfortunately, the system apparently didn't like the Swedish automaker's test dummies, as it plowed right into them in three out of 12 test runs. The company claimed that the dummies weren't set up properly. Obviously, such a system is meant as a fail-safe to human judgement and reaction, but it served as a compelling demonstration that, no matter how sophisticated the automation technology, if you act like a dummy, someone's probably going to get hurt.

'Idiot' Enlightenment

2011-03-04T14:55:00.003-05:00

Demystifying those pesky little instrument-panel warning lights that adorn your car's dashboard.

By Charles Plueddeman of MSN Autos

My father still calls them "idiot lights," referring to the array of warning indicators found in an automobile's instrument cluster that over the years have replaced analog gauges. By the 1970s, the only real "instruments" left on most dashboards were a speedometer and a gas gauge - possibly a tachometer. Fact is, warning lights are less expensive than gauges, and probably more attention-grabbing for the typically disengaged American driver. So they serve their purpose. But over the years, these clusters of illuminated icons have grown more complex and, as a result, more confusing. Heck, some of today's cars and trucks have more glowing dashboard lights than a Christmas tree. Knowing what they mean, and what to do when one flashes, is important for your safety and because the correct response could save you a huge repair bill.

Over the years, the number of illuminated icons that alert you to problems with your car has grown more complex and, as a result, more confusing. Knowing what to do when one flashes could save you a whole bunch of money.

You can view all of your car's instrument panel indicators by switching the ignition key to the "on" position (one click short of starting the engine). Each icon represents a system on the car, from a floating thermometer for engine temperature to a cross-section of a tire with an exclamation point for one of the newest warnings, low tire pressure. Your owner's manual offers a short explanation of what each means, and how you should react. But because you probably won't read your owner's manual, you should at least read the rest of this article, and become "idiot enlightened."

Low Oil Pressure: When this light activates, it means the oil, the lifeblood of your engine, has stopped circulating and severe damage could occur in just seconds. Pull out of traffic as quickly (yet safely) as possible and immediately turn off the engine. Open the hood and use the dipstick to check the oil level. If there's oil in the engine, but no pressure, the oil pump has likely failed. If there's no oil showing on the dipstick, you've either let the oil drop so low that the engine can't build up oil pressure, or there's been a problem - like an improperly installed oil filter - that caused most of the oil to drain from the engine. In any case, you risk serious mechanical damage and very expensive repairs if you restart the engine. Have the vehicle towed to a qualified shop for a diagnosis.

Engine Temperature: On late-model vehicles, this warning light is often coupled with an engine temperature gauge. If the needle goes into the red zone and the light comes on, your engine has a fever. Pull over and park. If there's steam coming from under the hood, or if antifreeze is leaking on the ground under the engine, you've likely blown a coolant hose. To avoid burning yourself, do not try to open the hood until the steam subsides. If there's no steam or obvious leak, open the hood and check the coolant level in the plastic reserve tank. If that's dry, you may need to add coolant to the radiator after it cools down. See your owner's manual for instructions.

Another cause of engine overheating could be a broken water-pump belt. If there are no obvious signs of trouble and the temperature gauge returns to normal after a few minutes, the engine may have overheated simply from working too hard. Pulling a trailer in the mountains on a hot day, for example, could overtax the cooling system. This could lead to engine damage, so after the engine cools, proceed at a slower speed and watch the temperature gauge closely.

Charging System: If the indicator comes on, it means that your battery is not being charged. The likely problem is a faulty alternator, which charges the battery as you drive, or a broken alternator drive belt. Your car will operate for some time on the power stored in the battery, so it's safe to drive it to a repair shop. To extend your range, turn off as many electrical accessories as possible, including the radio, heater or air conditioning fan, and windshield wipers and headlights (if you don't need them). Avoid using power windows and, if possible, don't turn off the engine, since it takes a lot of battery power to restart. Once the battery is dead so is the car, so don't ignore this light for long.

Low Tire Pressure: A tire-pressure-monitoring system has been standard equipment on all new vehicles since 2008. A sensor on each wheel monitors tire air pressure and triggers this warning light if the pressure drops to 25 percent below the specified cold inflation pressure. The idea is to warn you of low pressure before it becomes a critical safety issue. Some cars also have a graphic display that indicates which tire is low. Pull over as soon as possible. If the tire is really flat, you'll need to change it with the spare to continue. If you think you can drive safely on the tire, get to an air hose, fill the tire to its specified pressure, and then go to a service center and have the tire checked. It may be a slow leak that can be repaired. Note that a tire-pressure monitoring system is not a replacement for checking your tire pressure with an accurate gauge. Do it once a month.

The brake light could mean several things. First, make sure that the parking brake is fully released. If it stays on, make sure your brakes work properly and proceed cautiously to a service station.

Brake: This light usually has two functions. The first is to warn you that you're driving with your parking brake on. So the first step is to make sure that the parking brake is fully released. If the light stays on, or if it suddenly comes on while you are driving, the brake fluid level is probably low. If the brake pedal seems normal, check the brake fluid level (see your owner's manual) the next time you stop. If it's low, have the brake system checked for a leak or other problems, which could be as simple as worn brake pads. If the brake pedal does not feel normal - if it is very soft or goes down to the floor - you have an immediate, critical problem and need to get the car stopped safely and off the road as soon as possible. Shift to a lower gear to help slow the car, and use the parking brake, which is now the emergency brake, to help get your machine stopped.

ABS: This lamp is a warning that the anit-lock function of the braking system is not working. Unless the brake light is also illuminated, the brakes will still work, but have a qualified technician check the ABS for a problem.

This warning is part of the vehicle's on-board diagnostics (OBD) system, and indicates that the car's computer has detected an emissions-control issue, such as a faulty oxygen sensor. The results of ignoring this light could be catastrophic for your car.

Check Engine: This warning is part of the vehicle's on-board diagnostics (OBD) system, and indicated that the car's computer has detected an emissions-control issue, such as a faulty oxygen sensor. You may not notice any difference in the way the car sounds or drives, but if you ignore this light you could damage an expensive emissions control system - a clogged catalytic convertor is a common outcome. In some cases, you may void the warranty. On late-model cars, the check-engine light will illuminate if the gas cap is loose or missing. It needs to be tightened until it makes a clicking sound. If the cap was loose, it may take a few trips with a tight cap for the light to go off. If the cap is tight and light stays on, take the vehicle to a qualified repair shop, where a mechanic can plug a scanner into the OBD terminal and read a trouble code stored by the computer, which will pinpoint the problem.

Stability Control: When this light flashes, it's indicating that the electronic stability control (ESC, sometimes called vehicle stability assist, or VSA) is active. This means that you are likely driving around a corner too fast for the available traction, which may be compromised because of ice, snow or wet pavement. (The light should probably just say "Slow down!") An increasingly common feature on new cars and trucks, ESC will be required by federal regulations on most passenger vehicles by 2012. ESC monitors the vehicle's response to driver steering input, and then applies brakes on individual wheels to help the driver regain control in event of a spinout. The ESC may activate before you even feel the vehicle start to slide, but it's a warning that you need to proceed with caution.

Supplemental Restraint System: This light is alerting you to a problem with the supplemental restraints, which include the airbags, automatic seat-belt tensioners, driver's seat position sensor, the front passenger weight sensor and other items, depending on the vehicle. Consult your owner's manual for details, and see a dealer if you can't solve the issue on your own.

Maintenance: Not to be confused with the more urgent "Check Engine" light, this little wrench-shaped indicator is a reminder to take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance. On some vehicles, there's an information screen that will tell you which maintenance is due, such as an oil change or air filter change. The dealer or service shop will reset this light when the service is complete.

Washer Level: This light signals you are low on windshield washer fluid. Get some soon. Check the owner's manual to find out where it goes. You can do this yourself if you can open the hood and find the blue cap. Here's a tip: If you are obviously out of washer fluid - the light is on and washer won't squirt - stop using the washers. On many systems, the electric pump is lubricated by the washer fluid, and if you run it dry, you'll ruin the pump.

Veteran moto-journalist and Wisconsin-native Charles Plueddeman has been driving and testing automobiles, motorcycles, boats, ATVs and snowmobiles for more than 20 years. He is a regular contributor to Boating Magazine and Outdoor Life, and his product evaluation articles have appeared in Popular Mechanics, Men's Journal AutoWorld, Playboy, Boats.com and many other national publications and Web sites.

2011-03-01T14:30:00.002-05:00

Nissan Altima and Infiniti G37 Sedan Named Top of The Class by Consumer Reports

Yesterday, Consumer Reports released highlights of its upcoming Annual Auto Issue. The magazine, which hits newsstands on March 8, reveals its Top 10 Picks of the Year along with other automotive ratings. CR's Top Picks again include the Nissan Altima, named top Family Sedan, and the Infiniti G37, named top Sport Sedan.

The magazine recognizes the 2011 Altima the second year in a row for providing "an impressive balance of comfort and performance while delivering the best fuel economy in its class. Its comfortable ride, secure handling and spirited acceleration make the Altima enjoyable to drive." Nissan's manufacturing teams in Canton, Miss., and Smyrna, Tenn., build the award-winning Altima, while Nissan's Decherd, Tenn., plant produces the vehicle's engine.

Winning its category of Sports Sedan for the fifth year in a row, the Infiniti G37 receives praise for its "inviting combination of agile handling, blistering acceleration, and luxurious interior makes it one of our highest-scoring sedans. It's fun to drive on a twisty road but is still a fairly comfortable cruiser on the highway."

Recommended Vehicles

Consumer Reports also lists its recommended vehicles in the upcoming Auto Issue, awarding the designation to those that perform well in testing, have better than average reliability, and provide good overall safety. This year, Consumer Reports recommends the Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Maxima, Murano, Rogue, Sentra and Versa, and the Infiniti EX, FX, G and M.

Automaker Report Cards

In addition to Top Picks for vehicles, the Annual Auto Issue also features Automaker Report Cards. Nissan ranked eighth among automakers - scoring 65 (Honda and Subaru received the highest score of 74 and 73). The issue notes that "Nissan builds some of the highest-rated cars. Interior quality has improved. Some older models push the overall score down."

Additional highlights from the issue are available at www.consumerreports.org

Bring a Wingman When You Buy a Car

2011-02-17T13:08:00.003-05:00

By Ronald Montoya, Consumer Advice Associate - provided by edmunds.com

What do pilots, police officers and car shoppers all have in common? They work best with a partner - a wingman. Car buying is a difficult process for many people, and although there is an alternate online strategy that can save you much of the hassle, there are times when a trip to the dealership might be the best thing.

That's when a wingman comes in handy. At some point in the purchase process, you'll want to take a test-drive. And, distasteful though it might be, you might need to negotiate or sign contracts in person. At times like these, it's better not to go it alone. But what qualities should you seek in the person who accompanies you? Not just anyone will fill the bill. Having the right person with you at the dealership can help you spot any inconsistencies in the deal, fend off pushy salespeople and create leverage in your negotiations.

The Best Wingman Might Be a Woman

The ideal wingman is someone who has a skill you can put to use. Maybe it's a friend who is knowledgeable about cars. Perhaps it's a sibling who is a fearless negotiator. Perhaps it's an in-law who isn't afraid to ask stupid questions. But the wingman emphatically does not have to be a man. Sometimes a car guy can be a liability, particularly if he falls in love with a particular engine or vehicle and inadvertently pressures you into accepting a car that may not best fit your needs. Whether your wingman is male or female, be sure to bring a person who can remain objective and has an eye for detail.

Once you've picked your wingman, you'll need to establish who will do what during the trip to the dealership. If negotiating isn't your strong suit, have your friend handle that aspect while you focus on asking questions. On the other had, if you're comfortable with negotiating, let your wingman ask the questions and occasionally chime in with an opinion. Your wingman should supplement the skills that might not be your strong suit.

Stay in Close Formation

Don't let yourself get separated from your wingman. If you do, you'll lose your strength in numbers.

Consider what happened to an Edmunds editor and his girlfriend. They had completed negotiations for a car, but were forced to spend an excessive amount of time waiting for the dealership to get the contracts in order. As they made their way to the finance and insurance (F&I) office, the editor made it clear that they didn't want to waste any more time and that they were not interested in being sold any additional services. The F&I manager agreed, but the moment the Edmunds editor stepped out for a cigarette, the F&I team began to push such products and services as paint protection and an extended warranty on the girlfriend. They were clearly hoping she'd be easier to convince.

If you will be test-driving the vehicle during your visit, start by having your wingman keep an eye out for any potential rip-off stickers as you review the car's features. During the test-drive itself, ask the salesperson to ride in the back. This allows you and your wingman to pay closer attention to the car. You might still get the sales pitch, but its easier to tune out a salesperson when he's in the backseat, rather than at your elbow.

Deploy the Lukewarm Wingman

A wingman can help take some of the heat off you by talking down the car during discussions. Arrange to have him casually mention that he isn't that interested in this particular vehicle - whether he means it or not. Or he can say that he preferred that blue one you saw at the dealership across town. Follow your wingman's lead and express some concerns of your own. This will let the salesperson know that you have other buying options and it puts the pressure on him to make you a better offer. Remaining non-committal diffuses one of the salesperson's most effective weapons: the knowledge that you really want the car in his showroom.

Review the Numbers Together

When it's time to talk numbers, a wingman can either take over the negotiating for you or help spot any inconsistencies in the numbers. He or she can also be on the lookout for any financing pitfalls that you might encounter. While you're busy saying "No" to items in the F&I room, your wingman can make sure that the prices you've agreed upon are reflected in the contract. Pay close attention to any additional fees that appear and don't hesitate to question anything out of the ordinary.

After the ink on the contract has dried, you'll be able to rest easy, knowing that your wingman got you a better deal, spotted an inconsistency or was simply there for moral support. Be sure to thank your wingman and remember what you learned from the experience. You might have to return the favor when it's her time to buy a car.

Technology for Winter Driving

2011-01-25T15:50:00.005-05:00

By Joe Wiesenfelder, Cars.com

Let's say your looking for a new car. If you've never had to pry a wiper loose from a frozen windshield, you might not recognize the comfort and safety challenges that confront motorists in harsh winter climates. If you live in a colder clime, you do know the horror of losing sensation in your fingers and toes or sliding haplessly into a ditch. Either way, make sure your new car has some of these features to make life in snow country a lot easier.

Antilock Brakes
Antilock braking systems are good for all seasons. They keep your car under control during braking by preventing the wheels from locking and skidding. ABS shortens stopping distances in most cases, but its main purpose is to allow steering, even when you are in a panic stop.

Traction Control
Where antilock brakes help you stop on slippery surfaces, traction control helps you accelerate. It detects when your drive wheels are slipping and reduces engine power and/or applies the ABS to keep power going to the wheel that has traction. While traction control has helped make rear-wheel-drive cars more viable in snow, some systems are so conservative that they keep you from gaining speed on loose snow and may need to be switched off. The most advanced traction control is better at reacting optimally for any given road surface.

Electronic Stability System
Electronic stability systems are known by countless names, usually including the word stability. What they do is sense the car's direction, compare that to where the driver is steering and apply individual ABS brakes to steer the car back on its intended course. One of the most significant auto safety advancements in history, stability control is especially useful in snow, where it can prevent fishtailing. Though expensive, it can pay for itself by preventing a single fender bender.

Four-/All-Wheel Drive
The need for four-wheel drive for urban dwellers is probably overstated these days, but it certainly can't hurt, especially in wintery regions that have hills and/or poor snow removal. Heavy-duty four-wheel drive is often overkill; all-wheel drive, which is lighter and cheaper, is totally automatic and may be more effective.

Ground Clearance
Too many sports-car owners learn too late that all-wheel drive can only do so much in a car that hugs the ground. Throw in a set of summer tires and you're really going nowhere - at least nowhere you want to go. In deeper snow, SUVs and higher-riding sport wagons rule the road.

All-Season or Winter Tires
The importance of tires can't be overstated, especially in winter conditions. While modern "winter" (no longer "snow") tires are exceptional on snow and particularly ice, they may suffer from extended stopping distances and diminished traction when it's dry or warm. Good all-season tires are an excellent compromise for people who don't need - or can't justify - a second set of tires and the hassle and expense of storing and swapping them twice a year. That said, don't use summer performance tires in the snow. Designed for the opposite conditions, they're no less than a safety hazard on cold, snowy or icy surfaces.

Winter Transmission Modes
Some vehicles with automatic transmissions have a special Winter mode that helps prevent slippage when accelerating (with or without traction control as a backup). They typically make the car accelerate starting in 2nd gear rather than 1st, then upshift as promptly as possible through higher gears. It may sound odd, but higher gears diminish thrust at the drive wheels, unless the engine is revving fast. Less force equals less slippage. Some automatics with manual-shifting modes let you start off in 2nd or 3rd gear to achieve the same effect.

Heated Seats, Steering Wheel
With leather upholstery in particular, heated seats are a must. One benefit is that they warm before the car's heat begins to flow. Offered mainly in front seats, the best give you several heat settings, but the most common is a high-low switch. In some cars, they're only fully on or off, but that's better than nothing. Relatively new are heated steering wheels, which solve the Hobson's choice of discomfort versus hazard - a freezing steering wheel or trying to steer with gloved hands.

Heated Side Mirrors
More common than ever, heated side mirrors can clear themselves of fog, melt accumulated ice or prevent further snow buildup. Many cars activate them along with the rear defogger, while some have their own dedicated button and a few are connected to the heated-seat switch.

Headlight Washer/Wipers
The little wipers you may have seen on luxury car headlights might seem extravagant, but they serve to clear grime, road salt and snow accumulation that can dim your headlights. Most cars that offer headlight clearing use washer jets alone, which have proven effective. Because the jets typically emerge from the bumper, spray then retreat, the feature is more stealth - and more common - than you might know. Some cars spray the headlights at the same time are the windshield is the headlights are on. Others have buttons that let you wash the headlights whenever you wish.

Heated Windshield
Though this feature is rare, some windshields are coated or impregnated with a thin film or fine wire grid that heats the glass itself, melting ice or loosening it in sheets. A shortcoming of the wire type is the exaggerated headlight glare that may take on a starburst shape.

Heated Wipers and Washers
A wiper de-icer, also known as a heated wiper park, frees wipers that are frozen to the glass where they rest, or "park." It also aims to keep the blades pliable enough that they contact the windshield over their full arc. Applied to windshield and/or rear-window wipers, the technology may be an option with its own button or a standard feature that works automatically in cold weather or along with defrosters. Heated nozzles and/or hoses and reservoirs serve to keep windshield washer fluid flowing in cold temperatures. It may help melt or clear ice, but mainly the feature should prevent the fluid from freezing once it lands on a cold windshield.

Remote Start
Most of the more esoteric winter-oriented features came along to alleviate the problems of a cold car. Here is where a remote start is a godsend. A warm cabin and clear windows make seat, steering wheel and supplemental window heaters a luxury instead of a necessity. A warm engine compartment can prevent wiper fluid freezing. The best remote-start systems automatically turn on the heat, defrosters and seats. Remote start isn't the most environmentally friendly feature, but it beats scraping ice in the frigid wind.

Retractable Hardtop (Convertibles)
People who have foregone convertibles due to their wintertime shortcomings have more choices than ever, thanks to the explosion of retractable - hardtop models. They're just like non-convertible cars when their tops are up. Why haven't you seen many? You probably have; you just didn't know it.

Block Heater
Compared to 20 years ago, cars today start almost flawlessly in cold weather. That said, there's cold ... and then there's cold. In the Northern states, where the temps often drop below zero and stay there, even the best-engineered cars need a hand. Block heaters that plug into a household electric outlet (typically overnight) keep the engine block warm (which keeps the oil thin), making starting easier and reducing wear and pollution. Electric dipsticks, battery warmers and other solutions are available as aftermarket products, but when a factory option is offered it's usually a heater that screws into the engine block or bisects a heater hose, where it warms and circulates the engine coolant.

Cars.com 2/16/09

Nissan Partners with Original Wraps, Inc for Graphic Personalization of New NV Commercial Van

2011-01-17T14:15:00.002-05:00

Franklin, Tenn. -

With the launch of the all-new 2012 Nissan NV commercial van just months away, Nissan North American, Inc. (NNA) has announced a partnership agreement with Original Wraps, Inc., Lakewood, CO, to provide vehicle graphics personalization technology to Nissan NV customers.

Original Wraps is developing a software application, which will allow all NV customers the ability to create their own design, utilizing their own logos or using the many assets on the site to get started. The application will be available through the Nissan Commercial Vehicle website, http://www.nissancommercialvehicles.com/, in January 2011. The NV graphics are professionally installed, yet removable and safe for the vehicle's exterior. The graphics are printed on professional, automotive grade 3M Scotchprint On-Demand vinyl and laminated for protection and fade resistance. All graphics are professionally designed and are completely unique for every business. Delivery usually takes between 7 - 10 days, with professional graphic installers available in markets where Nissan Commercial Vehicles are sold. Original Wraps, Inc. also offers graphics for the Nissan cube and Nissan JUKE.

"We're pleased to offer high quality, customized vehicle personalization with hundreds of different graphic designs created specially for the new Nissan NV," said Joe Castelli, vice president, Nissan Commercial Vehicles and Fleet, NNA. "It's part of our innovative approach to thinking about how our customers use their vans - including as a vehicle for advertising their company and services."

The 2012 NV, the company's first entry into the commercial vehicle market in the United States, has been designed and conceived as a solution to the needs of today's commercial van customers. It is scheduled to go on sale through a select network of Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide beginning in spring 2011.

The NV lineup offers durable body-on-frame construction and choice of standard roof or industry-exclusive high roof configurations. Models include the NV1500 with a standard 4.0-liter V6 engine, the NV2500 HD with a choice of 4.0-liter V6 or 5.6-liter V8 and the NV3500 HD with standard 5.6-liter V8. All 2012 NV models are equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The NV is available in two grades, S and SV, each delivering smart functionality through a combination of the comfort and roominess of a pickup with the utility of a cargo van. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price* (MSRP) for the 2010 Nissan NV starts at $24,590. Full information on the complete NV lineup is available at nissancommercialvehicles.com.

About Nissan in North America

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, 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 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at http://www.nissanusa.com/

About Original Wraps, Inc.

Original Wraps Inc. is the leading international provider of vehicle personalization and customization technology. Their technology provides auto manufacturers, car dealers, automotive retailers and wholesalers with a complete program offering a comprehensive selection of vehicle personalization products. Original Wraps' products are manufactured utilizing professional 3M Schotchprint automotive grade vinyl, which is custom printed through a 6-color process with one of thousands of unique or licensed designs. The "wrap" is then coated with a scratchproof finish and custom cut, creating a product that fits a specific vehicle perfectly - providing a long lasting stylized automotive makeover. With Original Wraps products, consumers can personalize their vehicle through thousands of vehicle dealers, private labeled distributor Web sites - as well as through the company's online partners and wholesalers. For more information on Original Wraps, visit http://www.originalwraps.com/

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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.

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Additional information and news from Nissan is available at http://www.nissannews.com

EPA Rates Nissan Leaf at 99 MPG

2010-12-20T09:50:00.003-05:00

The electric Leaf uses no gas, but for comparison's sake, the EPA approves a fuel-economy rating of 99 MPG
By Lindsay Chappell of AutoWeek

Nissan's electric Leaf sedan will display a fuel economy rating of 99 mpg when it goes on sale next month, even though the car uses no "gallons" and, indeed, no fuel in the traditional sense.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved the rating after months of research into how to compare a battery-powered electric to a traditional gas burning car for the sake of consumer comparisons.

The battery-powered Leaf uses no gas or oil, and has no combustion engine or fuel tank.

The EPA also surprised Nissan North America Inc. officials by anointing the Leaf "best in class" for mid-sized vehicles, while saying the car's range is less than Nissan has stated.

Until now, Nissan has been presenting the Leaf as a compact vehicle. But the EPA measurement of the model's passenger and trunk space bumped it into the mid-size category.

"We're happy to be considered a mid-sized car," said Mark Perry, the Nissan North America product planning director for the Leaf. The larger segment means the electric Leaf will show up in shopping comparisons against more expensive competitor models, including the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord.

But the EPA's new data, which must be displayed on its Monroney vehicle window sticker, also indicated that the Leaf's battery range is lower than Nissan officials have been claiming publicly.

Nissan has said for more than a year that the Leaf will get up to 100 miles of driving on a full charge of its lithium-ion battery. But EPA testing has put the range at only 73 miles.

Perry said Nissan stands by its 80-100 mile battery range claims, and said he did not believe the EPA calculation will chill consumer enthusiasm for the car.

He said the battery range varies depending on driving conditions. High-speed highway driving and cold weather driving with a heater turned on drain the battery faster than low-speed driving in temperate climates.

He said the EPA test is biased toward highway driving and higher speeds, while the Leaf will be marketed more heavily to consumers for city commuting use. Nissan arrived at its own 80-100 mile range based on testing that used the so-called LA4 driving cycle test. That test is biased toward urban driving conditions and lower speeds.

He said that Leafs will feature a second window sticker from the Federal Trade Commission, which other alternative-power vehicles also display. The FTC sticker will tell consumers that the battery range is 96-110 miles.

"There is a range of ranges, based on driving behavior, temperature, speed and other issues," Perry said of the difference between the FTC and EPA estimates.

"The car does 100 miles on the LA4 test. Nothing has changed. There are just different drive cycles. The challenge is get one repeatable cycle to represent the average driver, and that's hard."

The Leaf goes on sale next month in five states. The announced retail Price is $25,280, after a federal tax refund of $7,500 is figured into the purchase.

Nissan expects to expand the launch nationwide over the next six months.

2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet - "Innovation for Fun" Leads Design of World's First AWD Crossover Convertible

2010-12-07T14:21:00.002-05:00

-Bold Expression of Nissan's Commitment to Design and Innovation Goes on Sale in Early 2011, Offered in One Luxurious All-Wheel Drive Model-

As the world's first all-wheel drive crossover convertible, the 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet breaks new ground in both the crossover SUV and convertible segments. With its never seen before design and custom boutique style, the Murano CrossCabriolet is unlike anything on the road - blending all of the things people love in a crossover with the open air enjoyment of a convertible. Making its world debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Murano CrossCabriolet is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early 2011.

"When people think of a crossover, they think of a combination of when the driving sophistication of a sedan with the utility of a sport utility. This new Murano CrossCabriolet adds an unexpected third element, the ability to make everyday activities more exciting with open air driving," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "However, with its extraordinarily engineered convertible top, standard all-wheel drive and room for four adults plus cargo, the CrossCabriolet is not just for cruising South Beach or Malibu. It's a vehicle to take to lunch, running errands or on a long ski weekend in any part of the country.

Possibilities Await: Murano CrossCabriolet Design Concept

The impetus behind innovation is often as simple as asking questions not posed before, such as how do you overcome the functional limitations of a convertible? "Everyone loves the convertible experience, no one loves the convertible reality - compromised trunk space, a cramped back seat or none at all, and a lack of flexibility for everyday life," said Castignetti. "The Murano CrossCabriolet is the reinvention of versatility, encouraging people to rethink what a convertible can be."

The all-new Murano CrossCabriolet overcomes these obstacles, combining elegant design and state-of-the-art engineering. Of the priorities in the convertible top design was the retention of the traditional Murano silhouette with the top up, and a luxurious, sophisticated appearance with the top down.

The transformation of the Murano body from Crossover to CrossCabriolet and from 4-door to 2-door meant more than just removing the top. Along with creating new front doors (7.9 inches longer than 4-door Murano front doors) and eliminating the B-pillars, the structure has been reinforced from the A-pillar rearward. The cloth convertible top also includes a rear glass skylight, helping create a wide-open interior environment even with the top in the closed position. Dual Pop-up Roll Bars are also standard. The coefficient of drag remains close to that of the hardtop Murano, just 0.39 Cd versus 0.37 Cd.

One of the keys to the CrossCabriolet's designs success is the convertible top's exceptionally compact size when stowed, which allows both additional interior and cargo volume (normally taken up by a traditional convertible stowage design). The hydraulically operated top mechanism includes an automatic power latch/unlatch system. Operation switches are located on the center console and driver's door handle. With the top down, the stowed size is similar to that of a conventional 2-seat roadster. Trunk capacity with the top down is 7.6 cubic feet, enough to fit two sets of golf clubs or two carry-on suitcases. With the top closed, cargo capacity extends to 12.3 cubic feet.

Along with the unique convertible top appearance, the Murano CrossCabriolet exterior also includes High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon projector headlights with auto on/off function, front fog lights and Nissan 370Z-inspired LED taillights.

Six exterior colors are available: unique Murano CrossCabriolet colors Sunset Bronze and Caribbean, plus Merlot, Platinum Graphite, Super Black and Pearl White.

A Highly Rewarding Interior

The luxurious Murano CrossCabriolet interior starts with a foundation of the top-of-the-line Murano LE and takes it to the next level of standard features and convenience items. The tall windshield and A-pillar design combines with the body's high beltline and high rear seat shoulders to help reduce conventional interior air turbulence with the top down, allowing conversation between occupants.

Premium materials are used throughout the interior, with the standard leather-appointed seats available in a diagonally quilted premium leather, double-stitched pattern for added elegance. The interior's curving, sculpted lines, half-matte chromed trim finish and unique wood-tone trim, tuned to match each of three available interior colors, add an additional rich, quality feel. Interior colors include Black, Cashmere (light brown) and Camel (brown).

The Murano CrossCabriolet comes fully equipped, with a long list of standard features including 8-way power heated driver's seat with power lumbar support, 4-way manual heated front passenger seat with easy entry function, heated steering wheel, 2-position driver's seat memory system for seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, passenger seat easy entry release button on instrument panel for driver access, driver and front passenger seatback pocket, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition.

Every CrossCabriolet also comes with a standard Nissan Hard-Drive Navigation System with 9.3GB Music Box hard drive and XM NavTraffic (XM subscription required, sold separately). Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink Universal Transceiver and RearView Monitor.

Open-air road tunes are provided by a Bose AM/FM/CD audio system with 8-speakers including subwoofer, automatic audio adjustment for soft-top up/down position, integrated Interface System for iPod, speed-sensitive volume control and auxiliary audio input jack. XM satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately) is also standard.

"The interior of the Murano CrossCabriolet provides a custom boutique feel. With numerous color combinations offered between the exterior, interior and convertible top, owners can express their own distinctive sense of style," added Castignetti. "It's a rare convertible that allows four passengers to feel equally comfortable, which this stunning new design absolutely does - as well as equally indulged."

Under the Skin: Pure Murano

Open air driving is not the only emotional reward the Murano CrossCabriolet provides - it also offers a secure, rewarding driving experience. Its no-compromise drivetrain is shared with the all-wheel drive hardtop Murano, starting with the proved "D" platform (also utilized on Maxima and Altima sedans) ans standard 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 producing 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine design includes the Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), twin knock sensors, low exhaust pressure, a 10.3:1 compression ratio, and 6,000 rpm redline.

The engine is mated to a standard second-generation Xtronic CVT with Adaptive Shift Control (ADC) for sporty response and smoothness, which utilizes and advanced, sport-tuned controller with adaptive logic for driving comfort or driving performance as conditions require. The advanced all-wheel drive system connects the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, yaw sensors and steering angle sensors to distribute torque according to driving conditions.

The Murano CrossCabriolet's lightweight 4-wheel independent suspension features MacPherson struts in front, a milti-link rear design, cradle-type front subframe and front and rear stabilizer bars. Also utilized are dual flow path shock absorbers for responsiveness and reduced ride harshness.

Steering is provided by a twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted steering system, while the braking system includes 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and G-sensor. Every CrossCabriolet comes with 20-inch split 5-spoke titanium finish aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/55R20 Toyo Proxes A20 all-season tires.

Standard Murano CrossCabriolet safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor and door-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor, along with front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumble zones, front seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), Vehicle Security System (VSS) and Dual Pop-up Roll Bars.

One Fully Equipped Model

The 2011 Murano CrossCabriolet is offered in one fully equipped model. Along with the many items previously mentioned, standard features include power front windows with one-touch up/down and auto-reverse feature, Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, and a 7-inch color display for audio, climate control, fuel economy, maintenance and comfort and convenience systems.

Also included are highly functional storage systems, including a two-tier center console storage box with fold-out function, cell phone holder, dual seatback pockets, Fine Vision gauges and driver instrumentation with white backlighting, illuminated steering wheel controls, auto door lock feature, four cupholders, tilting and telescoping steering column, auto-dimming rearview mirror, cruise control with illuminated steering wheel mounted switches, front door map pockets, and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system.

Only two options are available with specific exterior colors - a Camel interior with an upgraded leather and the black top, and the Brown top/Cashmere interior combination (with upgraded leather).

"The versatility and functionality of a true all-wheel drive crossover, the unique open air driving experience of a pure convertible - the Murano CrossCabriolet is a breakthrough in concept, design and execution," said Castignetti. "Innovation meets Murano with stunning results."

2011 Infiniti G25 Test Drive

2010-11-11T10:27:00.002-05:00

This 29-mpg sport sedan packs a sweet-sounding V6

Napa Valley, Calif. - As surprising as it may sound, in the world of luxury sport sedans, power takes a backseat to price. It's true. The lower horsepower (and less expensive) offering in a sport sedan lineup invariably constitutes the majority of sales. In some cases, the less powerful version is close to 80 percent of the mix.

Armed with this intelligence, Infiniti decided it was time the G sedan received a less expensive, less potent entry to compete with the BMW 328i, Lexus IS250 and Audi A4. So Nissan's luxury brand slipped a 2.5-liter V6 into the G sedan to create the $31,835 G25. How does this mild-mannered version of Infiniti's sporty G sedan handle the competition? Let's find out.

The Specs

Raise the hood of the G25 and you'll find the 218 hp 2.5-liter V6 that Nissan calls the VQ25HR. This V6 also comes in the Japanese market Nissan Skyline 250GT sedan - the workingman's version of the G25. In U.S. spec, the V6 makes 187 lb-ft of torque and comes paired solely to an automatic with either rear-wheel or, in the case of the G25x, all-wheel drive. The seven-speed automatic in the G25 has slightly taller ratios in every gear, yet the final drive ratio of 3.357:1 remains the same.

The new G25 won't be available with the same extensive options as the G37. The only upgrade aside from all-wheel drive is the $1400 Journey package that adds a rear view parking monitor, auto headlights, heated seats and mirrors, dual zone climate control, a USB port for your iPod and a sunroof for an additional $1000.

The smaller V6 weighs marginally less than its bigger bore brethren. At 3552 pounds, a G25 equipped with the Journey package is 66 pounds lighter than a G37 Journey. That's not nearly enough of a diet to make up for the 110 horsepower deficit in therms of acceleration, but of course less weight is always welcome on curvy roads.

The G25 uses the same basic suspension tune as the G37 and wears the same 12.6-inch front and 12.1-inch rear brakes. And most will ride on 225/55R17 all-season tires.

The Drive

If we're honest, the thought of a G sedan with substantially less horsepower is not particularly appealing. After all, who prefers a slower car? But the real-world experience was surprising, at least in one respect. True, the G25 will never catch a G37 in a drag race. But if we judge performance on sound alone, if we could choose one engine over the other to listen to - we'd pick the G25's 2.5-liter V6.

The Nissan and Infiniti 3.5-liter V6s from a generation ago always sounded better than the competition. There was a throaty growl at the low rpm range, and an exceptionally distinct wait as the revs climbed. The recent 3.7-liter V6s, however, are more course sounding. These engines make their peak horsepower at 7000 rpm - yet they don't really sound happy at that speed.

The 2.5-liter V6 makes noises more like the old engine. It sounds refined and tight. And at peak horsepower, which occurs at an engine speed of 6400 rpm, the 2.5-liter V6 sounds like it could hang there all day.

So it sounds good, but how does it drive? Well, theG25 is far quicker feeling than we expected. And because it retains the same brilliant sport sedan chassis as the G37, this car is still fun to drive.

Infiniti had a Lexus IS250 on hand for comparison. The IS makes 204 hp - 14 fewer than the Infiniti. And you feel the deficit. The Infiniti seems quicker and sprightlier in the corners, though the interior is less posh. The Lexus was fitted with a nav system as well as heated and ventilated seats. Perhaps Infiniti will offer a more extensive list of luxury features in the future.

The Bottom Line

At less than $32,000, the G25 is a good deal. It undercuts many of its competitors - including Lexus - by more than $1000. And though the 2.5-liter V6 requires premium fuel, Infiniti says it will deliver 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg highway. If fuel prices spike again, a sport sedan that can approach 30 mpg will sound even more appealing.

Six Hot New Electric Cars Soon to Hit Showrooms

2010-10-20T10:24:00.012-04:00

Analysts predict many of us will be driving electric vehicles in the near future. Much-anticipated models are coming from Nissan, Ford, Chevy, Fisker and others.
By Jim Motavalli of The Daily Green

The electrics are coming! By the end of the year, at least six battery-powered vehicles will be on the U.S. market. The cars will finally go from revolving on show stands to dealer floors, and we'll finally know if consumers mean it when they say in opinion polls that they'll consider an EV for their next purchase. Most of these cars will charge in five or six hours on 220-volt home current, and overnight on 110. Fifteen-minute fast charging (480 volts) may be available at some public stations, maybe even at your favorite big-box store.

Here's a rundown of the cars headed for showrooms, some from major manufacturers and others from ambitious startups. Four are battery-only cars, one is a plug-in hybrid and the sixth (the Chevrolet Volt) is a unique combination of the two.

Nissan Leaf

"This is the new paradigm of the car, and it will change our industry," said Carlos Ghosn, the chairman of Nissan, introducing the battery-powered Leaf in Los Angeles. "It will also change the way people use and power their vehicles."

The Leaf, an all-new design, has a range of 100 miles on a single charge of its lithium-ion batteries. Nissan is unique among carmakers in also partnering with charging companies and municipalities to make sure the Leaf will have public places to plug in. Even though the car hasn't been priced yet (it could be $23,000 plus batteries), 25,000 "handraisers" have said they're willing to buy one. I drove a "mule" version of the Leaf, and found it great fun - the electric motor gives it great performance right off the line. Available at the end of the year at a Nissan dealership near you.

Chevrolet Volt

The Volt is not only a huge departure for usually conservative General Motors, it's also a giant leap for cars in general. The all-new Volt sedan is unique: Its li-ion battery pack offers go-power for 40 miles of electric range, but then a small gasoline engine kicks in as a generator to supply electricity to the motor. That sets you up for longer trips, because the gas engine will keep the car going for a total of 400 miles.

The Volt will sell for around $40,000, but a federal tax incentive will reduce that to the low $30s. I drove a pre-production Volt and this is not grandpa's Chevy: Like the Leaf, the Volt is loads of fun to drive and explodes off the line. The first Volts will arrive at the end of the year, as 2011 models.

Ford Focus

Ford has a multi-channel approach to EVs (eclectic vehicles). This year it will roll out an electric version of the Transit Connect van, and for 2011 we'll see a limited production, battery-powered version of the new Focus, with the drivetrain engineered by Canada's Magna International. As with many other EVs, it will have a 100-miles range on lithium-ion batteries. Ford is being conservative with the electric Focus, and will probably only make less than 5,000 annually in the first year or two.

For 2012, the carmaker will roll out a plug-in hybrid, possibly based on the Escape. There is a small fleet of electric Focus cars being tested now, and two of them are in the hands of Jay Leno, who's been using them on his test track for the "Green Car Challenge." I tried on out there, but Drew Barrymore had a faster time than I did.

Coda Sedan

Coda is based in California, but its electric car is an international citizen, based on a Chinese design but with a battery-based drivetrain sourced from all over. The Coda, many of whose creators have Goldman Sachs Connections, stands out because of the unusual attention to detail that went into it. To ensure a battery supply, CEO Kevin Czinger formed a joint venture with a Chinese Company. His packs are unlikely to suffer from cold-weather performance problems (as some of BMW's Mini Rs have) because the Coda has a system to both heat and cool them.

The Coda isn't as snazzy looking as the Volt or the Leaf, but it's equally willing on the road - as a recent dash around the leafy lanes of Greenwich, Connecticut proved. The Coda will be available, initially in California only, later this year. The price is around $40,000, but that goes down to $32,500 with the federal tax benefit.

Fisker Karma

This is the glamor boy of the coming EVs, and it's a plug-in hybrid. What's that, you say? Think of a Toyota Prius, but with a larger battery pack and the ability to recharge from a wall socket. Other plug-in hybrids are coming from Ford and Toyota. The Karma is as sexy as the Tesla Roadster, but with four doors and a gas engine for longer trips. Journalists haven't actually driven the Karma yet, but it's supposed to have 50 miles of all-electric range and a zero to 60 time of 5.8 seconds.

As with the Tesla, you pay for that rip-roaring ability: the Karma (which has a more expensive convertible version) will sell for $87,900 when it reaches showrooms in September. Fisker got a controversial $529 million Department of Energy loan to build its next-generation car, the Nina, and recently announced that it is consolidation all of its operation in California (and closing down in Pontiac, Michigan).

Think City

This cute little bugger has an interesting history. The company is Norwegian, and for a few years (1999 to 2003) it was owned by Ford, which did a lot of engineering work on the car but conspicuously failed to sell very many of them. Now Think is preparing to build its two-seat City, with U.S. battery supplier Ener1 as a partner, in hard-hit Elkhart, Indiana.

The car I drove in Detroit, built in Norway, was quick off the line but a bit noisy and with heavy steering - both things that will be fixed before it hits the American market for less than $20,000 (minus batteries and including federal tax credit) later this year.

Gov. Rell, CL&P Welcome Nissan Leaf All-Electric Car to Connecticut

2010-10-08T14:04:00.005-04:00

Gov. Rell signs agreement to advance electric vehicle use in Connecticut.

Signaling the state's readiness for environmentally clean transportation, Governor M. Jodi Rell welcomed the all-electric Nissan LEAF to Connecticut with the signing of a collaborative agreement to help advance electric vehicles in the state.

With Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) President Jeff Butler and representatives of Nissan North America on hand at a ceremony at the Connecticut Science Center, Rell lauded the launch of Nissan's battery-powered car. The Nissan LEAF goes on sale in limited markets in December and will be available nationwide some time in 2011.

"The inclusion of Connecticut in the launch of the Nissan LEAF recognizes our commitment to clean energy and the culmination of our work to prepare the state for the next generation of electric vehicles," said Gov. Rell.

As a member of the Governor's Electric Vehicles Infrastructure Council, CL&P has been studying and testing charging infrastructure and encouraging automakers to include Connecticut in their electric vehicle launch plans.

"With electric vehicles, our existing electric system offers our customers an alternative fuel source for a more sustainable transportation solution," said CL&P President Jeff Butler.

"Nissan is a leader in electric vehicles, and the state of Connecticut has shown similar leadership through its progressive policies and focus on clean energy," said Tracy Woodard director of government affairs, Nissan North America. "Nissan and the state will work together to help Connecticut be ready for electric vehicles and the 2011 introduction of the Nissan LEAF to the region."

The Nissan LEAF is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack instead of an internal combustion engine. There are no tailpipe emissions, and the vehicle can get up to 100 miles on a single battery charge for far less than the cost of gasoline.

CL&P is currently studying the integration of electric cars like the Nissan LEAF with its electric distribution system. The utility has prototype vehicle charging stations installed at its Berlin campus and the Hartford headquarters of its parent company, Northeast Utilities. Through NU, CL&P is a member of the Regional Electric Vehicle Initiative (REVI), a collaborative effort by utilities in New England to share information to ensure the smooth introduction of EV technology to the regional electric system.

For more on the Nissan LEAF, visit http://www.nissanusa.com/. To view the final report of the Governor's Electric Vehicles Infrastructure Council, go to www.ct.gov/dpuc/evic.

Second Opinion: 2011 Nissan Leaf

2010-09-14T09:55:00.006-04:00

Motor Trend Magazine took the Nissan LEAF out for a spin to find out whether it is "a green car or a real car." Read their thorough review and share your thoughts.

By: Frank Markus

Note: Public test drives on the "drive electric tour" begin soon.

I just had the chance to drive an early-bird Leaf here in Michigan on a brief route near Nissan's Technical Center. A thorough evaluation will have to wait a few more weeks when the Leaf gets its shot at possibly becoming Motor Trend's first ever fully electric Car of the Year (Editor's Note: We have just learned that Nissan will not be able to provide cars to us for this year's event), but this drive was sufficient to answer the question: Is it a real car?

Well, it certainly feels like a real GREEN car. From the driver's seat, the general ambiance and feel of the controls reminds me a lot of the plug-in Prius. Various dashboard screens and readouts bombard the driver with copious data to help eke the most distance out of the least energy possible. For their size, each feels heavy (the Leaf weighs 3600 pounds, 600 of which is the battery pack). Engage Drive via a peculiar shifter in either, and it will accelerate bunny-quick off the line; but launching like that feels so naughty that you reflexively engage the ECO mode (by moving the shifter down to the Drive spot again) for the rest of the trip, allowing the electronics to impose Puritanical patience on your progress unless you floor the pedal. In both cars, the electric power steering renders the same pinky-finger parking assist and provides the same rheostatic lack of road-feel at any speed.

The Leaf's low center of gravity keeps the cornering reasonably flat, and while the low-rolling-resistance tires give up their grip at modest cornering loads, at least they do so without much squealing. I was pleased not to notice any transition from regenerative to hydraulic braking. The faint whistling noise the car makes to warn blind pedestrians of its approach was inaudible until I lowered a window. I could just faintly hear the beeping in reverse with the radio off.

To this double-sheepskinned car geek, the Leaf's various displays aimed at range maximization are a constant source of inspiration and amusement. Up in the top left corner of the upper display, there's an electronic gauge that lights up more elements the more gently you drive. Keep up the good work, and you gradually grow a pine tree. Continued parsimonious (and not too traffic-inhibiting) driving regrows that tree three more times, leaving a forest of small trees next to the gauge.

Down in the main cluster viewed through the steering wheel, you have an arc of circles that light up to show how much power is being expended or regenerated, a voltmeter, and a traditional "fuel gauge" display with an inset showing miles remaining. When this drops to four kilowatt-hours left (16-20 miles of range), the nav screen switches to show all nearby quick-charge stations and output steps down to preserve range. climate control output is curtailed, top speed is reduced, and the driver is unmistakably notified that it's almost time to juice up.

The list of available charging stations will be updated periodically via Nissan's own satellite service called Carwings, which runs kind of like OnStar (with a headquarters in Japan beaming info through leased satellites pointed at this continent). The only station that showed up on our suburban-Detroit map was the one at Nissan's Tech Center, but there will soon be 3670 of them in California, 1464 in Washington, 1350 in Tennessee, and 1150 each in Oregon and Arizona. These are the states in which the Leaf launches first this December, followed by Texas and Hawaii in January, seven Gulf and Atlantic states in April, and nationwide by fall 2011. Nissan claims there should be 12,000 quick-charge stations up and running by the end of the year, but clearly the goal is for people to install charging stations at home for regular daily charging (eight hours with the 220-volt line, considerably longer with the 110-volts), and for these quick-charge places to serve only in case of emergency. Nissan says battery damage can occur is the car is "quick-charged" more than twice per day, so this ain't the rig for a non-stop California-to-Washington state drive, even is the I-5 corridor is eventually covered with sufficient charging stations.

Speaking of battery damage, Nissan envisions a 10-year useful life, after which only 70-80 percent of its original capacity remains. At that point, the packs will be dismantled and the flat, laminated cells reassembled into larger 100-kWhr or more) packs for power companies to store wind and solar energy in. Nissan also claims it can economically replace defective cells in the Leaf's 24 kWhr pack.

Other cool Ev-only features accessible on the Nav screen include a map showing two circles around the car -- one of which is the radius you can reach with enough juice to return and other the no-return range. There's a screen that shows instantaneous kilowatt usage of the motor, the climate control system, and all other systems, so you can see the impact of changing your temperature or fan settings. Hypermilers will no doubt Rain-X their windshields so as to avoid the parasitic loss of the windshield wipers. Then there are the typical graphs indicating instantaneous and historical "economy" in miles/kWhr. Then there's a screen for scheduling recharges via timer. There will also, of course, be smart-phone apps for monitoring all of this and more, and for "preconditioning" the cabin while plugged in.

The rest of the car is pretty darned carlike. The rear seat is commodious, but the floor feels high (the batteries are down there remember). which forces my knees up higher than I'd like and limits thigh support. Fold the seatbacks down and there's a rather high pass-through to the cargo area (the onboard charger lives just behind the folded seatbacks), but there's room for two sets of golf clubs (not that I'm inferring the Leaf is a glorified golf cart, mid you!).

Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn sure hopes regular folks find the Leaf normal enough to buy 550,000 of them by 2013, because the company is constructing and repurposing plants around the world to provide that many. Certainly the price seems reasonable, at $32,780 list for the base SV, which still gets navigation, Bluetooth, and everything you really need. That's before the $7,500 federal tax credit (applicable to anyone filing a normal tax return with at least $7,500 of tax liability) or state credits as high as $5,000 (California and Oregon). Don't want to fuss with tax forms? Lease it and Nissan claims the credit, rolling it into the $349/month price. Given the low operating costs (with no oil, filters, timing belts, etc. to maintain) and comparatively low energy cost (national average electricity pricing equates to roughly $1.10/gallon gas), it seems a fairly compelling value. After all, the 19,000 folks who have reportedly put deposits down can't ALL be Ed Begley/Al Gore acolytes.

2011 Nissan Leaf

Base price: $32,780

Vehicle layout: Front-engine, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door hatchback

Motor: 108-hp/206-lb-ft AC electric

Transmission: 1-speed automatic

Curb weight: 3400 lb (mfr)

Wheel base: 106.3 in

Length x width x height: 175.0 x 69.7 x 61.0 in

Installation: Front, transverse, front-drive

0-60 mph: 11.5 sec (mfr est)

EPA city/hwy fuel econ: 350 mpg (est)

CO2 emissions: None

On sale is U.S.: Fall 2010

America's Most Stolen Cars

2010-08-05T15:25:00.003-04:00

Here are the new cars that thieves target the most, according to an analysis by the Highway Loss Data Institute.

1. Cadillac Escalade

Annual claim frequency: 10.8 of every thousand

Once again, the high-profile Cadillac Escalade SUV is the car that thieves love to steal, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute.

Each year, 10.8 out of every thousand late model Escalades end up getting stolen, broken into, or having parts ripped off. That's the highest rate of theft claims of any vehicle in America. The Escalade has topped the list since 2002. you may have heard that a lot of Toyota Camry's get stolen. They do. But it's only 1.6 out of every thousand.

The institute looked only at cars from the most recent three model years. These cars all have the latest anti-theft technologies, including immobilizers that prevent hot-wiring.

"That won't stop a determined theif from loading a car on a flat-bed truck," said Russ Rader, the institute's spokesman.

2. Chevrolet Silverado

Annual claim frequency: 8.0 of every thousand

3. Dodge Charger

Annual claim frequency: 7.4 of every thousand

4. Chevrolet Avalanche

Annual claim frequency: 7.4 of every thousand

5. Infiniti G37 Coupe

Annual claim frequency: 7.1 of every thousand

6. GMC Sierra Crew Cab

Annual claim frequency: 6.7 of every thousand

7. Nissan Maxima

Annual claim frequency: 6.5 of every thousand

8. Hummer H2

Annual claim frequency: 6.2 of every thousand

9. GMC Yukon XL 4WD

Annual claim frequency: 6.0 of every thousand

10. Chevrolet Tahoe

Annual claim frequency: 5.8 of every thousand

Flops Then Collectible Now

2010-07-12T13:37:00.004-04:00

Some cars, like Ferraris, are worth big bucks from the day they're born. Others, like classic muscle cars, always have a following but attain collectible status only later in life. But some truly special cars are total busts when they're new but go on, decades later, to find their place in the hearts of car collectors, especially those with a sense of humor.

McKeel Hagerty, president of Hagerty Insurance, which specializes in covering collectible cars, cites these examples as among his favorites flop-to-tops category.

Edsel (1958-60)

Value: Over $100,000 for convertible in good condition

The name Edsel, has become synonymous with "flop." When Ford developed the Edsel car line in the 1950s, it was intended to offer customers something a bit nicer and more distinctive than Mercury cars but not quite as luxurious as a Lincoln.

Ford spent about $400 million to develop the cars, or about $3 billion in today's money, according to Hagerty Insurance, a company that insures collectible cars. During Edsel's short life, only 118,000 cars were sold, about half of what Ford needed to break even.

Edsel's are valuable today in part simply because most cars from that chrome-and0fins era are increasing in value, said McKeel Hagerty, president of Hagerty Insurance. The more chrome and the bigger the fins, the better.

Amphicar (1961-68)

Value: $26,000 - $58,000

The German-made Amphicar, the only amphibious vehicle ever produced for the mass market, was a strange compromise between a road-going and water-bourne vehicle. It wasn't particularly good in either place.

Since fewer than 4,000 were sold -- much less than the 20,000 that had been anticipated -- their appeal as curiosities today far outstrips the number of working models available.

Other German-made cars from that time tended to rust easily, HcKeel Hagery said, but given that Amphicars appear regularly at collector car auctions, they seem to be holding up surprisingly well.

BMW Isetta (1955-62)

Value: $30,000 - $60,000

An early example of a microcar, or a city car, the Isletta fared even less well in the U.S. market than the Smart ForTwo, a modern example, has in recent years.

The ultra-tiny Isletta was actually a big hit in post-war Europe, where it fit the need for ultra cheap transportation that could run on narrow roads using very little fuel. In the United States however, it was a bust.

That only makes it more desirable today. For many buyers, the Isletta is a sort of "comic relief" in their collection of otherwise fine cars, Hagerty said.

Continental Mark II (1956-57)

Value: $40,000 - $90,000

Edsel wasn't the only new car brand Ford introduced in the 1950s. Wanting to stretch into the upper realm on the luxury class, Ford announced the creation of the Continental car line.

This car sold for about $10,000 in its day. Sounds dirt cheap but that was about the price of a Rolls-Royce in 1956.

"The Continental division was meant to compete independently in that super-expensive range," McKeel said.

The Continental was an impressive car -- and it still is -- but people weren't ready to spend that kind of cash for Detroit metal. About half of the 3,000 Continental Mark II's produced still survive.

Delorean DMC 12 (1981-82)

Value: $10,000 - $35,000

The Delorean factory was supposed to crank out 30,000 of these futuristic looking cars. Unfortunately, the cars turned out to be underpowered and overweight, Hagerty said.

Management troubles and drug trafficking allegations only added to the company's problems. As it turned out, only 9,000 were produced over two years.

The Back to the Future films cemented its place in the public consciousness.

Fiat Jolly (1958)

Value: $30,000 - $60,000

The Jolly, a modified Fiat 500 or 600, was intended for wealthy yacht owners who wanted a car they could carry from resort to resort on their boat. The seats were made of wicker and an optional fringe top protected occupants from sunburn. Not surprisingly, perhaps, it didn't sell well. That's why fewer than 100 exist today, a small supply that increases their value.

De Tomaso Pantera sold through Ford (1971-75)

Value: $42,000 - $65,000

The hot-looking rear0engined Pantera was sold at Lincoln-Mercury dealers, a rather incongruous retailing channel for a car like this. With its Ford engine, the Pantera was supposed to be easier to maintain than something with a finicky Italian engine. Alas, keeping a Pantera running wasn't so easy after after all. Despite impressive performance numbers, dependability problems and a generally poor early '70s market for performance cars -- including gas price spikes and rising insurance costs -- kept sales low.

2011 Infiniti QX Offers Bold Exterior, Powerful Yet Efficient 5.6-liter Direct Injection V8 and World-Class Luxury Interior

2010-06-25T12:53:00.003-04:00

- All-New Second-Generation QX56 Full-Size Performance Luxury SUV Features Advanced Technology, Including Hydraulic Body Motion Control System -

It starts with a breathtaking presence, a calm strength derived of clean, fluid lines that attract and hold your attention. It continues with the highest level of luxury, not just for the driver and front seat passenger, but all occupants - world class, personalized control over their environments for passengers in every seat in the house. Add in an exceptional driving experience provided by a powerful, yet efficient V8 engine design and available Hydraulic Body Motion Control system. Then top it all off with intuitive functionality, which anticipates and responds to the users' needs and desires. Introducing the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX, the latest example of inspired design, performance, technology and craftsmanship from Infiniti. Available in two models, the QX56 2WD and QX56 4WD.

"Following closely on the introduction of the all-new 2011 Infiniti M, the 2011 Infiniti QX gives us an incredible presence in full-size performance luxury vehicles - perfect for buyers seeking style comfort, roominess and driving exhilaration," said Ben Poore, vice president, Infiniti Business Unit. "Like the new M, the QX offers a range of available innovative technology, including Blind Spot Warning and an advanced Hydraulic Body Motion Control system."

The second-generation Infiniti QX56 has been totally redesigned from the platform up. Its new high-stiffness frame structure enhances ride comfort while reducing noise, vibration and harshness. The new 5.6-liter V8 engine combines the responsive acceleration of Infiniti's VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) and 7-speed automatic transmission. With 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, the QX can handle tasks such as towing boats or trailers (8,500-pound towing capacity, when properly equipped), while also offering 14% better fuel economy (EPA Combined) than the previous generation QX.

Inside the distinctive QX body is an interior long on luxury, including standard Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View Monitor, Bose 13-speaker Premium Audio System, available perforated semi-aniline leather seating and an available Tri-Zone Entertainment System with dual 7-inch color monitors, which allows different sources to be played at the same time. The 2011 QX also offers ample 1st row and class-leading 2nd row roominess.

What Women Want -- In A Car

2010-06-22T15:20:00.003-04:00

By Johnathan Walsh

Still irresistible after all these years, the Volkswagen Beetle is the top car among women. Following closely are the Nissan Rogue and Hyundai Tucson compact SUVs and Volkswagen Eos convertible, according to a new survey.

Auto industry researcher TrueCar today released a demographic study that looked at more than 13 million vehicle registrations from the past two years. Beyond determining which cars women buy most often, it found "there is still a sizable gender gap when it comes to vehicle registrations," says Jesse Toprak, TrueCar's vice president of industry trends and insights. "Of the more than 200 models we examined, only nine were registered by more women than men and none of the brands had a registration rate that was higher for women," he says.

According to the study more men than women - at a rate of 64% to 36% - register vehicles in the U.S., even though females make up 51% of the U.S. population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Surveys like these are tricky because you can slice the data several ways. The number of women buying cars differs from the number of women driving and registering them. The TrueCar survey looks at the gender of the name on the registration alone.

Here are the nine vehicles on TrueCar's list that were more popular among women than men, and the percentage of women registering them:

Volkswagen Beetle 56.1%

Nissan Rogue 53.5%

Hyundai Tucson 53.0%

Volkswagen Eos 53.0%

Volvo S40 51.9%

Honda CR-V 51.3%

Kia Sportage 50.5%

Toyota RAV-4 50.4%

Nissan Sentra 50.1%

Top 10 brands among women are Kia, Suzuki, Mini, Subaru, Nissan, Hyundai, Honda, Volvo, Lexus and Mitsubishi. For these car makers the percentage of registrants to women ranges from 45.8% for Kia to 41.5% for Mitsubishi.

Girl drivers gone wild

2010-06-09T13:51:00.003-04:00

Long considered more responsible than boys behind the wheel, a growing number of girls admit speeding and aggressive driving. And their insurance rates are rising.
By The Wall Street Journal

Some big auto insurers are raising the rates they charge to cover teenage girls, reflecting the crumbling of conventional wisdom that girls are more responsible than boys behind the wheel.

In a survey of teenage drivers, Allstate Insurance found that 48% of girls said they were likely to drive 10 mph over the speed limit. By comparison, 36% of the boys admitted speeding. Of the girls, 16% characterized their own driving as aggressive, up from 9% in 2005. And just more than half of the girls said they were likely to drive while talking on a phone or texting, compared with 38% of the boys.

The results were "a surprise to many people," says Meghann Dowd of the Allstate Foundation, an independent charitable organization funded by Allstate that sponsored the survey.

While teens 'fessed up about their own bad behavior, they said their friends drive even worse. Sixty-five percent of the respondents in the study, male and female, said they were confident in their own driving skills, but 77% said they had felt unsafe when another teen was driving. Only 23% of teens agreed that most teens are good drivers. This suggests teens recognize in their friends the dubious and dangerous behavior they won't admit to indulging in themselves.

The data were gleaned from online interviews with 1,063 teens across the country. It was conducted in May 2009 for the Allstate Foundation by Tru, a youth research and marketing firm in Chicago.

The survey relied on what teens reported about themselves, and Dowd says that means the results could have been affected by how forthcoming individuals were when answering the survey questions.

2010-05-28T13:05:00.002-04:00

Ten Tips to Lower Driving Expenses

2010-05-24T11:22:00.002-04:00

It's getting more expensive to own a car, and spiking oil costs are the primary culprit. Besides downsizing and driving less, there are ways drivers can ease the pain.
by JOHN ADAMS, ForbesAutos.com

Study Depreciation Rates
A vehicle's depreciation rate can be a better indication of long-term value than its sticker price. "What you pay for a vehicle doesn't matter. It's how much the car depreciates," says Michael Calkins, manager of approved auto repair for AAA in Heathrow, Fl.

Spending more upfront for a vehicle that holds its value better can save you money when it comes time to sell. Check Consumer Reports for depreciation ratings. BankRate.com is another resource for this topic.

Use Regular Gasoline
"A lot of cars recommend premium fuel but run fine on regular," AAA's Calkins says. But be warned: Using regular gasoline instead of the recommended premium could rob the engine of some performance."

If you don't need maximum performance, go down one or two grades in fuel," he says. "If the car runs fine, it's a good way to save 10 cents to 20 cents per gallon."

Optimize Insurance Coverage
"Do you have the right insurance for your life situation? You don't need collision coverage for a 15-year old vehicle," Calkins says. "And you might also be able to raise the deductible of some coverage to reduce costs."

Check Interest Rates
"Rates are low right now, so if you can come down a point or two and have three or four years left on your loan, it might make sense to refinance," Calkins says. Car loans don't have all the set-up costs of a home loan, so any rate drop you can get is worth going for."

Check with your bank, credit union or other financial services provider about refinancing your auto loan at a lower interest rate. Online resources like LendingTree.com could also prove helpful.

Specific Vehicles for Specific Tasks
Households with multiple vehicles can cut costs by using the smallest, most fuel-efficient vehicle whenever possible, such as when one or two people are running an errand or commuting to work. "If you're taking a discretionary trip, take the car that gets the best mileage if you can," says Steve Polzine, a director and analyst at the Center for Urban Transportation Research in Tampa, Fla.

Save the larger car, van, SUV or truck for when they're really needed, like when carrying many occupants and towing or hauling heavy loads.

Shop for the Best Maintenance Rates
"Don't over-maintain. You don't have to change your wiper blades if they're still successfully clearing the window."

A new website called RepairPal.com can help drivers assess maintenance and repair expenses.

Lengthen the Time Between Oil Changes
Ford, General Motors and Toyota have all suggested lengthening the mileage between oil changes on their vehicles from the traditional 3,000 miles to about 7,500 miles. This is partly because today's engines are more robust and have tighter tolerances than those of the past.

Most new vehicles now offer automated systems that alert drivers when it's time to change the oil, rather than forcing drivers to manually count mileage between oil changes, which typically cost about $50 per change.

Car Pool or Use Mass Transit
Car pooling is as old as cars themselves, but it's worth remembering that there's economy of scale in sharing rides to work, school and Little League. And most cities have some form of mass transit that might not be an all-out substitute for a private vehicle but could be used for some routine trips.

"All of those things can add up over time," Polzine says.

Downsize
By going down a bit in size, it's possible to own a less expensive vehicle without giving up a lot of space. AAA found that consumers can save a great deal by going for a smaller vehicle: The ownership cost for the average small sedan is $6,320 per year, but for a larger sedan, the cost jumps to $9,769.

AAA compared minivans and SUVs separately and found that consumers can save almost $2,000 per year by driving a minivan instead of an SUV.

Change Driving Habits
AAA's Calkins says that by anticipating stops it's possible to brake slowly, which reduces wear and tear on braking components and can help brake shoes and fluid last longer.

"Also, let the car coast as much as possible," he says. That and accelerating smoothly rather than abruptly can reduce fuel consumption, prolong brake life and reduce stress on other components like the transmission.

Nissan, Ford, Chrysler lead U.S. industry to 20% April gain

2010-05-04T14:10:00.002-04:00

DETROIT -- Nissan Motor Co., Ford Motor Co., and Chrysler Group led the U.S. industry to a 20 percent sales gain in April as demand continued to recover from last year's collapse.

Overall sales rose to 982,302 from 819,692 a year earlier. The seasonally adjusted annual sales rate was 11.5 million, the second strongest of the year behind March's 11.7 million.

Ford said its retail sales rose 32 percent en route to a 25 percent overall gain, its fifth straight month of 20 percent or more. Toyota climbed sharply for the second straight month, again aided by no-interest loans and discount leases aimed at combating its recall crisis. Chrysler's 25 percent jump marked its first double-digit increase in almost five years. Nissan Motor was up 35 percent, and the Hyundai Group advanced 24 percent.

"We are putting the fundamentals together for a full-blown recovery," TrueCar.com analyst Jesse Toprak said, adding that April sales showed another month in a gradual return in consumer demand that was demolished in the past two years.

"It's slow, but we are on the right track," he said.

Today's results lifted year-to-date sales 17 percent above those of early 2009, when automakers battled the weakest demand in almost 30 years. General Motors Co.'s four surviving brands -- Chevrolet, GMC, Buick and Cadillac - recorded a combined increase of 20 percent. Overall sales for the automaker were up 7 percent.

Among smaller automakers, Subaru racked up a 48 percent gain in April and Volkswagen of America boosted its sales 39 percent. At the other end of the spectrum, American Suzuki's April sales fell 23 percent and Porsche lost 6 percent.

GM, Ford, Chrysler

GM has predicted U.S. sales this year will total 11.3 million to 11.8 million light vehicles. Although GM economist Ted Chu said he thinks the second quarter will continue its current pace, he predicted a one-million-unit increase in second-half sales compared with the first six months.

"Pent-up demand is building," Chu said. GM is winding down Hummer, Pontiac and Saturn and has sold Saab.

GM sold 9,150 Chevrolet Camaros, with about 7,800 of them going to individual customers. That's the highest retail total for the sports car since GM relaunched it in March 2009, said Steve Carlisle, vice president of U.S. sales operations.

Sales of the Chevrolet Silverado rose 12 percent, and the pickup saw its second consecutive monthly increase in sales to individual customers, Carlisle said. Its GMC Sierra sibling saw deliveries increase 13 percent, with a 19 percent increase in retail sales.

Ford's increase will be "good enough to gain market share," said Efraim Levy, a Standard and Poor's analyst, in a research not. "We like the mix improvement, with retail sales, pickups and utilities powering the volume forward. Residuals values reportedly advanced for Ford, outpacing the industry."

Ford was led by a jump of more than 42 percent in F-Series pickup trucks and a 41 percent rise in its Escape SUV. The automaker said fleet demand rose 13 percent, well below the 32 percent gain in retail sales.

Chrysler's 25 percent advance was the biggest since a 27 percent in July 2005, when U.S. automakers offered all buyers the same discounts as employees.

The average estimate for an industry sales pace of 11.4 million vehicles would compare with the 9.5 million of a year earlier, after the industry experienced the lowest U.S. demand in almost 30 years.

Consumer Confidence

Automakers were buoyed by consumer confidence that rose in April to its highest since September 2008, as measured by the Conference Board's monthly index.

Toyota began offering incentives on March 2 such as subsidized leases after worldwide recalls of more than 8 million vehicles to fix defects linked to unintended acceleration and to adjust brakes. The company probably spent an average $2,416 on incentives on each vehicle last month, according to TrueCar.com.

The industry average is about $2,798, TrueCar.com said. Incentives are down 4 percent from March 2009, when GM and Chrysler boosted spending ahead of their bankruptcy filings.

John McEleney who has a Toyota and a Buick, GMC and Cadillac dealership in Clinton, Iowa, said sales were up 30 percent at his Toyota store and increased about 20 percent among his GM brands.

"Sales were really pretty good, but not quite as good as March," McEleney said before today's results were released, adding that sales may keep gaining this year. "We're seeing a lot more showroom traffic and a lot more Internet activity. People are feeling better about their jobs, too."

The Wing is Back! Subaru Debuts New 4-door Impreza WRX STI Model for 2011

2010-04-15T11:18:00.005-04:00

First Time Subaru Performance Flagship Offered in Two Body Styles

New WRX STI Four-door with Wide-Body Design

Returned Suspension for Even Sharper Handling

New York April 1, 2010 - Subaru of America today introduced a new 4-door version of its Impreza WRX STI performance flagship model. This will be the first time that the WRX STI has been offered in two body styles (5-door and 4-door). In addition to the new styling, the 2011 WRX STI features significantly revised suspension tuning and lighter 18-inch wheels for even sharper handling.

The WRX STI has been a recipient of continuous improvement since its introduction. Most recently, the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition previewed some of the suspension enhancements now migrated to the 2011 WRX STI. Thorough and painstakingly detailed chassis development, including testing on Germany's famed Nurburgring racetrack, has resulted in the best-handling Impreza WRX STI models Subaru has ever offered.

"The continuous evolution and development of the WRX STI is driven by the strong, loyal and vocal support from thousands of enthusiastic owners of this exciting high-performance vehicle," said Tom Doll, executive vice president and COO of Subaru of America, Inc. "The 2011 4-door WRX STI will expand the appeal of this iconic performance model to a wider range of driving enthusiasts."

New Designs for 2011

In front, the 2011 WRX STI models feature sharpened bumper corners and wider, blacked-out fog lamp nacelles to accentuate the "wide and low" profile. A jutting lip spoiler with three-dimensional detailing emphasizes the cars' sporty intent. They newly designed front grille with black base and blacked-out Subaru wing highlights the headlights' shape to give the entire front end a more powerful appearance, accentuated by larger grille and bumper intake openings.

For the 4-door models, newly designed wider rear fenders are stretched out on the side beyond the tail lamps, accentuating a look of power and stability. The new design details contribute to an improved drag coefficient.

New Chassis Tuning for 2011

The Subaru WRX STI was already a highly optimized performance machine. Specific chassis tuning. Aluminum front lower L-arms reduce unsprung vehicle weight. Major chassis tuning changes include a lowered ride height and new pillow-ball bushings in front and stiffer bushings for the rear subframe that supports the double-wishbone suspension - these improve camber and toe stiffness.

Both the front and rear suspension systems employ higher-rate springs and thicker front and rear stabilizer bars than the 2010 model: 21 mm in front and 19 mm vs. 18 mm in rear. Spring rates have increased by 15.6 percent in front and 53 percent in the rear.

New standard 18-inch aluminum wheels feature high-luster paint and weigh 17.6 lbs. less than the previous standard wheels. The optional 18 x 8.5-in. BBS forged aluminum-alloy wheels, which further reduce unsprung vehicle weight, are highlighted by silver high-luster paint for 2011.

Exclusive to the WRX STI, the Brembo Performance Brake System uses ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock (ABS) disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Super Sport ABS can control the braking forces at each rear wheel independently, which optimizes braking during hard cornering to help reduce understeer.

The Ultimate Performance Subaru

The 2011 WRX STI continues as the ultimate-performance Subaru with its high-boost 305-hp turbocharged/intercooled 4-cyl. Boxer engine and 6-speed manual transmission. The STI also features Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with three "Auto" modes, as well as a manual mode with six driver-selectable differential locking settings.

The WRX STI is equipped with advanced dynamic control systems, as well: the Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system is standard and features a track performance-optimized mode; Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) technology allows the driver to tailor the car's driving characteristics by choosing from among three selectable modes - "Intelligent," "Sport" and "Sport Sharp" - using a rotary dial on the center console.

The 2011 Impreza WRX STI models arrive in Subaru late this summer.

Sporty, Spacious and Versatile Interior

New for 2011, the WRX STI interior is finished in black and silver to highlight its sporty design. Trim panels, the steering wheel air bag cover and steering wheel switches are now dark cast metallic.

The standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a three-spoke, leather wrapped design embossed with the STI logo and features control switches for Bluetooth hands-free phone function. A new AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player features Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling, iPod control capability, a USB port, 3.5mm aux. input jack and XM/SIRIUS satellite radio (subscription is extra). An available navigation system integrates a vehicle information center and Bluetooth hands-free calling.

Nissan will Sell Electric Car for Just Over $25k

2010-03-31T10:04:00.003-04:00

Nissan's new electric car will cost just over $25,000 when it goes on sale in the U.S. in December, aiming to bring gasoline-free technology within reach of mainstream drivers.

The Leaf, a four-door hatchback, will have a base price of $32,780, but it's eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles. That will make it cheaper to buy than electric vehicles coming from rivals and may force competitors to cut prices. But the Leaf's limited range of just 100 miles per charge for its lithium-ion battery could be a deal breaker for some motorists.

"We want to make sure the car is affordable, ready for the mass market and has mass appeal," Mark Perry, director of product planning and advanced technology at Nissan North America Inc., said in an interview.

Customers can start reserving a Leaf in the U.S. on April 20 and Nissan is aiming for 25,000 orders by December. It hopes to build ans sell 50,000 of the cars around the world during the first model year. Production is starting at an existing factory in Oppama, Japan, south of Tokyo, and will expand to Nissan's factory in Smyrna, Tenn., in 2012.

Christopher Richter, an auto analyst at CLSA Asia Pacific Markets in Tokyo, predicted the car will prove popular among "people who want to be green, people who love technology and people who are status-conscious."

Sales during the first year will be limited to about 20 large cities in the U.S., including New York, Seattle and Atlanta, Perry said. He said Nissan hopes to expand Leaf sales nationwide by the end of 2011.

The Leaf's relatively low starting price -- as well as an option to lease the vehicle for $349 a month -- could touch off a price war among rivals. A spokesman for General Motors Co., which will begin selling its Chevrolet Volt electric car later this year, said it will look at Nissan's pricing before announcing its own closer to its December sales date.

The Volt is widely expected to cost around $35,000 before the $7,500 tax credit. Unlike the Leaf, the Volt is not a pure electric car. Instead it's propelled by electricity stored in a battery for up to 40 miles, at which point a gasoline engine kicks in, giving it hundreds of miles more in range.

Perry said the Leaf's 100-mile range is more than adequate for the distance driven by most Americans in a given day. Still, analysts say the psychological effect of so-called range anxiety might be an obstacle for the Leaf. The Volt's internal combustion engine eases that concern by allowing drivers to continue going long after the electric charge is depleted.

"The Volt ... has a much larger appeal," said Aaron Bragman, an auto industry analyst with IHS Global Insight in Troy, Mich.

It will take about eight hours to recharge a Leaf using a 220-volt electric plug -- the kind used by most electric clothes dryers. Charging using a standard 110-volt outlet could take twice that. Nissan is giving Leaf customers the option of buying a home charging station at an estimated cost, including installation, of $2,200. That cost can be offset by a 50-percent tax credit up to $2,000.

At average electricity rates, charging the Leaf would cost about $2.80 per charge.

The Volt has a smaller battery than the Leaf and can't go as far on full electric power. But it can be fully recharged in eight hours on a standard 110-volt home outlet. Using a 220-volt outlet, it takes less than four hours.

The Leaf and the Volt will be the first among many electric cars due from mainstream automakers in the coming years. Until now, electric cars like the two-seater Tesla Roadster with a price tag of $100,000 have largely been playthings of the wealthy.

Tax credits for plug-in electric vehicles top out at $7,500. The size of the credit shrinks by automaker after it's sold at least 200,000 vehicles in the U.S. The credit then phases out over a year.

Nissan says the Leaf will cost 3.76 million yen ($40,000) in Japan. It will price the car lower in the U.S. because it wants to sell more of them in that market. But Perry said Nissan is confident the company will make a profit on each Leaf sold in the U.S. at a lower list price.

One reason is because Nissan owns the intellectual property to the battery, which was developed jointly by Nissan and NEC. "We control the battery costs," Perry said.

But Nissan may be deliberately setting the price low and may even lose money to establish itself as the market leader, said Erich Merkle, president of the consulting company Autoconomy.com in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Although the Volt can travel farther on a single charge, GM still has to compete with the Leaf on price, especially among motorists who have short commutes or a second car for long-distance travel, Merkle said.

So far, some 81,000 people in the U.S. -- where the Leaf went on a promotional 22-city tour earlier this year -- have said they are interested in the car via Nissan's Web site. In Japan some 9,300 people have signaled an interest.

Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn, who also heads France's Renault, has been a vocal proponent of electric vehicles, and predicts the segment will grow to about 10 percent of global sales by 2020.

Subaru's Environmental Policy

2010-03-19T12:52:00.003-04:00

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in cherry Hill, New Jersey, the company markets and distributes all-wheel drive Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories.

SOA understands its responsibility to the global environment, society at large, our customers, our distribution network and our employees. As we conduct our business operations into the future, we commit to establish and maintain an effective environmental management system that extends further than just meeting the stated environmental laws and regulations, and that encompasses the integration of sound environmental practices in all of our business decisions.

We commit to:
- Comply with all environmental laws and regulations and other requirements related to our business activities.
- Implement effective pollution prevention systems that protect our air, land and water.
- Conserve natural resources, by reducing, reusing and recycling materials.
- Continuous improvement of our Environmental Management System (EMS).
- Create employee awareness and commitment to SOA's Environmental Philosophy and Policy.
- Work with SOA's business partners to improve their operational impact on the environment.

Subaru of America, Inc. reaffirms our commitment to being a world-class leader in environmental performance.

The Subaru Clean Plant
Here's something to think about: next time you take out your trash at home for collection, you're sending more trash to landfills than the entire Subaru manufacturing plant in Lafayette, Indiana (SIA) does in a year. The Subaru plant was the first auto assembly plant to achieve zero landfill status - nothing from its manufacturing efforts goes into a landfill. It's all reused and recycled. Each year, SIA actively recycles 99.3% of excess/leftover steel, plastic, wood, paper, glass, and other materials. The remaining 0.7% is shipped to the city of Indianapolis and incinerated to help generate steam. In 2006, SIA recycled 11,411 tons of scrap steel, 1,537 tons of cardboard and paper, and 963 tons of wood. That's equal to conserving 31,040 mature trees, 31,572 cubic yards of landfill space, 711,631 gallons of oil, and 10,759,000 gallons of water.

Congratulations Harte Nissan Inc!

2010-03-17T11:54:00.006-04:00

The Small Business Commerce Association (SBCA) is pleased to announce that Harte Nissan Inc has been selected for the 2009 Best of Business Award in the Automobiles, new and used category.

The SBCA Best of Business Award Program recognizes the best of small businesses throughout the country. Using federal, state, city & county government data and other research the SBCA selection committee chooses the award winners that are believed to have demonstrated what makes small businesses a vital part of the American economy. Award winners are a valuable asset to their community and exemplify what makes small businesses great.

Infiniti Adds Limited Production 2010 G Anniversary Edition Sedan's Coupes & Convertibles

2010-03-15T14:31:00.004-04:00

- Infiniti Celebrates Two Decades of Luxury with New Anniversary Editions -

While every 2010 Infiniti G Sedan, Coupe or Convertible seems special to those who design, engineer, manufacture or market them -- and also to their owners -- Infiniti has just released four new G Anniversary Editions that stand apart from every other Infiniti G ever created. These uniquely equipped Anniversary G37s, built in commemoration of Infiniti's 20th anniversary, will be available in very limited numbers -- 350 G Sedans and 200 each for the G Coupe and G Convertible. They are scheduled to go on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide in mid-April.

"These unique and very limited editions represent what Infiniti is all about -- Inspired Performance," said Ben Poore, vice president, Infiniti Business Unit. "Building on the popularity of the Monaco Red Leather and special Red-toned Maple interior that helped launch the G Convertible, the Anniversary Editions add a number of new styling touches that will make them instantly recognizable on the showroom floor and on the road."

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP)* for the four available 2010 Infiniti G Anniversary Editions are:

G37 Sedan Anniversary Edition $43,350 USD
G37 Sedan AWD Anniversary Edition $43,550 USD
G37 Coupe Anniversary Edition $50,550 USD
G37 Convertible Anniversary Edition $54,900 USD

The Anniversary Editions are based on the G Sedan Journey and AWD, G Coupe Journey and G Convertible and come standard with a 3.7-liter V6 engine and 7-speed automatic transmission. Premium and Navigation Packages are included on all of the Anniversary Editions.

The Anniversary Editions Sedans and Coupe also receive the Sport Package and 4-Wheel Active Steer (not available on Sedan AWD). The Convertible is offered with the highly desirable climate-controlled seats.

Each Anniversary Edition comes in a new Graphite Shadow exterior color that was just added for 2010, with the interiors appointed with Monaco Red Leather. The Coupe and Convertible interiors are accented with special Red-toned Maple and the two Sedans have the new Shodo-finish aluminum trim.

Other Anniversary Edition equipment includes special aluminum-alloy wheels, W-rated summer performance tires, Midnight Black grille, unique front chin spoiler or front fascia, sport side sills (Coupe and Convertible) and rear spoiler (Except Convertible). The Coupe also receives an updated rear fascia.

"We wanted to ensure that the G Anniversary Editions are the sportiest and most distinctive Infinitits offered," added Poore. "Though they won't arrive until April, we wanted to release pricing early to allow interested buyers to reserve the Anniversary Sedan, Coupe or Convertible of their choice before they are all gone."

Top Picks: The Best Models of the Year

2010-03-11T13:50:00.004-05:00

Consumer Reports Top Picks are the best all-around models in their categories, based on their performance, reliability, and safety. They are chosen from the more than 280 vehicle we've recently tested and must meet Consumer Reports criteria in three areas:

Road Test

Each must rank at or near the top of its category in CR overall test score, which is based on more than 50 tests and evaluations.

Reliability

Each must have an average or better predicted-reliability Rating, based on the problems CR subscribers reported in the latest Annual Survey.

Safety

Top Picks must perform adequately in overall safety if tested by the government or the insurance industry. (For some models, there was not enough crash-test data to assign an overall safety Rating). In addition, electronic stability control, a proven lifesaving feature, must be readily available. All of CR Top Picks provide standard ESC and curtain air bags.

Family Sedan__________________________________________

Nissan Altima

The Altima has been one of CR's top rated family sedans for years, and a freshening for 2010 made it better. It now gets improved gas mileage and provides standard ESC in all trim lines. The Altima offers an appealing balance of comfort and performance, while getting some of the best fuel economy in its class: 26 mpg overall for four-cylinder models and 24 mpg with a V6. The cabin is roomy, well finished, and quiet. And the secure handling, comfortable ride, and spirited acceleration make the car enjoyable to drive. The four-cylinder model earned an above-average reliability Rating, with the V6 model is average. Price: $23,970 to $30,335

Small SUV

Subaru Forester

The Forester provides one of the most car like driving experiences of any SUV. It combines agile handling with the most comfortable ride in its class. Passengers are treated to a spacious cabin, with a roomy rear seat and excellent visibility. The 2.5X provides an impressive 22 mpg overall with an automatic, 24 mpg with a manual. And the turbocharged 2.5XT delivers effortless acceleration and 20 mpg, but it takes premium fuel. The 2.5X has had excellent reliability, while the 2.5XT's is average. Price: $20,972 to $28,860

Sports Sedan

Infiniti G37

The G sedan, which joins the list for the fourth straight year, is one of the highest-rated sedans CR has ever tested, with a score of 95 out of 100. It provides an appealing combination of agile handling, blistering acceleration, a refined power train, a fairly comfortable ride, and a high-quality, luxurious interior. The G37 is as inviting to drive on a twisty road as it is on the highway. But compromises include a snug cabin and small trunk. Rear-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is optional. Coupe and convertible versions are also available. Price starts at: $37,225

Nissan Now Event

2010-02-26T11:01:00.002-05:00

The Nissan Now Event is going on now at Harte Nissan of Hartford, George Harte Nissan of West Haven and Newburgh Nissan of Newburgh, NY. Receive 0% financing on most new Nissan's. This is the perfect time to upgrade your vehicle!

Harte Subaru of Hartford

2009-11-28T13:01:00.002-05:00

Beat Back Winter with an Additional $1000 on all Qualified Trades now through December 21st!

Harte Subaru of Hartford... What a Good Choice!

Visit us Today.... 111 Weston Street- Hartford

2009 Harte Auto Group Picnic

2009-08-17T14:31:00.003-04:00

Only at Harte Chevrolet

2009-08-07T13:55:00.001-04:00

www.hartechevrolet.com

Meet Harte Nissan's Newest Service Manager!

2009-08-07T13:45:00.001-04:00

Nissan Bottom Line Sales Event

2009-08-07T13:43:00.002-04:00

www.hartenissan.com - Hartford, CT
www.georgehartenissan.com - West Haven, CT
www.newburghnissan.com - Newburgh, NY

Newburgh Nissan Service- Wednesday Madness!

2009-08-07T13:42:00.000-04:00

www.newburghnissan.com

Subaru's Guaranteed Trade Program.. Going on NOW!

2009-08-07T13:40:00.001-04:00

http://tinyurl.com/mco7ok

2009-07-03T10:46:00.002-04:00

Own the Sky!
The Infiniti Convertible is in stores now!

www.harteinfiniti.com
www.georgeharteinfiniti.com

Check out these sites for actual video!

2009-07-03T10:45:00.000-04:00

Another Award!!! Click here for details... http://tinyurl.com/n368mx

Nissan Top Awards for 370z & GT-R!

2009-07-03T10:43:00.001-04:00

Check it out... http://tinyurl.com/mjf55s

Memorial Day Nissan Tent Event!

2009-05-20T12:41:00.002-04:00

Visit one of our 3 Locations:

George Harte Nissan , West Haven, CT

Harte Nissan, Hartford, CT

Newburgh Nissan, Newburgh, NY

Subaru Forester Named One of the "Best Family Cars for 2009"

2009-05-20T12:24:00.002-04:00

Visit http://tinyurl.com/r9ewsa for more details!

2009-05-08T14:57:00.003-04:00

The All New Nissan Cube

2009-05-08T14:49:00.003-04:00

The Nissan Cube is Available Today!

Visit Harte Nissan, Hartford - George Harte Nissan, West Haven & Newburgh Nissan, NY

2009-04-24T13:01:00.001-04:00

It's Super Saturday at Newburgh Nissan.

Join us for Food, Fun, Entertainment (a Magician and Spongebob too!) and more!

This Saturday ONLY! 11AM - 6PM

2009-04-24T13:00:00.000-04:00

Nissan Tent Event.. Going on NOW!

2009-01-20T16:27:00.000-05:00

Get a Free Portable Navigation device with the purchase of any Pre-Owned Nissan Altima in stock!

Click here for list of inventory

Valid thru 1/31/09. Must present a copy of this offer at time of write-up. Portable navigation device valued up to $359.

The ALL NEW Nissan 370z has arrived!

2008-12-31T13:23:00.001-05:00

Visit Harte Nissan to check out the ALL NEW, Nissan 370z.

2009 Nissan 370z- Black, touring, Automatic, Navigation

Harte Goes Green

2008-11-12T15:45:00.000-05:00

Following is an article printed in the Hartford Courant on September 23, 2008 regarding Harte's new Environmentally Friendly GREEN body shop. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments directly. Click here to contact

Car Dealer Banks On Expanded Body Shop
By KENNETH R. GOSSELIN Courant Staff Writer
September 23, 2008
Car sales may be slumping, but Harte Auto Group is planning a major tuneup for its body shop on Hartford's auto row.Harte is investing $3 million to convert its 25,000-square-foot Suzuki dealership at the corner of Weston and Fishfry streets into an auto body repair shop that will replace its existing 1,800-square-foot shop now tucked behind Harte's Infiniti dealership.The dealer hopes the investment, including environmentally friendly technologies and paints, will help Harte carve out a larger share of the auto body business in the area as a hedge against slower sales.Greg Harte, the dealership's vice president, said the repair business doesn't ebb and flow with the economy and consumer confidence as car sales do.
"It's pretty much recession-proof," Harte said.Ford Motor Co.'s U.S. sales fell 26.5 percent in August, and sales at General Motors Corp. dropped 20.3 percent. Toyota's sales sank 9.4 percent.Harte sees market potential for the new body shop. Annual revenue for the dealership's auto body repair business is now about $700,000 a year. With the larger body shop, that revenue could increase to $3 million annually in two years, Harte said.Right now, Harte can only service three cars at a time and has just one booth for spraying paint. In the new shop, expected to open in December, 24 cars can be handled at one time with two booths for paint spraying.The new body shop will include state-of-art air filtration systems to meet tougher federal standards that go into effect in 2011. But it also will take other "green" steps, including the use of water-based paints — one of the first repair businesses in the state to do so. Water-based paints are more environmentally friendly and have been developed to last as long as their oil-based counterparts, Harte said."Using water-based paint is not a requirement of the new regulations," said Alison Davis, a spokeswoman for the federal Environmental Protection Agency. "That's going above and beyond."Harte said he believes the "green" approach to auto body repair — a departure from the traditional "dirty" perception of the business — will be popular with consumers who are environmentally conscious.

The new shop also will promote "one-stop shopping" and include a Hertz rental car desk and insurance adjusters on site. Harte said it also is designed with plenty of glass so customers can watch their car being worked on, an attempt to ease some of the uncertainty that can accompany car repairs, he said.Harte said he can also see how the repair business could benefit car sales."If we take good care of you, you might buy your next car from us," Harte said.Harte also hopes to tap into commercial vehicle repair, possible because of the 20-foot ceilings in the Suzuki building.Harte said the Suzuki dealership was chosen because its sales are more modest than other brands of cars Harte sells. A smaller, 2,500-square-foot Suzuki showroom will be built, Harte said.Contact Kenneth R. Gosselin at kgosselin@courant.com.

Harte Nissan Delivers 1st Nissan GT-R!

2008-09-11T11:03:00.000-04:00

Harte Infiniti Launch Event

2008-07-30T16:04:00.000-04:00

A special thanks to everyone who helped make the Harte Infiniti 2009 Launch Party such a great success.

Now that the all new, redesigned FX's are here, stop by and take one for a test drive or just click on the picture to the right and see our entire inventory.

It Might be Hot Now, But Winter is Still Coming

2008-07-01T09:40:00.000-04:00

With the rising price of gas, many of us have turned our attention to smaller more fuel efficient vehicles. These cars are great on gas and help us to offset some of the other rising prices. But living in New England, Winter is an inevitable fact of life. Being a fellow New Englander, I know how tricky it is to find balance between fuel efficiency and winter driving safety. And no matter how hot it might be right now, winter will arrive sooner than we realize.

My family drives a Subaru Outback and let me tell you how impressed I have been with how it handles- it is a MONSTER in the snow. I always knew that Subaru was a safe winter driving vehicle, as all Subaru models have Symmetrical AWD standard, but one thing I didn't realize was that most all models also get between 20-30 MPG. I guess that makes it the PERFECT vehicle for New Englanders like me.

Share some thoughts or stories about your Subaru- or take some time to learn about one today- It might be hazy hot and humid now, but snow boots hats and mittens are right around the corner...

Harte Infiniti Awarded Top Honors

2008-06-27T14:39:00.000-04:00

Jon LeBlanc, business manager for Harte Infiniti was awarded TOP HONORS Wednesday for highest district sales of extended service and maintenance plans. Presenting the award were Stephen Miller, District Operations Manager at Infiniti and Gerald Hubner, Area Manager for Assurance Products.

"I am really happy to receive this award" says Jon "and I appreciate the recognition of my hard work".

General Sales Manager, John Finelli, cannot be prouder, "Jon is a great team player and an asset to our team. We are all really happy for Jon."

Jon LeBlanc has been employed with Harte for the past two years and has served Harte Infiniti since December.

All New Infiniti FX- ARRIVING THIS WEEKEND!

2008-06-26T11:44:00.000-04:00

The luxury performance crossover that defined the category is now redifining it. The all-new 390-hp Infiniti FX will be on display this weekend at:

Harte Infiniti
150 Weston Street
Hartford, CT 06120
http://www.harteinfiniti.com/

George Harte Infiniti
442 Derby Ave.
West Haven, CT 06516
http://www.georgeharteinfiniti.com/

Do you know where to find the best gas prices?

2008-06-24T15:11:00.001-04:00

The gas crunch has hit us all hard, but did you know that you can check daily on where your local gas prices are lowest.... seriously....

Visit http://autos.msn.com/everyday/gasstations.aspx and put in your zip code. The website will then provide you with the names and addresses of the top stations in your area for price.

We know any little thing helps, so check it out and let us know how you make out.