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(from Nissan Press Release) Nissan GT-R Goes Racing Around the World

– Competing in Three Series on Four Continents –

From the moment the venerable Nissan GT-R was introduced to the world in 2008, it was hailed as one of the most potent production cars ever to hit the pavement. Developed and groomed on the most demanding racetrack on the planet, the Nordschleife at the Nürburgring, the GT-R set lap times so impressive that they shocked the automotive community. For the 2010 race season, Nissan has decided to unleash the GT-R’s potential as a race machine, waging war in three different series on four continents.

In North America, Nissan will team up with Brass Monkey Racing to contest the World Challenge GT Championship, where two specially-prepped GT-Rs will vie for the Manufacturers and Drivers Championships. And speaking of drivers, the cars will be piloted by two-time series race winner Tony Rivera and Steve Ott. The GT-Rs will debut in St. Petersburg on March 26-28.

“We’re very excited to bring such an iconic car to the North American professional racing scene,” A.J. Brass, team owner of the Brass Monkey Racing, said. “We look forward to bringing an entirely new platform to World Challenge.”

In Europe, the Middle East, and South America a quartet of GT-Rs will do battle in the 2010 FIA GT1 World Championships. Team Sumo Power and Swiss Racing Team will each field two GT-Rs in this exclusive series. One of the Sumo Power cars, wearing the traditional Nissan race number “23”, will be driven by Peter Dumbreck and Michael Krumm. Multiple FIA GT race-winner Karl Wendlinger will pilot a Swiss Racing GT-R in the season-opener on April 17 in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

“I have been racing in the FIA GT Championships for many years, but now I’m very excited about the new world championship and very happy to be driving the Nissan GT-R,” Wendlinger said.

In Asia, three GT-Rs will carry on Nissan’s successful association with the Super GT Series. Running in the coveted GT500 class, the spec GT-Rs will compete under the team banners of Nismo, Kondo Racing and Team Impul. Nismo ace driver, Satoshi Motoyama, who won the championship in the GT-R in 2008, looks forward to a challenging yet successful season in 2010.

“The car is improved significantly from last year, so that’s a sign that we’ll be very competitive this year. The other makers have also made improvements, so it should be an interesting year,” Motoyama said.

To say that the GT-R will be racing “all over the place” this year would be an understatement. Look for it to seriously go after GT racing’s version of the Triple Crown by winning all three series, a feat never before accomplished.

Technical Specs

Engine VK56DE
Position Front, Longitudinal
Aspiration Natural
Displacement 5552 cc / 338.80 in³
Power 447.4 kw / 600 bhp
Specific Output 108.07 bhp per litre
BHP/Weight 480.0 bhp per tonne
Torque 650 nm / 479.4 ft lbs
Driven Wheels RWD
Front Tires 31/71-18
Rear Tires 31/71-18
Front Brakes Carbon Fiber Discs w/6-Piston Calipers
Rear Brakes Carbon Fiber Discs w/6-Piston Calipers
Front Wheels F 45.7 x 33.0 cm / 18 x 13 in
Rear Wheels R 45.7 x 33.0 cm / 18 x 13 in
F Suspension Double Wishbones
R Suspension Multi-Link
Weight 1250 kg / 2756 lbs
Wheelbase 2780 mm / 109.4 in
Front Track 1675 mm / 65.9 in
Rear Track 1710 mm / 67.3 in
Length 4730 mm / 186.2 in
Width 2040 mm / 80.3 in
Transmission 6-Speed Transaxle
Tran Clutch 5.5” Triple Plate Carbon

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(from Nissan Press Release) 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet – “Innovation for Fun” Leads Design of World’s First AWD Crossover Convertible

– 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 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. One 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 design’s 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 expands 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.

Other features include body-colored front and rear bumpers, chrome door handles, body-colored dual power/heated outside mirrors, and rear window defroster with timer. Along with convertible style, the CrossCabriolet offers the high ground clearance of a Murano for easy ingress and egress and enhanced driver visibility.

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 requires, 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 proven “D” platform (also utilized on Maxima and Altima sedans) and 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 (ASC) for sporty response and smoothness, which utilizes an 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, wheel slip 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 multi-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 crumple zones, front seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), 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 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.”

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(from Nissan Press Release) Nissan Ellure Concept – The Sedan Re-Imagined – Makes World Debut at 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show

As a longtime industry innovator in sedan design, notably the original Datsun 510 and numerous generations of Nissan Maximas, Altimas and Sentras, Nissan has always had an affinity for both the form and its buyers. So it should come as no surprise that in an environment where traditional sedan buyers have been migrating toward coupe and crossover SUV alternatives, along comes the engagingly seductive Nissan Ellure Concept, which makes its world debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show.

“While not intended as a preview of any upcoming production model, Ellure confirms Nissan’s intention to be a strong player in the sedan segment for many years to come,” explains Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (NML), who supervised the global design effort. “As an expression of our long-term vision for the next generation of great Nissan sedans, Ellure allows us to introduce a new sedan concept – one that honors the sedan’s unmatched daytime functionality, yet has a more emotive, almost hidden ambience that comes to life after dark. It’s an ideal fit for the needs of its projected owners, women in their ‘30s and ‘40s with a sense of sophistication and rebellion.”

A Simple Yet Provocatively Modern Exterior

The Ellure exterior expresses the warmth of a sculpture, but is defined by the solid movement of the shapes – and the control of light and dark in a way that is sophisticated yet rebellious. Its designers sought to shift the balance between rational values and emotional ones, expressing both intelligent, sustainable design qualities and a sense of passion and fun. The proportions of the new Ellure respect the basic layout and dimensions of a traditional mid-size sedan, while taking advantage of a next-generation compact hybrid powertrain. This allows the wheels to be pushed out to the corners, creating a stable stance and ample interior room, as well as a highly functional trunk – despite the smooth aerodynamic form.

The exterior projects a sense of strong mass, with a refined contrast between broad planes and strong shoulders. Rather than trying to hide its front-wheel drive dynamics, the body forms drape over the front wheels and radiate outward toward the sides and rear.

The bending of the sheet metal is utterly simple but dynamic – sheer and taut like a shock wave. Ellure is not designed to hide its “sedan-ness,” as some so-called 4-door coupes do, but to honor the form with the way light transitions like a ribbon or wave from the bold front grille and lights, through the sculpted shoulder lines and on to the full glass roof and strong rear end. It’s all about using a sense of tension and release to keep the shape interesting and the viewer interested.

While not intended to project an obvious “eco” image, the Ellure design includes serious elements of efficiency. The deeply skirted front fascia and bold solid-transparent front grille with small openings direct the wind over and under the body. Ellure also features a full underbody pan, molded side rearview camera housings (utilized in place of traditional outside mirrors), small wheel openings and full transparent covers over 21-inch 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels mounted with low-rolling resistance Michelin tires.

“Aerodynamics has become a critical element of design for all vehicles today, not just hybrids or EVs. We’ve used Ellure to explore subtle ways to reduce or eliminate body openings that can cause drag, such as the solid yet transparent coverings on the wheels and grilles, without impacting the beauty of the vehicle,” said Nakamura.

The Ellure grille, with its large polished Nissan badge, was inspired by “Kamishino” Samurai formal coat. Like all of the major chrome accents on the vehicle, the grille slats combine brushed edges and bright surfaces to add a polished, almost jewel-like surfacing. The headlights and taillights incorporate an effect like the layering of fins or wings of a bird – condensed in some areas and spread out in others.

A nod to traditional Japanese design can also be seen in the Ellure’s rear end, which is inspired by a “Torii” Shinto shrine gate. The sides of the vehicle are dominated by large 90-degree opening doors with rear-hinged rear doors for full panoramic interior access and easy ingress/egress.

Ellure’s full tinted glass roof with integrated interior nighttime accent lighting caps the “duality” of design – transitioning from sophisticated in daylight and a somewhat wilder expression of light and movement at night.

The final accent to the Ellure exterior is the paint treatment. The “Geode” White tri-coat mica paint features pearlescent/gold flake with a blue aspect that varies in appearance by tone and temperature of light.

A “Molten” Interior That Turns Up the Heat

Inside, Ellure’s fluid movement of shapes, and control of light and dark, continues with its highly emotive environment. It is one space with two feelings – tailored by day, intimate and inviting by night. The high-contrast, energized warmth of the space imparts an almost molten, thermal energy, which is also captured in the tri-color scheme of “Molten Ice,” “Molten Steel” and “Molten Gray.”

Picking up the “shock wave” theme of the Ellure exterior, the dramatic instrument panel design flows from door-to-door, seamlessly integrating with the door panels and blending into the lounge-like rear seat to wrap the driver and passengers in an elegant and passionate space. With clean, intuitive touch interfaces, the wide display panel screens present information in a two-level layout, with information arranged by priority of use. The chrome-free leather (eco tanning process) on instrument panel offers a color gradation and use of heat repellent pigment to help reduced glare and air conditioning compensation. The special truncated shape of the steering wheel provides a clearer view of the instrument panel and display screens.

The front seats are covered with a black eco-suede utilizing recycled fibers (100% post industrial PET ultra microfiber). The seat design itself uses transparent red acrylic seatback panels and low shoulder height to reduce the usual “wall” between front and rear passengers. The front passenger seat design includes a forward-facing ottoman, and both front seats include elegant “floating headrests.”

The “showpiece” of the interior is the “floating” center console with a sculptural, see-through effect, white leather covering and backlit red nighttime lighting. A console-mounted central controller provides intuitive control for HVAC, audio, navigation and other functions. The all-glass ceiling is embedded with special red mood lighting.

The three-person rear seat, covered in gray ultra-suede, provides the roominess of sedan but the feeling of coupe. The “shock wave” carpeting design, with rings of color radiating from center out, follows the topography of the interior. The carpeting itself is made from handmade strips of 100% wool felt, which is naturally water repellent.

Other interior features include hidden audio system speakers embedded in doors and headrests, interior “alcove” style, recessed lighting design and armrest touch controls with haptic feedback.

“We’ve provided a private and passionate inside space that the owner can feel is completely her own. Not a hangout space in itself, we see the Ellure interior as mobile social space hosted by the driver,” adds Nakamura.

A Proposed Eco Drivetrain

Along with displaying Nissan’s future sedan design language, the new Ellure presents a conceptual preview of how future Nissan sedans can balance the conflicting desires for fun-to-drive performance, ample passenger/luggage utility and sustainable mobility.

The Ellure drivetrain is conceived as a supercharged 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control (one motor/two clutch design with lithium-ion battery) and 25 kW electric motor, matched with an Xtronic CVT™ and front-wheel drive. It would also include an independent suspension, regenerative braking, and advanced drive-by-wire electric/hydraulic steering to make sure the driving experience is as dynamic and rewarding as Ellure’s physical properties.

Ellure also wears a “PURE DRIVE” badge, indicating it would be part of Nissan’s range of low CO2/low fuel consumption internal combustion engine or hybrid vehicles.

PURE DRIVE vehicles use Nissan’s most advanced technologies to deliver to customers an optimal balance of top-level fuel consumption and value. Nissan seeks to provide the right solution tailored to market circumstances and customer needs.

The Sedan Re-imagined

With lines that gain energy as they move through the exterior, an interior that is as engaging as it is inviting, and effortless technology embedded with intuitive intelligence, Ellure stands as Nissan’s latest expression of innovation for design.

“When all is said and done, the sedan will always be core to the Nissan product portfolio. Our goal is to rejuvenate the sedan’s attractiveness to buyers who might have migrated to other segments, or who are coming reluctantly into the category,” adds Nakamura. “By respecting its strengths, while recognizing that emotion is as critical as function, Ellure could well be the wave, or more correctly the ‘shock wave,’ of future sedans.”

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(from Nissan Press Release) 2012 Nissan GT-R Features More Horsepower, New “Black Edition,” Revised Fascias and Carbon Fiber Interior Trim

– Nissan’s Multi-Dimensional 530-Horsepower Supercar Makes North American Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show, Set to Go On Sale in Early 2011 –

Entering its fourth year of availability in the North American market, the 2012 Nissan GT-R has a new look, new colors, new wheel design and, most important to fans of pure power, more horsepower under the hood. In addition, a new “Black Edition”– with unique seats, interior colors and wheels – joins the GT-R Premium model. The latest iteration of Nissan’s legendary supercar makes its North American debut that the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show and will be available at official “GT-R certified” Nissan dealers across the United States in early 2011.

The 2012 Nissan GT-R’s advanced VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 now produces 530 horsepower (versus the previous 485 horsepower) and 488 lb-ft of torque (versus the previous 434 lb-ft) – a result of modifying the boost pressure of the turbocharger, valve timing and air mixture ratio, and through reducing intake air resistance by enlarging the inlet pipe diameter. In addition, exhaust air resistance was reduced through use of an enlarged section of exhaust pipe.

GT-R’s already impressive aerodynamics have been improved for 2012 with downforce increased by about 10% and the coefficient of drag reduced to 0.26 (from 0.27). Stability is improved by enlarged fascia and grille openings, which also help reduce air resistance inside the engine compartment. The volume of air that passes through the radiator and cools the front brakes is also increased.

The newly refreshed front fascia features aggressive double rectifier fins and new integrated high intensity LED running lights. Additional plated parts are used for the headlight inner panels, enhancing the car’s strong visual presence.

The redesigned rear fascia features a lower center of gravity than the previous design, created by using a sculpted lower section and extended length. Underfloor cooling performance is also enhanced and air resistance reduced by extending the rear diffuser.

In addition, cooling performance for the muffler is improved and rear downforce is increased by about 10% through use of a new rear fascia outlet and new vents on the lower rear fenders that help remove air from the rear wheel wells. Newly designed larger diameter tailpipe finishers are also adopted. Six exterior colors are available, including two new colors: Deep Blue Pearl and Jet Black. Other available colors are Solid Red, Gun Metallic, Pearl White and a limited production 4-stage metallic Super Silver.

GT-R’s newly designed, lighter weight and more rigid forged aluminum 20-inch wheels, once again manufactured by RAYS®, help improve suspension response. Knurling inside the wheels is modified to help keep the tires from slipping around the wheels under heavy acceleration or braking. The wheels also feature a new premium dark (near black) finish, which provides a high quality, high-performance look. The Black Edition features special black six-spoke RAYS® lightweight wheels in place of the Premium model’s 10-spoke design.

Inside, the revisions for 2012 include new carbon fiber trim and upgraded materials. The Black Edition adds custom red-trimmed Recaro® seats, red and black interior trim and a dark headliner.

“The Nissan GT-R continues to be a multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of ‘the ultimate supercar that can be driven by anyone, anytime, anywhere,’” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “With the enhancements for 2012, including its 530-horsepower twin turbo V6 and revised styling, the GT-R legend continues to grow. We can’t wait for its arrival in Nissan showrooms, and on the streets, here in the U.S.”

Additional information on the 2012 Nissan GT-R, including on-sale date, will be available in the coming months.

Now entering its fourth year of availability in the North American market, the 2012 Nissan GT-R has a new look, new colors, new wheel design and, most important to fans of pure power, 35 more horsepower under the hood. In addition, a new “Black Edition” – with unique seat design, interior colors and wheels – joins the GT-R Premium model. The starting MSRPs for the 2012 Nissan GT-R are $89,950 USD and $95,100 USD for the Premium and Black Edition respectively.

Nissan has released images of the new 2011 Murano that will be sold in the US. A diesel model is still not available in the US and the Murano will only carry the 3.5 liter VQ V6 with 250 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.

Although there is not a large supply of options as far as performance goes, buyers can no choose between a total of eight variants of the Murano. Some of these new models include the new SV FWD and SV AWD. Nissan has also introduced some 20-inch wheels, a dual-panel moonrood, and several new exterior color choices as well as more optional features. The 2011 Nissan Murano will hit dealer lots by October.

[Source: Nissan]

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Pricing has just been released for the new 2011 Nissan Juke–$18,960 (*plus destination) for the Juke S when equipped with a CVT transmission and front-wheel drive. This is the base model for the Juke. If you decide for a more equipped package, you can choose from the Juke SL with a CVT transmission and all-wheel drive for $24,550.

All models come with a new direct-injected turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Nissan has claimed the Juke optioned with the CVT transmission will provide gas mileage of 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. If you decide for a manual 6-speed model, pricing starts at $20,260.

For the competition, Nissan offers the Juke S AWD that can be compared to the Subaru Forester and Mini Countryman with a starting price of $20,460. If you are interested, you will start seeing these at your local Nissan dealer in October.

[Source: Nissan]

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Nissan Announces U.S. Pricing for All-New 2011 Nissan JUKE
– Bold New Urban Sport Cross Starts at Under $19,000 USD MSRP –

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced U.S. pricing for the 2011 Nissan JUKE sport cross – including a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price* (MSRP) of just $18,960 USD. The all-new JUKE goes on sale in October at Nissan dealers nationwide. JUKE fuses the best qualities of a sports car, including a sporty driving position, dynamic handling and powerful engine, with the best aspects of an SUV – such as a robust lower body, raised ground height, improved visibility and confident stance.

“We believe JUKE’s unique combination of motorsports-inspired exterior and interior design and unexpected levels of technology – along with a starting MSRP under $19,000 – is going to propel JUKE into the heart of the fast-growing compact hatchback/crossover market,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

The 2011 Juke is available in eight models, each powered by a standard 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) Turbo engine rated at 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The engine, the first application in North America, combines the power of a larger engine with the fuel economy of a smaller powerplant. Nissan JUKE MSRPs (USD) include:
Model/Transmission

JUKE S CVT FWD
$18,960 USD

JUKE SV MT FWD
$20,260 USD

JUKE SV CVT FWD
$20,760 USD

JUKE SL MT FWD
$22,550 USD

JUKE SL CVT FWD
$23,050 USD

JUKE S CVT AWD
$20,460 USD

JUKE SV CVT AWD
$22,260 USD

JUKE SL CVT AWD
$24,550 USD

About the 2011 Nissan Juke
Unlike traditional entries in the fast-growing compact hatchback/crossover market today, the all-new JUKE offers bold styling, unexpected levels of performance and an advanced torque vectoring AWD system with performance technology usually reserved for premium vehicles.

JUKE’s aggressive styling brings a breath of fresh air to the segment. Built on Nissan’s proven global B-platform, JUKE looks exactly like it drives – fun, bold and exciting. It features a powerful front end treatment with the turn signals integrated into the front fenders, a high beltline and coupe-like falling roofline. Other exterior details include body-colored outside mirrors and front door handles, “hidden” rear door handles and standard 17-inch wheels and tires.

The JUKE interior is equally aggressive with bolstered front seats, a wide instrument panel and a unique center console inspired by a motorcycle fuel tank and finished in a high-gloss paint. The gear shift sits on top of the console, with a high-mounted shift lever for sporty driving. In the rear, a fold-down 60/40-split bench seat and flat load floor provide passenger and cargo hauling flexibility. Available interior features range from leather-appointed seats and RearView Monitor to Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition and Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® Real-Time Traffic Information (XM® subscription required, sold separately). A long list of safety features is also standard, including six air bags, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).

Powering JUKE is a standard 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) Turbo, 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Two transmissions are offered – Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) with S-Mode and a 6-speed manual transmission (SV FWD and SL FWD models only). Fuel economy is rated at 27 mpg City and 32 mpg Highway for JUKE CVT FWD models.

JUKE’s torque vectoring AWD system splits torque up to 50:50 between the front and rear wheels and can also can split torque from side-to-side across the rear axle. When cornering, the system helps reduce understeer and enhance the vehicle’s cornering feel.

Another new-to-Nissan technology debuting on JUKE is the innovative Integrated Control (I-CON) system. It combines control of the automatic A/C and the three-mode drive selector – Normal for everyday driving, Sport for a more intense performance feel and Eco for maximum efficiency, adjusting throttle response, transmission (CVT mapping) and steering feel for the precise ride the driver desires.

The 2011 Nissan JUKE sport cross is scheduled to go on sale in October 2010. Customers wanting more information about JUKE, including specification information on a particular model, can go to the “Reserve Your JUKE” site at http://www.nissanusa.com/apps/presell/juke.

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[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIRrfyToynk]

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[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpjnxR_pDew]

If you enjoyed this post, you should subscribe to our RSS feed. Also, you can subscribe by e-mail and get the latest news about cars, auto industry, concept cars, tuning in your inbox. It’s completely free! Subscribe to our Twitter to get the latest tweets