It will likely take a year for Nissan to replace the full 350Z line with the 370Z, so it won't be until the 2010 model year that the 370Z roadster will be at dealerships. There shouldn't be too many surprises from the design of the ragtop version. Just like the current roadster, the lines will remain relatively the same as the coupe. The 370Z roadster will feature a fully automatic fabric roof and has been structurally reinforced to be much stiffer than the current car. The basic (...)
It's officially official: the new 370Z is out. As expected, the new Z car is lighter, stronger, shorter and faster than its predecessor. Coupe sales will begin in North America by January 2009, followed by a new 370Z Roadster for the 2010 model year. Exact pricing has not been confirmed, but Nissan says it will remain around $30,000. Compared to the 350Z's four trim lineup (regular, Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring), the new generation Z will only be offered in two versions: 370Z (...)
A loyal reader of AutomotiveAddits.com wanted to chime-in and send us a small article about his so-called “harder choices in life”. Reminiscing like this gets our mind off of the recession and hardship in America for at least a few minutes. Since the introduction of the new Nissan 370Z it has people thinking that their current sports or GT car is far inferior to a new, relatively inexpensive, sports car that can push 60 mph from a standstill in 4.7 seconds. Here is Cole Sliven’s short story:
350Z Vs G35, Life’s Harder Choices
I’ve been a big fan of sports cars for quite some time. Ever since the 300z came out with it’s sweet body style, dual exhaust and a twin turbo model, this car quickly become the car I could see myself driving. I remember test driving a non-turbo model about 5 years ago. Even without the turbo, this car had a fair amount of torque and the drive felt great behind the wheel. I remember the Dealer letting me take it out for a test drive without him coming along. That was kind of a mistake on his part. I took it for a cruise to an open parking lot, did a couple donuts and the drove back. I loved this car, it was a sweet ride. The price was a just outside my budget and the Dealer wouldn’t come down much so I had to take a pass on making the purchase. Since that day I have had the itch to once again take a Z car for another cruise.
Another car has made its way into the spot light; the Infiniti G35 or newer G37. Since this car came out, I have now grown uncertain of which car I’d rather be cruising. Which car would you choose? Would it be the newer 350Z or 370Z designed for performance and style. The only thing I don’t like about it is it has no backseats while the G35 does. In 2005, Infiniti bumped the power of the G35 from 260 hp to 298 hp in all Coupes and sedans with manual transmissions. The newer G37 has 330hp. The engine available in the 350Z is a 3.5-liter V6 and 370Z is a 3.7-liter. This engine cranks out 306 hp and 268 pound-feet of torque and 332hp in the 370Z so you’re getting a little bit more out of the Z than you would the G35 or G37.
Today, my personal choice between these two would be the Infiniti G35 since I could use the extra couple seats for additional passengers. If I was a single guy I may rather go with the Nissan. However the G35/G37 also has a slick design as well as a comfortable interior.
-Written by Cole Sileven, Automotive Enthusiast, reader of AutomotiveAddicts.com and Founder of Low Insurance and Security, the Web’s online resource for low car insurance online.
Infiniti revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show the first ever convertible model in the G line-up. The car doesn't stray much from the G37's original recipe, and it carries over the coupe's platform and engine. The biggest addition to the car is the extra sky available form the folding hardtop. Sales of the topless G will begin in spring of 2009. The G37 convertible is powered by the same 3.7-liter V6 engine as the coupe version that delivers 325 hp @ 7,000 rpm and a peak torque of 267 (...)
Click above for high-res image gallery of the Infiniti EX35
Take a quick glance at Infiniti's line-up in the United States. What's the most glaring omission? A range-topping luxury sedan or possibly a version of the GT-R to serve as it's sporting halo? Not according to John Capps, chairman of the Infiniti National Dealer Advisory Board, who says Infiniti dealers are pushing hard for another entry into the same near luxury segment where the G37 already competes along with another luxury crossover model. It seems that the EX, the automaker's latest CUV, is not selling up to expectations against rivals such as the Lexus RX-series due to its limited utility.
Up next for the automaker, though, are replacements for the M-series sedan and QX full-size SUV, which we surmise may come from a new platform since it's currently based on the Nissan Titan, which is slated to be replaced by a version of the Dodge Ram in a few years. On the green front, Infiniti is also said to have a hybrid on the way for 2010, though we're short on details as to which platform(s) will be so equipped.
Nissan recently launched the Infiniti brand in Europe, but as the automaker discovered when it began selling it's premium wares in the U.S., there's more to competing with the Germans than just building quality automobiles.
In an attempt to bolster its image abroad, Infiniti has tapped Louis Vuitton to produce a bespoke line of luggage for a yet-to-be-disclosed concept bound for the Geneva Motor Show. Infiniti's press release (below the fold) doesn't divulge much about the concept, only saying that it "will be a celebration of Infiniti and its [20-year history] as a creator of performance cars. But equally it will be an inspiring exploration into the brand's future."
We haven't been able to get a hold of an Infiniti spokesperson for a comment, so speculation about the concept begins below
Affording “superior overall crash protection among vehicles in its class,” the all-new Infiniti EX35 has earned an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety TOP SAFETY PICK award for 2008 and 2009, their highest honor. In describing the Institute’s tough award criteria, “intended to drive continued safety improvements such as top crash test ratings and rapid addition of electronic stability control (ESC),” Institute president Adrian Lund praised the EX35 as a “leader in its class for state-of-the-art-safety,” specifically mentioning Infiniti’s inclusion of Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) - an ESC system - on every EX35. According to Institute research, ESC helps drivers maintain control in the worst situation - loss of control at high speed - lowering the risk of a fatal single-vehicle crash by about half and the risk of a fatal rollover crash by as much as 80 percent.
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| Infiniti today announced pricing on the 2010 Infiniti QX56 full-size luxury SUV, which is on sale now at Infiniti retailers nationwide. The QX56 is available in two-wheel and four-wheel drive models, both equipped with a standard 320-horsepower 5.6-liter DOHC V8, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather-appointed seating and a long list of luxury and technology features. The [...] |
Infiniti has announced the pricing on the 2010 QX56. The full-size luxury SUV is on sale now at dealers nationwide with prices starting at $56,050 for the 2010 QX56 2WD and $59,150 for the QX56 4WD.
Both 2010 Infiniti QX56 models are powered by a 5.6L DOHC V8 making 320-hp and a maximum torque of 393 lb-ft. The engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Buyers can opt for features such as a Technology Package with Intelligent Cruise Control and front Sonar System for parking; and an Infiniti Mobile Entertainment System with a DVD player, 8-inch color screen, two wireless headphones and remote controller.
Click through for the press release.
Press Release:
Infiniti Announces Pricing on 2010 QX56
Infiniti today announced pricing on the 2010 Infiniti QX56 full-size luxury SUV, which is on sale now at Infiniti retailers nationwide. The QX56 is available in two-wheel and four-wheel drive models, both equipped with a standard 320-horsepower 5.6-liter DOHC V8, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather-appointed seating and a long list of luxury and technology features. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2010 Infiniti QX56 2WD is $56,050 and $59,150 for the Infiniti QX56 4WD.*
About the 2010 QX56
The 2010 Infiniti QX56 continues to offer an outstanding combination of refinement, roominess, advanced technology and power - providing maximum utility and all-season versatility in a stylish, fully equipped full-size luxury SUV. The QX is anchored by an advanced drivetrain, featuring a high-strength steel frame and standard 5.6-liter V8 engine rated at 320 horsepower and 393 lb-ft of torque. Its sophisticated body design is marked by a distinctive chrome “waterfall” style grille, High Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlights, Infiniti-style LED taillights, power sliding moonroof and power-operated rear liftgate.
Inside, the exceptionally roomy QX interior features class-leading 2nd row legroom and seating for up to eight with the optional 2nd row split bench seat. Occupants are treated to an array of standard and available technology and luxury equipment, including leather-appointed seating, an Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with 7.0-inch LCD screen, XM® Satellite Radio and XM NavTraffic® with real-time traffic information (XM® subscription required, sold separately), 12-speaker Bose® Premium Audio system with Burr-Brown DAC and 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and power-folding 60/40 split 3rd row bench seat.
Optional features include a Technology Package with Intelligent Cruise Control and front Sonar System for parking; and an Infiniti Mobile Entertainment System (MES) with DVD player, 8-inch color screen, two wireless headphones and remote controller. A Tow Package (standard on QX56 4WD) is also optional on QX56 2WD.
The QX’s 4-wheel independent suspension includes an auto-leveling rear suspension. Maximum towing capacity (when properly equipped) is rated at up to 9,000 pounds. A 5-speed automatic transmission with tow mode, 4-wheel power-assisted disc brakes and 9-spoke 20-inch chrome-finished aluminum-alloy wheels are standard on both 2WD and 4WD models.
Nissan 350Z
Base MSRP: $28,510
Base Invoice: $26,714
Engine: Gas v6
Fuel: 3.5l/214
MPG City/Highway: 18/25
Transmission: 6-speed m/t
Drive Type: Rear Wheel Drive
Doors: 2
Back in September we got a peek at the performance parts offered by HKS for the Nissan GT-R. Today we have great news: in order to celebrate its 35th anniversary the tuner decided to make these upgrades available in the U.S. So for the lucky owners of a Nissan GT-R, the GT570 Racing Package is available for $5,700. This kit package includes 75mm racing extension pipes, a new intercooling system, some ECU tweaking, a blow-off valve kit and new spark plugs. If you blew all your cash on (...)
With precious few details about Nissan's new 370Z available. Nissan released several images of the coupe version today destined for a Los Angeles debut in November.
Expect to see the new Z matched with a 6 speed manual or even a 7 speed automatic transmission similar to that in Infiniti's new G37.
Inside the cockpit the pod type insrument theme has been carried over with the new z however Nissan says improved interior materials through out in an effort to make the new Z a much better place to sit.
Here are the first real pictures with the new Nissan 370z, a model completely exposed in a town from France, in front of a Nissan dealer. Unfortunately, the official data still remains a mystery.
But, rumors say that this Nissan 370Z will be equipped with a V6 engine of 3.7 liters, coupled to a manual gearbox in 6 steps or an automatic one. I guess we’ll live and see.
Nissan's just announced the upcoming launch of a repositioned Versa Sedan that will focus more closely than ever on value and fuel economy for its buyers. The model will come with a standard 107 horsepower engine and starting price of $12,498 before freight and PDE. Drivers can expect fuel mileage as low as 5.8L /100km on the highway when shifting via the five-speed manual transmission.
The repositioned Versa Sedan gets a 1.6 litre engine, rather than the 1.8 litre unit found in the hatchback model.
"Starting at $12,498, this new Versa 1.6 Sedan has the lowest MSRP in Canada, by more than $700, and is more than $1,000 lower than any 4dr Sedan." said Jeff Parent, V.P. of Sales and Marketing at Nissan Canada. "But a low price is really only half the news. Nissan Canada is bringing in a full range of Versa 1.6 sedans including a base vehicle and a Value Option Package model that is unique to Canada."
The Value Option Package adds air conditioning, power windows, heated mirrors and remote keyless entry. The sedan is also equipped with six standard airbags, including side-curtains.
"The Versa is Nissan's best selling product in Canada," added Parent, "The launch of this Versa 1.6 Sedan shows how Nissan is working to bring value and choice to Canadians consumers in the entry-level market place."
The Versa 1.6 Sedan goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide beginning December 1st.
Photos: Nissan
Nissan Motor Co Ltd commercialized the "ultra-low precious metal catalyst," which purifies exhaust gas using only half the amount of precious metals required by the existing catalysts, for the first time in the world (Fig 1).
The new catalyst will be introduced in the new Cube compact car, which will be announced Nov 19, 2008. The amount of precious metals used for the underfloor catalyst in the new Cube has been reduced from 1.3 to 0.65g. Still, the emission level of the new Cube is 75% lower than the 2005 exhaust emission standards in Japan, and the car has been qualified as a "Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SU-LEV)."
Of the precious metals used throughout the world, the percentage of platinum (Pt) used for automotive applications accounts for about 50%, while that of rhodium (Rh) is about 80%. In view of the limited amount of precious metals that can be mined and their rising prices, it is crucial to reduce the amount those metals used in vehicles.
In the existing catalysts, precious metals such as Pt cluster due to heat generated while the car is running (Fig 2). This reduces the surface area exposed to exhaust gas, hence impairing the purification performance. Therefore, the amount of precious metals had to be determined in such a way that the performance degradation may be compensated with the additional amount of precious metals.
On the other hand, in Nissan's ultra-low precious metal catalyst, physical partitions are provided around the substrate to avoid the reduction of surface area exposed to exhaust gas, which is caused by precious metal aggregation (Fig 2). This technique is applicable to Pt, Rh and Palladium (Pd) used as catalysts.
The ultra-low precious metal catalyst will be produced in Nissan's Yokohama Plant. The company plans to gradually expand the adoption of the catalyst in compact cars for the Japanese market, while considering the introduction in other types of vehicles and the sales in non-automotive sectors.
Nissan developed this technology in collaboration with Renault SAS of France and plans to introduce it in Renault vehicles in the future.
Nissan had planned to release the full details surrounding its new 370Z model on November 19 to coincide with its global debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, however the official press release has been leaked slightly ahead of time.
The new Nissan Z Coupe is set to go on sale in the US from January 2009 from a base price of $30,000, followed by the Z Roadster in 2010.
Almost every part of the new Nissan Z has been redesigned, resulting in a shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials, a new engine with more horsepower and improved fuel economy.
The 370Z is smaller than its predecessor in every direction to help reduce weight, coupled with the expanded use of aluminium for the door panels and hood.
The net result is a saving of around 45kg over the comparative 350Z model with rear body torsion rigidity improved by up to 22 percent and rear body vertical bending rigidity improved by up to 30 percent.
“As every race car driver knows, weight is the enemy of performance and rigidity is the foundation for handling – but they usually work at cross purposes from each other,” said Castignetti. “With the new 370Z, the engineers were able to build a body that is both stronger and lighter, enhancing Z’s athletic performance abilities.”
The exterior design intentionally incorporates 240Z styling cues, with a dramatic cantilevered roof gathering its inspiration from the Nissan GT-R.
The drag coefficient is just 0.30, which drops to 0.29 with the Sport Package - the same as the previous 350Z model. The new Z also maintains the previous generation’s zero front lift and zero rear lift when equipped with the rear spoiler, thanks to extensive aerodynamics efforts.
The distinctive ‘boomerang’ shaped head lamps and tail lights incorporate High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard.
The 370Z is a true two-seat sports coupe, with an open cargo area for enhanced storage and accessibility in the rear.
The instrument panel retains the traditional 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer now include an “initial sweep” function, coming alive when the Z is first started.
Standard interior creature comforts include Push Button Start, one-touch power windows, a centre console box, automatic climate control, rear window defroster with timer, two 12volt power outlets, four cupholders (two in door panels, two in centre console), dual overhead map lights, lockable glove box and a 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.
The 370Z Touring model adds 4-way power adjustable heated leather sport seats with adjustable lumbar support, 6CD Bose audio system with eight speakers (includes dual subwoofer) and MP3/WMA playback, Bluetooth system and passenger seat map pocket.
The new-generation 3.7-litre VQ37VHR engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) is rated at 247kW and 365NM at 5,200 rpm - almost a 20kW improvement over the previous model.
The larger capacity engine yields better power delivery all the way to the 7,500 rpm redline with improved low end power and more high-end torque.
The new engine is backed by a choice of two new advanced transmissions: a 6-speed manual and 7-speed automatic.
The close-ratio six-speed manual includes the world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system, which automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts.
This function improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged, although driver’s who prefer less vehicle intervention can deactivate the system completely with a button next to the shifter.
“The SynchroRev Match system takes nothing away from the driver – you still have to engage the clutch and move the shifter – it just gives you a performance edge by smoothing out the gear engagement,” said Castignetti.
The new 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode with a target time of 0.5 seconds between shifts.
Fuel economy is identical for either transmission, using 13.0l/100kms in city driving, and 9.0l/100kms on the highway - which is a slight increase over the previous Z car.
The double-wishbone front suspension (replacing the lower multi-link setup in the 350Z) uses lighter forged aluminium arms and a lightweight rigid aluminium-alloy cradle, along with a lighter stabilizer bar with a 35 percent improved lever ratio.
The standard 370Z wheel and tyre package features 18-inch staggered 5spoke lightweight aluminium-alloy wheels with P225/50R18 front/P245/45R18 rear Yokohama ADVAN Sport maximum performance rubber.
An optional sport package adds 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminium-alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A P245/40R19 front/P275/35R19 tires.
The braking system has been upgraded to improve overall feel and brake fade resistance with 4-piston front callipers and 2-piston rears biting onto vented discs.
The new 2009 370Z’s model line-up has been greatly simplified, versus the 2008 350Z, with just two models – 370Z and the 370Z Touring.
Early details surrounding the updates for the Series II Nissan GT-R have surfaced on the web, which are expected to be introduced with 2009 production models.
The official announcement is expected to be made by Nissan on December 8, with the most crucial change being a price jump of 10 percent - exceeding earlier reports that there would be a 5 percent premium for MY09 models.
Engine output is expected to rise, albeit conservatively by about 4kW and the Brembo brake callipers will be rebadged to Nissan with stiffer brake hoses.
The fuel tank capacity will be increased by 2.8 litres while fuel economy has been slightly improved.
Other changes include a slight revision to the GT-R’s colour palette, opting for the new Brilliant White Pearl over the existing Ivory Pearl White which it will share with the 370Z.
Ultimate Silver will also attract a price premium, up AUD$840 to AUD$5,880 in Japan.
The wheel colour has also been slightly revised, although the extent of these changes is not yet known.
Finally, the Black edition will now be fitted with Dunlop tyres as standard with the Bridgestone tyres becoming an option.
Unconfirmed changes suggest JDM models will receive upgrades from their overseas counterparts such as European specification suspension and iPod connectivity from the US version.
The GPS-activated speed limiter will also be updated to include more locations across Japan.
Source: GTRBlog
It's business as usual for the Z Roadster.
(Credit: Nissan North America)
Astute readers will notice that whenever we refer to Nissan's new Z, we specify 370Z Coupe. What about the convertible variant of Nissan's Z car? How do Nissan's recent announcements and unveilings affect ...
(Credit: Corinne Schulze/CNET)
When the Nissan Cube appeared on our review schedule, we expected to be thrilled by the tech and bored by the performance. But the opposite happened--we found a car with plenty of get-up-and-go but devoid of cabin gadgets. The problem with our Cube was its trim ...
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