>>Nissan Quest

Nissan Quest

Nissan Quest
Manufacturer	Nissan (2004-present) Ford Motor Company (1993-2002)
Production	1993-present
Predecessor	Nissan Axxess Nissan Van C22 (Vanette)
Class	Minivan
Layout	FF layout

The Nissan Quest is a minivan produced by Nissan since 1993. There have been three generations of this model. The first generation Quest was a collaboration with Ford, which produced the mechanically identical and cosmetically similar Mercury Villager. The vans debuted at the 1992 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Today, its top competiters are the Honda Odyssey, Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town & Country, and Toyota Sienna

The Quest is distinguishable by a grille and headlights that are slightly shorter top to bottom than those on the Villager. Both vehicles were initially powered by the 3.0 L Nissan VG30E V6 until 1999, when the Quest received the 3.3 L version of the same engine. The Quest was completely redesigned for 2004. The current model is built on the FF-L platform, which it shares with the Altima, Maxima, and Murano. It also shares the award-winning 3.5 L VQ engine with those cars.

First generation (1993-1998)

First generation
Production	1993–1998
Assembly	Avon Lake, Ohio
Body style(s)	3-door minivan
Engine(s)	3.0 L VG30E V6
Transmission(s)	4-speed automatic
Wheelbase	112.2 in (2850 mm)
Length	189.9 in (4823 mm)
Width	73.7 in (1872 mm)
Height	67.5 in (1715 mm) (Cargo) 65.6 in (1666 mm) (1993-95 XE) 68 in (1727 mm) (GXE & 1996-98 XE)
Fuel capacity	20.0 US gal
Related	Mercury Villager Nissan Maxima

The Nissan Quest was a new model made by Nissan to compete in the minivan segment. The Quest was a successor to the Axxess, which was sold in the United States in 1990 only and in Canada from 1990-1995. It also replaced the rear-wheel drive Vanette, also discontinued in 1990. The Quest was initially powered by Nissan's 3.0 L VG30E SOHC engine that made 151 hp (the engine is a slightly modified version of that found in other Nissan vehicles; one of the requirements of Ford was it be modified to become a non-interference engine, thus if the timing belt breaks, there would be no damage to the valves). The Quest was available as GXE or XE models. Because of manufacturing issues, Nissan had an arrangement for Ford to assemble the minivan in North America, and in turn they were allowed to rebadge it and sell it under the Mercury brand as the Mercury Villager. Many of the interior parts, including the radio, heater controls and power windows controls were adapted from Ford, and were similar to the Ford Aerostar. This generation of the Quest minivan was built in Avon Lake, Ohio, where the Villager was also built. The van shares a modified version of the VG30E from the U11, and early J30 Maximas, as well as the transmission from the Maxima.

An initial complaint was the sometimes annoying motorized shoulder seatbelts. Seating was for 7, with a removable 2-seater bench in the middle, allowing the third row bench of 3 seats to slide up (either folded up for more room or down for passengers) behind the front for more rear cargo room. 1996 saw the introduction of changes to the front and rear fascias, as well as headlights and taillamps.

1996-1998 Nissan Quest

Second generation (1999-2002)

Second generation
Production	1999–2002
Assembly	Avon Lake, Ohio
Body style(s)	4-door minivan
Engine(s)	3.3 L VG33E V6
Transmission(s)	4-speed automatic
Wheelbase	112.2 in (2850 mm)
Length	194.6 in (4943 mm) (2001-02) 194.8 in (4948 mm) (1999-2000)
Width	74.9 in (1902 mm)
Height	64.2 in (1631 mm) 67.3 in (1709 mm)
Fuel capacity	20.0 US gal
Related	Mercury Villager Nissan Maxima

For 1999, the Quest got a facelift that gave the exterior a more aerodynamic look, and the driver's side sliding door. The Quest also got a power boost via the 3.3 L VG33E SOHC engine, making 170 hp (127 kW) and 200 ft·lbf (270 N·m) of torque. The XE trim was discontinued and the GXE was moved as the base model. Two new trim levels were also introduced: the top of the line GLE and the sport model SE.

Nissan imbued the 2001 Quest with a raft of minor improvements. Styling front and rear was updated, along with new alloy wheels on all models. The entry-level GXE gained a rear stabilizer bar, while the sporty SE received acceleration-sensitive strut valving and a strut tower brace. New interior gauges and fabrics as well as a 130-watt sound system were standard on SE and GLE. Luxury GLE models also received an in-dash six-CD changer and a wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel. An optional overhead family entertainment system replaced the former floor-mounted model, though it could still be specified for SEs and GLEs equipped with a sunroof. Front seatbelts were given pretensioners. The 2001 Quest was also slightly longer, with more cargo space than the previous generation.

By the end of this generation, both Honda and Toyota had switched to the size of long-wheelbase Chrysler minivans, and the Quest was becoming too small for the American market. There was not a 2003 year Quest Model produced.

Third generation (2004-present)

Third generation
Production	2004-present
Assembly	Canton, Mississippi
Body style(s)	4-door minivan
Platform	Nissan FF-L platform
Engine(s)	3.5 L VQ35DE V6
Transmission(s)	4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase	124.0 in (3150 mm)
Length	204.1 in (5184 mm)
Width	77.6 in (1971 mm)
Height	70.0 in (1778 mm) (2004-06) 71.9 in (1826 mm) (2007-present)
Fuel capacity	20.1 US gal
Related	Nissan Altima Nissan Maxima Nissan Murano Nissan Teana

The Quest was redesigned in 2004 whereas the Villager was discontinued in 2002. Production moved to Canton, Mississippi. In size, this generation was made slightly longer than the class-defining Chrysler long-wheelbase minivans. The Quest is powered by the oft-used 3.5 L VQ35DE engine from the Maxima, Altima, and others. In the Quest, it produces 240 hp (179 kW) and 242 ft·lbf (328 N·m) of torque. The Quest has a flat folding rear bench and the two middle chairs fold nearly flat into the floor. The interior volume is 211.9 ft³.

The third generation Quest has been both praised and criticized for its styling. The original center-mounted instrument panel, which drew some buyers in and turned others away (the speedometer and tachometer were in the center of the dash, rather than in front of the driver) had been especially criticized. It features an unusual moonroof glass arrangement, and positions for 2 DVD screens rather than the usual one. Sales of this third generation model have been less than expected, and Nissan redesigned the front grille and the much-criticized dashboard for the 2007 model.

2007 Nissan Quest

2005 Quest Dashboard

Price

Pricing for 2006:

• Base MSRP: $24,150
• S Special Edition MSRP: $25,450
• SL MSRP: $27,050
• SE MSRP: $33,650

Sale Figures

2003 - 23,170 (From remaining 2002 & 2004 model early sales)

2004 - 46,430

2005 - 40,357

2006 - 31,905

2007 - 20,769(as of August 2007)

Fourth generation (2009-future)

The Quest will be redesigned for the 2009 model year. Production will move to Japan, despite slow sales of the minivan in the United States. Quest sales were up for the 1st quarter in 2007 but have since been falling slightly short of '06 sales.

>>Nissan Murano

Nissan Murano

Nissan Murano
Manufacturer	Nissan
Production	2003-present
Class	Mid-size crossover SUV
Body style(s)	4-door SUV
Layout	Front engine, front-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Wheelbase	2825 mm (111.2 in)

The Nissan Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured by Nissan since the 2003 model year. Nissan introduced the Murano as its first crossover SUV for the United States and Canada. Known as the "Maxima of SUVs", it slotted above the Pathfinder as Nissan's top-of-the-line SUV until the launch of the Armada in 2004. Designed at Nissan Design America in La Jolla, California, it is based on the Nissan FF-L platform used by the Maxima and the third-generation Altima.

As of 2006, the Murano slots between the Xterra and Pathfinder (which surpassed the Murano in size since its 2005 redesign), where it became Nissan's best-selling SUV, knocking the Pathfinder off the top spot. Despite being similar in length to the Pathfinder, it is more expensive than a Pathfinder. Also, the Murano was Nissan's only crossover SUV until 2004, when Canada got the smaller X-Trail, which has been replaced by the Rogue for 2008.

The Murano was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2003. It was also named the best premium mid-size SUV by AutoPacific.

First generation (2003-2007)

First generation
Production	2003-2007
Assembly	Kanda, Fukuoka, Japan
Platform	Nissan FF-L platform
Engine(s)	3.5L 245 hp V6
Transmission(s)	CVT 6-speed manual
Length	4770 mm (187.6 in)
Width	1880 mm (74.0 in)
Height	2003-05: 1705 mm (66.5 in) 2006-07: 67.3 in (1709 mm)
Related	Nissan Altima Nissan Maxima Nissan Quest Nissan Teana

The vehicle itself is notable for being one of the largest vehicles available with a continuously variable transmission. Most luxuries expected in a car are standard kit in the Murano. The engine, a 3.5 litre 245 bhp V6, comes straight out of the Maxima and is specially tuned for the Murano. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with VDC is a form of traction control embedded into the car's onboard computer and is designed to provide 'joy' to drive. The car is all-wheel drive and has 4-wheel independent suspension. A luxury feature of the car is a rear-view camera in addition to a rear-view mirror. A full set of airbags, steel reinforced cabin, and head restraints are safety features designed to protect the interior whilst VDC, ABS, EBD and brake assist are mechanical safety features.

The 2006 model year Murano received some updates in the form of LED tailamps and turn signals, standard color screen, available back-up camera (standard in Canada for all models), GPS and a restyled front end with some minor trim updates.

Second generation (2009-)

Second generation
Production	2009-
Assembly	Kyushu, Japan
Platform	Nissan D platform
Engine(s)	3.5L 265 hp V6
Transmission(s)	CVT
Length	188.5 in (4788 mm)
Width	74.1 in (1882 mm)
Height	66.9 in (1699 mm)
Related	Nissan Altima

Sources have been told that the Murano will skip the 2008 model year, with the new generation arriving at dealerships sometime during the first quarter of 2008 – as a 2009 model. Nissan has come with a new 2009 model and it can be seen on their website. Like the first-generation model, there is no third-row seat, although most mid-size crossover SUVs are beginning to have that configuration. The 2009 Nissan Murano debuted at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2007.

>>Nissan Altima

Nissan Altima

Nissan Altima
Manufacturer	Nissan
Production	1993–present
Predecessor	Nissan Stanza
Class	Compact (1993-2001) Mid-size (2002-present)
Layout	FF layout

The Altima (pronounced ALL-teemah) is a mid-size car (formerly compact) currently being manufactured by the Japanese automaker Nissan, and is arguably a continuation of the "bloodline" that began with the Nissan Bluebird in 1957. It has historically been larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the Nissan Sentra but less so than the Nissan Maxima. It competes with the Mazda 6, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Subaru Legacy, Mitsubishi Galant, Hyundai Sonata, Volkswagen Passat, and Ford Fusion.

In addition to North America, the Altima is available in the Middle East. In other markets, Nissan sells a related mid-size sedan called the Nissan Teana, built on the same FF-L platform.

History

The Altima name was originally a trim line of the Nissan Laurel mid-size car sold in the Caribbean before 1992. In 1993, Nissan discontinued its much-criticized Stanza, replacing it with the US-made Altima, while remaining a compact car. The very first Altima rolled off the assembly line on June 15, 1992 as a 1993 model. All Altimas had been built in Smyrna, Tennessee until June 2004, when Nissan's Canton, Mississippi, plant began producing additional Altimas to meet high demand.

The Altima has had four design generations: 1993-1997, 1998-2001, 2002-2006, and 2007-present.

First generation (1993-1997)

First generation
Also called	Nissan Stanza Altima
Production	1993–1997
Assembly	Smyrna, Tennessee
Body style(s)	4-door sedan
Engine(s)	2.4 L KA24DE I4 150 hp (112 kW)
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase	103.1 in (2619 mm)
Length	180.5 in (4585 mm)
Width	67.1 in (1704 mm)
Height	55.9 in (1420 mm)
Related	Nissan Bluebird

1993-1994 Altima GXE

Like the Stanza before it, the original Altima was based on the Nissan Bluebird SSS (Chassis Model U13), though its original styling hailed from Nissan's California design studio. Initially, the car's official name was "Stanza Altima," which appears on the early owners manuals. 1993 models can be seen with a sticker reading "Stanza" in small lettering to the left of the ALTIMA emblem on the trunk lid.

All Altima models used Nissan's 150 horsepower (112 kW) KA24DE I4 DOHC engine mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, which provided the fastest performance among all 4-cylinder competitors (8.7 seconds to 60 mph (100 km/h) with automatic). (By contrast, the Japanese Bluebird SSS could be had with Nissan's famous SR20DET engine and all-wheel-drive.) Suspension was composed of struts with stabilizer bars at both ends and was noted for providing sporty, satisfying handling (plus a firm ride and moderate road noise); all wheels were 15-inches. Being one of the bigger compact cars, the Altima could seat four adults fairly comfortably, though its body was too skinny for five. Trim lines consisted of the stripper XE, mid-line GXE, sporty SE, and luxury GLE. Some options included a gold emblem package, molded mud guards, and a pin stripe. All 1993 and 1994 models came with a chrome exhaust tip standard; it was removed in 1995 when the Altima was cheapened up. All Altima models had a very small glovebox and the cupholders were in a poor location under the radio.

The base XE (rare) had manual windows. The mid-line GXE had power windows, a power retracting antenna, pass thru rear armrest, digital clock in dash, and color matched plastic speaker grills for the rear 6 inch speakers. The XE and GXE models only had the fixed intermittent wiper switch.

In addition to the GXE features, the SE had a stiffer suspension, fog lights, 3 leg mount rear spoiler (1993 models with a clear LED brake light), side skirts (no upper side moldings), and sport seats (plus a standard sunroof in 1994-1995). It also had 4-wheel disc brakes, which came on the other trim lines when antilock brakes were ordered.

The GLE's enhancements included a digital heads-up display(1993 and 1994 only), which displayed speed in MPH or km/h, turn signals, and various warning lights on a unique mirrored patch made into the windshield. The 1989 to 1994 Maxima and 240SX had similar technology but only showed speed. Other features included a coin holder built into the fuse panel cover(1993 and 1994 only), adjustable lumbar support on the front seats, automatic digital climate control, keyless entry with alarm(optional), floor mats, color matched side mirrors, cornering lights, sunroof, and a higher-powered six-speaker cassette/CD stereo which included 6X9 rear speakers with black metal "active speaker" grills, metal color matched "active speaker" grills for the front door speakers(1993 and 1994 only), and a pair of A pillar tweeters all powered by 2 factory amps mounted underneath the rear deck. For 1997 it gave up all of the above in exchange for standard leather (previously optional). All SE and GLE models had alloy wheels and variable intermittent wipers.

1993 Altimas came with a rosewood colored dash trim and only had a driver's side airbag coupled with automatic shoulder belts(the center console was slimmer to accommodate the lap belts). The 1994 Altima gained a darker burl wood dash trim, a flush mount passenger airbag and normal seatbelts, though it lost its optional limited-slip differential. 1993 and 1994 models came with chrome inner door handles standard with an auto door lock/unlock feature on the passenger side, in 1995, the inner door handles were changed to color matched plastic and a plug replaced where the passenger auto door lock/unlock feature was. 1993 and 1994 models also had a slim 1½ armrest lid, however, if leather was selected on the GLE a leather cover brought the height up to about 4½ inches. In 1995, all the armrest lids were thicker and about 4½ inches tall. 1995 also brought a new venetian blind-like grille, new taillights (red and clear), and a new 2 leg mount spoiler with a red LED brake light for the SE. Some other changes included the removal of the rear speaker grills for a flat rear deck, a cheaper cloth interior, a raised mount passenger airbag, a plastic cover replacing the rear ashtray, and the digital in dash clock was now optional. 1996 brought new wheel covers for base models. In 1997 the GXE gained a new "Limited Edition" package including alloy wheels, keyless entry, alarm, floor mats, and a Limited Edition sticker on each side near the front wheels. The majority of final-year Altima models were dubbed "1997.5" models, signifying the added crash protection necessary to meet 1997 side-impact standards.

Second generation (1998-2001)

Second generation
Production	1998–2001
Assembly	Smyrna, Tennessee
Body style(s)	4-door sedan
Engine(s)	2.4 L KA24DE I4
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase	103.1 in (2619 mm)
Length	185.8 in (4719 mm) (2000-01) 183.5 in (4661 mm) (1998-99)
Width	69.1 in (1755 mm)
Height	55.9 in (1420 mm)

The second generation (codenamed L30) was an American market-only version, again styled by Nissan's California design center. Most of its mechanicals came from the previous Altima, though the body was slightly larger and reportedly 20% stiffer, and the tracks were widened. A new interior brought a better glovebox and cupholders, a folding back seat (except on XE), and depowered airbags. While total volume remained identical at 108 cubic feet, most felt it was distributed better and resulted in a slightly roomier-feeling cabin. On the downside, many were let down by the new model's plainer styling and cheapened interior; some also felt the gas pedal was now too lightly sprung.

Trim lines were GXE, SE, and GLE. The SE can be distinguished by its body-color grille, fog lights, rear spoiler, alloy wheels, and white-faced gauges. In this generation of Altima, all GLEs had leather seats standard.

2000-2001 Nissan Altima SE

For 1999 the uplevel cassette/CD stereo got a new faceplate and better sound quality, GXE and SE models gained variable intermittent wipers, and GLEs gained standard alloy wheels.

The majority of changes came for 2000. The engine was upgraded from 150 to 155 hp (116 kW), gearing and final drive ratios were shortened on both transmissions, stabilizer bars were thickened, and the steering was firmed up. SE and GLE models also upgraded to 16-inch wheels with lower-profile tires, new Monroe struts with "acceleration-sensitive strut valving", and a front strut tower brace for sportier handling (all optional on GXE). The Altima grew slightly longer and got a deeper front grille, one-piece headlamps with turn signals, all-red taillights, and plastic trim on the decklid. Inside were new front seats with a driver's height adjuster, cupholders for the rear seat, revised seat cloth, a new instrument panel with digital odometers, a new rear window antenna, and the keyless entry fob now included a trunk release. Side airbags were newly standard on GLE and available on GXE and SE. For 2001, the Altima GXE again gained a Limited Edition package: power driver's seat, keyless entry with alarm, and floor mats.

Third generation (2002-2006)

Third generation
Production	2002-2006
Assembly	Smyrna, Tennessee Canton, Mississippi
Body style(s)	4-door sedan
Platform	Nissan FF-L platform
Engine(s)	2.5 L QR25DE I4 175 hp (130 kW) 3.5 L VQ35DE V6 240 hp (179 kW)
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual 6-speed manual 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase	110.2 in (2799 mm)
Length	192.3 in (4884 mm) (2005-06) 191.5 in (4864 mm) (2002-04)
Width	70.4 in (1788 mm)
Height	57.9 in (1471 mm)
Related	Nissan Maxima Nissan Murano Nissan Quest Nissan Teana

The third-generation Altima (codenamed L31) debuted for model year 2002. It was the first mass-market product built on Nissan's new FF-L platform, which was unique to North America and had no equivalent model in Japan. (The Japanese Nissan Teana is similar but not quite identical, slotting between the Altima and Maxima in size.) The Altima grew enormously for this generation. Interior volume exploded all the way to 118.6 cubic feet, surpassing even the Maxima of the time and making the Altima the roomiest of all mid-size Japanese sedans. Also biggest in class was its 20-gallon fuel tank.

The new Altima was well-received by the press, with many critics praising the new style and extra space. The new Altima also upgraded its rear suspension to a multilink type and its brakes to 4-wheel discs.

Most of the criticism centered on the interior, which was cited for using extremely cheap and brittle plastics. Some also found the steering too light and/or abrupt, and the turning circle wide due to the elongated wheelbase.

2003 -2004 received two tone dash colour, as well as 245 horsepower (183 kW) and 249 ft·lbf (338 N·m) of torque. acceleration with the 5spd manual was under 6 seconds. 2002-2004 models with manual gearbox were the lightest of the V6 (4DR) cars.

2005-2006 Altima 2.5S

2005-2006 Altima SE-R

In 2005 the Altima received a new front end, all-red taillights, redesigned interior, and an optional DVD-based navigation system. The V6 was now rated at 250 horsepower (186 kW), and its optional automatic was now a 5-speed. Also new was the SE-R model with a 260 HP (194 kW) version of the V6, a 6-speed manual transmission (automatic still optional), upgraded brakes, 18-inch wheels, a suspension even stiffer than that of the 3.5 SE's, and a high-flow exhaust.

Fourth generation
Production	2007-present
Assembly	Smyrna, Tennessee Canton, Mississippi
Body style(s)	4-door sedan 2-door coupe
Layout	FF layout
Platform	Nissan D platform
Engine(s)	2.5 L QR25DE I4 175 hp (130 kW) 3.5 L VQ35DE V6 270 hp (201 kW)
Transmission(s)	6-speed manual CVT
Wheelbase	109.3 in (2776 mm) (sedan) 105.3 in (2675 mm) (coupe) 105.7 in (2685 mm) (convertible)
Length	189.8 in (4821 mm) (sedan) 182.5 in (4636 mm) (coupe)
Width	70.7 in (1796 mm) (sedan & coupe) 69.6 in (1768 mm) (hybrid)
Height	57.9 in (1471 mm) (sedan) 55.3 in (1405 mm) (coupe) 58.1 in (1476 mm) (hybrid)

Fourth generation (2007-present)

The fourth generation Altima was announced at the 2006 New York Auto Show on April 12, 2006. It is the first vehicle to use the smaller Nissan D platform, with a new front and upgraded rear suspension. The wheelbase is 1 inch shorter than the third generation Altima, but interior space is mostly unchanged. The Maxima and Murano will continue on the larger FF-L platform.

The 2007 Altima uses revised versions of the engines in the third generation model. The VQ35DE 3.5 L V6 engine will produce 270 hp, and the QR25DE 2.5 L I4 will produce 175 hp (130 kW). A 6-speed manual is standard, and a continuously variable transmission replaces the traditional automatic as the optional transmission. The Altima is the first product based on the new Nissan D platform, co-developed with Renault. The 2007 Altima sports some more recent innovations in the market, including, but not limited to, standard "push-button start" (Called "Renault Card"), Bluetooth capability for cell phones and a parking camera. The Altima SE-R, introduced in 2005 as a third generation Altima, does not appear at the launch of the fourth generation. The new 2007 Altima is promoted by the television commercial slogan, "Yup, it's that good!"

Coupe

2008 Nissan Altima 2.5S coupe

The Altima coupe was released on May 25, 2007 as a 2008 model, and currently competes against the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Toyota Camry Solara, Honda Accord coupe and Pontiac G6 coupe, and the upcoming Ford Fusion coupe.

First officially revealed at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2008 Altima Coupe is Nissan's first-ever two-door Altima. It has a shorter wheelbase, shorter overall length and lower height than the Altima Sedan.

The 2008 Altima Coupe is available with two engines: The same updated VQ35DE in the sedan, a 270 horsepower (201 kW) 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 or the QR25DE, a 175 horsepower (130 kW) 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder. The 4-cylinder version of the coupe has a base price of $20,490, while the 3.5-liter V6 will have a base price of $24,890.

Hybrid

Nissan entered an agreement with rival Toyota to use some of its hybrid technology in the new Altima for the 2007 model year. The Altima Hybrid Electric is Nissan's first hybrid car. The company has asserted that subsequent hybrid models will be based on hybrid technology developed in-house. Up to 40,000 per year will be built at Nissan's Smyrna plant. Sales of the hybrid model are limited to California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont for the 2007 model year, with other states possible in subsequent years. The Altima hybrid is also available in Canada.

The Hybrid Altima features a 2.5 L QR25DE engine, CVT and electric motor/generator.

Its fuel efficiency is 6.7 L/100 km (35 mpg US) city and 7.1 L/100 km (33 mpg US) highway, based on revised EPA measures for fuel economy ratings. In 2007 the Altima Hybrid was rated at 42 mpg city and 36 mpg on the highway

>>Nissan Navara

Nissan Navara

Nissan Navara
Manufacturer	Nissan
Also called	Nissan Frontier
Production	1986-present
Predecessor	Nissan Hardbody Truck
Class	Compact pickup truck (1998-2004) Mid-size pickup truck (2005-present)
Body style(s)	2-door truck 4-door truck
Related	Nissan Patrol Nissan Pathfinder

The Nissan Navara is a pickup truck manufactured by the Japanese automaker Nissan since 1986.

Nissan was the pioneer of the compact pickup truck market in 1959, joined in the 1960s by Toyota. Since 1959, Nissan is known for a number of notable firsts in the compact pickup truck market, including the first extended cab bodystyle (in the 1979 Nissan King Cab) and the first crew cab bodystyle compact pickup, in the D22 Navara.

There have been three generations of Navaras since 1986. The first was the D21, considered to be a small pick up. After more than 10 years with the D21, the second generation of Navaras were manufactured from 1998 and went until 2005 which was classed as a compact sized pick up. It was replaced with the bigger, taller, longer D40, which Nissan now considers to be a mid-size pick up truck.

D21 Navara

First generation D21
Production	1986-1997

The D21 Navara is a compact size pick up truck manufactured from 1986 to 1997.

D22 Navara

Second generation D22
Production	1998-2005
Engine(s)	2.5ltr/3.0ltr/3.2ltr Turbo Diesel 2.4ltr petrol
Transmission(s)	5-Speed manual

The D22 Navara is a compact size pick up truck manufactured from 1998 to 2004. However, Nissan continue to build the D22 on a low scale, and is known as "Pickup".

The first D22 Navaras during 1998 to 2001 have a slightly different cosmetic appearance to the newer models (2001 onwards). The styling changes were designed to attract younger buyers into buying the pickup trucks.

The first series of D22's had larger 3.2 litre Turbo Diesel engines. The second series has 3 available engine types. They are as follows:

• 2.4 litre, DOHC, 16V, 4 cylinder, producing 110 kW (148 hp) @ 5600 rpm and 208 N·m (153 ft·lbf) @ 2600 rpm.
• 2.5 litre, DOHC, 16V, 4 cylinder, producing 100 kW (134 hp) @ 4000 rpm and 304 N·m (224 ft·lbf) @ 2000 rpm.
• 3.0 litre, DOHC, 16V, 4 cylinder, producing 110 kW (148 hp) @ 3400 rpm and 314 N·m (232 ft·lbf) @ 2000 rpm.

The 2.5 litre Diesel engines are Turbo charged with intercooler, and the 3.0 litre is Turbo-charged but is not intercooled.

D40 Navara

Third generation D40
Production	2005-present
Platform	FR/AWD F-Alpha
Engine(s)	4.0L 265 hp (198 kW) V6 2.5L Di 154 hp (115 kW) I4
Transmission(s)	5-Speed Automatic Overdrive 5-Speed Manual Overdrive 6-Speed Manual Overdrive
Wheelbase	125.9 in (3.20 m)

Nissan Navara tuned for dakar rally

In the UK the current Navara has been the market leader for a number of years with the largest bed space and a market leading 174 bhp (169 bhp on post September '06 vehicles with the introduction of the Euro IV compliant engine). With its four spec's the S, SE, Outlaw and Aventura the Navara has the ability to cover all market areas from workhorse to executive plaything. The Aventura comes with all the toys you would expect on a modern luxury car, leather Upholstery, Dual Zone Climate Control, 6 CD/MP3 changer and satellite navigation as standard.

In Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, the D40 Navara has a few differences from the UK versions. There are 2 engines available, the popular common-rail 2.5 liter Turbo-charged Diesel engine and the V-6 petrol. The Diesel engine in 4WD models produces 128 kW (172 hp) at 4000 rpm and 403 N·m (297 ft·lbf) at 2000 rpm, with the 2WD models producing slightly less at 106 kW (142 hp) at 4000 rpm and 356 N·m (263 ft·lbf) at 20000 rpm. The high-powered V-6 a breath-taking 198 kW (266 hp) at 5600 rpm of power and 385 N·m (284 ft·lbf) at 4000 rpm of torque. Both engines come with a standard 5 speed Automatic, with a 6 speed manual available for the Diesel. These models are not a luxury as the UK versions and do not have leather, climate control and satellite navigation system.

Nissan has started the project to build the new single cab version in Thailand. Expected to meet general public by 2008.

The 2008 model of the Navara was launched on July 2nd. Although the same car underneath, the Navara now has a new style of alloy wheels, bluetooth as standard, side work lights and indicators on wing mirrors.

>>Nissan Teana

Nissan Teana

Nissan Teana
Manufacturer	Nissan
Also called	Nissan Maxima Nissan Cefiro
Production	2003–present
Predecessor	Nissan Cefiro
Class	Mid-size
Body style(s)	4-door sedan
Related	Nissan Altima Nissan Maxima Nissan Murano Nissan Quest Samsung SM7

The Nissan Teana is a front wheel drive mid-size automobile produced by Nissan of Japan, introduced in 2003. It is exported as the Nissan Maxima and Nissan Cefiro to certain markets, not to be confused with the Nissan Maxima sold in North America. It shares a platform with the North American Nissan Maxima and Nissan Altima, as well as the Japanese market Nissan Presage.

Powering the Teana is either 2.3 or 3.5 liter engine which matches to the automatic transmission. Trim levels are 230JK, 230JM, 230JS, and 350JS.

The Renault Samsung Motors SM7 of South Korea is built on the Teana platform. In January 2005, Renault Samsung announced a lower-specification version of the Teana which it will sell as the SM5.

In the People's Republic of China, the Teana is manufactured by the Dongfeng Motor Company, a joint venture with Nissan. Additionally, it is sold in India, Russia, Ukraine as well as in New Zealand and Australia where it competes with the locally produced Mitsubishi 380 and Toyota Aurion under the Maxima badge.

>>Nissan Leopard

Nissan Leopard

The Nissan Leopard is a line of luxury sports cars built by Japanese carmaker Nissan. The Leopard began life in 1980 and was discontinued in 1999. All Leopards were based on the chassis of their Nissan Cedric and Nissan Gloria contemporaries and were rear wheel drive.

First generation: F30 (1980-1986)

Nissan Leopard F30
Production	1980-1986
Body style(s)	2-door coupe, 4-door sedan
Layout	FR layout
Engine(s)	1.8 L OHC-I4 (Z18), 105 PS 2.0 L OHC-I6 (L20E), 125 PS 2.0 L OHC Turbo-I6 (L20ET), 145 PS 2.8 L OHC-I6 (L28E), 155 PS 3.0 L DOHC Turbo-V6 (VG30ET), 230 PS
Transmission(s)	5 speed manual transmission; 3 speed automatic
Wheelbase	103.4 in (2625 mm)
Length	182.3 in (4630 mm)
Width	66.6 in (1690 mm)
Height	52.9 in (1345 mm)
Curb weight	2465-2900 lb (1115-1315 kg)

The first Leopard (also known as Leopard TR-X) was introduced in September 1980 as a contender in the upper medium class of cars. The angular body, available as a 2-door hardtop coupe and a 4-door hardtop sedan, featured very thin C- and D-pillars and large glass surfaces. The Leopard featured some industry firsts, for instance a fuel consumption gage in the dashboard. Originally the Leopard was available with naturally aspirated inline four and six cylinder engines of 1800, 2000 and 2800 cc displacement; in September 1982 (when the car received a mild facelift) a two liter turbo-engine was added. In 1984 a limited Turbo Grand Edition with the 300ZX's 3 litre turbo engine joined the line-up.

Second generation: F31 (1986-1992)

Nissan Leopard F31
Production	1986-1992
Body style(s)	2-door coupe
Layout	FR layout
Engine(s)	2.0 L OHC-V6 (VG20E), 115 PS 2.0 L DOHC Turbo-V6 (VG20DET), 210 PS 3.0 L DOHC-V6 (VG30DE), 200 PS 3.0 L DOHC Turbo-V6 (VG30DET), 255 PS
Transmission(s)	4 speed automatic
Wheelbase	103.0 in (2615 mm)
Length	189.2 in (4805 mm)
Width	66.6 in (1690 mm)
Height	53.9 in (1370 mm)
Curb weight	3000-3355 lb (1360-1520 kg)

The F31 Leopard appeared in February 1986 and was only available as a coupé. In the US, 5000 Leopards were imported and 2500 of those were converted to convertibles by ASC. In the USA, the F31 was called the Infiniti M30. It was Infiniti's first-ever coupe, as well as the only convertible offered by Infiniti at the time (of which it still is).

The F30 and F31 Leopards were direct competitors to the Toyota Soarer. Whereas the Soarer had the 1G-GTE twin-turbo 2L straight six, the very similar-looking Leopard coupé came with the options of a VG30DET, VG30DE, VG20DET (post 1988), VG20ET (prior to 1988), and VG20E. Early 2.0 turbo versions had the single-cam (per bank) VG20ET, but from August 1988, the quad cam version appeared, the body was also face lifted at this time. Available in top spec form was the 3 litre VG30DET engine which produced 190 kW/255 hp. Only the VG20ET and VG20DET engines had an intercooler, and only VG20E engined examples had the option of manual transmission.

Compared to the Soarer, the Leopard was somewhat more angular, but with neater detailing around the windows. The windows were also flush, without the strange proportions of the Soarer's glass.

The VG20 V6 is not quite as smooth as the Soarer's 1G-GTE straight-six, and actually has a lower rev limit. It produces surprisingly good torque in turbo form, and is generally quite a reliable unit.

The M30 had no factory options, but dealers offered the addition of a cellular phone and a CD player/changer. The sole engine was the VG30E, a 3.0 L SOHC V6 that produced 162 hp (121 kW) and 180 ft·lbf (244 N·m) of torque, also used by many previous Nissan models such as the Maxima and 300ZX. Like the 300ZX, the M30 was a front-engined and rear-wheel drive vehicle. The transmission was the RE4R01A, a four-speed automatic with electronic overdrive. There was no manual transmission option. The differential was a Nissan R200-type open differential. It is generally regarded among M30 enthusiasts that the change of powertrain, weak suspension and the lack of options in these categories was a serious mistake on Infiniti’s part, and perhaps to blame for the lackluster sales. The M30 (coupe)has a stock weight of 3333 lb (1540 kg), yet only 162 hp (121 kW), creating an inadequate power to weight ratio for the intended image of a sport coupe. Unsurprisingly, the M30 convertible weighed even more, due to massive amounts of body and chassis reinforcements. In addition, sports cars normally come with a manual transmission standard and have the option of an automatic. Instead, Infiniti didn't even give potential buyers the choice, as all M30s had the four-speed automatic.

The M30 was equipped with the Sonar Suspension II system that was also installed on the Maxima at the time, which featured a sonar module mounted under the front bumper that scanned the road surface and adjusted the suspension accordingly via actuators mounted on the strut towers. There was also a switch on the center console that allowed the driver to change between "Sport" and "Comfort" settings—essentially "firm" and "soft", respectively.

The M30 convertible was, and still is, also the sole convertible of the Infiniti line. Infiniti selected about half of the models produced from 1991 to 1992 and had them made into convertibles by the ASC (American Sunroof Corporation). While the power tops on these did not need extensive maintenance for quite a while, they could be operated manually if necessary. All M30 coupes had power tilting/sliding sunroofs standard, with "auto-cut" while sliding to the closed position to prevent anything from getting caught.

The M30’s production run lasted for only 3 years, ending in 1992 due to lagging sales. Nobody knows exactly how many models were produced, but it has been said that just over 5000 were made, half coupes, half convertibles, making the M30 the least popular Infiniti ever put into production.

Third generation: JPY32 (1992-1997)

Infiniti J30
Manufacturer	Infiniti
Parent company	Nissan
Production	1993-1997.5
Assembly	Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
Predecessor	Infiniti M30
Successor	Infiniti I30
Class	Mid-size luxury car
Body style(s)	4-door sedan
Layout	FR layout
Engine(s)	3.0 L VG30DE V6
Transmission(s)	4-speed automatic
Wheelbase	108.7 in (2761 mm)
Length	191.4 in (4862 mm)
Width	69.7 in (1770 mm)
Height	54.7 in (1389 mm)
Fuel capacity	19 US gal.

The third generation was called Leopard J Ferie and appeared in June 1992. It came only in saloon body style and followed the rounded shape of the U13 Bluebirds and Altimas. It was sold in North America as the Infiniti J30.

The Infiniti J30 was a rear wheel drive luxury car. The J30 went into production on April 7, 1992 as a 1993 model to replace the M30 (which was a coupe), and was launched in the United States at the same time as its competitor, the Lexus GS. The car was designed to slot between the smaller G20 and the larger Q45, as Infiniti's first mid-size sedan. Also, it was fairly small but featured rounded styling uncharacteristic of the crowded near-luxury market.

Unlike earlier Infinitis, the J30 received effective advertisement with jazz music and artistic camera shots. Power came from a 3.0 L VG30DE V6 (shared with the 300ZX) which produced 210 hp and 192 ft·lbf (260 N·m) of torque. While it shares the Y32 Chassis with the Nissan Cedric/Gloria, it was essentially a rebadged version of the Japan-market Nissan Leopard J. Ferie where it was offered with both the VG30DE and VH41DE V8; Limited turbo&TT*.

All J30s were built in Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan. Production of the J30 ended on June 18, 1997, replaced by the Infiniti I30 (introduced in 1996).

One of the numerous reasons the J30 failed was that its most distinguishing feature was a lack of interior room. It had the distinction of being a mid-size car with the space of a subcompact (less than a Sentra) due to its sloping roofline and shrunken trunk.

The J30 was launched with a memorable ad campaign, featuring a middle-aged yuppie wearing all black. The host (actor Jonathan Pryce) used phrases like "This is the Infiniti J30 -- and this is the clock in the J" with an elitist tone that was widely ridiculed.

The images shown to the right depict the touring model, the J30t. Among many advanced features, this model featured a rear spoiler and HICAS (four wheel steering). HICAS was only available in the J30t from 1993-1994.

Fourth generation: JY33 (1996-1999)

Nissan Leopard JY33
Production	1996-1999
Body style(s)	4-door sedan
Layout	FR layout
Engine(s)	2.5 (RB25DET), 4WD, 235 hp. 3.0 L OHC-V6 (VG30E), 160 hp 3.0 L DOHC-V6 (VQ30DE), 220 hp 3.0 L DOHC Turbo-V6 (VQ30DET), 270 hp
Transmission(s)	5 speed automatic
Wheelbase	110.2 in (2800 mm)
Length	192.7 in (4895 mm)
Width	69.4 in (1765 mm)
Height	56.1 in (1425 mm)
Curb weight	3400-3555 lb (1540-1610 kg)

The fourth and last generation of the Leopard, introduced in March 1996, again was offered as a hardtop sedan only. It was based on the Y33 Gloria and Cima chassis. It wasn't available in North America where the Infiniti mid-range had been taken by the Nissan Maxima-based Infiniti I30.

A 1996 Nissan Leopard rear view

A view of the interior

Infiniti Q45