Autoblog

Four Wheeler crowns Ultimate Factory 4x4... who wins?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:31:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Ford, Jeep, Nissan, Toyota, Off-Road, Ram

Nearly every automaker doing business in the SUV or pickup truck segments offers a package designed to improve the off-road capabilities of its wares. But, of course, not all such factory kits are created equal. How, then, to separate the wheat from the chaff? Gather each of them up and put them through their paces, naturally.

The folks from Four Wheeler and PickupTrucks.com joined forces to run just such a comparison test, with the winner named the Ultimate Factory 4x4. A total of seven vehicles showed up to the fight: the 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, 2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2012 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X and Xterra PRO-4X, 2012 Ram Power Wagon, and 2012 Toyota 4Runner Trail and Tacoma TRD T|X Baja Series.

With the contestants in place, the whole crew put each vehicle through a battery of tests that included skidpad and acceleration measurements, a hillclimb, a rocky stairstep course and a rock garden. Considering the nature of the beasts, on-road ride and comfort were not part of the routine.

So, which four-wheeler ended up on top? Click here to read the results, and don't act like you're surprised by the victor.

Four Wheeler crowns Ultimate Factory 4x4... who wins? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan recalling select 2012 Frontier, Pathfinder and Xterra models over wheel hub fractures

Jeffrey N. Ross — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 08:46:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Government/Legal, Recalls, Safety, Nissan

The Nissan Frontier, Xterra and Pathfinder might all be rugged trucks and SUVs, but two-wheel-drive versions of these vehicles are being recalled due to front suspension components that could possibly fail. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Nissan is recalling about 2,400 of these models due to defective front wheel hubs that were installed on 2012 model-year vehicles built from June 19 through July 12.

Wheel hubs that are faulty could crack and possibly break, which could cause the vehicle to be disabled or get into an accident. NTHSA did not specify if any accidents were reported as a result of this concern, but it appears Nissan caught the problem early enough to limit any large-scale problems. To resolve this recall, Nissan is replacing both front wheel hubs on all affected two-wheel-drive Frontiers, Xterras and Pathfinders.

Nissan will start notifying affected customers on October 8, but check out NHTSA's press release below for more information.

Continue reading Nissan recalling select 2012 Frontier, Pathfinder and Xterra models over wheel hub fractures

Nissan recalling select 2012 Frontier, Pathfinder and Xterra models over wheel hub fractures originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Oct 2012 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan Xterra to continue as traditional SUV

Zach Bowman — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 18:40:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Nissan

Nissan has good news for anyone weeping about the fact that the 2013 Pathfinder has abandoned its body-on-frame ways. The company isn't completely ditching legitimate SUVs for the crossover crowd. According to Car and Driver, the Nissan Xterra will continue to shun a unibody design for the conceivable future. The magazine spoke with engineers familiar with the development of the Xterra who said the vehicle will share its DNA with the Nissan Frontier for years to come.

That means buyers will still be able to enjoy the vehicle's truckish charm and legitimate off-road chops. Those who want something a little softer or smaller can turn to the automaker's Rogue, while the 2013 Pathfinder will now offer mall-goers a suitable alternative to the Ford Explorer. The times may be changing, but for now, the Xterra isn't.

Nissan Xterra to continue as traditional SUV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan initiates multi-vehicle recall over faulty bolts

Steven J. Ewing — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 17:02:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, Sedan, SUV, Truck, Recalls, Safety, Crossover, Infiniti, Nissan

Nissan is recalling just over 14,700 vehicles from the 2011 and 2012 model years over faulty bolts in the engine. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "bolts that connect the engine oil cooler and the engine oil filter to the engine in these vehicles may have been manufactured to below specification strength."

Affected Nissan vehicles include the 2011-12 Pathfinder, 2011-12 Xterra, 2012 NV and 2012 Frontier. Additionally, the 2011 Infiniti FX and 2012 Infiniti M are being recalled for this issue.

The NHTSA report states that if there is an engine oil leak, pressure would drop and the engine could possibly seize. Bad news all around.

The recall is expected to kick off in mid-January, and Nissan dealers will replace the connector bolts free of charge. To read the full NHTSA report, follow the jump.

Continue reading Nissan initiates multi-vehicle recall over faulty bolts

Nissan initiates multi-vehicle recall over faulty bolts originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan SUV and pickup owners experiencing transmission failures

Zach Bowman — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Work, Nissan, Off-Road

Nissan is facing a rash of complaints about automatic transmission failures in the company's trucks and SUVs, according to The New York Times. Certain 2005-2010 Frontier, Pathfinder and Xterra models may have an issue with their radiators which could cause coolant to mix with the automatic transmission fluid. That's not supposed to happen, and it could cause premature failure. Nissan, meanwhile, has extended its warranty coverage on the radiators and any component damaged as a result of the fault, though owners say that they've been stuck with expensive transmission repair bills after the extended warranty dries up. The new coverage extends to 80,000 miles.

The NYT reports that Nissan extended its radiator coverage in October of last year after the company discovered that internal oil cooler tubes may crack and leak. The Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association, meanwhile, says that the radiator coolant tanks themselves are rupturing, which then allows the fluid to mix with coolant before being pumped back into the transmission.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received upwards of 200 complaints on the issue, though it's still unclear at this point whether or not the government agency is looking into the problem. For its part, Nissan has said that if the problem occurs on vehicles still within the 80,000 mile radiator warranty, any transmission repairs would also be included in the coverage.

Nissan SUV and pickup owners experiencing transmission failures originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2011 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X

Chris Shunk — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Nissan, New Car Reviews, Off-Road

A Bonafide SUV That Refuses To Be CUV-ified

2011 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

There was a time when body-on-frame SUVs dominated American roads, with nearly every major automaker offering some kind of four-wheeling fighter to suburbia's off-road pretenders. Nissan was no different, and at its peak in 2000, the eminently capable Xterra sold some 88,000 copies - the same year our colleagues at Motor Trend crowned it Sport Utility of the Year.

But unlike so many hardened off-roaders that have evolved into unibody crossovers, the Xterra has soldiered on nearly unchanged since its refresh in 2005. And according to our sources, this latest variant - the Pro-4X - could be the last of an orphaned breed. We got our hands on Nissan's most capable SUV for a week of highway drudgery, big-box shopping and even a little time off the beaten path to find out if it deserves to live on.

Continue reading Review: 2011 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X...

Gallery: 2011 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X: Review

Continue reading Review: 2011 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X

Review: 2011 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #220: Jeep subcompact, Smart ED, global Mustang, with Consumer Reports' John Linkov

Dan Roth — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 11:45:00 EST

Filed under: Podcasts, Etc., Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, Porsche, Smart, Electric

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Autoblog Podcast #220 is here, and Chris, Dan and Zach are joined by Consumer Reports' Jon Linkov. Topics start with the annual CR Autos issue and move on to the idea of a subcompact Jeep, the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive, a globally designed Mustang and, of course, your questions and feedback. It's an hour and fifteen minutes of fun this week - thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Autoblog Podcast #220: Jeep subcompact, Smart ED, Global Mustang, with Consumer Reports' John Linkov

In the Autoblog Garage:

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Z ach Bowman

Guests: Jon Linkov

Runtime: 01:15:10

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Autoblog Podcast #220: Jeep subcompact, Smart ED, global Mustang, with Consumer Reports' John Linkov originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan recalling 605,000 Frontier, Xterra and Sentra models over two issues

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 14:32:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, SUV, Truck, Recalls, Safety, Nissan

Nissan has issued a voluntary recall on select Frontier and Xterra models due to problems with the lower steering column joint and shaft, as well as the Sentra sedan for problems with the positive battery cable terminal. Just under 605,000 vehicles are affected by this recall, which is set to ramp up in early December.

Approximately 303,000 Frontiers and 283,000 Xterras in the United States, Canada and a number of Latin American countries can develop corrosion that limits the movement of the lower steering column joint. If this issue is overlooked, it can lead to the steering shaft cracking.

Sentras, on the other hand, have developed a problem with the connector on the positive battery cable terminal, which can cause the car to have issues starting, or can possibly result in stalling at low speeds. Approximately 18,500 Sentras manufactured between May 15, 2010 and July 8, 2010 are being recalled for this reason.

Affected model years depend on where the vehicle was manufactured, and you can see the full details in Nissan's press release, after the jump. Thanks to all for the tips!

[Sources: Nissan, CNN Money]

Continue reading Nissan recalling 605,000 Frontier, Xterra and Sentra models over two issues

Nissan recalling 605,000 Frontier, Xterra and Sentra models over two issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan joins overheating Garmin sat-nav recall

Zach Bowman — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Recalls, Safety, Technology, Nissan

2010 Nissan Versa Hatchback - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan is recalling a number of models due to overheating Garmin navigation units. Cars, trucks and SUVs equipped with Nuvi 750, 760 and 765 GPS devices are at risk for a vehicle fire due to overheating batteries in the devices. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall affects Nissan's Altima, Frontier, Pathfinder, Rogue, Sentra, Versa and Xterra models sold with the Garmin devices between 2008 and 2010. NHTSA does not say exactly how many vehicles will be effected by the defective batteries.

Garmin technicians will make the necessary repairs to the GPS units by replacing the battery with a new, less-toasty unit and adding an additional spacer between the battery and the rest of the device. The repair won't cost owners anything other than a little time and a trip to the local dealership. Nissan will notify owners directly about the recall, which is scheduled to begin sometime during this month. Suzuki is facing a similar recall, as well - these Garmin navigation units are fitted in the SX4, Grand Vitara and Equator.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan Versa Hatchback

Photos Copyright (C)2010 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

[Source: NHTSA]

Nissan joins overheating Garmin sat-nav recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Nissan Xterra, Pathfinder, Frontier and Altima pricing announced

Zach Bowman — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 19:07:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Truck, Nissan, Off-Road

2011 Nissan Xterra - Click above for high-res image gallery

You can quit biting your nails waiting for Nissan to unveil pricing information on the 2011 Pathfinder, Xterra, Frontier and Altima. The company has just announced that, starting next year, the Pathfinder will start at $27,840 for the two-wheel drive, V6 S model. That marks a $300 increase over the 2010 version. Topped out, the SUV will set you back $42,600 for the four-wheel drive V8 LE.

Meanwhile, the base, two-wheel drive Xterra X commands an MSRP of $23,850, which is about $1,100 more than the outgoing model. Option up to the range-topping four-wheel drive PRO-4X with an automatic gearbox, and you can expect to hand over $30,100 of your hard-earned cash.

If a pickup is more your flavor, Nissan will let you hop into a Frontier S King Cab two-wheel drive for $17,750, though the topped-out SL Crew Cab with four-wheel drive, long-wheelbase chassis and a V6 engine coupled to a five-speed automatic gearbox will cost significantly more at $31,630.

Finally, the company has priced the 2011 Nissan Altima sedan at $19,900 when equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a CVT gearbox. Look to pay $22,940 for the Altima Coupe and $26,780 for the hybrid sedan.

None of the prices above include destination, so you can expect things to be just a bit more expensive by the time you leave the dealer lot with keys in hand. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: 2011 Nissan Xterra

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading 2011 Nissan Xterra, Pathfinder, Frontier and Altima pricing announced

2011 Nissan Xterra, Pathfinder, Frontier and Altima pricing announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Sep 2010 19:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan Xterra not long for this world?

Chris Paukert — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Nissan, Off-Road

2010 Nissan Xterra - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan's Xterra, a throwback to when all SUVs were red in tooth and claw, may be swinging on the gallows sooner rather than later. According to Ward's Auto, the gloriously upright off-roader faces an uncertain future amidst slumping sales and ever-tightening federal fuel economy regulations.

Ward's data indicates that the Xterra has sold just 12,186 units through July, and even that modest figure is well ahead of last year's glacial pace brought about by the stagnant economy. By comparison, Nissan shipped 88,578 new Xterras off to owners in 2000.

The Xterra hasn't received more than modest changes since its redesign back in 2005, and although Nissan's vice president of advanced product and product planning and stategy, Larry Dominique, says the automaker will try to build the SUV '"as long as we possibly can," there isn't a redesign in sight.

Despite the Xterra's likely demise, Ward's says that the Xterra's mid-size kin, the Frontier pickup and Pathfinder, don't appear to be going anywhere, though Dominique seemingly hints that the latter could continue on in a new form, saying "Pathfinder will live on... how it will live on, wait to see. There's no reason to get rid of a three-row crossover or SUV." Could Nissan be pondering a shift to a car-based Pathfinder, like the 2011 Ford Explorer and the forthcoming Dodge Durango? We should know within the year.

Gallery: 2011 Nissan Xterra

[Source: Ward's Auto]

Nissan Xterra not long for this world? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AP: Nissan to recall 48k trucks, SUVs over potential suspension issue

Chris Shunk — Wed, 19 May 2010 16:20:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Recalls, Safety, Infiniti, Nissan

The Associated Press is reporting that Nissan will recall 48,700 trucks and SUVs for a suspension problem that could lead to an unforgiving ride. The recall, which could officially begin as early as this week, involves the 2010 Nissan Titan, Pathfinder, Armada and Xterra, along with the Infiniti QX56. The recall is related to a suspension control link that may not have been welded properly. If the weld is insufficient, the bushing collar could crack, leading to the kind of ride that bruises kidneys and rattles fillings.

Nissan spokesman Colin Price reported to the AP that the company is working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to get the recall processed as quickly as possible. Once a recall is officially announced, Nissan will provide a fix at no cost to the customer. No accidents have been reported as a result of this potential issue.

[Source: The Associated Press]

AP: Nissan to recall 48k trucks, SUVs over potential suspension issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 May 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan recalls 2010 Pathfinder, Xterra models over potential airbag faults

Chris Shunk — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Government/Legal, Safety, Nissan

Have you ever been in the middle of a repair when the service manual called for a nut to be torqued to a very specific specification, except you didn't have a torque wrench? If this scenario sounds familiar to you, we're guessing "tight enough" may ring a bell as well. But the fact of the matter is that torque tools exist for a reason; a lesson even automakers need to learn from time to time.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced the recall of 4,038 2010 model year Nissan Pathfinder and Xterra SUVs due to defective fasteners securing the passenger front air bag module and the steering shaft positioning bracket. The problem? The fasteners weren't torqued to the correct specification. In the event of a crash, the poorly torqued fasteners may cause the passenger front airbag to deploy at an imperfect trajectory. And since airbags literally explode in the event of an accident, imperfect trajectory could lead to potentially serious injuries. Luckily for Nissan and its customers, the problem was caught relatively early. NHTSA says defective models were built between February 22 and March 13.

To remedy the problem, Nissan dealers will inspect the steering column and passenger front airbag fasteners, properly tightening or replacing loose or missing fasteners. The recall is expected to officially begin in April, and if you are unsure whether your Pathfinder or Xterra is affected by the recall, you can call Nissan at 1-800-647-7261. Hit the jump to read over the NHTSA press release.

[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading Nissan recalls 2010 Pathfinder, Xterra models over potential airbag faults

Nissan recalls 2010 Pathfinder, Xterra models over potential airbag faults originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan recalls 540,000 vehicles for brake pedal pin, fuel gauge problems

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:23:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, SUV, Truck, Recalls, Safety, Nissan

Another day, another recall. This time Nissan is the automaker in question, recalling a total of 539,864 vehicles due to faulty brake pedal pins and fuel gauge components.

Nissan reports that three instances have been reported where brake pedal pins have partially disengaged, resulting in a loss of normal braking ability. Additionally, the fuel gauges in certain higher-mileage vehicles may incorrectly indicate the amount of fuel in the tank. The automaker sites that no accidents or injuries have been reported with either issue, and that all of its new vehicles currently on sale are not affected by these problems.

Vehicles affected by the brake pedal pins are the 2008-2010 Nissan Titan, Armada, Quest and Infiniti QX56. Of those recalled brake pins, 178,916 are in the United States and 25,869 in other markets. As for the fuel gauge inaccuracies, this affects 2005-2008 Nissan Titan, Armada and Infiniti QX56, as well as any Nissan Frontier, Pathfinder and Xterra models produced between January and March of 2006 or between October 2007 and January 2008. This accounts for 418,865 vehicles in the U.S. and 53,253 elsewhere in the world.

Beginning this month, Nissan will be notifying all owners of the vehicles in question, and they will be able to bring the vehicles to any Nissan or Infiniti dealer to have the problems repaired at no charge. For vehicles affected by the fuel gauge issues, Nissan recommends that in the mean time owners maintain a fuel level of no less than a half-tank. Hit the jump for the full details in Nissan's press release.

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan recalls 540,000 vehicles for brake pedal pin, fuel gauge problems

Nissan recalls 540,000 vehicles for brake pedal pin, fuel gauge problems originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan recalls nearly 250,000 Xterras, Pathfinders and Frontiers

Chris Shunk — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 07:58:00 EST

Filed under: Government/Legal, Safety, Nissan

Nissan is recalling 242,720 model years 2005-2009 Xterras, Pathfinders, and Frontiers for faulty Crash Zone Sensors (front) that may prevent front airbags from deploying in an accident. The recall is Nissan's second airbag sensor-related issue in the past three months. The last recall involved passenger cars including the Altima. This particular recall mainly effects vehicles sold in the northern half of the U.S. where heavy salt usage during winter months can corrode the crash sensor. The corrosion can then cause sensor interruption, which will cause the air bag warning light to illuminate.

To fix the problem, Nissan will replace the faulty sensors with an improved sensor. Owners of 2005-2009 Xterras, Pathfinders and Frontiers that live outside of the States where the recall is in effect will receive a 10-year extended warranty on the Crash Zone Sensors. Nissan hasn't yet set a timetable for the recall, but if your air bag warning illuminates, we'd suggest heading to your neighborhood Nissan dealer right away to get it fixed. Hit the jump to see if you live in one of the states affected by the recall. Thanks for the tip, Owen!

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Nissan recalls nearly 250,000 Xterras, Pathfinders and Frontiers

Nissan recalls nearly 250,000 Xterras, Pathfinders and Frontiers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan reveals updated Xterra and Frontier for 2009

John Neff — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Nissan

Click either image to view high-res galleries

Though sales of pickups and SUVs are falling, these vehicles still need to be updated from time to time. That time is the 2009 model year for Nissan Xterra SUV and Frontier pickup. The Japanese automaker has revealed that both models will be getting their front ends tweaked, along with new wheel options and optional Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights built into the roof rack of the dam of the Xterra. The Frontier line will also get beefed up with a new PRO-4X off-road model (not shown yet, images coming later). The instrument panel of both models has also been upgraded with new displays and switchgear and new upholstery options for the seats. Nissan has also decided to make most of the Xterra's optional Technology package, including a Rockford Fosgate sound system, XM satellite radio, Bluetoth, redundant steering wheel controls and an iPod jack, standard equipment for 2009. It appears most of these changes are cosmetic, trim and equipment related, as no mechanical upgrades are listed except for the arrival of the Frontier PRO-4X model and its heavier duty hardware. In these times when development funds are being diverted to more fuel efficient offerings rather than trucks and SUVs, fans of the Xterra and Frontier should be pleased Nissan changed anything at all. Check out our high-res galleries below that also includes a pic of each interior, and we'll be adding more images as soon as Nissan makes them available.

Gallery: 2009 Nissan Xterra

Gallery: 2009 Nissan Frontier

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan reveals updated Xterra and Frontier for 2009

Nissan reveals updated Xterra and Frontier for 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan announces pricing on 2007 trucks and SUVs

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 06 Sep 2006 09:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Nissan

Another year is approaching and, on its impending arrival, Nissan released new figures for its current lineup of pickups and sport utility vehicles.

But before we douse you with the bloated figures that make up anything with optional four-wheel drive, a note about the Versa. Nissan's fuel-miser will get an additional $100 stuck onto its sticker price, due to, well, we don't know why, just because. The 1.8-liter, six-speed equipped "S" model will come in at $12,550, with an automatic tranny setting you back an additional $800. The SL model with a stick comes in at $13,350, while the automatic will have an MSRP of $14,550. Add a CVT to the mix and tack on another grand.

Now, onto the big boys.

Continue reading Nissan announces pricing on 2007 trucks and SUVs

Nissan announces pricing on 2007 trucks and SUVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Sep 2006 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flipped off! 2006 SUV rollover resistance improves greatly, says NHTSA

Chris Paukert — Thu, 01 Jun 2006 07:03:00 EST

Filed under: Trends, SUV, Government/Legal, Safety, Crossover

According to a new National Highway Traffic Safety Administration brief, SUVs are getting smarter about turning turtle. By its count, around seven out of every ten SUVs contain electronic stability control programs, reducing the likelihood of rollovers. In fact, nearly 70 percent of 2006 model year SUVs have it as standard fit-an impressive leap over last year's 43 percent. In fact, this bit of silicon trickery has led to no fewer than 39 models obtaining a four star rollover resistance rating. Of course, the increasing crop of car-based crossovers (and their attendant lower centers of gravity) likely has something to do with the higher scores as well.

Among this year's four-star class: Chevrolet's HHR (inexplicably classified as an SUV due to its flat load floor), Hyundai Tucson, Honda Pilot, and Suzuki's Grand Vitara, which is currently rolling around in the Autoblog Garage.

Chief SUV rollover risk were the Nissan Xterra 4x4 (25 percent chance of rollover), Chevrolet Tahoe 4x2 and Hummer H3 (24 percent chance)... but even these rated well enough to obtain three-star ratings.

Check out the link for more results.

[Sources: Car & Driver; Volvo]

Flipped off! 2006 SUV rollover resistance improves greatly, says NHTSA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Jun 2006 07:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan to Texans: "Our trucks are tough, too!"

John Neff — Thu, 06 Apr 2006 14:33:00 EST

Filed under: Truck, Marketing/Advertising, Nissan

It seems that full-size trucks must first curry the favor of Texans before they can court the rest of this country's citizenry. Dodge introduced its Ram Mega Cab Dually in the state and Ford unleashed its 2007 Expedition on unsuspecting Texans attending this year's Houston Auto Show. Toyota has eschewed any showmanship and will just build its new XXL Tundra in San Antonio.

Nissan has chosen to combat its less than stellar Titan sales by putting on a show in Bridgeport, Texas in order to demonstrate how tough its full-size pickups and SUVs can be. The Japanese company built an off-road course in a rock quarry recently purchased by the town that contained rock climbs, descents, water obstacles, rugged terrain and more. They then gave 80 journalists keys to the Titan and Frontier pickups and Xterra SUV and stood back... way back. We've yet to see any articles emerge from the media event, so we'll have to wait and see how many journalists the company converted.

[Source: Nissan]

Nissan to Texans: "Our trucks are tough, too!" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Apr 2006 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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