Nissan Announces Nine Models for Tokyo Auto Salon Including Juke Sporty and Leaf Aero Concept

At the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2011 with NAPAC (Japan Car Parts and Aftermarket Promotion Association), to be held from January 14 to 16, Nissan, together with Autech Japan and its in-house NISMO performance division, will premiere a total of nine vehicles.

Highlights will include the zero-emission LEAF Aero Style Concept equipped with a futuristic looking bodykit and matching alloy wheel designs, and a special version of the Juke fitted with exterior accessories designed for the European and North American market models.

Autech Japan will showcase three vehicles, including the Elgrand Rider Premium Concept, which is the JDM version of the N.A. Quest minivan, the customized Serena Rider and the March-Based Bolero (Micra for those outside Japan).

Finally, NISMO will present its new production race car, the GT-R RC, alongside the tuned 355HP Fairlady Z (370Z) and the GT-R racecar that competed in the 2010 SUPER GT series.

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Nissan GTR V-Spec Officially Unveiled

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced a new limited-production Nissan GT-R SpecV model, which goes on sale at specially selected Nissan dealers throughout Japan on coming February 2, 2009. The new supercar GT-R SpecV marker specifically for the enthusiast drivers who desire race car-level performance in a street-legal vehicle.

This supercar had been developed around the multi-dimensional Nissan GT-R sports car, which was introduced just more than one year ago.The GT-R SpecV’s exterior features include a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts.Inside, the SpecV’s unique two-seat interior make by special Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats, while carbon fiber insets embellish the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.

Meanwhile,nissan also improve on the performance whereby this supercar is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine’s twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration. Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.

The GT-R SpecV also will be more lighten by equipped with racing-style forged aluminum wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by NISMO since September 2008.

2008 Nissan Nismo 350Z coming to New York, sales start in the US in July

Nissan’s stunning Nismo 350Z will be available for the first time in the US market with sales starting in July. Like its recently introduced Japanese counterpart, the American version retains the stock 3.5 V6 that produces 306Hp but it gets a full aerodynamics package resembling that of the Super GT Zs with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with underbody diffuser and a rear wing. Other features include revised suspension, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear callipers, gunmetal gray alloys and a new… “rhythm & bass” exhaust. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see a high-res image gallery and the official press release

PRESS RELEASE: At a Glance: 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z

For the first time ever in the Nissan Z’s 37-year history, a high-performance NISMO 350Z is part of the extensive Z lineup. The new 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z features an extensively developed list of unique equipment – including a special body package and improved handling equipment. This new model, the fifth in the 2007 350Z Coupe lineup, is available with a 6-speed manual transmission only.

The most striking visual feature of this special vehicle is the NISMO aerodynamics package, which strongly resembles the Super GT championship winning Zs. Featuring an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with underbody diffuser and a rear wing, the NISMO 350Z produces additional aerodynamic downforce to provide enhanced cornering and handling performance.

Special consideration is given during assembly of the NISMO 350Z – structural rigidity is enhanced by the use of additional body welds to the already rigid 350Z body and additional supports have been added front and rear. The NISMO 350Z also utilizes special body dampers mounted in the front radiator core support and the rear cargo area, which assist in controlling body vibrations.

Additional performance features include a specially tuned independent multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8-inch front and 12.7-inch rear rotors) and special NISMO-branded gunmetal gray RAYS super lightweight forged-alloy wheels (18x9-inch front and 19x10-inch rear with 245/40WR18 front, 265/35WR19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires). A special NISMO-branded tuned exhaust adds an even more authoritative tone to the Z’s 306-horsepower V6 engine.

The 2007 NISMO 350Z is scheduled to go on sale in July 2007.

Highlights of the 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z include:

Body:

• NISMO aerodynamics package, including front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, rear fascia with diffuser and rear wing
• Additional body structure measures, including additional body welds and front and rear reinforcements
• Special body dampers mounted in the front radiator core support and rear cargo area
• High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon (high and low beam) headlights and LED brake lights
• Long wheelbase (104.3 inches), short overhangs and wide stance; raised rear deck for enhanced aerodynamics
• TBD coefficient of drag
• Strong, spine-like beltline anchored with large, distinctive taillights
• Aluminum hood, distinctive vertical door handles, heated outside mirrors
• Four available exterior colors – Redline Red, Magnetic Black, Silver Alloy, Pikes Peak White

Engine and Driveline

• Next-generation 3.5-liter, 24-valve DOHC V6 (VQ35HR), 306 horsepower @ 6800 RPM, 268 lb-ft of torque @ 4800 RPM
• Ram air dual intake, equal length exhaust manifold and dual exhaust system with laser-welded rear mufflers
• High compression ratio (10.6:1), 7500 rpm redline, eCVTCS (electromagnetic variable exhaust cam timing), twin knock sensors, improved cooling and stiffer engine block structure, small pitch silent cam chain
• NISMO-branded tuned dual exhaust with chrome exhaust tips
• 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission
• Front engine/rear-wheel drive
• Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) driveshaft

Suspension, Steering and Braking

• NISMO-tuned 4-wheel independent multi-link suspension with use of lightweight aluminum components
• Brembo power-assisted vented 4-wheel disc brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8-inch front and 12.7-inch rear rotors), 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD)
• NISMO-branded gunmetal gray RAYS super lightweight forged-alloy wheels, 18x9-inch front and 19x10-inch rear
• Large diameter front and rear stabilizer bars
• Vehicle speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD)
• Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)

Interior Features

• Unique black cloth seats with red inserts
• Red stitching throughout the interior
• Special NISMO white-faced tachometer
• Serialized NISMO-etched aluminum plaque mounted on the center console
• Driver-oriented two-passenger interior environment with a combination of classic and cutting-edge sports car interior design
• 3-bay gauge pods – similar to the original 240Z design
• Specially shaped driver’s seat (different from passenger design) to hold the body firmly
• 8-way manual driver’s seat/4-way manual passenger’s seat
• Standard automatic temperature control
• Lockable rear luggage box behind passenger seat
• Center console with aluminum trim
• Power windows with auto one-touch up and down, power door locks
• Aluminum pedals
• HomeLink® Universal Transceiver

Safety and Security

• Nissan Advanced Air Bag System
• 3-point ALR/ELR seatbelts (driver’s seatbelt ELR only)
• Front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
• Zone Body construction with front and rear crushable zones
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Active Head Restraints
• Standard Vehicle Security System and Immobilizer

Models and Manufacturing

• One well-equipped NISMO 350Z model

2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z Continues Tradition of Performance With Super GT Race-Inspired Styling and Features

Taking Performance One Step Further With the 2007 NISMO 350Z

For the first time ever in the Nissan Z’s 37-year history, a high-performance NISMO 350Z is part of the extensive Z lineup. The new 2007 Nissan NISMO 350Z, which makes its North American debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, features an extensively developed list of unique equipment – including a special body package and improved handling equipment. This new model, the fifth in the 2007 350Z Coupe lineup, is available with a 6-speed manual transmission only. It goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in July 2007.

NISMO, the premier supplier of high-performance aftermarket parts and accessories for Nissan vehicles in the United States since 2003, previously participated in the development of the NISMO Frontier off-road pickup truck, introduced in 2005. The NISMO 350Z is the second Nissan model to be branded with the legendary marque. Like the Frontier model, which is specially equipped for off-road excursions, the 2007 NISMO 350Z is optimized for enthusiast drivers.

"With the combination of the new VQ35HR engine found on all 2007 350Zs and NISMO performance and design enhancements, the NISMO 350Z represents the pinnacle of Nissan performance machines," said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA).

"The NISMO 350Z is the ideal package for true enthusiasts – adding a high level of aesthetic and performance enhancing equipment which is not available in the aftermarket – while retaining the reliability, durability, and comprehensive warranty found standard on every 2007 Nissan 350Z," he continued.

The most striking visual feature of this special vehicle is the NISMO aerodynamics package, which strongly resembles the Super GT championship winning Zs. Featuring an aggressive front fascia with chin spoiler, side skirts, an extended rear fascia with underbody diffuser and a rear wing, the NISMO 350Z produces additional aerodynamic downforce to provide enhanced cornering and handling performance.

Special consideration is given during assembly of the NISMO 350Z – structural rigidity is enhanced by additional body welds to the already rigid 350Z body and additional supports have been added front and rear. The NISMO 350Z also utilizes special body dampers mounted in the front radiator core support and in the rear cargo area, which assist in controlling body vibrations.

Additional performance features include a special NISMO-tuned independent multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes with four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers (with 12.8-inch front and 12.7-inch rear rotors) and special NISMO-branded gunmetal gray RAYS super lightweight forged-alloy wheels (18x9-inch front and 19x10-inch rear with 245/40WR18 front, 265/35WR19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires). A special NISMO-branded tuned exhaust adds an even more authoritative tone to the Z’s 306-horsepower V6 engine.

"The combination of aerodynamic enhancements and performance tuning adds up to a Z with enhanced cornering, steering precision and handling," said Bosley. "Every exterior and mechanical improvement made to the NISMO 350Z isn’t just for show, it’s also for performance."

Four exterior colors are available, including Redline Red, Magnetic Black, Silver Alloy and Pikes Peak White.

Inside, NISMO 350Z drivers receive special treatment with unique black cloth seats with red inserts, red stitching throughout the interior and special NISMO white-faced tachometer. All NISMO 350Zs receive a serialized NISMO-etched aluminum plaque mounted on the center console, designating its limited edition status.

The NISMO 350Z includes a full complement of 350Z standard features, including the new VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower @ 6,800 RPM and 268 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 RPM – with more than 90% of torque available between 2,000 and 7,000 RPM. Engine features include variable exhaust cam timing (eCVTCS), a 7,500 rpm rev limit and a symmetric twin ram air intake system.

The standard 6-speed manual transmission features close-ratio gearing from 1st through 5th gears for high-performance driving and an overdrive 6th speed for highway fuel economy. For performance handling, standard on the NISMO 350Z is a Traction Control System (TCS) and Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD).

Also standard is electronically-controlled vehicle speed-sensitive dual-orifice rack-and-pinion power steering system, front and rear strut tower bracing, 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, cruise control, aluminum pedals, illuminated steering wheel audio controls and auto dimming rearview mirror, power windows, 3-bay gauge cluster, High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon (high and low beam) headlights, LED taillights, Advanced Air Bag System, side and curtain side-impact supplemental air bags and Active Head Restraints.

"The NISMO 350Z is geared towards enthusiasts who want the ultimate 350Z straight from the factory performance experts,” said Bosley. “They also want a Z that makes a statement and is a testament to their love of driving."

In addition to the new NISMO 350Z, the 2007 350Z Coupe is offered in Base, Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring models. The 2007 350Z Roadster is offered in three models – Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring.

About NISMO

NISMO originated in Japan in 1984 and has established itself as the premier supplier of high-performance aftermarket parts and accessories for Nissan vehicles in Japan and, since 2003, in the United States. NISMO components in the U.S. cover three areas - NISMO "S-tune" (which are backed by Nissan’s Parts and Accessory Limited Warranty, see warranty and dealer for details), "R-tune" suited for closed-track and off-road use and NISMO apparel and lifestyle items. Also available are Legacy components for older Nissan and Datsun vehicles. R-tune and Legacy components are designated for off-highway use and are not warranted. NISMO parts are available only through participating Nissan dealers.

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2008 Nissan 350Z / Fairlady Z Nismo & 400Hp Nismo Type 380RS Competition

Now this is more like it or isn’t it? See, according to Nissan’s press release, which you can check out below, the 350Z –Fairlady Z in Japan, gets a pack load of goodies like an impressive bodykit, enhanced suspension and tires but there’s no word of any engine upgrades. Even though the Japanese version of the 2008 350Z pumps out 313Hp isn’t it a shame that this car doesn’t get a bit more power?

Anyways, along with the supped up 350Z / Fairlady Z, Nismo also presented the racing version of the car, which goes by the name Fairlady Z NISMO Type 380RS-Competition (image below). Apart from chipping away a few pounds and revising suspension & brakes, NISMO also fiddled around with Nissan’s 3.5 V6 increasing its capacity to 3.8-litres and interfering with the electronics. The upgraded VQ35HR produces 400Hp and 43,0 kgm of torque. -Thanks for the Tip!

PRESS RELEASE: Nissan 350Z / Fairlady Z Nismo: Based on the new Fairlady Z, the Version NISMO fuses NISMO's extensive racing expertise, gained through competing in SUPER GT and other race series as the Nissan works team, with the Autech Japan’s extensive experience in manufacturing completely customized vehicles. The new model provides a heightened dimension of sporty driving pleasure, backed by the Fairlady Z's renowned performance capabilities. The customl Version Nissan can be purchased at Nissan dealers nationwide and receives the same after-sales service as regular Fairlady Z models.

To help enhance driving performance, the Version NISMO’s body stiffness has been improved by increasing the welded area of the body panels and adding additional reinforcement bars and panels, among other measures. High-grip Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R tires have been adopted to absorb high input forces from the road surface. In addition, the suspension system has been totally retuned to further boost cornering performance. An optimum balance of handling and driving comfort has also been achieved by adopting Performance Dampers that effectively damp force inputs to the body.

The exterior design was developed on the basis of meticulous studies conducted by the Design Group and the Vehicle Performance Testing Group. A supercomputer was used to run design simulations based on aerodynamic data collected with SUPER GT race cars. The distinctive body form obtained as a result provides superior handling and stability, together with aerodynamic characteristics for creating effective downforce. The interior is also distinguished by its unique, premium-quality ambience, resulting from the use of exclusive metallic-looking genuine leather trim. Seats are upholstered with a perforated Alcantara center section that holds the body more firmly during sporty driving.

Technorati: Nissan+350Z, Nissan+350X+Nismo, Nissan+Fairlady+Z+NISMO, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

Nissan 350Z GT-S (380 Hp) & Murano GT-C (350 Hp) Concepts

Nissan will be showing off in many ways at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed (7-9 July) from a race winning 350Z never seen before in Europe to a couple of new, speed themed concept cars making their international debuts. The company will also be making a bid for the title of fastest vehicle at the Festival … with a Nissan Primera.

Not one but two concepts are having their first ever showing at Goodwood this year. If the press and public approve, they could be available in the not so distant future.

Murano GT-C: Taking star position on Nissan’s stand is the Murano GT-C, standing for GT Concept. Nissan GB has taken its shapely crossover 4x4 and made it even more dramatic inside and out. Exterior brightwork has been given a new darker hue and all lights have been tinted to coordinate with the Kuro Black paintwork. The Murano’s standard 18" alloy wheels have been changed for a new 22", five-spoke design. And a raised roof spoiler finishes the purposeful look. Just as striking is the GT-C’s interior which has been retrimmed using British craftsmanship and a classic colour palette but with a modern slant.

The GT-C’s drivetrain modifications are equally exciting. Under the close supervision of Nissan’s Bedfordshire based European Technical Centre, the Murano’s 234PS 3.5-litre V6 engine with seamless CVT transmission has been turbocharged to literally boost power to around 350PS. The suspension has also been modified to give the Murano a tauter feel while retaining Nissan’s electronic ALL-MODE 4x4 system. Road testing will begin after the GT-C’s next public appearance at the London Motor Show. But expect continents to shrink under its power, whatever the weather.

350Z GT-S concept: Nissan has been showing its 350Z in the Supercar Paddock for the last three years where it has attracted as much attention as cars costing up to eight times as much. This year’s entrant, called the 350Z GT-S concept, is the most special yet. The same talented team at Nissan’s Cranfield Technical Centre who tailored the current 350Z to European driving needs have taken the car another step further. And they’ve been doing it in their spare time. Supercharging takes the power output of the Z’s much loved 3.5-litre V6 engine from 300PS to 380PS, the brakes have been uprated with different discs and pads, and the suspension has been retuned to accommodate the extra power as well as increasing grip in all conditions. Which includes Goodwood’s famous hillclimb on which the 350Z GT-S concept will be making its first dynamic appearance.

The 350Z GT-S concept also sports a full body kit which has been developed to aid aerodynamics, increase down force and direct cooling air over the braking system. Wheels have been changed, too, but stick to the 18 inch diameter keeping weight to a minimum. The interior will also be going on a diet but this will be displayed at a later date.

GT500 350Z: Sticking with the 350Z, Sony Play Station GT4 gamesters will be fully aware of the 2004 Xanavi sponsored Japanese Super GT race series version which was won by a Nismo tuned Z. Now, for the first time in Europe, they will be able to see the car in action as it is being transported directly from Japan especially for Goodwood. The 2004 championship winning GT500 350Z will be piloted by champion race driver Richard Lyons – also transported from Japan. Look out for him and the car performing in the International Racing Sports Cars 1980-2006 category.

The 1999 BTCC winning Primera was the surprise second fastest car on the circuit in 2005, a remarkable achievement considering the type of machinery it was up against and the fact that the Nissan arrived at Goodwood expecting a reasonable run but more for show than go. This year however Derek Palmer (owner of the car and Pro Motorsport) and driver Anthony Reid are coming prepared.

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Nissan Navara Monster Truck

The Commercial Vehicle Show 2006 in Bermingham UK plays host to the full constellation of Nissan’s light commercial stars including the revised Kubistar, which will be making its public debut. However the most eye-catching of all will be the dynamic monster truck.

The "Rockn" Nissan NISMO Navara by RCH Designs is wrapped in Monster Energy Drink vinyl graphics by Imagic. Exterior modifications include a custom-made grille guard with winch mount and skid plate by Spencer Low Racing, custom-built front and rear fenders by Hannaman, custom exhaust system by Spencer Low Racing, Sway-A-Way remote bypass shocks added to a custom-built suspension by Spencer Low Racing, PIAA HID off-road lights, Sol-Tek HID racing light mounted on a Baja Designs light bar, Snorkel by ARB, two 9000i winches from Warn, 17-inch custom racing bead lock wheels from KMC and monster 36-inch BFGoodrich Baja TA race tyres.

Interior modifications include a Powertank portable air system, Hi-Lift jack, custom interior cage from SLR, 45 gallon racing fuel tank, four Mastercraft Rubicon racing seats with harnesses, Ignited light switches, Optima Yellow Top deep cycle battery, NISMO cold air intake and a Sony Xplod Premium Series stereo system which includes 12-speaker surround sound system, three amplifiers, and a flip up in dash LCD monitor with DVD/CD/MP3/tuner for "rockn" sounds.

Technorati Tags: Nissan+Navara, Monster+Truck, autos, auto, automotive, cars, press+release, images, pictures, auto+news