Posted on March 11th, 2008 by Auto News
The affordably priced 2008 Nissan Versa compact is available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback. Both models are exceptionally spacious for their class and provide ample room in all directions for 4 passengers. Although it is a 5-passenger vehicle, that can get a little tight during long highway rides-which is where the Versa excels. Nissan has raised the quality standards associated with compact cars by providing exceptional fuel economy without sacrificing comfort and convenience. For the 2008 model year, the Versa Sedan SL gains a Sport Options Package that includes a lower body kit.
Both body styles are available as the base model 1.8 S and the more upscale 1.8 SL. The 1.8 S comes with 15-inch steel wheels, power side view mirrors, air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, a 4 speaker AM/FM/CD stereo and a split-folding rear seat. The Hatchback models also feature a, a rear windshield wiper and a cargo cover. The Versa 1.8 SL replaces the steel wheels with alloy rims, and upgrades the upholstery while adding power windows and locks, cruise control, keyless entry, a height adjustable driver seat; front and rear armrests, lots of useful storage bins and a 6 speaker audio system with MP3 capabilities and an auxiliary jack. Additional options for the 1.8 S include keyless entry and full power accessories while the 1.8 SL offers an optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system, satellite radio and a sunroof. Option packages are available for both model that include features such as Bluetooth connectivity, remote keyless entry and ignition, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. The SL can be equipped with a Sport Package, which enhances its sporty appearance with a rear spoiler, side sill extensions and an extended front fascia with fog lights.
The Nissan Versa is front wheel drive and comes equipped with a 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine that is rated for 122 horsepower. The standard transmission is a 6 speed manual, however a 4 speed automatic is optional for the 1.8 S and the 1.8 SL can be equipped with a continuously variable transmission. Gas mileage estimates are appreciated by the frugal, with the Versa coming in at 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The 2008 Nissan Versa incorporates advanced safety, technology and performance attributes to deliver a smooth ride. The Versa’s high quality materials and abundance of features rival some of the more expensive mid size sedans and helps make this fuel efficient compact a commuters dream car.
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Posted on March 11th, 2008 by Auto News
The 2008 Nissan Xterra offers brisk performance on the street, but this truck-based, midsized SUV was specifically designed for off-road use. Though in concept all SUVs are supposed to offer some off road ability, many simply look athletic while their car based platforms are geared toward everyday use on paved roads and filled with plenty of comfort and convenience features. This is not the case for the daring Xterra, which focuses on off-road performance and is more than capable of handling a variety of rugged terrains thanks to its 9.5 inches of ground clearance, a push button locking rear differential and extra low range gearing. The Xterra does not receive any mechanical changes for the 2008 model year, but does get a few new standard features and a new Technology Options Package that includes Bluetooth and a Rockford Fosgate audio system.
This 5-passenger SUV is available in 4 trims-the X, S, SE and Off Road. The first 3 models in the lineup are offered in both 2WD and 4WD, while the Off Road is 4WD only. The entry level Xterra X comes standard with 16 inch steel wheels, remote keyless entry, an AM/FM/CD stereo system and power windows, door locks and side view mirrors. The S replaces the steel wheels with alloy rims and adds step rails, an adjustable driver seat and an easy to clean cargo area enhanced with 10 utility hooks, each of which can hold up to 110 pounds, and an adjustable channel system in the floor that makes it easier to safely and securely stow your gear. The SE includes 17 inch alloy wheels, an upgraded interior, auto dimming rear view mirror, Bluetooth and a 9 speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system with steering wheel mounted controls. The Off-Road model features high-performance gas shock absorbers, special tires and wheels; skid plates, a locking rear differential and a fold flat front passenger seat. Purchasing the Technology Package for the Off Road model will add most of the creature features found on the SE.
All Xterras are powered by a 261 horsepower, 4.0 liter V6 engine. A 6 speed manual transmission is standard, while a 5-speed automatic is optional for all with the exception of the SE, which comes standard with the automatic transmission. Horsepower and torque are both generous for a midsize SUV and a 4WD Xterra can go from 0 to 60 in just 7.6 seconds. To provide maximum flexibility, the Xterra’s 4WD system features low range gearing and is enhanced with a multimode transfer case that permits both 2WD and automatic 4WD modes. EPA estimates for models equipped with the manual transmission come in at 16 MPG in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
The 2008 Nissan Xterra may not be as refined as many of the other 5 passenger SUVs and cross-overs on the market today, but the ride is comfortable enough for daily use, power is ample and its precise steering makes it fairly easy to maneuver. What it lacks in refinement can be found in its extraordinary off-road capabilities and intuitive features such as electronic hill descent control, which monitors and adjusts the speed at which the Xterra bounds down steep hills, and hill start assist, which prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when started on a hill. Anyone on a budget that is craving an adventurous SUV will find the affordably priced 2008 Nissan Xterra to be an excellent choice both on and off the highway.
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Posted on March 10th, 2008 by Auto News
Anti-lock brakes were added to the standard equipment list of all Altima’s this year, but the big news is the debut of the 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe as the brand new and distinctive partner of the popular Altima Sedan. In addition to the Coupe’s smaller proportions, it distinguishes itself from the Sedan with its unique body panels, exterior trim, sport tuned suspension and aggressively bolstered sport style seats. The front wheel drive Coupe is available in 2 styles-the perky 4-cylinder 2.5 S and the even livelier 3.5 SE, which is equipped with a 6 cylinder engine. Although the appearance and performance of the Coupe differ from the Sedan in many ways, they do share the same set of engine and transmission choices.
The model numbers are indicative of the engine size, with the 2.5 S being equipped with a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine that delivers 175 horsepower; while a 270 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 powers the 3.5 SE. A choice of either a 6 speed manual transmission or arguably one of the industry’s best continuously variable transmissions is available for both models. A 2.5 S equipped with the manual transmission has impressive acceleration and goes from 0 to 60 in just over 6 seconds.
Both models have an appealing and well equipped cabin. The base model 2.5 S has an abundance of features that are highlighted by 16-inch steel wheels, chrome tipped dual exhaust, remote keyless entry and start, air conditioning, full power accessories, trip computer and a 9 speaker Bose audio system. The 3.5 SE switches out the wheels for a set of 17-inch aluminum rims, and keeps adding to the standard features list with fog lights, sport tuned suspension system, power side view mirrors with turn signals, and a power operated sliding/tilt moon roof. Many additional and popular features are can be added to both models by purchasing one or more of the specially designed options packages, though they tend to be a bit pricey.
Aside from the expensive and available as package only options, the 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe is an attractive and versatile option in the crowded midsize segment, delivering a smooth ride and room for 5 passengers with a rear seat that accommodates three in a pinch, but would be more suitable for use on short trips by 2 adults. The Altima Coupe differentiates itself within the midsize segment by successfully bringing forth a gripping blend of chic style, practicality and sport that stands out amongst the competition.
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Posted on March 4th, 2008 by Auto News
Although a Coupe version of the Altima joined the lineup this year, the 2008 Altima Hybrid is available in Sedan body style only and only sold in a few Northeastern States and California. The industry respected engineering and design technology that is the foundation of the successful Altima line is combined with Toyota’s patented Hybrid Synergy Drive technology to create the environmentally friendly and fuel efficient Altima Hybrid. Power is provided by a modified version of the Altima’s 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine paired with an exceptional continuously variable transmission, which works in conjunction with a battery powered electric motor to produce an impressive 198 horsepower. It can run on one or both of its power sources to accommodate various driving conditions to optimize power and fuel economy. After just completing its first complete model year, there have been no significant changes to this exciting, inviting, ozone preserving midsize sedan for the 2008 model year.
The 5 passenger Altima Hybrid features high quality materials, and a refined fit and finish. Standard equipment includes 16 inch wheels, keyless ignition and entry, dual zone automatic climate control, a tilt/telescoping steering column, a power adjustable driver seat, velour upholstery and a 6 speaker audio system with a CD player and auxiliary jack. There are several options packages available, including the Convenience Package which will add automatic headlights, a rear spoiler, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and an auto up/down passenger window. The best gas mileage is achieved in the city, as the Altima Hybrid gets 35 mpg in the city - quite an increase over its gasoline engine model mates-but only 33 mpg on the highway, which is not much greater than the mileage achieved with the gasoline engine models.
The Altima Hybrid has a sporting style, but is not really a high performance vehicle. Yet, it can hold its own very well in the acceleration and handling departments. The 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid’s seamlessly integrated hybrid system presents a stylish and viable alternative to those who seek midsize car practicality and upscale materials and wish to support hybrid technology almost anonymously by driving a sedan that really looks and feels like a ‘regular’ sedan.
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Posted on March 4th, 2008 by Auto News
The 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan continues to exquisitely combine the sport performance, high quality engineering, practicality and comfort of an upscale 5-passenger sedan that has helped its predecessors rise above and become one of the most popular midsize sedans in America. This year, the Altima Sedan is joined by a Coupe version that shares the same powertrains with the Sedan, although the Sedan has a longer wheel base and increased length. Also new this year is the addition of anti-lock brakes to the standard equipment list for all Altima’s.
The front wheel drive Altima Sedan is available as the 2.5, 2.5 S, 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL. The entry level 2.5 comes with 16 inch wheels, keyless entry/start, full power accessories, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, a split/folding rear seat. The 2.5 S adds a CD player with MP3 input jack, air-conditioning, intermittent wipers and a trip computer. The sportier 3.5 SE features 17-inch alloy wheels, an enhanced suspension system, automatic headlights, power folding side view mirrors with turn signals, a power driver seat, wood tone accents and a leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. The luxurious 3.5 SL is fully loaded with 16-inch alloy wheels; xenon HID headlights, heated leather seats, a moon roof, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, an auto dimming rearview mirror, and a Bose audio system with CD changer and satellite radio.
The Altima Sedan lineup features a 2.5 liter inline 4-cylinder engine to power the 2.5 and 2.5 S, while the 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL are equipped with a 3.5 liter V6. The 2.5 is available with a 6 speed manual transmission only and the 3.5 SL comes only with a continuously variable transmission. The 2.5 S and the 3.5 SE can be configured with either the manual or continuously variable transmission. Both engines are quick, and when equipped with the continuously variable transmission the peppy 175 horsepower 2.5 liter engine goes from 0 to 60 in under 7.5 seconds, while the 270 horsepower 3.5 liter does it in 6.2. EPA estimates are surprisingly good considering the power output, with 4 cylinder models rated at 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway and the V6 coming in at 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway-regardless of transmission choice.
The 5 Star Safety Rated 2008 Nissan Altima Sedan’s dynamic handling and intuitively designed cabin offer a good amount of driving excitement and a smooth, comfortable ride-making it one of the better options for a mid size family car with sporting potential.
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Posted on February 28th, 2008 by Auto News
Freshened styling and more available features mark the updates for the 2008 Nissan Armada. This full-size SUV arrived this year sporting a new pair of headlamps as well as a new grille; a more refined and functionally designed cabin and a few new high tech features. It is available in 2 trims that each come in either rear wheel drive or 4 wheel drive configurations. Both the SE and LE trims come with 2nd and 3rd row bench seats and will comfortably seat 8 passengers, though if you can live with room for 7, a no cost upgrade to 2nd row captains chairs is available. With fuel prices at a premium and true sport utility increasing the bottom line with its associated costs, only those who can truly appreciate and make use of the Armada’s impressive towing, hauling and 8 passenger transportation capabilities should be considering this hard working SUV.
The roomy and capable Armada SE comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, an auto dimming rear view mirror, a power adjustable driver seat, power adjustable pedals, power windows, mirrors and door locks; front and rear controlled dual zone climate control, and an 8-speaker audio system with CD changer and MP3 capability. The upscale LE replaces the 18 inch rims with 20 inch alloy wheels, a power lift gate, keyless start, power adjustable and heated front seats with leather upholstery, and a premium 10 speaker Bose audio system with satellite radio. Most of the LE’s features are available as options for the SE. Additional options include a rear seat DVD entertainment system, a sun roof, a power fold feature for the 3rd row seat, Bluetooth connectivity, auto dimming side view mirrors and a navigation system that includes the ability to store digital music on its 9 gig internal hard drive.
Robust power is provided to the entire Armada lineup via its 317 horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine that is available with or without a flex fuel option. Both 2WD and 4WD versions come with a 5 speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is disappointing, even for this gas gobbling class, with EPA estimates of 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. The strength of the powertrain is amongst the best in its class though, as when properly equipped the Armada can tow up to 9100 pounds.
Undeniably, the 2008 Nissan Armada is very capable and roomy under a variety of circumstances and it is priced below similarly equipped models in its class. However, with an increasing amount of smaller, more fuel efficient cross overs and smaller SUV’s satisfying the majority of an American family’s daily driving requirements, unless you need its super sized cabin and heavy duty towing features purchasing a 2008 Nissan Armada would not be an economically wise decision.
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Posted on February 27th, 2008 by Auto News
The 2008 Nissan Frontier midsize pickup truck offers a well balanced blend of practicality, versatility and innovation. Both a King Cab and a Crew Cab are available for your choice of a 4×2 or 4×4 drive train that spans 4 distinctive trims and 2 different engine and transmission choices-resulting in 26 available configurations of the 2008 Nissan Frontier. Such a flexible design and customizable powertrain ensure a Frontier that is well suited for the highway, off road excursions and light duty contracting.
The Frontier’s 4 distinct trims are labeled as the base XE, the well equipped SE, the feature indulgent LE and the optimized for off-road performance version known as the Nismo. Engines include a 152 horsepower 2.5 liter four-cylinder or a 261 horsepower 4.0 liter V6. 4-cylinder models can be paired to either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 engine can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. For the 2008 model year, the Frontier received some minor interior and exterior content changes that include the addition of a Technology Options Package that includes Bluetooth, a security system and an upgraded audio system that includes satellite radio and an auxiliary jack.
For those who do not need the utility of a full size pick up, the Frontier provides a compact to midsize alternative that ranks amongst the best in its class thanks to its strong disposition, intelligent and attractive interior and exterior design, and abundance of power. The entry level XE only features the most basic standard equipment which is highlighted by 15-inch steel wheels and bucket seats and cloth upholstery. The SE replaces the 15-inch wheels with 16-inch steel rims and adds air conditioning, a sliding rear window and a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system. Option packages are available specific to the 4 cylinder XE and the 6-cylinder SE that include full power accessories, a choice of 2 or 4 wheel limited slip differentials, keyless entry, a bed extender and 16 inch alloy wheels.
Both the LE and the Nismo come with most of what would be found in a fully loaded SE and adds fog lights, a bed liner, leather wrapped steering wheel and an Utili-trak bed channel system. The LE features 17-inch wheels, side step running boards and a power adjustable driver seat. The Nismo’s unique standard features list includes Bilstein off road shocks, rough terrain tires; skid plates an electronic locking rear differential. A Traction Options Package is available for both the LE and the NIsmo and offers stability control, hill start assistance, hill descent control and a 4 wheel limited slip differential for the LE, which comes standard on the Nismo.
Whether you need a light duty work truck at an affordable price, a specially equipped off road vehicle or a powerhouse pickup featuring smooth shifts, nimble handling and a surprisingly smooth highway ride, chances are there is a reliable 2008 Nissan Frontier to meet your needs and make you smile.
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Posted on February 27th, 2008 by Auto News
The 2008 Nissan Maxima is a capable and comfortable midsize sedan with an abundance of high quality materials and premium feature content. This 5 passenger sedan is available in 2 very accommodating front wheel drive trims, but unfortunately the Maxima does not stand out or excel in any particular area in the overcrowded midsize sedan category and comparably equipped models from other manufacturers tend to cost less . However, even without any significant changes for the 2008 model year, the Maxima still offers a sporty aggressive look, plenty of power, agile handling and plenty of standard features.
The Maxima is available in the sport oriented 3.5 SE trim and the extravagantly equipped 3.5 SL. The 3.5 SE comes standard with 18 inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, side skirts, a fixed position glass paneled roof, keyless entry and start; a power driver seat, dual zone automatic climate control, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and an 8 speaker stereo with a CD player and an auxiliary jack. With an emphasis on luxury, the 3.5 SL gives up the SE’s athleticism for 17 inch wheel that provide a more cushioned ride, and adds heated leather seats, heated side view mirrors, a power adjustable front passenger seat and a premium Bose audio system with satellite radio and in dash 6 CD/MP3 changer. You can add bi-xenon headlamps, rear park assist, a power tilt-telescoping steering column, driver seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors memory functions; heated steering wheel; Bluetooth and power-folding and auto-dimming outside mirrors to either trim by purchasing the Platinum Edition Options Package. The only a la carte options are a power sunroof and a navigation system; otherwise creature comforts are bundled together in rather expensive options packages.
Nissan’s award winning 3.5 liter VQ series V6 and Xtronic continuously variable transmission combine to power both the 3.5 SE and the 3.5 SL, resulting in an impressive 0-60 time of just 7 seconds and capable of delivering up to 255 horsepower. Gas mileage estimates are about average for its class, with EPA estimates of 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. A superbly engineered traction control system and responsive steering add to enjoyment of driving the Maxima.
The 2008 Nissan Maxima is one of several respectable sedans that offer a nice combination of performance, interior space and luxury. It’s standard V6 engine and well balanced suspension deliver a smooth and comfortable ride and should be on the test drive list if you are in the market for full featured midsize sedan.
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Posted on February 27th, 2008 by Auto News
The sleek lines and intricate detailing of the 2008 Nissan Quest have helped it one of the most distinctive minivans on the market today. Complimenting its attractive appearance is a powerful engine and responsive suspension that enable the Quest to offer a more dynamic driving experience than most others in its class. With the exception of a few changes and additions to the standard equipment list, the 2008 Nissan Quest remains the same as the previous model year.
Healthy acceleration to all Quest trims is provided by a 3.5 liter V6 engine that delivers 240 horsepower. This front wheel drive minivan comes standard with a 5 speed automatic transmission and can tow up to 3500 pounds. EPA estimates are a respectable 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
All 4 Quest trims comes standard with a wide range of safety features, including curtain airbags for all three rows, active head restraints, electronic stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and a tire-pressure monitor. The base model 3.5 comes with remote keyless entry, dual sliding doors, cruise control, power windows, mirrors and door locks and an 8 speaker sound system with steering wheel mounted controls. The 3.5 S also includes a backup sensor; a power operated sliding right door, a power lift gate, power rear vent windows and an in-dash six-disc CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary jack. The upscale 3.5 SL adds heated mirrors, a power driver seat, rear seat audio controls and power adjustable foot pedals. The top of the line 3.5 SE gets 17 inch alloy wheels, fog lights, a backup camera, dual power operated sliding doors, a sunroof, heated leather seats, a power adjustable front passenger seat and a 10 speaker Bose audios system. Additional options are based on trim level and are bundled into packages. These packages are functionally designed, yet expensive, especially if you just want one or two of the features as opposed to the full contents of the package. The 2008 Nissan Quest starts at about $25,000, but can end up costing just over $40,000 for a fully loaded model.
The 2008 Nissan Quest has a spacious and flexibly designed interior from which to enjoy the surprisingly well balanced ride. This uniquely designed minivan is worthy of consideration as a safe, reliable and luxury oriented form of transportation for a crowd or several large suitcase-or a variety of combinations of both.
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Posted on February 27th, 2008 by Auto News
The 2008 Nissan Titan 4WD has plenty of competition in the half-ton truck category the United States. Arriving this year with a well timed model refresh, the Titan differentiates itself from the other tough trucks with a uniquely appealing style and a large assortment of useful features. All Titans are available in Crew and King Cab style and have a variety of bed sizes from which to choose. The 4WD versions are available in 4 trims-the XE, SE, LE and the all new PRO-4X. In addition to the new PRO-4X trim, for the 2008 model year all Titans received a new front end, new wheels, and a redesigned interior featuring more comfortable and supportive seats and a more streamlined instrument panel. Also new this year is the availability of a longer 8-foot bed for the King Cabs and a 7-foot bed for the Crew Cabs. New options include a heated leather bench seat, satellite radio and Bluetooth.
The Titan has a head turning and athletically bold style that compliments its only engine configuration-a 5.6 liter V8 engine mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission with a tow/haul mode that delivers 317 horsepower. This winning combination delivers plenty of power on demand and offers strong 4WD performance under just about any circumstance. The exhaust system emits a throaty rumble when the throttle is depressed, yet the ride is controlled and smooth and steering is extraordinarily responsive.
All 4WD Titan trims are available in King Cab or Crew Cab models and a variety of bed lengths are available for each. The XE comes with 18-inch steel wheels, tire pressure monitor, a rear 12-volt outlet, exterior cargo light, fuel tank skid plate, air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel and an AM/FM/CD stereo. Additional standard features are found on the SE, LE and PRO-4X including alloy wheels, a sliding rear window, power windows, mirrors and door locks; a remote keyless entry system and dual heated power operated side view mirrors. Options vary by trim level and are generally bundled into options packages that include all the most popular features, such as a navigation system, and some unique ones too, like its Utili-track Bed Channel System with tie-down cleats. The 4 wheel drive PRO-4X is designed specifically for off road use with a lower gear ratio and an electronic locking rear differential, Rancho shock absorbers, fog lights, a unique 18 inch 6 spoke alloy wheels, transfer case and lower radiator skid plates and a large locking utility box in the bed behind the driver. The interior of the PRO-4X features trim exclusive embroidered seating and white faced gauges.
Overall, the 2008 Titan 4WD is a worthy competitor in the half ton truck category. It’s big and powerful with a spacious and nicely equipped interior, and within its multitude of available configurations most people will find a Titan to that will satisfy their individual work and personal needs that gets them around in robust style.
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