Nissan Owners Club Kenya Blog

NISSAN WINGROAD WAGON

Peter Karimi — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 07:57:00 GMT

Developed around the concept of "a stylish and practical compact wagon," the Wingroad is distinguished by the following three unique attributes that make it an attractive wagon, whether driving around town or heading off on a longer trip:

"New wagon interior space" that is reconfigurable to suit any purpose
"New wagon functionality" for convenient use
"New wagon performance" for an enjoyable driving experience

"New wagon interior space" refers to the ability of users to reconfigure the interior space by sliding and reclining the rear seats to create more leg room in the rear-seat area compared with most wagons in its class. The driver's and front passenger's seats also recline completely, allowing for even more room.

"New wagon functionality" refers to the car's many innovative and convenient features, including a simple bench seat at the rear of the luggage area and a washable luggage board. In addition, all seats, except for the driver's seat, can be folded flat by remote control.

"New wagon performance" refers to the Wingroad's enjoyable driving performance. The suspension system, which incorporates the specifications of high-end cars, is specifically tuned for wagon use to ensure a smooth, comfortable ride in both the city and on longer trips. Moreover, the combination of Nissan's MR18DE engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) delivers a powerful, sporty performance.

Wingroad Overview

1. Design

The exterior styling is both sporty and stylish in appearance while maximizing the functionality of a wagon.

The character line running along the middle of the car's body was inspired by the look of a meteor tail. The wave-like line framing the side windows give an integrated look to the cabin and the luggage area. Meanwhile, the rear-end styling conveys a strong three-dimensional look.

The Wingroad is offered in two highly distinctive versions - the standard RX/RS series and the sporty Aero series.

The interior design embodies a "low-profile and super-rounded" theme. The most prominent feature is the instrument panel with its low, rounded, sporty design that allows an open, airy interior feel.

The entire interior projects a feeling of premium quality, from the soft, supple feel of the instrument panel to the metallic finishers.

2. "New wagon interior space"

The rear seats slide fore and aft 120 millimeters and recline to ten different positions up to a maximum angle of 40 degrees, providing plenty of space for relaxing. Both the driver's seat and the front passenger's seat are fully reclinable.

With a maximum cargo capacity of 412 liters, the luggage area has more space than usual for its class. Sliding the rear seats forward creates cargo-carrying space equal to that of midsize wagons.

3. "New wagon functionality"

The remote-controlled rear seats and the front passenger's seat fold flat, allowing users to transport long items easily.

The simple bench seat provided at the rear of the luggage area can be used for a variety of purposes, including taking a short rest after surfing or changing in or out of ski boots.

Thanks to the washable luggage board, which is easily removed, transporting wet or dirty items is not a problem.

The Wingroad also features a luggage box consisting of four compartments located beneath the luggage board. On the two-wheel drive (2WD) models, the box provides storage capacity totaling 100 liters. One of the compartments is washable and easy to remove, just like the luggage board.

4. "New wagon performance"

The Wingroad is available with either an HR15DE engine or an MR18DE engine. The all-aluminum HR15DE engine features improved torque at low-to-medium speeds, quieter operation and improved fuel consumption compared with the previous Wingroad model.

The all-aluminum MR18DE engine is paired with CVT for greater torque in low- to-medium speed ranges along, also resulting in improved fuel economy.

The 1.8-liter model also features shift paddles on the steering wheel for six-speed manual shifting. This allows the driver to enjoy the pleasure of sporty driving by shifting gears manually without taking his/her hands off the steering wheel.

A strut suspension system is used at the front of the vehicle and an H-shaped torsion beam suspension system is adopted at the rear. Internal rebound springs and ripple-control shock absorbers, among other chassis technologies, provide a steady, smooth ride characteristic of a wagon. The suspension system is optimally tuned to deliver outstanding handling and stability combined with supple ride comfort.

5. Practicality

The Wingroad features numerous multifunctional storage spaces. Other practical functions include an optional side blind-spot monitor and an optional back-view monitor for enhanced visibility. The former system reduces the blind spot at the car's left front end, providing helpful visual support when parking or positioning the car along the edge of the road. The latter system displays a color view of the area behind the car on the navigation system monitor.

The Wingroad also features an optional DVD-based CARWINGS navigation system that is simple to operate and equipped with easy-to-understand menu screens. Route guidance capabilities have also been improved.

6. Safety and environmental performance

Standard safety features on all models include front-seat Active Head Restraints and dual SRS airbag systems for the driver and front passenger.

All Wingroad models are certified as super ultra-low emission vehicles (SU-LEVs*1) because they emit 75% fewer exhaust emissions than the levels required by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations. Moreover, the Wingroad's fuel economy ranks among the best in its class. Over 40 technical measures were adopted for improving fuel economy, resulting in an average improvement in practical fuel economy of more than 30% as measured under real-world driving conditions. The 18RX Aero, 18RX and 15RS models are certified as achieving Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards, and the other models attain the 2010 standards plus an additional 5%. Because of this certification, all Wingroad models qualify for tax reductions under the Green Tax program*2 in Japan.

Origin of the model name

The name Wingroad was coined by combining the words "wing" and "road" and suggests a car that can be used for driving anywhere, from the city to the great outdoors.

Autech Rider

Autech Japan, Inc., a wholly-owned Nissan affiliate, today announced the release of the Wingroad Rider, a model newly customized in conjunction with the launch of the fully redesigned Wingroad, for the Japanese market.

The Wingroad Rider features exclusive aero parts and an exclusive grille that have been adopted to create a fresh and stylish exterior design. The cabin is appointed with seat fabrics and finishers featuring a black color motif, giving the interior a sporty look of superb quality. The Rider is also fitted with exclusive tires and an exclusive sporty suspension to deliver crisp, responsive handling and a firm, comfortable ride.

The Wingroad Rider is the first domestic model to offer a factory-installed package of options comprising an exclusive HDD navigation system with an iPod®* adapter and an exclusive sound system.

Price range: Ksh. 700,000 to KSh. 850,000, including 16% VAT.

*1 The low-emission vehicle certification system of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport was inaugurated in April 2000 to encourage the penetration of low-emission vehicles through their selection by ordinary consumers. Following the adoption of the 2005 new long-term exhaust emission regulations in September 2003, the system was revised in October of that year to establish two certification categories. U-LEV certification requires an additional 50% reduction of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and non-methane hydrocarbon (NMHC) emissions from the levels mandated by the 2005 exhaust emission regulations and SU-LEV certification requires an additional 75% reduction of these exhaust gas constituents.

*2 For vehicles complying with the requirements of the Green Tax program, the automobile acquisition tax is reduced on personal-use vehicles that are newly registered by March 31, 2006 by 15,000 yen or 10,000 yen. The automobile tax is reduced by 50% or 25% for one year beginning from the next fiscal year after a vehicle is registered. However, these tax reduction measures do not apply to Autech models because they require on-site registration at a vehicle inspection and registration office.

Nissan Dualis Midsize Crossover SUV

Peter Karimi — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 07:47:00 GMT

Development of the Dualis was led by Nissan's European design and engineering centers and targeted at the demanding driving conditions of the European market. Along with its powerful exterior design, the Dualis has been engineered with driving performance in mind. Characteristics including crisp, stable handling, steering and braking, set it apart from other SUVs available on the market today.

A Strong, sporty exterior

Highlighting the new Dualis' styling is its distinctive exterior design that fuses a sporty, compact upper section with a lower portion that suggests SUV-like dynamics and stability.

In front, the bumper conveys a sporty impression and a feeling of SUV strength and protection, while the grille features the signature design of Nissan SUVs in the European market. Blue clearance lamps impart a high-tech image to the three-dimensional design of the headlamps.

A dynamic character line continues from the fender into the roof, with the wheel arches expressing SUV stability and dynamics. Sharply executed side windows are inspired by the distinct image of a crossover vehicle, while a sharp, flowing waistline suggests an athletic muscularity.

Besides their lighting function, the rear combination lamps are also designed for improved aerodynamics. A bold rear bumper appearance evokes the same protective feeling as the front.

Nissan used Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis for the first time ever in designing the Dualis body, resulting in a drag coefficient of 0.35 - one of the lowest Cd figures for an SUV.

The Dualis is offered in a choice of five body colors: Diamond Silver and four all-new colors, Urban Cement Gray, Meto Black, Café Latte Beige and Reddish Copper.

An interior designed for driving pleasure

Together with the compact body size and efficient vehicle packaging comes a relaxing interior environment and large luggage area; a wealth of comfort features are provided to create a remarkably comfortable and enjoyable interior.

The Dualis cockpit gives the driver a sense of unity with the car and a feeling of focused control. The interior design provides the optimal space for each seating position, with a raised center console giving the driver's seat a sporty cockpit feeling while imparting a sense of relaxation to the front passenger's seat.

The seats provide a stable sitting posture, even during cornering, to allow for comfortable travel with minimal fatigue on long-distance trips and supple ride comfort on various road surfaces. Increased adjustment ranges of the driver's seat and steering wheel enable drivers of varying statures to enjoy the optimum driving position. The high sitting position characteristic of an SUV and the large windshield combine to ensure excellent outward visibility with a wide, unobstructed view.

The stylish glass roof adopts 6-mm-thick laminated privacy glass with an ultraviolet (UV) ray blocking capability, and the large opening gives the interior a bright, airy feeling.

Interior appointments include a combination meter cluster with a sporty, aluminum-looking panel, round ventilation ducts, a metallic finish shift knob, and a center console box with a highly refined design reminiscent of a sports car and fitted with an armrest. Dualis 20G and 20G FOUR models have a sliding armrest. The combination of soft pad material of the instrument panel and door trim with the metallic finish of the door grips gives the interior a look and feel of superior quality.

Utility is enhanced with a number of handy storage compartments, including a large-capacity glove box with a cooler, a console box and front and rear door pockets, among others.

The air conditioning system features dual-zone temperature controls enabling the driver and front passenger to set the temperature independently for more personalized comfort. A quick blower system is also provided to achieve a comfortable interior temperature quickly, without discharging air directly into passengers' faces. An automatic air conditioning system with dual-zone temperature controls is standard on the Dualis 20G and 20G FOUR.

Dualis also comes with Nissan's HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system, featuring a touch panel screen for easier operation. In addition to navigation functionality, the system incorporates improved entertainment functions with a music box and DVD audio/video playback. A Bluetooth hands-free interface is also available as a factory-installed option.

Nissan's Intelligent Key System with improved anti-theft functionality, including electric power steering system, engine immobilizer and other deterrents linked to the ID code stored in the key fob is also available (standard on the Dualis 20G and 20G FOUR).

Also available is a side-view monitor that reduces blind spots on the car's left front side to provide helpful visual support when positioning the car alongside curbs, parking or meeting oncoming traffic on narrow roads. Another available driving convenience feature is a rearview monitor that uses a small CCD camera to take a color image of the area behind the car for display on the navigation system monitor. Both monitors are offered in a set as a factory-installed option.

Performance that provides driving comfort

The Dualis' newly developed front strut suspension and rear multi-link suspension provide outstanding handling performance combined with a smooth, comfortable ride. Shock absorbers with high-speed damping control have been adopted to enhance both handling and comfort, with rebound springs which to maintain a flat body position during cornering.

The vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power steering system varies steering feel characteristics according to driving speed. This system allows a light steering effort at low speed and provides a direct, reassuring steering feel at high speeds. In addition, the use of an electric motor for power assistance helps to reduce fuel consumption.

The car's highly rigid body achieves class-leading body stiffness. Extra effort was made to increase rear body stiffness, which is one area where the bodies of wagon-type vehicles tend to undergo large deformation.

Powering the Dualis is Nissan's MR20DE engine, renowned for its high torque at low-to-medium speeds and quiet operation. Further improvements were made to the engine to increase its power output in the practical speed range of everyday driving.

All Dualis models are fitted with Nissan's newly developed XTRONIC CVT-M6, a continuously variable transmission with a six-speed manual shift mode. A newly adopted Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) function adjusts shift timing according to the driver's personal driving style and driving environment, optimizing both performance and fuel economy.

The combination of the MR20DE engine with improved torque in the low-to-medium speed range and the new XTRONIC CVT enables Dualis to deliver class-leading response in both city and suburban driving. The car provides progressive acceleration performance comparable to that of larger 2.4-liter class vehicles.

Dualis also comes with an Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) system that achieves excellent braking capacity by optimally distributing brake force to the front and rear wheels according to the number of passengers and cargo on board. Summer tires are standard on all models for superior handling and stability.

Four-wheel drive Dualis models utilize the advanced All-Mode 4x4 system also featured on the popular Nissan X-TRAIL. This system can be switched among a 2WD mode, an AUTO mode and a LOCK mode according to driving conditions. It delivers stable, sporty driving performance and sure-footed traction on various surfaces, from on-road driving to off-road travel - even on snow-covered roads. Dualis has minimum ground clearance of 205 mm.

A Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system is available as a factory-installed option to provide stable driving performance by automatically controlling brake force and engine output. This system is activated when sideslip or another unstable vehicle behavior is detected, based on various information input, including steering angle, amount of brake pedal depression and wheel velocity sensor signals.

Among midsize SUVs, Dualis achieves best-in-class fuel economy of 14.2 km/L (2WD models) under Japan's 10-15 test mode. It also boasts class-leading fuel economy under real-world driving conditions.

Safety and Environmental Features

Among Dualis' safety and environmental features as Xenon headlamps with automatic lighting functionality (standard on 20G and 20G FOUR), LED high-mounted stop lamp, heated outside mirrors, flat blade wipers, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Anti-lock braking system (ABS), with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) system and Brake Assist.

Other systems include High-strength Zone Body construction for high safety, impact-energy-absorbing body structure for mitigating pedestrian injuries, front-seat Active Head Restraints, Dual SRS airbag systems for the driver and front passenger, SRS curtain airbag systems^*, SRS side airbag systems for the driver and front passenger^*, double pretensioner seatbelt with two-stage load limiter for the driver, pretensioner seatbelt with load limiter for the front passenger, separate rear-seat head restraints (middle-row seats only^*), three-point rear seatbelts (middle-row seats only^*).

Dualis' brake pedal construction prevents rearward pedal movement and includes an impact-absorbing pad. Dualis also has a collapsible steering column.

Dualis has been granted SU-LEV certification for all models (75% fewer emissions than Japan's 2005 exhaust emission standards). It also has met Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards, actually exceeding them by 5 percent. Also, volatile organic compounds (VOC) have been reduced from the interior materials. Dualis' clean interior environment features were developed from the three perspectives of clean air, human skin friendly and sanitary/clean.

*Available in a set as a factory-installed option.

2010 Update

Since its debut in May 2007, the European-designed Dualis has been highly valued by customers for its unique exterior styling, which projects a sense of its agile, nimble and dynamic driving feel. The European version of Dualis, known as Qashqai, has been one of Nissan's best-selling models there for three consecutive years - with total sales exceeding 600,000 units since its release.

The Japan-market Dualis now receives a number of refinements focused on the exterior, interior and improved fuel economy. On the exterior, the redesigned front grille gives a bolder look, which emphasizes its width, while an improved luxury feel is provided by the use of new chrome outside door handles. Exterior colors are all renewed, including the addition of Brilliant White Pearl - which has been requested by customers.

In the interior, large-diameter meters have been adopted for better visibility and an improved luxury feel, and a vehicle information display system is newly provided to display moment fuel consumption, upcoming maintenance schedules and various other information.

The fuel efficiency of Dualis 2WD models has been improved through modifications to the engine controls and the XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). All grades now meet the tax break measures provided in Japan's "tax system to promote the diffusion of environmentally friendly vehicles" implemented in April 2009, thereby qualifying for 50% reductions in the automobile acquisition tax and the automobile weight tax in 2WD models and 75% in a 4WD model*1. In addition, actual fuel-efficiency is improved by adopting various functions in which the vehicle supports the driver's eco-drive.

Dualis' vehicle grade system is also partly renewed.

Refined Exterior

The enhancements to the Dualis exterior are apparent right up front, where the bold new front grille design emphasizes the vehicle's width, with V-shaped plating in the center. Other refinements include new chrome outside door handles and six all-new exterior colors including a new color, Brilliant White Pearl three-coat pearl paint.

New 18-inch tires and aluminum-alloy wheels with improved premium and sporty feeling are also added (optional on 20G/20G FOUR combined with VDC).

Enhanced Interior

The Dualis interior receives a number of enhancements as well, starting with the adoption of large-diameter meters for improved visibility. Plated rings add to the meters' luxury feel. A class-leading 3.6-inch vehicle information display, placed in the center of the instrument panel, features a trip computer function which shows fuel-efficiency and the current driving range, a maintenance function which tells the driver when to change engine oil or tires, and a warning information function. A small glove box, perfect for storing a mobile phone or portable music player, is located in the center cluster.

ISOFIX child safety seat anchors are equipped in both sides of rear seats as standard equipment.

Eco-drive Support Function

The new Dualis adds a number of Eco-drive support functions, which coordinate engine and CVT operations to help improve fuel economy. Smooth Acceleration Assist corrects driver's acceleration operation and assists smooth and fuel-efficient start-up.

Adoption of Smart-rev Control helps maintain constant engine revolutions to help avoid uneven speed changes, contributing to enhanced actual fuel-efficiency. In addition, the Navigation-linked Speed Control system optimizes engine braking to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption by providing route-information via the on-board navigation system - including information on the upcoming curves and the distance to the next tollgate (available on vehicles equipped with the CARWINGS Navigation system

Autech CrossRider

Autech Japan, Inc., a wholly owned Nissan affiliate, today announced the release of the new revised Dualis "CrossRider," which went on sale August 27th 2010 at Nissan dealerships across Japan.

Overview of Dualis CrossRider

Dualis CrossRider, a customized model based on the Dualis Mid-size Crossover SUV, takes Dualis to a higher level of stylish design and driving pleasure.

In addition to the revised specifications of the base model, the Dualis CrossRider adopts unique 18-inch aluminum-alloy road wheels with special 215/55R18 tires, a fully automatic air conditioner and Xenon headlights as standard equipment. A new exterior color, Brilliant White Pearl (3P), is added to meet customer requests.

The Dualis CrossRider 2WD model meets the tax break measures provided in Japan's "tax system to promote the diffusion of environmentally friendly vehicles" implemented in April 2009*2, same as the base model, thereby qualifying for 50% reductions in the automobile acquisition tax and the automobile weight tax.

Price range: Ksh. 1,550,000 to Ksh. 1,750,000, including 16% VAT.

*1: Tax break measures for environmentally friendly vehicles are applicable to vehicles newly registered by March 31, 2012 for the automobile acquisition tax and to vehicles newly registered by April 30, 2012 for the automobile weight tax. The automobile tax on 4WD vehicles newly registered by March 31, 2012 is reduced by 50% for one year starting from the next fiscal year following the registrations.

Nissan collectively refers to models that qualify for these preferential tax breaks under the "tax system to promote the diffusion of environmentally friendly vehicles," as the Nissan ECO Series (NECO Series). There are following 21 applicable models in the NECO series as of August 5, 2010: "Moco," "Otti," "Roox," "March," "Note," "Cube," "Tiida," "Tiida Latio," "Wingroad," "Serena," "Juke," "Dualis," "X-TRAIL," "Lafesta," "Teana", "Skyline Sedan," "Fuga," "AD/AD Expert," "NV200 Vanette," "Atlas F24"and "Atlas H43."
Although 20G FOUR 4WD model equipped with a stylish glass roof as standard have achieved a 25% improvement in fuel economy over the 2010 fuel economy standards, thus qualifies for the preferential tax breaks, if the model without a stylish glass roof is chosen as option, it has only achieved a 5% improvement in fuel economy over the 2010 fuel economy standards, and thus does not qualify for the preferential tax breaks.

*2: Tax break measures for environmentally friendly vehicles are applicable to vehicles newly registered by March 31, 2012 for the automobile acquisition tax and to vehicles newly registered by April 30, 2012 for the automobile weight tax.

Nissan Elgrand

Peter Karimi — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 07:39:00 GMT

First introduced in 1997 and followed by the second generation in 2002, Elgrand has been highly praised by customers for its comfort, styling and driving performance. It has been dubbed the "King of Minivans."

In line with its longstanding reputation for excellence, the new-generation Elgrand imparts a strong luxury presence and welcoming sense of hospitality and comfort for driver and passengers alike. The interior offers a number of features designed specifically for passenger comfort, including unique, multi-function high quality seats with leg rest and the world's first 11-inch electronic retractable monitor used in a minivan. A Private Theater System powered by a Bose® 5.1 Surround Sound System is available for the rear seats.

In addition to comfort, the new Elgrand offers class-leading fuel efficiency and dynamic performance. Every grade achieve, SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards. This qualifies the vehicle for the tax exemption for environmentally friendly vehicles, which covers all 4WD and part of the 2WD grade of the 3.5-liter model for the 50% reduction on acquisition and weight tax for new vehicles. All 2.5-liter models will receive a 75% reduction.*1

Key features of the new Elgrand are:

Distinguished styling

Majestic and sleek design, which are trademarks of the Elgrand identity

The best-in-class comfort

Evokes a feeling of the highest quality achieved in a personal mobility space

Uncompromising pursuit of excellence

Best fuel economy and drivability in its class

Dynamic Exterior, Supremely Comfortable Interior

The concept behind the development of the new Elgrand, "Dynamism and Luxury you can feel," is expressed throughout the exterior and interior. The design incorporates both hallmarks of the original Elgrand - such as the blending of the two-stage headlights, thick front mask and grille into one form - with the latest technology, such as the modern 3-dimensionally designed seats.

The low and wide body proportions emphasize the Elgrand's stability, with the dynamic lines flowing from the front and leading all the way down the sides, highlighting its powerful profile. Each pillar is blacked-out, adding to the look of strength and solidity. The darkened windows framed from the side all the way to the rear with chrome moldings is a world's first. Rear combination lamps with horizontal and vertical lines add to its original look. Chrome-coated, polished aluminum-alloy wheels complete the luxurious and appealing appearance.

Elgrand's high-quality interior space focuses on enveloping driver and passengers in supreme comfort. The highly functional instrument panel adds a luxurious touch, wrapped from side to side with a gradient wood-tone panel. The meter panel is illuminated with a blue ring, giving the interior a modern look and exciting feeling, while the seats allow all occupants to experience high levels of comfort.

Exhilarating Yet Fuel-Efficient Performance

The new Elgrand is equipped with a 3.5-liter VQ35DE engine tuned specifically for this application. With a maximum output of 206kW(280PS)/6400rpm and maximum torque of 344N・m(35.1kgfm)/4400rpm), it makes driving an exhilarating experience whether in the city or on the highway.

The 2.5-liter Elgrand is also equipped with a vehicle-specific tuned engine, the QR25DE, with responsive acceleration from low speeds, and high torque giving the vehicle a quick, strong driving feel. The engine is rated at a maximum output of 125kW(170PS)/5600rpm and maximum torque of 245N・m(25.0kgfm)/3900rpm).

The newly refined Xtronic CVT-M6 transmission boasts significantly improved fuel economy and powerful performance. Its wide gear range and low-speed lockup function helps achieve excellent fuel mileage. Furthermore, the driver's driving and acceleration control is automatically detected by the Adaptive Shift Control system to provide an optimized driving condition, combining superior driving performance and fuel efficiency.

All of the 4WD and part of the 2WD versions of 3.5-liter Elgrand meet the requirements for Eco car tax subsidy, including a 50% reduction on both acquisition and weight tax for new vehicles. 2.5-liter Elgrand is also qualified for the Eco car tax subsidy and a 75% reduction on acquisition and weight tax for new vehicles.*1

Platform, Body and Suspension

The Elgrand's all new platform benefits from Nissan's excellent minivan tuning capabilities, giving it a low center of gravity, comfortable seating for seven adults and ride comfort comparable to traditional sedans.

The combination of high-performance steering and rigid shock absorbers provide outstanding straight-line stability. Both the front and rear suspension utilize aluminum links and lower load springs that are lighter than the previous Elgrand design. The rear multi-link suspension assists in providing both superior driving stability and ride comfort. Elgrand's low center of gravity packaging, along with 4-wheel rebound spring shock absorbers, provide complete control and stability during steering and cornering. The new Elgrand offers improved steering feel with the smallest turning radius available at the M class minivan level. In addition, the 73L fuel tank form is optimized to best fit the vehicle's body.

Quiet operation is another key element of the Elgrand platform and body structure. Significantly improved surface rigidity, a vibration-resistant floor and bead-shaped sound dampening flooring are utilized. In addition, the use of an acoustic windshield, sound insulators and strategically located dampening materials help give Elgrand the top level in noise canceling and comfort in class.

Elgrand also utilize YOKOHAMA dB (decibel) tires to help achieve excellent vibration and road noise reduction levels. The 18-inch sized wheels have the equivalent low road noise of standard 16-inch wheels (standard on 350Highway STAR Premium, 350Highway STAR and 250Highway STAR models).

Advanced Seating Designs, Innovative Utility

The new Elgrand offers a range of advanced seat designs and innovative utility systems. Besides allowing to use the 1st and 2nd row passengers seat to use the leg rest at the same time, for the Elgrand 7 passengers model, the new Comfortable Captain Seat is adopted for the 2nd row passengers seat which incorporates three new technologies: 'seat cushion-integrated leg rest,' 'articulated seatback,' and 'three-layered cushion pads.' Nissan is the only automaker adopting all three technologies at the same time. With the seat's all-in-one seat cushion and leg rest design, the body is supported as a whole, helping maintain a posture that can be relaxed and stress-free. The seat cushion-integrated leg rest, supports the lower legs over a large area and helps spread the body weight to avoid leg swelling.

The 60/40 split bench 2nd row seat on Elgrand 8-passenger models also features large armrests, similar to captain seats, giving a highly luxurious feel. Elgrand's optimally designed foldable 3rd row seat can be easily stored, while also providing superior passenger fit and accommodation compared with similar vehicles.

Elgrand's new Quick Comfort Seat Heater, which was developed with a focus on human physiology, features a world's first seat heating technology. The Quick Comfort Seat Heater provides point-accurate heating to various parts of the body, with modes adjustable to every situation. In the beginning, the system starts heating the thigh and hip areas where people feel the warmth more. Later, it heats the lower back and the thigh area to maintain a comfortable warmth (standard on 350Highway STAR Premium model).

Another world's first function utilized on the new Elgrand is the one touch switch system that not only unlocks the doors, but also automatically opens the One-Touch Auto Slide Door. Other utility features include a second mirror installed above the rearview mirror for easy communication with passengers in the 2nd and 3rd row seats.

Conveniently installed in the luggage compartment is the switch that folds the 3rd row seat. This switch also returns the seatback to its original position (available on the 350Highway STAR Premium model). A remote-controlled back door is also available, which is controlled by either the back door switch, the driver's seat or from the remote control key (available on the 350Highway STAR Premium model).

Advanced Technology and Equipment

As expected from the "King of Minivans," the new Elgrand offers the latest advanced technology and features, ranging from a private theater system to eco-drive assist.

The optional Around View Monitor is ideal for use in garages and when parallel parking. The system utilizes a voice guidance system, simulated steering direction indicators and reverse positioning displayed on the monitor (Parking Guide System). The front/rear wide view monitor gives priority to safety with a 180° perspective view when negotiating visibly difficult intersections and reversing from parking lots. By registering the visibly difficult intersections in the navigational map, when the vehicle stops at these points, it automatically activates the front Wide View Monitor Navigation.

Also available as an option is the Carwings Navigational System (Integrated Digital Terrestrial Signal・HDD system). It features the most advanced map updating system with high-speed route calculation, built-in digital with automatic signal tuner (12 SEG/ 1 SEG) and an iPod®*2 compatible entertainment system.

For owners seeking theatre-quality entertainment on the road, Elgrand is offered with the optional Private Theatre System. It is equipped with a Bose® 5.1ch Surround Sound that recreates concert hall quality sound with 13 strategically placed high-performance acoustically tuned speakers. The system also features a large 11-inch electronic retractable monitor (a world's first). The size is 1.6-times larger than the 9-inch conventional model display, allowing greater visibility even from the 2nd and 3rd row seats.

Combining the Private Theatre System with dealer-optional floor carpets and the sound dampening acoustic ceiling and Elgrand's standard finely tuned sound reflecting glass windows, the interior offers an experience similar to that of a concert hall (350Highway STAR Premium, 350Highway STAR, 250Highway STAR optional).

Another special feature is the Eco-Drive Assist System, which promotes fuel-efficient driving through a number of ways - including coordinating the functions of the transmission and navigation system. For example, the navigation system provides curb radius and tollgate distance calculations to the management system in order to optimum engine brake control and reduce fuel consumption. The ECO mode function also maximizes acceleration performance, CVT response and integrated control CVT transmission schedules to improve fuel efficiency. Adopting a smooth assist takeoff system, Eco-Drive Assist supports the driver for smooth acceleration and better fuel economy, while the Smart-rev Control system maintains constant engine revolutions to avoid uneven speed changes and unnecessary fuel consumption.

Elgrand also offers a long list of available safety and eco technologies, including:

Intelligent Cruise Control (350Highway STAR Premium, 350Highway STAR manufacturer option)
School zone safe driving guide
Safe driving support system
Xenon headlamps
Auto light system (linked front wipers, dawn sensors)
Active AFS (350Highway STAR Premium, 350Highway STAR standard)
Halogen fog lamp equipped front bumper
Side under mirror
VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control (TCS functionality included)
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) + Break Assist + EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution control system)
Intelligent Brake Assist (350Highway STAR Premium, 350Highway STAR manufacturer option)
Front seat active headrest
Body construction for pedestrian protection / High-strength body construction (Zone Body)
Driver and passenger seat SRS air bag system
Driver and passenger seat SRS side air bag system
SRS curtain air bag system
Low-Friction Seatbelt
Second seat ELR with 3 point seatbelt (Independent Buckle)
Third seat ELR with 3 point seatbelt (Independent Buckle)
Second seat ISO FIX Child seat anchor (right and left)
Tire pressure sensor that detects decreased air pressure. It displays a warning on the information display. The system is combined with a buzzer alarm that gives guidance when the pressure comes to a certain level. This pressure guidance system was first adopted in Japan.

Price Range: Ksh. 1,450,000 to Ksh. 2,500,000, including 16% VAT.

*1:By achieving both SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards and 25% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards, automobile acquisition tax for new vehicles registered until March 31st 2012 will receive a 75% reduction.

Automobile weight tax for new vehicles registered until April 30th 2012 will receive a 75% reduction.
In addition, automobile tax for the next year of registration for the vehicle that will be newly registered until March 31, 2012, will be reduced by 50%.

*2: iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Inc in the United States and in other countries.

All-New Nissan Lafesta Highway STAR Minivan

Peter Karimi — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 07:27:00 GMT

The redesigned Lafesta Highway STAR is a new minivan featuring stylish design, high functionality and strong environmental performance.

Its exterior features a horizontal chrome grille on the front and striking aerodynamic design - expressing sportiness and a bold presence - characteristic of the Nissan Highway STAR series. Enhanced features and equipment include the adoption of dual power sliding rear doors for easy entry/exit and easily operable, versatile seat configurations. The Lafesta Highway STAR is also equipped with Idling Stop, which helps it to realize best-in-class*1 fuel economy of 16.0km/L under Japan's 10-15 mode *2 testing cycle for emission certification and fuel economy performance.

Every new Lafesta Highway STAR grade achieves super-low emissions vehicle (SU-LEV) certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards. Since the two-wheel drive (2WD) grades achieve improved fuel efficiency by adopting a direct injection engine, many of them qualify for the tax exemption for environmentally friendly vehicles*3, with automobile acquisition and weight taxes reduced by either 75 percent, or 50 percent, depending on the grade and options.

In 2010, Nissan introduced its two-pillar strategy to reduce CO2 emissions: "zero emissions" and "PURE DRIVE." PURE DRIVE vehicles are designed to achieve best-in-class fuel economy for mass-production models by equipping them with optimal next-generation eco-technologies such as Idling Stop, clean diesel and hybrid systems. In Japan, the new Lafesta Highway STAR*4 is the sixth in the series of PURE DRIVE vehicles with the idling stop system to be introduced. The new Lafesta Highway Star will only be offered for sale in the Japanese domestic market.

Key features of the new Lafesta Highway STAR include:

Stylish Highway STAR design
Excellent functionality that responds to various customer needs
High levels of driving and environmental performance

Nissan Lafesta Highway STAR Overview

Design: Exterior

The sporty Highway STAR design projects a strong presence with its signature horizontal chrome grille, which is widely adopted in Highway STAR models. Additionally, a front aero bumper, side sill protector and rear bumper color that matches the body, all help to emphasize the vehicle's wide stance and low center of gravity. The side panels combine strong character lines and surfaces flowing from the nose to the side, while the rear license finisher is mounted on a chrome horizontal bar embossed with the vehicle name. The new Lafesta Highway STAR is available in five exterior colors, including Sparkling Black (P) that highlights its sportiness.

Design: Interior
Extensive use of black in the refined interior design provides a sense of elegance and sportiness.

With the edge of the meter hood as the starting point, the instrument panel is designed to embrace the driver, for a cockpit-like feel. Use of chrome-plated and silver-colored finishers accentuate the sportiness of the interior. The available black jacquard seat cloth with brown piping and stitching adds to the interior's quality feel (Highway STAR G).

Packaging, Seating and Sliding Doors

Packaging
The Lafesta Highway STAR's refined interior features theater-like seating, where each row of seats is slightly elevated so that each passenger's hip point gets gradually higher from the front seat to the third-row seat. This helps to improve visibility for all occupants. Although it provides the ample interior space of a three-series grade vehicle (according to the Japanese taxation classification system) its small minimum turning radius of 5.3 meters is equal to that of a five-series grade car.

Seating
Flexible seating has been adopted, with captain seats that can quickly be turned into a bench seat by placing a seating surface (retracted into the underseat tray of the second-row passenger side seat when not in use) in between the second-row seats. Versatile seating configurations are available, depending on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage, with the use of flexible seating features and the third-row, 50/50 split seat. The third row seats can also be reclined. A special seat cloth with a cleanable feature - both fluids and oily stains can easily be removed - is adopted for the Highway STAR G.

Dual Power Sliding Doors
Spacious dual power sliding doors, with an opening width of 686 millimeters, offers more convenience when getting in and out of the Highway STAR in small parking spaces or for those accompanied by small children or infants. The power sliding doors can be easily operated with the Intelligent Key, or the switch on the instrument panel (standard on Highway STAR G, factory-installed option for other grades). A touch sensitive, auto-retract function has been adopted for the power sliding doors to help prevent anything from getting caught in the door.

Driving and Environmental Performance

Engine
An advanced 2.0-liter direct injection engine is offered with 2WD grades, combining strong driving performance with high fuel efficiency while delivering high torque. Fuel economy is rated as best-in-class. For 4WD grades a 2.0L engine is adopted, which provides agile and smooth driving.
An electronic five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode is adopted for 2WD grades, while four-wheel drive (4WD) grades feature an electronic four-speed automatic transmission.

Suspension
The Lafesta Highway STAR utilizes a four-wheel independent multilink rear suspension, providing sporty drivability and secure straight-line stability at higher speeds. High body rigidity also assists with stability and comfort for passengers.

Idling Stop System

Standard on Highway STAR G (2WD) and Highway STAR (2WD) grades is the idling stop system. The idling stop system automatically stops the engine when the car is stationary, such as when waiting at a traffic light, for improved fuel efficiency. When the car is not moving when driving on a gentle slope while the idling stop system is in operation, the Idling Stop Start Assist function prevents the car from moving backward, even if the driver takes his or her foot off the brake.
While Idling Stop is engaged, the air conditioner works only as a ventilator. If it detects an increase in cabin temperature, the engine restarts and the air conditioner comes on again to ensure a comfortable cabin space.

Other Key Safety and Environmental Technologies

Automatic headlight system (Standard on Highway STAR G, factory-installed option on other grades)
Halogen headlights (projector type with low beam/manual-control)
Xenon headlights (projector type with low beam/auto-control) (Factory-installed option)
Halogen foglight-equipped front bumper (Standard on Highway STAR G)
LED High-Mount Stop Lamp
VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) with Traction Control system (TCS) functionality included (Standard on Highway STAR 2WD and Highway STAR G 2WD)
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), Brake Assist
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) curtain airbags, driver and passenger seat SRS side airbag system (Factory-installed option on Highway STAR and Highway STAR G)
SRS airbag system for driver and front passenger seats
Body construction for pedestrian protection
Every grade achieves SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards
ECO Indicator installed on the instrument panel, which feeds the driver information for improved fuel-efficient driving, judged by how much the accelerator is pressed and the vehicle speed

The new Lafesta Highway STAR is supplied to Nissan by Mazda Motor Corporation on an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) basis. Lafesta JOY X, which has been popular for its complete range of equipment and affordable pricing, will continue to be available and produced at Nissan's Kyushu Plant. With the Lafesta Highway STAR and Lafesta JOY, Nissan strives to provide attractive minivans to meet a wide range of our customers' needs.

Price Range: Ksh. 850,000 to Ksh. 1,000,000, including 16% VAT.

*1: 2.0L gasoline engine class minivan for seven passengers (As of Mar. 2011, Nissan internal figures)
*2: Fuel economy of Highway STAR (2WD)
*3: By achieving both SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards and 25% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards, the automobile acquisition tax for new vehicles that are registered by March 31, 2012, will receive a 75% reduction. Automobile weight tax for new vehicles registered by April 30, 2012, will receive a 75% reduction.
By achieving both SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards and 20% or 15% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards, the automobile acquisition tax for new vehicles that are registered by March 31, 2012, will receive a 50% reduction. The automobile weight tax for new vehicles that are registered by April 30, 2012, will receive a 50% reduction.
*4: Highway STAR G (2WD) and Highway STAR (2WD)

Nissan Murano Crossover SUV

Peter Karimi — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 07:18:00 GMT

The new Murano will be marketed under the tagline of "SHIFT_design," reflecting its leadership in both contemporary styling and as a crossover SUV that combines utility and sedan-like comfort and luxury.

The first-generation Murano debuted in North America in 2002 and won resounding accolades for its novel design and sporty driving performance. It went on sale in Japan in September 2004 and received similar strong media and consumer acceptance. The dramatic new Murano, which launched in January in the United States, will be available in approximately 170 countries worldwide.

An All-New Second-Generation Murano

The new Murano carries over a strong sense of "Murano-ness" from the previous design as part of a "super evolution" of its premium crossover SUV positioning - including a distinctive new exterior, an enhanced sense of sporty and reassuring driving performance, a quieter and more comfortable interior with greater levels of luxury features and enhanced technology.

The concept behind the creation of the new Murano includes:

Modern Art Design: A distinctive exterior and high-quality interior
Premium Driving Feel: A perfect balance of comfort and sportiness, which enables responsive handling in any driving situation
Suite-like Interior: A roomy, luxurious cabin with an array of user-focused comfort and convenience features

Dynamic Exterior Design

The new Murano features a dynamic body design that is highlighted by its elegant flowing surfaces and curves. The graceful silhouette stretches like one seamless motion from the aggressive front bumper to the rear bumper. In front, quad-cylinder style High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional headlights are integrated with the wide front signature Murano grille. Three-dimensional concave surface body sides provide a beautiful contrast with the sculpted fenders, while the unique window silhouette - with the rear edge heading upward - provides another example of the new generation design's "Murano-ness."

Seven exterior colors are available, including the addition of Grayish Bronze and Dark Blue, an all-new Nissan color. All colors come standard with Nissan's Scratch Shield Paint, which self-repairs minor scratch marks in the paint surface.

A Stylish, Modern Interior With Abundant Convenience Features

Murano's modern curvaceous exterior design theme continues into the beautifully crafted interior. The unique, asymmetrically designed cockpit offers a rugby-ball-like shape, which is like no other vehicle in class. The new "three-dimensional beauty" instrument panel features large Fine Vision meters with improved legibility (versus the previous generation), along with new ring lighting.

The stylish center cluster utilizes genuine aluminum and chrome trim, while the center console combines a substantial look with soft touch materials for a luxurious impression. The door trim, with stitched armrests, is made of genuine aluminum and soft padding, which is integrated with the instrumental panel to embrace the driver and passenger in style and comfort.

The interior environment, developed from the perspective of providing clean air without irritating the occupants' skin, utilizes a mild-flow air-conditioning system, which directs gentle airflow rearward without striking the passengers directly.

In the rear, the roomy seats provide a welcoming atmosphere with a comfortable seat shape and fabric. The 60/40-split folding automatic rear seat can be folded by pulling levers located at both sides, and reversed by just pushing the automatic recovery button (a factory-installed option).

A foldable cargo organizer enables the luggage area floorboard to be opened at the flip of a switch, with special partition nets holding cargo in place while driving. Murano's remote-controlled automatic back door opens and closes at the touch of a switch, either from the driver's seat or the remote-control key (factory-installed option).

The open interior feeling is enhanced by an available dual-pane moonroof, featuring a power sliding glass roof with inner sunshades over both the front and rear seats (standard on the 350XV FOUR and a 250XV FOUR).

Advanced technology features include an 11-speaker BOSE sound audio system, which delivers concert-hall-like sound quality - reproducing the sounds of musical instruments and singing voices with real, three-dimensional quality, as if listening to a live performance (factory-installed option).

The new Murano is also available with an advanced HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system featuring a touch panel screen for greatly improved ease of operation. The system incorporates enhanced entertainment capabilities, including a music box and DVD audio/video playback. It also includes a Bluetooth Hands-free Interface (factory-installed option).

An Intelligent Key System provides improved anti-theft functionality, including electric-assisted power steering lockup, engine immobilizer and other deterrents linked to the ID code stored in the key fob.

In addition, two available systems help the driver's view around the vehicle. The advanced side blind-spot monitor helps provides visual assistance by reducing the left front blind spot when positioning the car alongside the curb, parking or meeting oncoming traffic on a narrow road. The back-view monitor utilizes a small CCD camera to offer a color view of the area behind the car, which is displayed on Murano's navigation system monitor.

A Responsive Engine, Transmission and Chassis

Like the original, the heart of the new Murano is its advanced engine, transmission and chassis combination, which is anchored by Nissan's proven QR25DE 4-cylinder and VQ35DE V6 engines, paired with Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and rigid D-platform. The QR25DE engine achieves improved output and fuel-efficiency through reduced friction. Torque and output are also enhanced throughout a wide speed range by enlarging the radius of intake and exhaust ports and an increased compression ratio.

Murano's Xtronic CVT includes a new Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), which controls the shift timing according to the driver's personal driving style and the driving environment in order to optimize both performance and fuel economy.

With Murano's advanced ALL MODE 4×4-i all-wheel drive system, smooth cornering on slippery road surfaces is provided by monitoring wheel spin and adjusting front/rear torque split accordingly.

The Nissan D-platform helps optimize the balance between a flat, comfortable ride and the quiet, superb handling and stability of a premium class sedan. High rigidity is achieved by adopting a new joint member structure and strengthening the link between the front shock absorbers, along with enlarging the rear joint member, strengthening the link between shock absorbers and adding a rear cross member.

Murano's newly developed suspension with four-wheel built-in rebound springs enhances vehicle stability while also providing a more comfortable ride than the previous generation design. Front and rear link geometry has been revised and rigidity of the setting points is improved. This reduces the amount of vibration transmitted to the interior and improves body stability. Special sound-absorbing materials have been added throughout the body, effectively reducing or blocking outside noises. New floor carpeting with improved sound absorption effect reduces the noise from the below the vehicle, along with deflectors located under body, which decrease under-floor wind noise. Additional quietness at high speeds is improved by optimizing the design and positioning of the rear muffler.

Improved collision safety features and reduced weight are realized by adopting a greater amount of ultra-high tensile steel (780MPa grade) and through multiple load path construction. This further evolution of Nissan's high-strength Zone Body achieves both enhanced crashworthiness and weight savings.

Standard vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering system offers light steering effort at low speed and a direct steering feel at middle-to-high speeds.

Safety and Environmental Technologies

The new Murano offers a long list of standard and available safety features, including:

Bi-xenon headlights
Halogen fog lights integrated into the front bumper*1
Rain-sensing step-less intermittent windshield wiper (flat-blade type)
High-intensity LED rear combination lamps
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control)
Brake LSD (Limited-Slip Differential)
Low-friction seatbelts in all seating positions
Three-point ELR rear seatbelts for three passengers
High-strength Zone Body construction for high safety
Impact-energy-absorbing body structure for mitigating pedestrian injuries
SRS air bag systems for the driver and front passenger
SRS side air bag systems for the driver and front passenger
SRS curtain air bag systems
Front-seat Active Head Restraints

Murano is also designed with an awareness and sensitivity toward the environment. For example:

VQ35DE and QR25DE engine models (vehicle weight less than 1,770 kg) achieve fuel economy that is 5% higher than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards.
QR25DE engine models (vehicle weight 1,770 kg and above) achieve fuel economy 20% higher than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards.
U-LEV certification is achieved for all models by emitting 50% fewer exhaust emissions than Japan's 2005 exhaust emission standards.
A fuel economy indicator is included with all new Muranos.
Achieves a recyclability rate of more than 95% by weight*2
A reduction of interior volatile organic compounds (VOC).

Price range: Ksh. 1,950,000 to Ksh. 3,200,000, including 16% VAT.

*1: Standard on the 350XV FOUR and the 250XV FOUR and a factory-installed option on the 350XL FOUR and the 250XL FOUR)

*2: Calculated according to the guideline adopted by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. in 1998 concerning the definition and calculation method of the recyclability rate of new cars)

Nissan March

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 13:13:00 GMT

Since its debut in 1982, March has been acclaimed both in Japan and overseas markets for its superior driving ease, great reliability and superb handling. Total global sales to date are 5.65 million units. The new March is the fourth generation of this popular series and has been designed to advance its "user friendly" DNA - with increased drivability and driving pleasure and best-in-class fuel economy*1 of 26.0km/L*2.

Key features of the new March are:

Adoption of innovative technologies, which achieve the best-in-class fuel economy and improved safety performance
An exterior that gives the impression of agile, brisk driving and absolute reliability, and a cockpit providing a secure feeling for driver and passengers
User-friendly equipment with enhanced drivability and usability

Employing a new-generation Xtronic CVT*3 with an auxiliary transmission and Nissan's newly developed 1.2L 3-cylinder HR12DE engine, which achieves both low fuel consumption and outstanding torque performance, March achieves both a 25% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards and SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards in every grade. This qualifies the vehicle for the tax exemption for environmentally friendly vehicles*4, which provides for a 75% reduction of both new vehicle acquisition and weight taxes.

In addition, the new March adopts an "Idling Stop" system to help reduce gasoline consumption. The system automatically stops the engine when the car is stationary, such as when waiting for a traffic light to change. When Idling Stop is engaged, the engine starts again automatically when the driver turns the steering wheel, or the function can be controlled by changes in brake pedal force. It enables smooth and natural driving according to the driver's intention.

The new March is part of Nissan's ongoing research and development efforts based on the Nissan Green Program 2010 (NGP 2010). In fiscal year 2010, Nissan introduces its two-pillar strategy to reduce CO2 emissions: "zero emissions" and PURE DRIVE. PURE DRIVE vehicles are designed to achieve top-level-in-class fuel economy for mass-produced models by equipping them with optimal next-generation eco-technologies, such as Idling Stop, Clean Diesel and Hybrid. In Japan, March is the first in the series of PURE DRIVE vehicles to be introduced.

1. Expressive Exterior and Interior Design

The new March's exterior expresses a feeling of agile driving and absolute reliability. The body's bold proportions are achieved by lowering the center of gravity, positioning the tires at the extreme corners of the car, expanding the sills outward and extending the rear tread. The side sections, which appear as if cylinders are mounted within, run through the body from the front to the rear providing a secure feeling.

The sleek roofline, with a raised rear end, optimally adjusts airflow to the rear sides to help create excellent aerodynamic performance. Every element of the body is designed to reduce air resistance - such as door mirrors, a large front spoiler and the underbody configuration. March's coefficient of drag is just 0.32.

March's raised front fenders aid the driver's view ahead, while the low waistline provides superior side visibility to help make driving easier in traffic or tight road conditions. Round headlights and arched side windows reflect March's traditional "user friendly" DNA.

In addition, adoption of a lightweight roof panel contributes to low fuel consumption, while a boomerang-shaped bead in the roof panel reduces booming noise in the cabin caused by resonance of the roof. The structure also provides reduced weight and high-rigidity, which improves quietness.

March is available in nine fashionable colors, including three character colors: Spring Green, Night Veil Purple and Crystal Lilac.

Inside, March features a unique "twin bubble" shaped cockpit that gives a secure feeling for both driver and passengers. The arched lines and warm curved surfaces on either side of the instrumental panel create a distinctive bubble-shaped interior space that enhances driving pleasure. A large speedometer placed in the center of the meter cluster provides improved visibility.

Cup holders and pockets are conveniently placed throughout the interior. User-friendly storage spaces include an instrumental panel upper box (12X, 12G, 12X FOUR, 12G FOUR), instrumental panel under box & glove box, front cup holders (two) & rear cup holder (one), front door pocket (with bottle holder), parking brake side pocket and front seat backrest pocket (12G, 12G FOUR). Ample luggage space of 251L is the same as the third-generation March.

Three interior color variations are offered: a fashionable Black/Ivory design providing a bold contrast (12G, 12G FOUR); a warm and clean Natural Gray, which expresses openness and a quality feeling (12X, 12X FOUR); and a chic Black design that shows robustness (12S, 12X, 12X FOUR).

2. Driving Performance, Safety and Eco Technologies

The foundation of the new March's outstanding driving performance is the newly developed HR12DE engine. The lightweight, compact 1.2L 3-cylinder engine achieves best-in-class fuel economy with great combustion efficiency in every grade. The engine also offers powerful torque in the mid- to low- speed range suitable for daily-use, as well as superior quietness achieved by unbalanced mass in a crank pulley and a drive plate that reduces vibrations felt in the cabin during idling, and optimized vehicle rigidity.

March's new-generation Xtronic CVT features a new structure combining a belt-operated CVT with an auxiliary two-speed transmission. The CVT raises the transmission ratio by more than 20 percent compared to other CVTs in its class, providing enhanced responsiveness on starting and acceleration and improved quietness during high-speed driving.

With the auxiliary transmission, the size and weight of the CVT unit is significantly reduced. Friction is reduced by about 30% compared to other CVTs in its class, achieved by the increased transmission ratio, reduced pulley size and weight, and reduced oil agitating resistance - helping improve fuel economy. An electric oil pump is adopted in vehicles equipped with Idling Stop. Quicker oil pressure response improves startup performance and thus contributes to an improvement in fuel economy. While Idling Stop is in operation, pulley rotation is temporarily locked inside the CVT and is slowly unlocked when the engine starts again. This prevents reverse movement during a hill start and enables smooth startup.

The new Idling Stop System is equipped as standard in volume grades 12X and 12G. Fuel economy is improved by 2.0km/L*5 (10-15 mode) by automatically stopping the engine while the car is stationary, such as when waiting for the traffic light to change. The Idle-stop function is actively engaged while the driver operates the car as usual, which makes driving more comfortable and fuel efficient. An indicator shows not only whether the function is in operation or not, but also how long the function is engaged and how much fuel is saved.

While Idling Stop is working, the engine starts again when the driver turns the steering wheel. It enables smooth start according to the intention of the driver. Idling Stop also functions depending on how the brake pedal is operated. For example, the engine starts again before the driver completely releases the brake pedal, or Idling Stop continues to function despite the slight change in brake pedal pressure. Since the vehicle judges which is preferred, natural and comfortable driving is realized.

In addition, while Idling Stop is in operation the air-conditioner works only as a ventilator. If the driver wants to cool or heat the air, the OFF switch can be pressed to turn Idling Stop off.

The new March features an optimized layout and simplified body structure. The platform, from floor panel to suspension, is newly designed, offering high rigidity and light weight.

March also offers a long list of available safety and eco technologies, including:

Auto light system (linked front wipers, dawn sensors) (12G, 12G FOUR)
Optimum light distribution, multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control)
Rear windshield wiper
High Mount Stop Lamp
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution)
High-strength body construction (Zone Body)
Body construction for pedestrian protection
SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger
SRS side air bag, curtain air bag system for driver and front passenger (12G, 12G FOUR) (Optional on 12S, 12X, 12X FOUR)
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
Load limiter equipped pretensioner seatbelts for front seats
Smooth Acceleration Assist
Variable Valve Timing
Electric-assisted power steering
Variable control of voltage for power generation with alternator (including regenerative charging function with braking energy)
Achieves SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards
Achieves 25% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards
Achieves 2015 Fuel Economy Standard
Achieves more than 95% recyclability rate

3. Friendly Package/Equipments for Better Drivability and Usability

Along with its innovative powertrain, advanced eco-credentials and outstanding exterior and interior designs, the new March is extremely easy to live with day in and day out.

For example, the large glass area ensures good all-around visibility. By increasing the size of the front windshield, both horizontally and vertically, it is easier to see traffic lights (even on the stop line) and to check around the vehicle when turning right or left.

With increased shock absorber coverage and a newly designed soft-setting suspension that softly absorbs vibration, a flat and comfortable drive feel is realized even on bumpy roads.

A Tire Angle Indicator on the meter display shows tire direction, steering angle and traveling direction. When the driver is not sure about the tire direction while starting, backing into a parking place or making a quick turn, he or she can immediately check the tire direction. (12G, 12G FOUR)

A Friendly Message Display Function, which automatically shows greetings and anniversaries, encourages a feeling of closeness with March. (12G, 12G FOUR)

Also available is an Intelligent Key with Push Engine Start, which can lock/unlock doors or start the engine without using a key. The doors can easily be locked, even when carrying luggage. (12X, 12G, 12X FOUR, 12G FOUR)

Another convenient item is the Automatic Retractable Door-lock-linked Door Mirror. Door mirrors are automatically retracted in conjunction with locking doors with the Intelligent Key or Request Switch. Since the door mirrors are retracted after getting out of the car, the driver can check the rear side before opening the door. (12X, 12G, 12X FOUR, 12G FOUR)

Price range: Ksh. 570,000 to Ksh. 650,000, including 16% VAT.

*1: 1.0L-1.5L class without hybrid vehicles. (as of July 2010. Data by Nissan)
*2: Models with Idling Stop.
*3: Continuously Variable Transmission.

*4: By achieving both SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards and 25% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards, automobile acquisition tax for new vehicles registered until March 31st 2012 will receive a 75% reduction.

Automobile weight tax for new vehicles registered until April 30th 2012 will receive a 75% reduction.

In addition, automobile tax for the next year of registration for the vehicle that will be newly registered until March 31, 2012, will be reduced by 50%.

Nissan promotes environmentally friendly vehicles that meet government tax incentives under its Nissan ECO (NECO) series. Currently there are 20 models as of July 13th 2010. Models are :「Moco」「Otti」「Roox」「March」「Note」「Cube」「Tiida」「Tiida Latio」「Wingroad」「Serena」「Juke」「Dualis」「X-Trail」「Lafesta」「Skyline Sedan」「Fuga」「AD/AD Expert」「NV200 Vanette」「Atlas F24」「Atlas H43」.

*5: Models without Idling Stop.

Nissan Releases All-new Latio

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 13:04:00 GMT

The new Latio, developed as a global compact sedan, is already on sale in global markets including China, the United States and Thailand. Acclaimed by owners, the new sedan has sold more than 500,000 units in these markets to date.

Latio is characterized by environmentally-friendly features, a high-quality exterior and roomy, comfortable interior space helping it meet the needs of a wide range of compact sedan customers, including mature and fleet customers.

Key features of the new Latio:

High-quality exterior and One-class above comfort

An imposing horizontal side view and front styling with large headlights and grille give Latio a strong presence and premium design feel.

Cabin spaciousness and great ride comfort, which have been previously been highly acclaimed, are further enhanced, optimally satisfying a wide range of compact sedan customers. Spacious interior roominess of a one-class-above sedan (effective interior length) is provided by minimizing the engine compartment and optimizing the layout of the fuel tank. Rear seat passenger comfort is enhanced by the ample knee room and wide field of vision. Trunk capacity is improved through use of uniquely shaped trim, resulting in luggage space of 490L (based on the VDA method).

Best-in-class fuel economy with an Idling Stop System installed in all grades

Best-in-class fuel economy of 22.6km/L (on JC08 mode) is achieved with all grades equipped with HR12DE engine and an Idling Stop System, with XTRONIC CVT installed. The HR12DE engine provides excellent acceleration performance in city driving, delivering user-friendly operation in everyday use. Also contributing to the improved fuel efficiency is a vehicle weight reduction of about 70kg (compared to the previous model) and adoption of a new highly aerodynamic body shape.

Tax exemption of 75 percent achieved in all grades with best-in-class fuel economy

With its outstanding fuel economy, both SU-LEV certification (by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards) and 10% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards are achieved. Along with preferential tax breaks under the Japanese "tax system to promote the diffusion of environmentally friendly vehicles", automobile acquisition and weight taxes are reduced by 75%.

Based on the dual-pillar strategy of "zero emissions" and PURE DRIVE*2, Nissan continues its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions throughout its product lineup. The new Latio with HR12DE engine is one of Nissan's PURE DRIVE models.

Price range: Ksh. 800,000 to Ksh. 1,000,000, including 16% VAT

Overview of the new Latio

1. Design

Dynamic, flowing exterior design with a "class above" feeling

Sculptured body with a finely developed cross-section, like athlete's muscles
Spacious interior cabin and horizontal yet flowing side view
Sporty front styling, as if the vehicle is staring straight ahead
A total of six available exterior colors, including Titanium Grey (TM) (TM stands for Titanium Metallic)

Spacious, premium interior design

Functionally-arranged switches and controls, with silver-colored finishers (standard on X, G)
Surprisingly spacious rear seat space
Premium-feel Fine Vision Meter with attractive illumination (standard on X, G)

2. Driving, environment and safety performances

Engine and transmission

All grades equipped with 1.2L HR12DE engine with an Idling Stop System
XTRONIC CVT adopted in all grades

Packaging

One-class-above spacious interior room is achieved by minimizing mechanical space, including optimization of size and layout of the radiator and fuel tank and locating the accelerator pedal farther forward
Comfortable rear seat space is provided, with spacious knee room and large center armrest (rear center armrest is standard on G)

Short front overhang and engine hood that gives great visibility, helping reduce "invisible" areas for drivers as much as possible by making it easier to see where the vehicle's front end is
With large rear window and inventive rear pillar shape, visibility when parking a car in a garage or changing lanes is improved
Brighter headlights, using smaller reflectors, cover a longer distance so that road shoulders are easier to see
Simply designed luggage space opening improves ease of loading luggage. Luggage space capacity is 490 liters capable of storing four 9-inch golf bags

Aerodynamic performance and weight reduction

Design that reduces air resistance (coefficient of drag of 0.31) is adopted by optimizing shapes of the front bumper, front pillar, side view mirrors and underbody, as well as making a spoiler-shape trunk lid
Weight is reduced by a total of approximately 70kg compared to the previous model by detailed attention to the refinement of shapes and structures, including engine weight reduction and a change in suspension and exhaust parts

Other Key Safety and Environmental Technologies

Multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control) that help optimize light distribution
Electric retractable remote control body-colored door mirrors
RearView Monitor (available only on vehicles equipped with car navigation system - provided as a dealer option)
High Mount Stop Lamp
VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control [TCS functionality included]) (standard on G, factory-installed option on X, S and B)
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) + Brake Assist
Front ventilated disc brakes
High-strength body construction (Zone Body)
SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger
SRS curtain air bag system (factory-installed option on G, X)
Load limiter equipped pretensioner seatbelts for front seats
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
Mileage display function
Achieves "10% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards" in all grades
Achieves SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards in all grades
Reduces interior volatile organic compounds (VOC)

*1: Four-door sedan with a 1.5L engine or smaller, excluding hybrid models. (As of August, 2012, according to Nissan)
*2: PURE DRIVE vehicles are designed to deliver new excitement, creating a new experience and surprise in everyday driving, by combining various vehicles with eco-technologies.

Nissan Tiida and Tiida Latio Compact Vehicles

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 13:00:00 GMT

Since their debut in 2004, the Tiida and Tiida Latio have exceeded customer expectations for compact vehicles – offering a premium-quality, roomy interior and outstanding fuel economy and performance. For 2008, both vehicles have been enhanced inside and out. Key changes include new exterior and interior designs, retuned electric power steering, powertrain enhancements and a new "Plus navi HDD" package, among other improvements.

Modern and Dynamic Exterior Styling

Both Tiida and Tiida Latio feature all-new front-end designs, with new grilles, front bumpers and headlights, which impart a feeling of dynamic modern performance. Tiida also features new taillights and a rear bumper for a more substantial look, and all Tiidas and Tiida Latios feature new wheel cover designs.

Eight exterior colors are available on Tiida, including titanium metallic Silky Beige, metallic Brilliant Silver, metallic Champagne Gold, and pearl metallic Pacific Blue. Tiida Latio offers seven color choices, including titanium metallic Silky Beige and metallic Brilliant Silver.

Revised, Roomy, Sporty Interior

The interiors of both the Tiida and Tiida Latio have been redesigned for a new, modern look, as well as increased usability and visibility. The new instrument cluster design features new illumination colors – changed to an orange hue – and a fuel consumption display function. New metallic-finish “dashboard paneling” is available on Tiida models.

The modern look continues with a revised center stack with redesigned automatic air-conditioner controls and new illumination scheme, as well as new silver finishers (available on 18G, 15G, 15M and 15M FOUR models). Additionally, seat fabrics have been changed on 18G and 15G models, while new seat fabric patterns and stitching colors are available on 15M and 15M FOUR. Stitching color changes also apply to Tiida 18G, 15G, 15M and 15M FOUR models and Tiida Latio 18G and 15G models with a black interior.

Powertrain Enhancements

The new Tiida and Tiida Latio models each receive a variety of powertrain enhancements, including the new availability of a 6-speed manual transmission on 1.8-liter models for a sportier driving experience. The electric-assisted power steering system has been retuned for improved feel at low and high speeds.

Additionally, 2WD models with the HR15DE 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and XTRONIC continuously variable transmission (CVT) attain a fuel economy level 20% higher than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards, thereby qualifying for the highest tax reduction*¹under the Green Tax program in Japan.

The HR15DE/XTRONIC CVT/2WD combination also features fuel economy figures that more closely match actual fuel consumption, based on tests conducted under the JCO8 test mode, recently adopted in Japan to simulate real-world driving conditions more accurately, as well as on conventional 10-15 test mode data. Also, this powertrain, under the JC08 test, attains SU-LEV certification levels by emitting 75% fewer nitrogen oxides (NOx) and non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC) than the levels required by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations.

Special Tiida Packages

Tiida 15S and 15S FOUR models are available with a new, affordable “Plus navi HDD” package, which includes an exclusive HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system with a high-speed, large-capacity 30-gigabyte hard disk drive; steering-wheel-mounted switches for audio controls and hands-free phone; a front center armrest with console storage box; rear seat cupholders; fully automatic air conditioning system; and chrome-plated waistline molding.

The new Tiida is also available with two optional dealer packages – a “NISMO S-tune Aero Package” and a “NISMO S-tune Performance Package” for further fine-tuning of the vehicle’s aerodynamics and driving performance. Individual NISMO components are also available separately.

Pricing Range: KSh. 750,000 to KSh. 900,000 including 16% VAT

*1 The Tiida 15G and 15M and the Tiida Latio 15G, 15M and 15B (CVT model) achieve fuel economy 20% higher than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards and are certified as Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (SU-LEVs) because their exhaust emissions are 75% lower than the levels required by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations. Therefore, they qualify for a total tax reduction of 32,000 yen under the Green Tax program in Japan. This tax reduction applies to vehicles registered by March 31, 2008.

Nissan Serena Minivan

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 12:41:00 GMT

Since its launch in June 1991 through the current third-generation model, Nissan Serena has been acclaimed by customers, especially families, for its roomy comfortable cabin, great drivability and versatile seat configurability. It has achieved the No.1 position in minivan sales for three consecutive years, from 2007 to 2009*1, as well as surpassing one million in cumulative units*2sales in Japan this past February, making it an enduring bestseller since introduction.

The all-new Serena, with its advanced interior spaciousness, user-friendliness and Serena DNA, now adds best-in-class*3 fuel economy of 15.4km/L (10-15 mode)*4 to its long list of attributes. Serena is equipped with Nissan's new Idling Stop system, which adopts an ECO motor that restarts the engine and also serves as an alternator during deceleration. The engine restarts quicker and is quieter with ECO motor, providing a natural driving feel and enhanced interior comfort.

Equipped with a newly developed direct-injection engine with Xtronic CVT, the new Serena achieves both a 25% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards and SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards in every grade. This qualifies the vehicle for the tax exemption for environmentally friendly vehicles*5, which provides for a 75% reduction of both new vehicle acquisition and weight taxes.

Key features of the new Nissan Serena are:

1) Spacious Interior Space

A roomy cabin, where all members of the family can travel comfortably
A large cargo area, which accommodates large-size recreational and leisure equipment, satisfying the needs of the entire family
A new level of interior openness, created by a large windows, enhancing passengers' enjoyment

2) Ease of Use

User-friendly features such as large luggage compartments, which provide added convenience for many different activities, including family trips
Cockpit with excellent visibility, making driving easier and more comfortable
Effortless 2nd and 3rd row ingress and egress, even for children
Various seat configurations, such as a walk-through mode with the Smart Multi Center Seat

3) Exciting 'Eco' Features

Best-in-class fuel economy with Idling Stop system
Advanced meter, which visually provides eco drive information (Multi Graphic Upper Meter)

1. Design

Serena's smooth, flowing exterior design sets it apart from conventional minivans' boxy styling. Its "Space Cabin" interior embraces the family, combining Serena's symbolic, stair-like waistline, large triangular windows that provide excellent visibility and panoramic windows that offer a view of the spacious cabin from the outside.

The distinctive front mask styling with large front grille and bumper expresses a sense of unity, while the four large headlights accentuate the look of boldness. Serena also features sporty upward-slanting D pillars, beautiful crystal-like clear rear combination lamps and three-dimensional high-mounted stop lamps, which add to the impression of sportiness.

Inside, Serena's open interior space is enhanced by the large windows and the open panoramic roof with emotional pale blue illumination. The advanced, high quality center instrument cluster includes glossy finisher and switches, while the Multi Graphic Upper Meter adopts blue and white lights to provide excellent visibility and advanced performance.

2. Driving Performance

The new Serena's outstanding driving performance is the result of a combination of its advanced, efficient engine design with Idling Stop system, stable maneuverability and advanced aerodynamics.

The newly developed direct-injection MR20DD engine offers both excellent fuel efficiency and high torque, which are realized, in part, through improved thermal efficiency by directly injecting the fuel into the cylinder. Since the engine achieves high low-to-middle speed torque, less accelerator pressure is needed, reducing excessive fuel consumption. Stable acceleration also supports Eco-drive efforts. Improved fuel efficiency also results from use of twin VTC (Valve Timing Control) to improve intake and exhaust efficiency and efforts to reduce friction in various detailed parts. The Xtronic CVT, tuned specifically for use with the new MR20DD engine, also helps provide superb fuel efficiency, smooth response and enhanced dynamic performance.

Serena's Idling Stop system (with ECO motor) is standard on 20X, 20G and Highway STAR models. It automatically stops the engine when the car is stationary, such as when waiting for a traffic light to change, helping Serena achieve best-in-class fuel economy. Instead of the existing gear-type engine cranking system with starter motor, a belt-type engine cranking system with ECO motor is adopted. The ECO motor restarts the engine by directly rotating a pulley, which is directly connected to the crank through the belt. The engine not only restarts in a shorter time, but noise is reduced when restarting, by eliminating use of a starter motor.

A meter display shows how long the system functions and how much fuel is saved. While Idling Stop is engaged, the air-conditioner works only as a ventilator. If the system detects an increase in interior temperature, the engine restarts and the HVAC system switches to air conditioning again to maintain a comfortable cabin environment.

The new Serena minivan also offers improved aerodynamics performance and stable maneuverability. Through use of revised front bumper and rear combination lamps shapes, air resistance is reduced by approximately 8% compared to the current model, which improves fuel efficiency. In addition, torsional rigidity is improved through use of a new circular structure for door openings. The Highway STAR grade adopts shock absorbers with high-speed damping control, which improves driving comfort in nearly every situation.

3. Packaging, Seats and Sliding Door

Compared to the previous generation, the new Serena's interior dimensions are all increased, including the interior length, which is 300mm longer. With the largest glass front window for 5-number grade cars, great visibility for easier driving and never-before-seen openness are ensured. Triangle windows provide better visibility for the driver and the lower waistline enhances side visibility, which helps the driver see pedestrians more easily.

The impressive packaging space includes a large-capacity underfloor compartment capable of holding a baby stroller or a 9-inch golf bag horizontally, even when the 3rd row seats are in use.

As in previous generations, the new Serena offers a highly versatile interior. There are fourteen variations of seating configurations with a wide sliding range of seats and Smart Multi Center Seat, which can serve as a table or an armrest. Since the Smart Multi Center Seat moves back and forth, passengers can walk through the 2nd row to the 3rd row seats despite that it is an 8-seater. Also adopted is a Smart-up Third Seat, in which the 3rd row seat can be retracted at a lower level by an innovative link mechanism. As the retracting position is 175mm lower than the previous model, visibility for rear side windows is enhanced. For 20G models, an Easy Clean Seat covered with a special coating is adopted. Spills on this seat can be removed by wiping with wet cloth without a cleaner. Pull-down sunshades for the 2nd row windows, which shut out 90% of light, are standard on all grades.

In addition, convenience is enhanced through use of a wider slide door opening (compared to the previous model), which makes getting in and out of the vehicle while holding a child, and putting on or down child safety seats, easier. When both hands are full of baggage, the One-Touch Auto Slide Door automatically opens/closes with a single touch of a button on the door.

4. Advanced Technologies and Equipment

The new Serena also offers a range of advanced technologies and equipment, starting with the Multi Graphic Upper Meter. In addition to the speedometer and tachometer, the ECO meter is adopted to show current driving conditions. Three functions can be alternately displayed - Instant Fuel Consumption Display function, which simultaneously shows the average fuel consumption; Eco-drive Navigator function, which shows the appropriate acceleration condition based on the vehicle speed; and Idling Stop Timer function, which easily identifies how long the Idling Stop system has been functioning.

The Around View Monitor, a factory installed option on 20G and Highway STAR models, is ideal for use in garages and when parallel parking. The system utilizes a voice guidance system, simulated steering direction indicators, and reverse positioning displayed on the monitor (Parking Guide System). The front/rear wide view monitor gives priority to safety with a 180° perspective view when negotiating visibly difficult intersections and reversing from parking lots. By registering the visibly difficult intersections in the navigational map, when the vehicle stops at these points, it automatically activates the front Wide View Monitor Navigation.

Intelligent Air-conditioning System is standard on the 20G model and utilizes a high concentration Plasmacluster ion generator*6and advanced filters (Vitamin filter) in the Intelligent Air-conditioning System. The high concentration Plasmacluster ion provides more comfortable cabin space as it helps keep the skin moisturized*7 and reduces interior odors. The Advanced filters (Vitamin filter) clean the air coming from both inside and outside the vehicle and generate Vitamin C to help keep the skin and hair moisturized.

CARWINGS Navigation System (Integrated Digital Terrestrial Signal/HDD system) is another factory-installed option. Also available as an option is the Carwings Navigational System (Integrated Digital Terrestrial Signal・HDD system). It features the most advanced map updating system available with high-speed route calculation, built-in digital with automatic signal tuner (12 SEG/ 1 SEG) and an iPod®*8 compatible entertainment system.

Finally, a large 11-inch Electronic Retractable Monitor is available as a factory-installed option on 20G and Highway STAR models. Monitor size is 1.6-times larger than the 9-inch conventional model display, allowing greater visibility even from the 2nd and 3rd row seats.

Other Key Safety and Environmental Technologies

Auto light system (linked front wipers, dawn sensors) (12G, 12G FOUR)
Optimum light distribution, multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control)
Xenon headlamps (Factory-installed option on 20X, 20G and Highway STAR)
Halogen fog lamp-equipped front bumper (Standard on 20G and Highway STAR)
Electric retractable remote control body-colored door mirrors with integrated side turn lamps
LED High-Mount Stop Lamp bngtgggf
VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) with Traction Control System (TCS) functionality included
Hill Start Assist
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) + Brake Assist + EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution control system)
SRS curtain air bag system and SRS side air bag system for driver and front passenger (Factory-installed option on 20G and Highway STAR)
SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger
Load limiter equipped double pretensioner seatbelts for driver seat
Load limiter equipped pretensioner seatbelts for front passenger seat
Front seat Active Head Restraints
Second seat ISO FIX Child seat anchor (right and left)
High-strength body construction (Zone Body)
Body construction for pedestrian protection
Low-Friction Seatbelts
Seatbelt independent buckle (Standard on 20X, 20G and Highway STAR)
ASCD (Auto Speed Control Device) (Standard on 20X, 20G and Highway STAR)

Price range: Ksh. 1,000,000 to Ksh. 1,250,000, including 16% VAT.

*1: 2007 (Jan. - Dec.): 77,544 units, 2008 (Jan. - Dec.): 72,927 units, 2009 (Jan. - Dec.): 78,836 units. (According to JADA). Minivan refers to vehicles with three rows of seating, which are made in Japan.
*2: Total domestic sales of 1,006,599 units from June, 1991 to the end of February, 2010. (According to Nissan)
*3: 2.0L class minivan for eight passengers (three rows of seating) (As of Nov. 2010, according to Nissan)
*4: Fuel consumption rate on 10-15 mode driving (Judged by MLIT)

*5: By achieving both SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards and 25% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards, automobile acquisition tax for new vehicles registered until March 31st 2012 will receive a 75% reduction.

*6: 'Plasmacluster' and 'Plasmacluster ion' are registered trademarks of Sharp.
*7: Results depend on individuals and working conditions. Tests conducted by Soken. Ion density: 25,000/cm3. Amount of skin moisture on the temple area of the subject.
*8: iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Inc in the United States and in other countries.

NISSAN BLUEBIRD SYLPHY

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 12:35:00 GMT

In creating the new Sylphy, Nissan started with a concept: a luxury mid-sized sedan built with hospitality and care in mind. The result embodies the following three alluring themes:

* Beautiful --Sublime S-curves lend graceful motion inside and out.

* Comfortable --Like a living-room sofa, the seats are smooth and welcoming, with ample space for rear-seat guests to cross their legs in comfort.

* People-friendly --Convenience features like the super-multiconsole ensure that both front- and rear-seat passengers are well cared for. The intelligent air-conditioning system constantly refreshes cabin air, maintaining a healthy, comfortable environment.

The most arresting feature of the new Sylphy is its undeniable beauty inside and out, shaped by Nissan's distinctive S-motion design theme. The elegant S of the dash board serves both the driver with functionality and the front passenger with openness. Taut surfaces draw the graceful curves into a lyrical body shape.

The large, shell-shaped seats embrace passengers in relaxed luxury. The rear compartment has legroom of 680 mm, more space than many Japanese luxury sedans.

The super-multiconsole, with its 9.7-liter compartment, is just one of the Syphy’s many new convenience features. Nissan's "smart" air-conditioning system monitors air quality, mixing in outside air to constantly refresh the cabin.

At 1,876 mm, the Sylphy’s cabin is the longest in its class. Its trunk is also the largest in its class at up to 504 liters (VDA) on two-wheel-drive models.

The electric powered driver’s seat is the first of its kind in the class, automatically adjusting seat and mirrors to the specific driver identified by the Intelligent Key.

The MR20DE engine furnishes 90% of maximum torque at 2,000 rpm, the most frequently used engine speed in daily driving, resulting in better fuel efficiency.

In combination with the MR20DE engine, Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) allows the quick response and smooth, powerful acceleration needed in daily driving along with fuel-efficiency equivalent to that of a 1.8-liter engine.

The all-aluminum HR15DE engine furnishes firm torque at medium and low speeds in a quieter and even more fuel-efficient package.

The power steering system also fine-tunes the controls in response to speed, creating a close-to-natural feel in turns and wheel centering.

The chassis consists of a strut suspension system at the front of the car and an H-shaped torsion beam suspension system at the rear.

A preloading mechanism has been added to the valves in both the front and rear shock absorbers. This mechanism improves ride quality by reducing the damping force in the piston's high speed range, while maintaining the same level of force in the low speed range. The suspension system also incorporates internal rebound springs and ripple control shock absorbers and is optimally tuned, enabling the Sylphy to provide superb handling and stability combined with supple ride comfort.

The Sylphy is attains greenhouse emissions 75% below the 2005 government standard, winning it certification as a super-ultra-low-emission vehicle (SU-LEV), eligible for green tax advantages. The Sylphy was the first vehicle to receive SU-LEV certification in Japan in 2003.

Origin of the name

The word 'sylphy' was coined from the sylph, the elemental spirit of air that consorts with those of earth, fire and water. Combining this image of clean, natural quality with the confidence and reliability of our venerable Bluebird brand, its name states the car's fundamental qualities: Bluebird Sylphy.

Nissan affiliate Autech Japan Inc. released the new Axis at dealers nationwide concurrent with the Bluebird model change. Bluebird Sylphy Axis with optional equipment

The Axis: A Cut Above

Nissan's flagship 5-class sedan is designed for the discriminating driver, with dignity and rich texture. Outside, exclusive appointments mark the Axis as a cut above in class and style. Its cabin offers the ultimate quality of traditional coachwork, with genuine leather seats in classic beige or black themes.

Price range: Ksh. 900,000 to Ksh. 1,100,000, including 16% VAT.

Nissan JUKE Compact Sports Crossover

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 12:17:00 GMT

With the arrival of JUKE, Nissan ushers in a new genre of vehicles, the compact sports crossover. Developed for the global market, JUKE's unique styling offers a new look in the compact category, combining the agility of a compact sports car with the security and toughness of an SUV. From its sporty front and rear lights to its large, imposing fenders, JUKE stands out with bold design and strong imagery.

The JUKE name is equally original. Derived from an American football term used to describe a quick or sudden move taken by a running back to avoid a defensive player's tackle, the name was chosen to showcase JUKE's ability to deftly negotiate the challenges of work and everyday life.

JUKE also breaks new ground in offering the world's first mass-produced 1.5-liter engine (HR15DE) with dual injectors. Along with its standard new-generation Xtronic CVT™ transmission and rigid suspension, JUKE provides smooth acceleration, superior handling, improved driving stability and a comfortable ride.

All JUKE models have a low mileage consumption of 19.0km/L, a 15% improvement on 2010 mileage standards and 75% lower than 2005 emission standards (SU-LEV). This qualifies JUKE for the tax exemption for environmentally friendly vehicles*1, which provides for a 50% reduction of both new vehicle acquisition and weight taxes. In addition, functions like the combined mileage display and navigation system, Eco Drive mode with CVT, and low consumption cabin climate control all support a fun, eco-friendly driving experience.

The new "Intelligent Control Display," a versatile multi-function information system, is another first for Nissan vehicles. The system provides updated driving information, such as mileage, and acts as central control panel for cabin environment and for dynamic drive settings. JUKE drivers can use the control panel to easily switch between three available driving modes: Normal, Sports and Eco-drive.

A Tough, Agile Exterior Design

JUKE's dramatic exterior styling projects an image of toughness and agility. Its raked front pillars allow for a large windshield area for improved all-around visibility, while its taut upper canopy with sloped rear roofline combines with its muscular lower body sides to emphasize its strength and sportiness. Embedded rear door handles, "hidden" in the rear pillars, emulate the design of a 2-door sports coupe.

One of the most distinctive features of the JUKE exterior is the unique headlight treatment, which utilizes large, rounded headlights mounted low in the nose and thin, high-mounted "slash" auxiliary lights mounted higher on the hood edge to create a radical, rally car-inspired appearance. The rear combination lights also project JUKE's sporty intentions, mimicking the sleek boomerang-like form found on the iconic Z® sports car.

The JUKE is available in seven exciting new colors, including "Radiant Red" (Pearl Metallic) and Meteorite Brown" (Metallic).

An Aggressive, Highly Functional Interior

JUKE's interior design is equally inspired, combining the mechanical aspects of a precision instrument with the free flowing feel of a living organism. Innovation and high functionality are evident throughout - from the motorcycle tank-like center console and smooth door finishes to the motorcycle cylinder inspired meters, floating instrument panel visor and sporty center cluster. Even the door trim design, with its distinctive diving fin look, adds to the JUKE's sporty personality, enhancing the feeling of connectedness that the driver and passengers have with the vehicle.

JUKE's compact sports crossover design also adds a level of packaging efficiency not found on other compact vehicles. Its higher ride visibility and large windshield allow for a much broader view of the road and surrounding environment, with the design of the hood and front combination lamps giving a nearly unobstructed view for the driver, helping enhance maneuverability. The high shift lever and parking brake position and easily accessible audio control panel contribute to the comfortable driving position, while the sporty seat design helps secure the driver and front passenger during spirited driving.

Another unique feature debuting on JUKE is the Intelligent Control Display (standard on JUKE 15RX). This newly developed intelligent control display features a versatile, multi-colored information system that provides real time driving information and a host of other options, which allow the driver to alter both dynamic drive mode settings and climate control. In Drive Mode, both engine and CVT transmission performance can be adjusted to fit any driving of three moods. Normal Mode gives balanced strength in acceleration and control. Sports Mode allows drivers to enjoy sporty and responsive control, while the Eco Mode provides improved fuel efficiency and efficient use of the air conditioning.

The control panel utilizes a newly developed switch that employs a special filter with two-color LED lamps. Selection switches for Air Conditioning and Drive mode are easily accessible in the panel. The display and switches automatically configure according to which function is selected, showing information such as cabin temperature, air conditioner control, torque, engine power and fuel consumption.

Also available is an optional Carwings Navigation System (Digital Internal HHD) with advanced mapping update system, fastest route calculation function, built-in digital tuner with automatic signal tuning (12 SEG/ 1SEG) and an iPod®*2 compatible entertainment system. The system's Real-Time Driving Information, curb size calculation and tollgate distance information helps calculate engine braking power, fuel use reduction and improved fuel-efficient transmission control via assistance from the navigation system.

An Advanced, Fuel Efficient Drivetrain

JUKE is equipped with an improved HR15DE engine. Already known for its great performance and reliability, this latest version offers better fuel efficiency and torque at low and medium speeds. Power is rated at 84kW (114 PS) at 6,000 rpm, with max torque rated at 150N･m (15.3kgfm) at 4,000 rpm. Switching between city and highway driving is easy, with no compromise of comfort, performance or acceleration.

The engine is quipped with the world's first mass-produced dual injector system, which has two injectors per cylinder - each with a smaller nozzle to deliver finer, more closely targeted sprays of fuel into the cylinders for more efficient atomization and complete combustion. Variable Valve Timing (CVTC) for both intake and exhaust also contribute to improved fuel economy.

JUKE also features a new Xtronic CVT™ design that combines the efficiency of a Continuous Variable Transmission with a new 2-speed sub-gearbox system, resulting in a 20% improvement in gear ratio over conventional CVT systems - along with better acceleration, good response and quieter operation at high speeds. In addition to the sub-gearbox, the new design utilizes smaller and lighter pulleys, a flexible lock-up damper and a more fuel-efficient oil pump to promote greater fuel efficiency. And, its improved gear ratios, smaller and lighter pulleys and reduced oil resistance give it 30% less friction than conventional CVTs.

The new JUKE will also be offered with an all-new 1.6-liter engine (MR16DDT) equipped with a compact turbo charger, which combines good fuel efficiency with the power equivalent to a 2.5-liter engine. MR engine equipped models will be available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. 4WD versions feature ALL MODE 4x4i with a newly developed torque vectoring system, which applies optimal torque distribution control of the rear wheels to enhance agility and cornering feel and reduce understeer when cornering.

JUKE 16GT/16GT FOUR Grades

Nissan JUKE 16GT/16GT FOUR grades are equipped with a newly developed 1.6-liter engine (MR16DDT), along with Xtronic CVT™ with 6-speed manual shift mode offering both performance equivalent to a 2.5-liter engine and superior fuel efficiency. The JUKE 16GT FOUR (4WD) features ALL MODE 4x4i with a newly developed torque vectoring system, an advanced version of ALL MODE 4x4i, enabling responsive cornering as the driver intends.

In order to fit in a compact vehicle body while also producing responsive power and fuel efficiency, the 1.6-liter MR16DDT engine combines a direct injection gasoline mechanism improving combustion efficiency and a highly-efficient compact turbocharger, with Continuously Variable-valve Timing Control (CVTC) for both intake and exhaust, contributing to improved intake and exhaust efficiency. Furthermore, exhilarating acceleration, agile response and superior fuel economy are all optimally balanced by providing maximum power output of 140kW (190PS)/5600rpm and maximum torque of 240N・m (24.5kg f･m)/2000-5200 rpm - producing power that lasts through the high rpm range, while generating strong torque from low engine rpm.

ALL MODE 4x4i with the torque vectoring system is a newly developed 4WD system, which can distribute torque for both front and rear wheels. The new system optimally controls torque distribution between the right and left rear wheels by adopting electronically controlled coupling for the rear wheels. It also adjusts torque distribution between front and rear wheels according to driving conditions, such as the driver's steering operation and vehicle behavior. During cornering, understeer is reduced by distributing more driving force in the outer rear wheel. Therefore, it quickly alters the direction of the vehicle by steering operation, as if the driver operates the vehicle as intended through accelerator operation.

Also offered for 16GT/16GT FOUR is Xtronic CVT™ with 6-speed manual shift mode with synchronized rev control. The suspension is specially tuned for 16GT series and rear disc brakes are adopted. Also standard on both grades are 17-inch tires and aluminum-alloy wheels. In addition, a rear multi-link suspension is adopted for the 16GT FOUR for improved road holding, fulfilling the potential of the MR16DDT engine and ALL MODE 4x4i with torque vectoring system for an even higher level of sporty and exhilarating driving.

The new 16GT/16GT FOUR models also include JUKE's Intelligent Control Display. When "Sports" driving mode is selected, a strong, linear acceleration feel is realized with step shift control in the CVT, which emphasizes shift-up feeling during acceleration. In addition, sportier driving is realized through special electronic power steering control with a strengthened steering feel. On the display panel itself, turbo boost pressure and longitudinal and lateral gravity are shown to add to driving pleasure.

Nissan JUKE 16GT/16GT FOUR is available in eight colors, including a special Steel Blue Metallic, adopted specially for 16GT series.

Juke Nismo

The Juke Nismo will be powered by a 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine based on the 16GT FOUR Type V. It has been carefully tuned to provide a driving experience only NISMO could create, complementing the vehicle's classy-yet-sporty appearance and overall unique nature. The Juke Nismo was engineered and developed with the passion and experience that has made Nismo one of the world's premiere motorsports organizations and factory-tuning divisions.

Highlights of the Juke Nismo include:

Improved styling that's both attractive and functional. The vehicle's aerodynamics have been markedly improved, thanks to feedback from the motorsports
An exciting interior look that's exclusive to the Juke Nismo
1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 200PS
Superb 4WD traction and an XTRONIC CVT transmission with 7-speed manual mode
A specially-tuned suspension system that delivers responsive handling, a supple ride and excellent cornering stability

Juke Nismo Vehicle Outline

Motorsports inspired aerodynamic bodykit and custom exterior styling
Thanks to unparalleled expertise in aerodynamic technology, honed through Nismo's participation in the Super GT Series (the highest form of GT racing in Japan), the Juke Nismo features a 37percent increase in downforce compared to the stock model, dramatically improving the vehicle's overall stability.
- The front bumper has been reshaped, with both ends made wider to redirect air around the front tires resulting in less drag. Also, the center part of the spoiler has been redesigned to increase downforce
- The new side skirts prevent air from flowing to the underbelly of the car, which results in reduced lift.
- The roof spoiler (with high-mount stop lamp) has been extended and positioned at an optimum angle to decrease drag and provide additional downforce to the rear of the vehicle.

Exterior Features:

Nismo badges front and rear
Nismo front grille
Nismo rear bumper
Body colored Filltet molding
Single exit sports exhaust finisher
Gloss black door sash
Front combination lamps (dark)
LED hyper daytime running lights (linked to the driving lights)
Signature red door mirrors (linked to the door locks)

An interior that makes the driver feel like part of the vehicle
The interior of the Juke Nismo inspires sporty driving, as the cabin has been specifically designed for the spirited enthusiast. Restyled seats and a new steering wheel come wrapped in new materials, and when combined with the red accents placed throughout the cabin, the inside of the Juke Nismo is all about performance and style.
- Special suede-trimmed Nismo sports seats with red stitching and deep side bolsters Nissan's first Alcantara-covered steering wheel, with red stitching and red center mark
- Red tachometer with Nismo logo
- Red ring engine start button
- Custom finish (on the instrument cluster, vents, shift knob, base of the shifter, power-window switches and the front center console)
- Black roof trim

Engine with increased output and specially-tuned XTRONIC CVT
Increased horsepower and torque from the 1.6-liter direct injection turbocharged engine, combined with an XTRONIC CVT with a close-ratio 7-speed manual mode, result in quicker acceleration and better throttle response.
- By tuning the control program of the turbocharger, the MR16DDT engine produces an additional 7 kW (10 ps) and 10 Nm (1.0 kgf/m) of torque, bringing the total figures to an impressive 147 kW (200 ps) and 250 Nm (25.5 kfg/m)
- XTRONIC CVT features close-ratio 7-speed manual mode

Sporty customized suspension system that enhances the fun of driving
The Juke Nismo's well-balanced natureflawlessly blending sporty handling, a smooth ride quality and rock-solid stabilitywas developed in Europe where the average driving speeds are faster, driving distances are longer and roads are more irregular (i.e., stone surfaces, rough terrain) than those found in Japan.
In addition, the steering exhibits a more stable feel thanks to increasing the assist on the power steering system during mid to high vehicle speeds.
- 18-inch Nismo alloy wheels and wider 225/45R tires provide exceptional traction and grip
- Thanks to the special sports suspension system developed in Europe, the vehicles displays quick steering response and outstanding controllability through corners

Other features:
- Xenon headlamps with low beam and self-leveler function
- S Pack (SRS driver-side and front-passenger airbags, side airbags, side-curtain airbags, rear-seat assist handles on left and right sides

Nismo

Nismo, the performance brand for Nissan, is the company's purveyor of innovation and excitement.
Nismo offers products featuring innovative technology and high performance to a wide range of customers for street use. Nismo's cars provide exciting driving experiences with motorsports-inspired aerodynamics and styling, enhanced handling characteristics and unmatched agility.
In the motorsports world, Nismo competes in the highest forms of GT and sports-car racing, such as Japan's Super GT Series and the World Endurance Championships (WEC), as well as providing engines to teams that compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the European Le Mans Series (ELMS). In 2012, the Nissan GT-R captured the Super GT championship for the second straight year.

Platform, Body and Suspension

Based on the proven B-platform, JUKE's layout and structure was optimized while maintaining rigidity and vehicle weight. The large wheelwells have an improved capacity, allowing for use of wide P215/55R17*3 sized tires. The larger tire tread provides for enhanced driving stability.

JUKE's front suspension design is the first B-platform application to use a cradle-type subframe. The suspension mounting points utilize two key locations in the front and back for enhanced suspension rigidity. A rigid torsion beam suspension is used in the rear. The combination of high performance shock absorbers, rigid suspension and high stability helps JUKE achieve its responsive sporty driving feel and good steering control during cornering. In addition to improved ride and handling, road noise and vibration have been significantly reduced, helping provide for a quiet ride.

Additional Safety and Eco Technologies

The all-new JUKE includes an array of safety and Eco technologies, including:

Auto light system (linked front wipers, dawn sensors) (Standard feature on JUKE 15RX)
Optimum light distribution, multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control)
Xenon headlights (with low beam/auto-control) (Optional on JUKE 15RX)
RearView Monitor (color view monitor with predictive width/ length readout and grid function display) (Optional)
Rear windshield wiper
High Mount Stop Lamp
Brake Assist
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution)
High-strength body construction
Body construction for pedestrian protection
SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger
SRS side air bag, curtain air bag system for driver and front passenger
Active head restraint for front passenger seats
2-stage load limiter equipped double pretensioner seatbelt for driver (shoulder and waist area)
2-stage load limiter equipped pretensioner seat belt for front passenger
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
Rear seat headrests (3)
Achieves SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards
Achieves 15% improvement in fuel economy over 2010 standards
95% recyclability rate based on 1998 Guidelines for definition and calculation method on the recyclability rate for new vehicles provided by JAMA
Mileage display function

Price range: Ksh. 1,150,000 to KSh. 1,550,000, including 16% VAT.

*1: 75% lower than 2005 emission standards (SU-LEV) and 20% or 15% fuel efficiency based on 2010 standards.

Automobile acquisition tax for new vehicles registered until March 31st 2010 will receive a 50% reduction.

Automobile weight tax for new vehicles registered until April 30th 2012 will receive a 50% reduction.

Nissan promotes environmentally friendly vehicles that meet government tax incentives under its Nissan ECO (NECO) series. Currently there are 20 models as of June 6th 2010. Models are :「Moco」「Otti」「Roox」「March」「Note」「Cube」「Tiida」「Tiida Latio」「Wingroad」「Serena」「Juke」「Dualis」「X-Trail」「Lafesta」「Skyline Sedan」「Fuga」「AD/AD Expert」「NV200 Vanette」「Atlas F24」「Atlas H43」.

*2: iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Inc in the United States and in other countries.
*3: P215/55R17 size is optional for 15Rx. Standard option is P205/60R16.

Nissan X-TRAIL SUV - T31

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 12:12:00 GMT

The original Nissan X-TRAIL was developed with the goal of providing customers with a versatile four-passenger, four-wheel drive vehicle at a two million yen price point. Since its launch, the popular X-TRAIL has been noted for its superior performance, functionality and authentic SUV experience. The all-new X-TRAIL promises to take the SUV experience to an even higher level, maintaining the original's tough, rugged design while adding elements that maximize owners' enjoyment of outdoor sports.

X-TRAIL's "toughness" is highlighted by its enhanced all-weather capability, provided by Nissan's latest electronically controlled four-wheel drive (4WD) system, the ALL MODE 4x4-i with yaw moment control. Also new for this generation X-TRAIL is Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA). All three systems are designed to provide piece of mind for the driver through superior control and stability.

Additionally, X-TRAIL's hallmark high quality and outstanding utility have been enhanced with added convenience and storage features. Highlights of the restyled interior include the use of new water-repellant materials and a larger, washable two-deck luggage compartment.

A Strong Exterior Design

The all-new Nissan X-TRAIL retains the nameplate's signature styling cues, which are suggestive of the SUV's outstanding off-road capabilities. Extended wheel arches and an aggressive front bumper design give X-TRAIL a tough stance. The hood slopes to allow a clear view of the vehicle's corners and the three-dimensional headlights continue the strong look. The headlight markers enable drivers to identify the front corners of the vehicle, helping negotiate tight areas whether on an off-road trail or an urban street. Additionally, the A-pillars' obstruction angle has been reduced by 1.2 degrees in comparison to the previous generation X-TRAIL.

X-TRAIL's low waistline leads into the styled rear pillars with an "X" motial and also contributes to the good visibility and gives a feeling of roominess to the passenger and luggage areas. The finishing touches are provided by three-dimensional rear combination lamps and a high-mounted LED stop lamp. An integrated "Hyper Roof Rail" is optionally available, as are Bi-level xenon headlights and heated outside mirrors.

The new X-TRAIL's body has been stiffened for increased stability and reduced NVH. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) were utilized to analyze and improved the X-TRAIL's body design, resulting in improved performance and fuel economy.

Seven exterior colors are available, including a new "Desert Amber" color. Nissan's new Scratch Guard, a transparent coating containing a flexible resin compound, is available with three X-TRAIL body colors - Burning Red, Sapphire Blue and Diamond Black. Scratch Guard enables the paint to "repair" minor scratches within a short period of time.

A Spacious Interior, With Enhanced Utility

X-TRAIL's cabin is designed to allow four adults to travel in comfort and style. The new interior offers improved functionality and quality craftsmanship. The accent lines flowing from the instrument panel to the door trim enhances the roomy feeling, while new soft padding on the instrument panel, door trim and armrests add a substantial yet comfortable sensation.

For maximum adventure without worry, the new X-TRAIL's interior is water-repellant, including the floor and ceiling. X-TRAIL's seat sides are upholstered in an artificial leather material, while the seat cushion and the seatback feature a water-repellant diving suit-style material.

X-TRAIL's new instruments and controls provide a performance feel, with a metallic-finished CVT shift lever, large gauges and easy-to-use 4-wheel drive switches. The steering column pops up in a single action for enhanced convenience of use and more effective use of the space around the driver's seat.

Front seat headroom has been increased by 6 millimeters and knee room by 24 millimeters. Ingress and egress have also been improved by lowering the sill step-over height by 28 millimeters in front and 14 millimeters in the rear.

Utility is enhanced by a large compartment in the instrument panel, and a two-level rear-seat armrest incorporates a pass-through feature for carrying long items easily with the armrest folded down (available on X grade models).

For maximum comfort, the new X-TRAIL features rear-seat air-conditioner vents, the first mid-size SUV to offer that standard feature. Also, covered heating/cooling cup holders are provided in the front and rear seat areas.

X-TRAIL's rear cargo area has been substantially increased over the previous model, thanks to relocated rear shock absorbers, for a class-leading capacity of 603 liters (VDA). The cargo area features a ribbed, washable luggage board to prevent items from sliding. A removable luggage drawer with movable partitions, located beneath the luggage board, provides hidden storage.

Available Advanced Technology

The new X-TRAIL features Nissan's latest HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system. This system incorporates an easy-to-use touch panel screen, and contains music box and DVD audio/video playback. A Bluetooth hands-free interface is available as a factory option.

Also available on X-TRAIL is Nissan's Intelligent Key System, which, through the ID code stored in the key fob, provides improved anti-theft functionality that includes electric-assisted power steering lockup, engine immobilizer and other deterrents.

Two monitor systems are available as a set on X-TRAIL, a blind-spot monitor and a back-view monitor. The blind-spot monitor increases visibility on the X-TRAIL's left front side, assisting parallel parking or meeting oncoming traffic on a narrow road. The back-view monitor uses a small CCD camera to display on the navigation system monitor a color image of the area behind the X-TRAIL.

A Powerful, Dynamic Engine

X-TRAIL's engine provides superior performance and driving ease. Two engines are offered with X-TRAIL, a 2.0-liter MR20DE featuring an improved exhaust system, or a 2.5-liter QR25DE with continuously variable valve timing control (CVTC) providing an increase in low-speed torque.

A 6-speed manual transmission is available in the 2.0-liter 4-wheel drive model, a unique offering in class. The overdrive sixth gear produces high fuel economy with low noise and vibration.

All other X-TRAIL models feature an XTRONIC Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with revised shift control logic, called Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). ASC adapts to the driver's personal driving style and environment to optimize power and fuel economy. On 2.5-liter equipped X-TRAILs, an XTRONIC CVT-M6 transmission is used, which features a special 6-speed manual shift mode.

MR20DE engine models (4WD, CVT and gross vehicle weight of 1,520 kg or more) achieve fuel economy that is 20% higher than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards. MR20DE engine models (4WD, 6-speed MT and gross vehicle weight of 1,520 kg or more) and QR25DE engine models achieve fuel economy that is 10% higher than the 2010 standards.

MR20DE engine models are certified as Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (SULEVs) because they emit 75% fewer emissions than Japan's 2005 exhaust emission standards, and QR25DE engine models are certified as U-LEVs because they emit 50% fewer emissions than the standards.

A New Four-Wheel Drive System, Steering, Suspension and Brakes

The new X-TRAIL is available with Nissan's advanced four-wheel drive system, called ALL MODE 4x4-i, incorporating yaw moment control. This new system enhances stability by instantaneously analyzing information received from a steering angle sensor, a yaw rate sensor and a lateral accelerometer to estimate the driver's cornering path and control front/rear torque split for smooth cornering behavior on slippery road surfaces.

The X-TRAIL's ALL MODE 4x4-i incorporates two modes - Auto and Lock. Auto allows the system to vary the front/rear torque split from 100/0 to approximately 50/50 depending on driving conditions, while Lock sets the torque split, which controls engine torque and the brake pressure at all four wheels to deliver powerful traction. Also standard on four-wheel drive models is a Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system.

Other X-TRAIL features include Hill Descent Control (HDC), which maintains a descent speed of 7 km/h (not available with 6-speed manual transmission), and Hill Start Assist (HSA) which prevents the car from rolling backwards when facing uphill by maintaining brake pressure for approximately two seconds after the driver moves his or her foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal.

X-TRAIL also features a vehicle-speed-sensitive electric-assisted power steering system, with light steering effort at low speed and provides a reassuring steering feel at high speed, while using an electric motor to reduce fuel consumption. Braking is provided with a four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which adjusts braking force to the front and rear wheels depending on the number of passengers and cargo on board.

The new X-TRAIL's suspension, based on the design utilized in the Dualis, is an independent front strut and rear multi-link design, with advanced shock absorbers. This suspension features optimized geometry and flexibility for both on- and off-road driving.

Safety, Environmental and Sales Figures

X-TRAIL features high-strength Zone Body construction, with impact-energy absorbing body structure for mitigating pedestrian injuries. Passenger safety is enhanced by front-seat Active Head Restraints, dual SRS air bag systems for the driver and front passenger, SRS side air bag systems for the driver and front passenger, double pretensioner seatbelt with two-stage load limiter for the driver and pretensioner seatbelt with load limiter for the front passenger. Additionally, X-TRAIL features a collapsible steering column (excluding models with the pop-up steering column) and brake pedal construction that prevents rearward pedal movement.

X-TRAIL features a recyclability rate of more than 95%¹; a clean interior environment with features developed from the three perspectives of clean air, human skin friendly and sanitary/clean; and a Reduction of interior volatile organic compounds (VOC).

The sales target for the all-new X-TRAIL is 2,000 units per month².

^{¹ As calculated according to the guideline adopted by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. in 1998 concerning the definition and calculation method of the recyclability rate of new cars}^{² Sales launch events: Saturday and Sunday, August 25-26 and Saturday and Sunday, September 1-2, 2007}

Price range : Ksh. 1,700,000 to KSh. 2,000,000, including 16% VAT (Ksh. 4,000,000 to KSh. 5,500,000 Brand New - Nissan Kenya.)

Autech Japan, Inc., a wholly owned Nissan affiliate, today launched nationwide sales of the Axis, a customized model based on the all-new X-TRAIL SUV. The Axis was developed to be a "fine-quality, upscale" SUV for on-road usage.

X-TRAIL Axis (4WD with MR20DE engine)

An Enhanced X-TRAIL

The exclusive X-TRAIL Axis features a premium-quality, exclusive front mask and fully painted Champagne Silver exterior. Inside, the upscale image continues with exclusive, rich-looking genuine leather-appointed seats and unique beige-colored trim. Together, this unique color and trim combination provide a smart and rich appearance.

Nissan Releases All-New X-Trail

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 12:06:00 GMT

Targeting young customers who enjoy outdoor sports, the new X-Trail is a continuously evolving authentic SUV. In addition to the well-received ALL MODE 4x4i, an advanced chassis control is adopted, delivering excellent driving performance in nearly any situation. Maintaining water-repellent floor and seats as well as large-capacity water-repellent luggage space, the new X-Trail offers flexible luggage area that can easily be portioned and a large console box as evolved gear to comfortably support enjoyment of outdoor sports. In addition, Safety Shield inspired technologies, including Around View Monitor with Parking Assist, helping drivers experience more confidence when manuevering in various situations.

Highlights of the new X-Trail:

Excellent driving performance delivered in nearly any situation

X-Trail adopts Nissan's well-recognized four-wheel drive system, ALL MODE 4x4i, as previous generation models, with Hill Start Assist, Advance Hill Descent Control, and Yaw Moment Control. Advanced technologies, including world's first Active Ride Control and Active Engine Brake, and Cornering Stability Assist, are adopted in all grades to significantly improve riding comfort and drivability .

Luggage space and utility features delivering ultimate user-friendliness

With flexible luggage area that can be custom-portioned depending on size and the type of luggage, and increased storage space including pockets and cup holders, customer convenience is enhanced. Adoption of a hands-free remote-controlled back door enables a person with the Intelligent Key to easily open it just by waving a hand or an object near the sensor even when holding a package. This can be utilized in various situations from daily driving to outdoor activities. Fatigue caused by long-distance driving is reduced by newly-developed Spinal Support Front Seats. In addition to two-row five-passenger grades, three-row seven-passenger grades are newly added.

Advanced equipment and environmental performance appropriate for the most powerful SUV

X-Trail supports enhanced safety and security while driving in various situations with the adoption of the Emergency Brake, Emergency Assist for Pedal Misapplication, LDW (Lane Departure Warning) and Do-not-enter Sign Detection systems available together at an affordable price. BSW (Blind Spot Warning) and Driver Attention Alert are also offered as optional features. With newly-adopted Nissan first Around View Monitor with Parking Assist, a driver does not need to turn the steering wheel when parking in a garage or parallel parking. It makes parking much easier. The Advanced Drive-Assist Display also provides a variety of vehicle information to support driving

As for environmental performance, fuel-saving technologies, including direct-injection MR20DD engine, Idling Stop, the new XTRONIC CVT, reduced driving load and light-weight body, help achieve best fuel efficiency*1 of 16.4 km/L*2. Based on the dual-pillar strategy of "zero emissions" and PURE DRIVE*4, Nissan continues its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions throughout its product lineup. The new X-Trail is one of Nissan's PURE DRIVE models.

Overview of the new X-Trail

1. Driving Performance

Adoption of Active Ride Control which improves ride comfort and handling on bumpy roads by controlling engine and brake
Adoption of Active Engine Brake which reduces driver's steering load by adding a degree of engine braking while cornering or when decelerating to a standstill
Cornering Stability Assist adopted as standard on all grades for more secure cornering achieved by controlling each brake for four wheels depending on the driving situation based on steering and braking of a driver
Straight line stability improved by increased caster trail by about 30 percent with caster angle reduced
Adoption of sound absorption rear wheel house liner which efficiently reduce noise from tires
ALL MODE 4x4 system in which 4WD computer switches torque distribution between front and rear from 100:0 to approximately 50:50 depending on the driving situation
Hill Start Assist adopted as a standard feature, which helps prevent a vehicle from rolling back when changing the position of foot from the gas pedal to the brake pedal
Adoption of Advanced Hill Descent Control, which controls the vehicle speed (4 km/h – 15 km/h) only by pedal operation when a vehicle descends on slippery roads (all 4WD models)

2. Utility features, Packaging

Utility features

Largest-in-class*1 water-repellent luggage space that can carry a maximum of 550L
Adoption of water-repellent luggage board that can be used to flexibly divide luggage space
User-friendliness improved by increased cup holders and storage space
Hands-free power rear door that opens using the Intelligent Key

Packaging

In two-row five seat grades, largest rear-seat knee room in its class*1 and 60:40 split seats for second-row seats are offered
In three-row seven seat grades, sliding and reclining second row seats with 40:20:40 split seats
Largest-in-class*1 electric retractable panoramic sunroof (electric tilt and slide, with electric retractable shade) is adopted (factory-installed option)
Adoption of Spinal support front seats with articulated seat back pad which eases strain to spine and helps alleviate fatigue caused by long-time drive
Adoption of Quick Comfort Seat Heater for front seats which warms passengers as quickly and comfortably as possible. (20X, 20X Emergency Brake Package, 20X X-TREMER X, 20X Emergency Brake Package X-TREMER X)
Water-repellent seats and floor which can be easily cleaned up when they get dirty or wet

3. Advanced equipment and environmental features

Advanced equipment

Equipped with Emergency Brake which helps reduce the risk of frontal collisions. When the system detects a risk of collision with a vehicle or a pedestrian with the front view camera, it alerts the driver to take action using a visual warning and audible buzzer. If the driver does not act upon the warnings, the braking system is activated to help avoid a collision or reduce damage caused by collision if one is unavoidable. (20X Emergency Brake Package, 20X Emergency Brake Package X-TREMER X)
BSW (Blind Spot Warning) is adopted, which alerts the driver if a vehicle is detected in his/her blind spot. Using the rear view camera, it can detect a vehicle in the rear or to the side of the X-Trail and alert the driver by illuminating the side mirror indicator lights. When there is a vehicle detected in the blind spot area and the driver activates the turn signal to move in that direction, the system warns the driver by blinking the indicator light and providing an audible warning. (factory-installed option)
Adoption of Driver Attention Alert which alerts the driver with visual and audible warnings if it detects vehicle steering input which may suggest driver inattention. (factory-installed option)
Adoption of Do-not-enter Sign Detection, which judges when a vehicle is likely to enter a street that it is prohibited to enter using sign detection enabled by a front view camera, then warns the driver with a visual display and audible buzzer. (20X Emergency Brake Package, 20X Emergency Brake Package X-TREMER X)
Around View Monitor (with MOD and parking sonar) equipped with Parking Assist, which supports a driver when parking into a garage or parallel parking by independently control steering. (factory-installed option)
The driver benefits from one of the most advanced meter displays yet seen with 5 inch TFT colour display.

Environmental Performance

Adoption of Eco mode which controls acceleration and speed change of CVT to improve actual fuel economy by just pressing a switch
Equipped with MR20DD engine which offers both fuel-efficiency and strong torque realized by improved thermal efficiency
Idling Stop, which adopts an ECO motor, that restarts the engine quickly and quietly
Adoption of the new XTRONIC CVT which improves fuel economy by about 10 percent by increasing gear range and reducing friction resistance loss. Step shift control in the CVT is newly adopted that increases engine speed in line with an increase in vehicle speed

4. Design

Exterior design

The design expresses strong presence as a new SUV offered by robust appeal, sleek and stylish lines and body that hints excellent functionality and dynamic driving
Adoption of V-motion shape that starts from grille through engine hood
Adoption of boomerang-shape LED front lamp signature and rear lamp signatures
Available on seven exterior colors with Scratch Shield which is capable of restoring fine scratches over time

Interior design

Spacious interior space provided by a flowing horizontal line, starting from instrumental panel to door trim, designed in the motif of a flying bird
With the angle of rear window and interior volume optimally balanced, rear style is designed with roomy interior and user-friendly luggage space in mind
High-quality texture that exceeds existing SUVs is offered with the adoption of geometrical finisher*5 and selected materials and color tones for chrome and silver finisher

Other Key Safety, Convenience and Environmental Technologies

Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Emergency Assist for Pedal Misapplication (20X Emergency Brake Package, 20X Emergency Brake Package X-TREMER X)
LED head lamps (with high/low beam, auto-control and Friendly Lighting function) (factory-installed option on 20X, 20X Emergency Brake Package, 20X X-TREMER X, 20X Emergency Brake Package X-TREMER X)
Body-colored side under mirror
Electric retractable remote control body-colored heated door mirrors with integrated side turn lamps
High-strength body construction (Zone Body), Body construction for pedestrian protection
SRS frontal air bag system for driver and front passenger
SRS side air bag system for driver and front passenger and SRS curtain air bag system (factory-installed option)
VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control ) and Brake LSD
Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), Brake Assist
2-stage load limiter equipped double pretensioner seatbelt for driver
2-stage load limiter equipped pretensioner seatbelt for the front passenger
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
Every grade achieves SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards*3
Achieves more than 95% recyclability rate
Friendly Lighting function
Comfort Flasher
Air-bag-linked hazard warning lights
Auto light system (linked dawn sensors)
Rear windshield wiper (working cooperatively with reverse action)
Auto ACC system

*1: M-class Gasoline SUV (As of September 2013, according to Nissan)

*2: 2WD 20X (two-row/three-row), 20X Emergency Brake Package (two-row/three-row)

20X (three-row) and 20X Emergency Brake Package (three-row) will achieve "20% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards" depending on options chosen, thereby fully exempting it from the automobile acquisition tax and automobile weight tax. As the values are based on in-house measurements and they have not been approved by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, they are subject to change.

*3: PURE DRIVE vehicles are designed to deliver new excitement, creating a new experience and surprise in everyday driving, by combining various models with eco-technologies.
*4: Autech Japan is responsible for the production of X-TREMER X grades, which require vehicle registration in person.
*5: Adopted in 20X, 20X Emergency Brake Package, 20X X-TREMER X and 20X Emergency Brake Package X-TREMER X

Nissan Skyline Crossover

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 11:45:00 GMT

The new Nissan Skyline Crossover represents a fusion of luxury coupe and luxury SUV, a union beautifully expressed in its dynamic design, sophisticated performance and unmatched driving pleasure. Along with its flowing silhouette and modern interior, the Skyline Crossover offers an optimal balance of smooth handling, supple ride comfort and responsive acceleration provided by its powerful 3.7-liter VQ37VHR engine and 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. It also features a number of advanced technologies and safety systems, highlighted by an Around View Monitor with Parking Guide and Lane Departure Prevention system.

Innovative Design - The Fusion of Coupe and SUV

The exterior of the Skyline Crossover evokes the image of solidity and lightness. Its long front nose, with hood bulge extending from the grille to the front door mirrors, combines with the coupe-like arched cabin to provide classic front-engine/rear-wheel drive proportions. The elegantly curved waistline flows from the front of the vehicle through the dramatic rear fenders and dynamic rear design. Other exterior features include xenon headlights and Active AFS (Adaptive Front lighting System), high-mounted LED stop lamps, bright LED rear combination taillights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade windshield wipers.

The Skyline Crossover is available in a choice of seven exterior paint colors, including a new Sparkling Rose Silver - created for customers seeking a high level of richness and exclusivity.

Inside, the modern, high-quality interior's embracing design offers smooth soft-to-the-touch materials and real wood trim with a gradational surface effect. Comfort and utility are enhanced by long, raised armrests and a high-utility center console. The interior also offers an automatic folding rear seat (the seatback can be raised automatically and also folded from a button in the luggage space), a retractable coat hanger located on the back of the driver's seat (standard on Type P models), and a new Welcome Lighting system - the first for Nissan vehicles. When the driver with an Intelligent Key approaches the Skyline Crossover, lamps in the door mirrors illuminate the ground below and interior lighting activates for more convenient entry at night or in dark parking garages.

Also available are a Bose® audio system (standard on all models) and a HDD CARWINGS navigation system with built-in terrestrial digital TV receiver. The system's mapping can be updated by downloading from a computer or mobile communications device. As the latest in vehicle navigation system design, it offers enhanced entertainment features including iPod connections and digital TV receiver.

Two interior "environments" are offered. The Brown interior expresses luxury, with the use of crafted curly maple wood and other fine materials. The Black interior provides a sporty elegance with a unique aluminum trim finish.

Balanced Driving Performance

The new Skyline Crossover achieves an exceptional balance of acceleration, handling and comfort through the use of a number of advanced systems and technologies, starting with its 243kW (330PS) 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V6 engine, the most powerful in its class. Generating 90% of maximum torque between 2,400 and 7,000 rpm, the engine power is light, smooth and easy to handle right up to the 7,500 rpm redline.

The 3.7L engine utilizes the Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system to simultaneously achieve quick acceleration response, high power, high torque, improved fuel efficiency and SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer emissions than the levels mandated by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations.

The new powerplant is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Seamless, continuous acceleration and improved fuel efficiency and quietness during high-speed driving are realized due to the wider gear ratio coverage range. In addition, a neutral idle control*, which lowers excessive fuel consumption while idling, is newly employed.

Along with the responsive drivetrain, the Skyline Crossover features a highly rigid body and advanced suspension design. The transmission of road vibrations to the passenger compartment is minimized by a reinforced body with the highest level of torsional rigidity in its segment. Smooth maneuverability and improved stability is achieved by double-wishbone suspension in the front and multi-link suspension in the rear, while dual-flow path shock absorbers are employed to optimally balance stable handling and high-quality ride comfort.

Braking is provided by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic force Distribution (EBD) and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA).

Advanced Safety and Security Systems

The Skyline Crossover features a range of advanced technologies designed to promote safe, pleasurable driving, including Around View Monitor (AVM), LDP/LDW (Lane Departure Prevention/Lane Departure Warning systems), FCW (Forward Collision Warning), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range) and a Safety Drive Guide.

The Around View Monitor system (standard on 370GT Type P/370GT FOUR Type P) includes a new Parking Guide function, which assists the driver when parking by providing a "birds-eye view" of the vehicle to help the driver see the vehicle, parking lines and obstacles. The Parking Guide can tell the driver where to begin backing in and steering with a birds-eye view and audio cues.

In addition, the Front/Rear Wide View Function allows 180-degree visibility in the both front and the rear providing a sense of safety in blind intersections. The Front Wide View Function Linked to the Car Navigation System automatically shows the front wide view when the car is stationary (at the map point entered on the navigation system).

The Skyline Crossover's LDP (Lane Departure Prevention) system builds on LDW (Lane Departure Warning) system that warns the driver to pay attention to driving with a visual display and audible buzzer in case of unintended lane departure. LDP, a factory installed option, assists the driver in returning the vehicle in the direction of center of the travel lane by generating part of necessary yaw moment and controlling the brake pressure of each individual wheel.

FCW (Forward Collision Warning) warns the driver with a visual display and audible buzzer if the vehicle approaches too close to the vehicle ahead when driving at speeds of over 15 kilometers per hour, while the new Intelligent Cruise Control (with full-speed range following capability) functions across the full-speed range. Both FCW and Intelligent Cruise Control are factory-installed options.

The Safety Drive Guide system provides real-time vehicle information (speed and accelerator/brake conditions) around elementary schools. In school zones, the system warns the driver by display and voice guidance, if needed, to remind the driver of safe driving.

Additional Safety and Environment Technologies

The new Skyline Crossover is also equipped with a number of advanced safety and environmental technologies, including Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Emergency Brake Operated Pre-crash Front Seat Belts (offered in a set with Intelligent Brake Assist as a factory installed option), low-friction seatbelts, three-point seat belts with Emergency Locking Retractors (ELRs) for rear seats, and high-strength Zone Body construction.

Also offered are SRS air bag systems for the driver and front passenger, SRS side air bag systems for the driver and front passenger, SRS curtain air bag systems and front-seat Active Head Restraints.

The Skyline Crossover includes a fuel economy indication function. SU-LEV certification is achieved for all models by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than Japan's 2005 exhaust emission standards and a recyclability rate of more than 95% by weight (as calculated according to the guideline adopted by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. in 1998 concerning the definition and calculation method of the recyclability rate of new cars).

Clean interior environment features were developed from the three perspectives of clean air, human skin friendly and sanitary/cleanliness. There is a reduction of interior volatile organic compounds (VOC).

Price range: Ksh. 1,850,000 to Ksh. 2,250,000, including 16% VAT.

Nissan Releases All-New Skyline

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 11:00:00 GMT

Since its debut in 1957, Skyline has been well received by many customers. The new Skyline is the most premium and dynamic model among successive models. Offering unprecedented driving pleasure, its sensuous design, advanced technology and performance will be new benchmarks for luxury models.

What supports these are Nissan's great technology strength and expertise in design gained by the development of Nissan Motor Company's world-class premium brand, Infiniti. As its proof, the new Skyline carries Infiniti badge.

Highlights of the new Skyline include:

High-quality driving pleasure acting in concert with your feelings

Nissan's original one-motor two-clutch parallel hybrid "Intelligent Dual Clutch Control" system is adopted in every grade. It offers both powerful acceleration performance with maximum power output of 268kW (364ps) and superb fuel economy of 18.4km/L (on JC08 mode) *1.

World's first Direct Adaptive Steering technology controls tire movements with steering inputs transformed into electrical signal. This system delivers responsive handling and quickly communicates road surface feedback to the driver.

Combined with another world's first, Active Lane Control, which uses a camera to detect the intended direction of the vehicle based on the lane markers at speeds of 70 kilometers per hour or more to help fine-tune the tire angle and steering reaction force, resulting in greater driver confidence at highway speeds.

Dynamic and uplifting design elaborately created to drive

Exterior design expresses vigor and premium feel by lower and wider proportions created with the height decreased by 10 mm and the width increased by 50 mm compared to the previous-generation model; LED headlights that suggest eyes looking intently ahead; sporty side view that highlights FR's dynamic and forward-tilted stance; and impressive rear view with a strong presence .

Interior design for the driver's seat offers high functionality and excitement with which the driver can concentrate on driving while roomy space and high-quality comfort are offered to the front passenger's seat and rear seats. The design that gives a premium appearance motivates the driver to drive longer and further.

Leadership in Safety through Innovation

The new Skyline offers exceptional safety performance, beginning with its high-strength body construction (Zone Body) that utilizes the world's first 1.2 gigapascal (GPa) Ultra High Tensile Strength Steel with High Formability. Unlike many of its key competitors, the new Skyline offers a suite of innovative crash avoidance technologies intended to help reduce collisions around the vehicle. Available technologies include Emergency Brake, which can help the driver avoid a frontal collision at speeds of 60 km/h or less, and Backup Collision Intervention, which helps the driver avoid collisions with crossing path vehicles when backing up, as well as Lane Departure Prevention and Blind Spot Intervention.

With run-flat tires included as standard in every grade, the vehicle can travel around 150 km at 80 kilometers per hour even with completely flat tires.

The new Skyline will be produced in the Tochigi Plant (Kaminokawa-machi, Kawachi-gun, Tochigi prefecture), Nissan's mother plant for luxury vehicles. With excellent production engineering and craftsmanship, the Tochigi Plant delivers cars with highest quality to customers.

The new Skyline achieves 20% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards and SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards, thereby fully exempting it from the automobile acquisition tax and automobile weight tax in every grade.

*1: 350GT HYBRID (2WD). If the vehicle weight is 1,770 kg or more with options included, it is 17.8 km/h)

Price range: Ksh. 1,800,000 to Ksh. 2,650,000, including 16% VAT

Overview of the new Skyline

1. Design

Exterior design with dignified and functional beauty for driving

Distinctive front design that accentuates a three-dimensional appearance of a nose cone
Waved mesh-pattern front grille that expresses functional beauty and boldness
LED headlights with distinctive daytime running light signature and LED rear combination lamps
Newly-designed exclusive LED turn signals and LED fog lamps that accentuates a wide feel and boldness of the front mask
Robust shoulder character line that expresses willingness to drive in a sporty manner
Beautiful roofline and distinctive Crescent-cut C-pillar
Rear fender line that is dynamic and conveys power to rear tires
Highly-aerodynamic spoiler-shaped trunk lid
Bright cutting surfaces and light gray metallic of 17-inch and 19-inch bright-cut aluminum wheels that deliver sportiness and a high-quality feel
Available with a choice of eight exterior colors including the new colors, HAGANE Blue (M) (special color) and Premium Brown (M) (special color) (M stands for metallic)

Interior design with excitement at sporty driving and sophisticated comfort combined

Instrument panel with “double wave" design which comfortably embraces both driver and front passenger seats.
Functional and embracing driver's seat which brings about excitement at driving
Twin-display cluster design that delivers smart, advanced operational feeling and visual information
Large twin meters that give a detailed feel of chronograph dials
High-quality, high-precision center console design elaborately created with craftsmanship, which includes elaboration realized by a great combination of beautiful shapes and materials and a knee pad with beautiful stitch.
Genuine wood trim that offers high-quality feel inspired by the traditional Urushi (Japanese lacquer) painting technique called ‘Fuki-urushi' and “Kacchu" aluminum finisher inspired by traditional Samurai armaments

2. Driving performance, Packaging

Mechanism

Nissan's original one-motor two-clutch parallel hybrid "Intelligent Dual Clutch Control" system, which optimally balances driving and environmental performances, adopted in every grade
Electric motor that generates maximum torque of 290N・m
World's first Direct Adaptive Steering and Active Lane Control adopted in all grades
Nissan's first hybrid four-wheel drive system equipped with ATTESA E-TS (electronically controlled torque split 4WD system)

Packaging

Optimized shape of the rear end of the upper surface of the body results in best-in-class coefficient of drag of 0.26
Zero front and rear lift achieved by optimized underfloor shape
With well-balanced driving proportions with low seating position, front head clearance is increased by 10 mm and shoulder room, increased by 20 mm
Rear seats deliver roomier feeling than the actual size, which is achieved by better forward visibility resulted from the shape of the front seats and narrower B-pillar and optimized shape of the front end of the rear seat cushion
With the ingenious shape of the back of the front seats, rear knee room is increased by about 20 mm from the previous model
Narrower lower end of B-pillar and optimized shape of the seat cushion make it easier to enter and exit
With the high-current battery innovatively positioned, class-top 400-liter luggage space is offered
With the extensive use of lightweight aluminum components, optimized link geometry and bush characteristics and coaxial spring/damper, the newly-developed rear suspension provides both great handling and comfort
While achieving high rigidity, vehicle weight is reduced. With increased front body rigidity, body deformation at the beginning of steering is reduced.

Comfort

Articulated seat back pad is newly adopted in both front and rear seats. It eases strain on spine by actively supporting heavy chest and spine to further pursue comfort in long-time driving
Road noise and vibration are blocked out by increased rigidity around dash panel, optimized rigidity of rear suspension rubber bush and member and increased rigidity of wheel spokes. Class-top quietness is achieved so one can enjoy comfortable driving from urban street driving to high-speed driving.
Active Noise Control, which produces opposite-phase sound to reduce unpleasant muffled sound generated by synchronization with engine revolutions, is adopted in all grades, achieving high-quality interior space.
Bose audio system® which provides dynamic entertainment that generates driving excitement is adopted in all grades as an option.

3. Advanced Equipment

Advanced cockpit that features intuitive operability. Operable parts are concentrated within 650 mm where the driver can reach without changing his/her posture.
Color liquid-crystal Advanced Drive-Assist Display between meters shows a variety of vehicle information and warnings of a number of safety features to help drivers recognize them quickly.
Multi-function switch and Drive mode selector switch that can be intuitively operated even while driving.
In addition to four driving modes, Drive mode selector provides 96 customized driving variations in PERSONAL Mode from the combinations of engine, transmission, steering, Active Lane Control and others.
8-inch and 7-inch wide twin displays with improved visibility and operability, which can be operated with fingers like Smartphones
Personal Assistant program which memorizes personal setting of maximum of three drivers, including seat position and driving preference

4. Safety features

World's first PFCW (Predictive Forward Collision Warning) *2, which can detect a possible collision up to two cars ahead and gives an alert to the driver with a visual warning and audible buzzer when deceleration is required.
Adoption of BSW (Blind Spot Warning) *2, which detects a vehicle in the next lane to reduce risk of car-to-car collision when changing lanes, and the Nissan first BSI (Blind Spot Intervention) *3
Japan's first adoption of BCI (Backup Collision Intervention) *2 which can detect a vehicle approaching when in reverse and warn the driver to help reduce the risk of a collision.

*2: Standard on 350GT HYBRID Type SP/350GT HYBRID Type P/350GT FOUR HYBRID Type SP /350GT FOUR HYBRID Type P

Other Key Safety, Convenience and Environmental Technologies

LED head lamps (with high/low beam, auto-control) and LED fog lamps
High Beam Assist, Active AFS*3
Auto light system (linked dawn sensors and linked with front wipers)
LED rear combination taillights, LED High Mount Stop Lamp
Intelligent Control Assist (Distance Control Assist) *4
Intelligent Cruise Control*4
Emergency Brake Operated Pre-crash Front Seat Belts (with comfort function) *4
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
2-stage load limiter equipped seatbelt with double pretensioners for front seats
Load limiter equipped seatbelts with pretensioners for right and left rear seats
Driver and passenger supplemental front-impact air bags
Front seat mounted side-impact supplemental air bags
Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags
Body construction for pedestrian protection (with pop-up engine hood)
VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control )
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), Brake Assist
Cornering Stability Assist
Hill Start Assist
LDP (Lane Departure Prevention)/LDW (Lane Departure Warning)
Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (AVSP) system
Around View Monitor (with MOD and Parking Assist)*5
Driving Safety Support System (DSSS)
Fuel economy calculated based on JC08 mode
All grades achieve 20% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards
All grades achieve SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards
Achieves more than 95% recyclability rate (where recycling facilities exist)

*3: Option on 350GT HYBRID Type SP / 350GT HYBRID Type P / 350GT FOUR HYBRID Type SP / 350GT FOUR HYBRID Type P
*4: Standard on 350GT HYBRID Type SP / 350GT HYBRID Type P / 350GT FOUR HYBRID Type SP / 350GT FOUR HYBRID Type P
*5: Standard on 350GT HYBRID Type SP / 350GT HYBRID Type P / 350GT FOUR HYBRID Type SP / 350GT FOUR HYBRID Type P. Option on 350GT HYBRID / 350GT FOUR HYBRID

Nissan Skyline

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 10:46:00 GMT

The Skyline retails from Ksh. 1,150,000 to Ksh. 1,750,000 nationwide.

“Dynamic rhythm” and sporty lines

The exterior design of the all-new Skyline expresses “dynamic rhythm” with its fluid lines, combined with a sleek aerodynamic and sporty-look.

The overall height is 20mm lower, overall width is 20mm wider than its V35 predecessor.

Its longer nose, sharply raked A-pillar, forward-leaning roofline, and fluidly curving character line which wrap around the rear wheel arches, express “dynamic motion” and enhance the rear wheel drive proportions.

The front hood features a sculptured new front-grille and headlamps. The integrated spoiler for the rear trunk blends with new L-shaped tail lamps, while the double exhaust tips adds to the purposeful high-performance image.

The Skyline’s sport models feature exclusive front bumper and body-side sill spoiler.

The new line-up comes in a choice of seven body colors including three all-new colors – Stratosphere Blue, Blade Silver and Crimson Red.

Interior comfort and craftsmanship

The all-new interior incorporates a cockpit feel with the front dashboard and center stack designed to be driver-centric.

The aluminum trim finish was inspired by the texture of traditional Japanese rice paper called “Washi”, whereas the optional wood trim is made of bubinga, a high-quality wood commonly used in high-end furniture pieces.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear-shifter are hand-stitched for refined craftsmanship quality. All the switches and dials are ergonomically designed for smooth easy-to-reach operation and offer a refined tactile feel.

The seats are 27mm lower for a more sporty drive position. A greater margin for adjustment is offered on the seats as well as the steering wheel. The front seat offers firm support and comfort to ensure tireless driving in either day-to-day traffic or long-distance touring. Headroom and rear-seat space are best-in-class.

The Skyline range is available in a choice of five different interior color combinations to suit individual tastes.

Superior performance and driving pleasure

The next generation FR-L platform has been engineered to deliver a fun and exhilarating driving experience without having to compromise on a smooth and comfortable ride. In the development of the new Skyline, Nissan’s engineers focused on three key areas – accommodating increased engine power, superior balance of driving performance and comfort, as well as safety and environmental friendliness.

The Skyline is powered by the newly developed VQ35HR and VQ25HR V6 engines. The 3.5L version generates 315 horsepowers and 36.5kgm of torque and is capable of revving up to 7500rpm, while the 2.5L generates 225 horsepowers and 26.8 kgm of torque. The powerplant is matched to a five-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control, allowing the driver to be in full control of the power generated by the new engine. A new DS mode allows for more spirited driving by optimizing gear selection for various driving conditions. The gearbox is also equipped with the synchro-rev control system.

The sportier SP and P series feature a steering-column mounted shift paddles that allow the driver to operate in manual-shift mode. The paddles are made of solid, light-weight magnesium.

In striving for the perfect balance in vehicle dynamics, the Skyline responds to the driver’s command under various driving conditions – agility and comfort for city driving, stability and smoothness for open highways, and precision handling for sinuous mountain road conditions.

The new body is more rigid and transmits less NVH (noise, vibration and harshness), despite no incremental weight compared to its V35 predecessor. Nissan’s advanced technology allows precise control of the vibration characteristics of the suspensions, mounts and body, in order to minimize the effects of road vibrations.

Unique to the Skyline is the world’s first four-wheel active steering system, which adjusts the steering angles of the front and rear wheels in accordance with driving speeds and steering operation, allowing for greater control at low and medium speeds, and smooth effortless cruising at higher speeds. It is optional on SP and S series.

The new Skyline is equipped with larger 18-inch (sports models) and 17-inch (standard models) aluminum wheels. In the sport models, it is equipped with different sized front (225/50R) and rear (245/45R) tires for added performance.

High safety and environmental standards

The body has been designed to deliver a high level of compatibility; it protects the occupants with a reinforced cabin while minimizing crash impact to other cars. Pedestrian protection is designed to lessen the impact to the head and lower limb.

The Skyline is a certified SU-LEV (super low emission vehicle), with a significant 75% reduction in NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) and NMHC (Non-Methane Hydrocarbon) emissions compared to 2005 emission regulations of Japan.

Facelift - 2010

The current generation Skyline Sedan and Coupe, introduced in 2006 and 2007 respectively, have enjoyed a strong reputation for their sporty designs, high-quality interiors and exhilarating performance. Both Sedan and Coupe models receive a number of significant changes for the revised model, including a revised exterior for the Skyline Sedan and a refined interior, enhanced navigation system and upgraded air conditioning for both body configurations. In addition, the model grading system has been revised to includes new, more affordable Skyline Sedan 250GT A package and Skyline Coupe 370GT A package models.

Mechanical refinements include the availability of a 7-speed automatic transmission with the 2-wheel drive Skyline Sedan equipped with the 2.5-liter V6 engine. Previously offered only with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, the 7-speed automatic provides an expanded lockup area and neutral idle control for improved fuel efficiency and smoother, seamless acceleration (versus the previous 5-speed automatic-equipped 2.5-liter Sedan). This model achieves the "2010 standards plus 15%" target and qualifies for Japan's preferential program for environment-friendly vehicles*1, with the acquisition tax and weight tax both reduced by half. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is also now standard across the entire Skyline range.

The Skyline Sedan is one of 19 models*2 collectively called the Nissan Eco series, eligible for government environmental tax breaks. Nissan continues to broaden its lineup of eligible models, including minicars and commercial vehicles, expanding sales.

New Skyline Sedan Exterior Styling

For the new model year, the Skyline Sedan 250GT Type P, 250GT Type V, 250GT Four Type P, 250GT Four Type V, 250GT Four and 250GT A package models receive appearance enhancements designed to create a sharper, more masculine look. In front are a new grille, bumper and headlamps. The fog lights are moved down to the bumper (previously, the fog lights were integrated into the headlights), offering a more aggressive feel. The rear bumper has also been redesigned and there is also a new 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheel design.

Skyline Sedan sport versions (370GT Type SP, 370GT Type SP, 250GT Type S) receive a special wider, low-centered body design for a more dynamic, sporty appeal. Changes include a new unique grille, front bumper, headlights, rear bumper and use of black trim for the inner headlamp panels.

The new Skyline Sedan is available in a choice of six exterior colors, including a new Dark Metal Grey (metallic) and Vibrant Red (solid).

Refined Skyline Sedan and Coupe Interior Treatments

In addition to the Sedan's exterior revisions, Nissan has made qualitative improvements to the interiors of both the Skyline Sedan and Skyline Coupe. The center console trim has been redesigned to express greater volume (AT models only), with the center armrest reshaped for better integration with the console. New soft materials are utilized for the console sides and cupholder lid and there are new patterns and shades for the genuine aluminum and genuine wood trim. The Skyline Sedan adds modified Beige and Black interior color treatments.

Enhancements to the instrument panel include white illumination for the vehicle information display and instrument indicator, as well as standardized lettering for speedometer and tachometer. The Intelligent Cruise Control system now works between 0 and about 100 km/h (not available with Sedan 250GT A package; a manufacturer option for Coupe 370GT Type P and 370GT).

Both Sedan and Coupe come with the HDD Carwings navigation system, which now offers enhanced entertainment features - including a built-in digital terrestrial broadcast tuner and USB connections for iPod®*3 and other music playback devices (offered on all models except Sedan 250GT A package and Coupe 370GT A package).

An upgraded intelligent air-conditioning system is also standard on all models, except the Sedan 250GT and 250GT A package and Coupe 370GT A package. Based on the intelligent air-conditioner's new plasma-cluster ion® system, it features a revised indoor-outdoor air exchanger to enhance cabin comfort.

*1 For vehicles emitting 75% less (SU-LEV) than levels mandated in Japan's 2005 exhaust emissions regulations and achieving 15% better fuel-economy compared to 2010 standards: 50% reduction in acquisition tax on new vehicles registered by March 31, 2012, and 50% reduction in weight tax on new vehicles registered by April 30, 2012.
*2 As of January 6, 19 Nissan models qualify for Japan's preferential tax rates for environment-friendly vehicles: Moco, Otti, Roox, March, Note, Cube, Tida, Tida Latio, Wingroad, Serena, Dualis, X-trail, Lafesta Sedan, Skyline Sedan, Fuga, AD/AD Expert, NV200 Vanette, Atlas F24, and Atlas H43.
*3 "iPod" is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.

Nissan Fuga Luxury Sedan

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 10:31:00 GMT

The all-new Nissan Fuga was created as an intelligent, premium sedan offering a tailored and vibrant experience for its driver and passengers. It combines a dynamic exterior created to appeal to the senses with a spacious, open and comfortable interior. Fuga also features a wide range of technologies, supporting Eco-driving and a high level of safety and security - including an ECO-pedal, Cornering Stability Assist and an advanced Driving Safety Support System for approaching low-visibility intersections, which was developed from the results of SKY Project.*1

Building on the strong features of the first-generation Fuga, which was originally released in October 2004, the new Fuga continues as a Nissan flagship model. Like the original, the new Fuga is expected to be highly appreciated for its outstanding driving performance, interior quality and comfort, all which go beyond the expectations of a traditional luxury vehicle.

The new Fuga is available in a range of models and in a choice of two advanced powerplants, a 2.5-liter VQ25HR engine and a 3.7-liter VQ37VHR engine with Nissan's Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system. The 2.5-liter engine model also qualifies for Japan's preferential tax scheme for environment-friendly vehicles*2 with automobile acquisition tax and automobile weight tax reduced by either 75％ or 50％.

A Dynamic Exterior Designed to Appeal to the Senses

Nissan Fuga's beautiful exterior design starts with its classic rear-wheel drive proportions, with a long hood and center of gravity biased toward the rear wheels. Its powerful, stable stance is achieved with low nose and deeply sculpted fenders with large-diameter wheels, while the large, low-slung, grille and bold headlight design – inspired by "vigor of an ink brush" – establishes a strong presence. The sculptured body takes on varied personalities depending on the angle viewed and the quality of light reflected on its surface.

The sporty "370GT Type S" package employs a special front bumper and large diameter 20-inch aluminum wheels. A choice of seven body colors help enhance the stylish exterior design, including three new colors: Deep Bronze, Grayish Blue and Garnet Black.

A Spacious, Open and Comfortable Interior

Inside Fuga's spacious interior, a high quality, enhanced luxury feeling is expressed through the use of soft, premium semi-aniline leather and wood grain panels coated with genuine silver powder, which gives them an immaculate mirror finish. At the same time, interior comfort is enhanced with a new "Forest AC" air conditioning system that creates the refreshing climate, fragrance and natural breezes of a relaxing forest setting.

The interior's careful selection of special materials for different areas and functions is based on the analysis of how people's senses react when they touch things. Softer and more comfortable to the touch compared to the previous generation Fuga, the interior employs semi-aniline leather that combines a soft-to-the-touch feeling and natural texture, along with Sofiless, a special soft, smooth textured trim material.

Fuga also uses high quality luxury accents that one can feel with the senses, including luxurious door trim with refined curved plate and wood graining, a newly designed analog clock and large-diameter meters using white lighting, which enhances both the luxury feeling and visibility. Also utilized is a new center cluster and new designs for the automatic window switches, map lights and instrumental panel switches.

The dramatic wood grain panels, with silver powder applied by craftsmen, is standard on 370VIP and a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT, 250GT, 370GT FOUR models.

The new Fuga also offers the "luxury" of a clean, pollutant-free environment through the innovative "Forest AC" air conditioning. The system is designed to prevent the flow of unpleasant air into the cabin, while creating the refreshing climate, fragrance and natural breezes of relaxing forest settings (standard on 370VIP, 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT).

In addition to a conventional exhaust sensor, the system systematically controls ventilation by detecting various odors, such as from smoking in the cabin or animals outside the vehicle, to prevent the inflow of unpleasant air into the passenger compartment. The new-generation plasmacluster ion*3 system generates and supplies plasmacluster ions at higher densities than previous systems. These ions maintain cabin air quality by improving reduction of airborne microbes, decomposing and removing mold or viruses, and minimizing adherence of odors on the interior trim surfaces. A high-performance grape seed polyphenol filter is also utilized, which is designed to more effectively remove pollen and dust mites and deactivate allergens in the cabin.

The Forest AC's aroma diffuser provides two unique aromas, borneol and leaf alcohol, to alleviate boredom and stimulate the driver's brain. A sense of fluctuating natural breezes is created by the randomly changing volume of air flow, further enhancing passenger comfort.

The Fuga interior also offers an enhanced Personal Driving Position Memory System, which recognizes each driver through the individual Intelligent Key used to unlock the door. Unlike previous systems that only adjusted seating, steering wheel and mirror positions, the new design also retains the individual's air conditioner, navigation and audio system preferences as programmed in advance. Two people can program original settings (standard on 370VIP, 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT).

Other advanced systems designed to support interior comfort are the HDD CARWINGS Navigation System with Built-in Terrestrial Digital TV Receiver and the concert hall-quality Bose® Surround Sound System*4 (a factory-installed option on 370VIP, 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT).

Driving Exhilaration and Environmental Technologies

The new Fuga utilizes a number of advanced technologies to provide enhanced performance and improved fuel economy versus the previous generation Fuga. The 3.7-liter VQ37VHR engine, equipped with Nissan's Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system, provides sharp response, high power and high torque. Rated at 245kW (333PS) at 7000 rpm and 363N・m(37.0kgfm) of torque at 5200 rpm, it achieves responsive acceleration, improved fuel efficiency and cleaner exhaust.

The 2.5-liter VQ25HR engine offers 165kW (225PS) of power at 6400 rpm and 258N・m (26.3kgfm) of torque at 4800 rpm and achieves the best fuel efficiency in its class, along with sharp engine response and acceleration.

The 2.5-liter engine model qualifies for the preferential tax scheme for environment-friendly vehicles. Automobile acquisition tax and the automobile weight tax are reduced by either 50％ or 75％.

Both engines are mated to an advanced 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. Improved fuel efficiency and more direct acceleration are provided by the significantly expanded lock-up region at all speed ranges higher than second gear (compared to the previous 5-speed automatic transmission). A neutral idle control, which lowers excessive fuel consumption while idling, is also employed.

In addition, based on information from the navigation system and radar, gear changes and the lock-up region are optimized depending on driving conditions such as curves, intersections and distance to vehicles ahead. The frequency of the fuel cut increases and cooperative control of the navigation system and the radar, which supports eco-drive, is also newly employed. (Radar control based on distance to vehicles ahead is applied in vehicles with Intelligent Cruise Control.)

Fuga's body and suspension are also significantly enhanced versus the previous generation Fuga design. With its highly rigid and low-vibration advanced body structure, world-leading handling stability, driving comfort and quietness are achieved, while the lowered rigidity of insulators for the newly developed rear suspension significantly reduces road noise. The optimized link configuration reduces pressure from the ground on rough roads and improves handling stability at all speed ranges.

New double-piston shock absorbers are utilized with the Fuga Sports-tune Suspension (standard on 370GT Type S) and Comfort Suspension (standard on 370VIP, 250GT Type P, a factory-installed option on 370GT, 250GT, 250GT A Package). With damping force controlled according to frequency of input power from the ground, the double-piston structure reduces body sway and vibrations from the road surface that can be felt in the back or feet, thereby improving ride comfort.

Fuga's advanced environmental technologies include a new ECO-pedal, which provides information to the driver for more fuel-efficient driving, and an ECO-mode (part of the Drive Mode Selector) that improves the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

The ECO-pedal, which works when the driver chooses ECO-mode, provides immediate and constant driver feedback. If the driver exerts excess pressure on the acceleration pedal, engine revolutions are increased and fuel efficiency deteriorates. The system counteracts these actions in advance with a pedal push-back control mechanism, alerting the driver through subtle pressure against the foot. Tests have shown that effective eco-driving behavior with ECO Pedal drive assist contributes to improved fuel efficiency of 5-10％*5 in most driving conditions. The ECO-pedal is standard on 370 VIP, and a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT FOUR, 370GT, 250GT Type P and 250GT.

Nissan's first vehicle-integrated control system, "Drive Mode Selector," is fitted as standard equipment on all Fuga models. The driver can enjoy various driving modes, depending on the scene or driving conditions, adjusting functions such as powertrain, ECO-pedal, 4WAS (standard on 370GT Type S) and Cornering Stability Assist (standard on 370 VIP, a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT FOUR, 370GT, 250GT Type P and 250GT) simply by selecting a mode with a dial located under the shift knob. In addition to the STANDARD mode (suitable for normal driving conditions), the driver can select the fuel-efficient ECO-mode for smooth starts and cruising with stable acceleration, or the SPORT mode for sporty driving where powertrain response is enhanced and characteristics of the Cornering Stability Assist or 4WAS systems are changed.

Another advanced Fuga technology designed to enhance driving performance is Active Noise Control. Opposite-phase sound is produced in four door speakers to reduce unpleasant muffled sound generated by synchronization with engine revolutions when the torque converter locks up. Along with providing a more pleasant interior sound, the lock-up region can be expanded to the lower revolution areas, improving fuel efficiency and direct feeling. In addition, an exhilarating engine sound, linear to high-revolutions, is produced with reduced muffled sound.

Advanced Safety Technologies

The new Fuga offers a number of advanced safety technologies designed to help avoid dangerous situations, part of Nissan's goal of creating collision-free vehicles.

The Distance Control Assist (Intelligent Pedal) System helps the driver control the distance between the Fuga and the vehicle in front by moving the gas pedal upwards to assist the driver in switching to the brake pedal. For the new generation Fuga, a new function has been added to the system that helps reduce the drivers' workload when driving on curvy roads by helping them decelerate or brake as the car enters a curve (based on real-time navigation information). The system is standard on 370VIP and a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT.

Another advanced safety technology is the Driving Safety Support System (DSSS*6). Utilizing the results of Nissan's SKY Project, drivers can receive audible and display warnings (low-visibility intersection alert, stop sign alert and low-visibility signal alert) when approaching some low-visibility intersections via communications with infrastructure on the road*7.

Fuga's School Zone Alert system provides audible and display warnings to direct the driver's attention when the vehicle enters an elementary school zone and the system determines that a safety warning is appropriate. School Zone Alert is based on real-time vehicle information, including speed, acceleration and braking.

Fuga's LDP (Lane Departure Prevention) system builds on LDW (Lane Departure Warning) system that warns the driver to pay attention to driving with a visual display and audible buzzer in case of unintended lane departure. LDP assists the driver in returning the vehicle in the direction of center of the travel lane by generating part of necessary yaw moment and controlling the brake pressure of each individual wheel. It comes standard on 370VIP and as a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT.

Several new features are added to Fuga's existing Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) function, which stabilizes vehicle behavior, including Cornering Stability Assist. Depending on the driver's steering, acceleration and braking, the Cornering Stability Assist system optimizes control of braking and engine torque on each of the four wheels to achieve smoother and more stable cornering (standard on 370VIP, a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT).

Also added is Rise-up & Build-up, a system that senses driving demands based on the driver's steering and acceleration/braking patterns, and individually controls the braking to help smooth vehicle response. In addition, Brake Force Distribution optimizes the distribution of force to each of the four wheels depending on the radius of the curve for smoother and more stable braking.

Fuga's long list of additional safety and environment technologies include Bi-xenon headlights and Active AFS (Adaptive Front lighting System), bright LED rear combination taillights, side blind-spot monitor, back-view monitor, heated door mirror, flat-blade wipers and Hill Start Assist. Intelligent Cruise Control is standard on 370VIP and a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT.

Additional available equipment includes EBD (Electronic Braking Distribution), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and 4WAS (4 Wheel Active Steer), which is standard on 370GT Type S. Intelligent Brake Assist comes standard on the 370VIP model and as a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT, while Emergency Brake Operated Pre-crash Front Seat Belts (with comfort function) are standard on 370VIP and a factory-installed option on 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 250GT Type P, 250GT.

Pretensioner seat belts with load limiter for front and rear (outer) seats are offered on all Fuga models, along with three-point seat belts with Emergency Locking Retractors (ELRs) with tension reducer for rear (outer) seats, body construction for pedestrian protection (with pop-up engine hood), high-strength Zone Body construction for high safety, SRS air bag systems for the driver and front passenger, SRS side air bag systems for the driver and front passenger, SRS curtain air bag systems, hazard lamps working cooperative with air bags, front-seat Active Head Restraints and an impact-sensitive door unlock system. Three-point seat belts with Emergency Locking Retractors (ELRs) for rear seats are standard on 370GT Type S, 370GT, 370GT FOUR, 370GT FOUR A Package, 250GT, 250GT A Package.

The new Fuga achieves SU-LEV certification for all models by emitting 75％ fewer exhaust emissions than Japan's 2005 exhaust emission standards. In addition, Fuga achieves a recyclability rate of more than 95％ by weight (as calculated according to the guideline adopted by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. in 1998 concerning the definition and calculation method of the recyclability rate of new cars).

Fuga also features a reduction of interior volatile organic compounds (VOC) and a fuel economy indication function. Its clean interior environment features were developed from the three perspectives of clean air, human skin friendliness and sanitary/cleanliness.

Price range: Ksh. 1,400,000 to Ksh. 2,200,000 , including 16% VAT.

*1 SKY stands for Start ITS (Intelligent Transport Systems) from Kanagawa Yokohama. Experiment running in Kanagawa Prefecture since October 2006 to reduce accidents and traffic congestion using traffic environment data delivered via data communications networks. It is a joint effort of Nissan, NTT DoCoMo Inc, Panasonic Corp. and Clarion Co., Ltd. (formerly Xanavi Infomatics Corp.).

*2 2.5-liter engine model:

For vehicles emitting 75％ fewer emissions (SU-LEV) than the levels mandated by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations and also achieving a 15％ improvement in fuel economy over the 2010 fuel economy standards:

50％ reduction of the automobile acquisition tax on vehicles newly registered by March 31, 2012 and a
50％ reduction of the automobile weight tax on vehicles newly registered by April 30, 2012.
If the vehicle weighs 1,770 kg or above, achieving a 25％ improvement in fuel economy over the 2010 fuel economy standards:
75％ reduction of the automobile acquisition tax on vehicles newly registered by March 31, 2012 and a
75％ reduction of the automobile weight tax on vehicles newly registered by April 30, 2012.

*3 "Plasmacluster" and "Plasmacluster ion" are registered trademarks of Sharp Corp.
*4 25cmNdTM Woofers are installed as well in vehicles equipped with Bose® Surround Audio System.
*5 Based on Nissan's internal research data.
*6 DSSS stands for Driving Safety Support Systems. A continual project by the National Police Agency and its corporation Universal Traffic Management Society of Japan (UTMS) which aims to reduce traffic accidents utilizing the latest ITS technologies such as road-car communications with optical beacon for DSSS.
*7 VICS (beacon) receiver (dealer-installed option) is required to receive the information from infrastructure. As of Nov. 2009, infrastructure on the road (optical beacon for DSSS) is not operated. The police will announce where to install before operation starts.

Nissan Teana Luxury Sedan - J32

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 10:09:00 GMT

The new Teana offers a number of significant “firsts” – including being the first Nissan model in the Japanese market to utilize the newly developed “D” platform and the first in its class to feature a stylish glass roof.

Graceful, Elegant Exterior Styling

Teana’s new, meticulously executed exterior design presents a modern, artistic form. Defined by its bold yet elegant character line, which forms a sweeping arc extending from the front to the rear of the vehicle.

The powerful front end is highlighted by a new grille, bumper and headlight design. The grille is composed of horizontal bars, with a three-dimensional look as if cut from a sphere, while the headlights are designed with a vertical motif that flows dynamically from the front. Bi-xenon headlights and Active AFS (Adaptive Front lighting System) are offered as a factory-installed option on the Teana 250XV and 350XV models.

Teana’s body side treatment blends richly flared body panels with boldly curved lines. The elegant, six-light windows are designed to emphasize the luxurious space of the interior. The outside mirrors are also optimally shaped to minimize wind noise and the side moldings are executed in a sword motif, imparting a sense of fine quality.

In the rear, the combination lights’ sculpted forms project outward from the body, creating an impressive, wide-looking rear view. The rear bumper provides a feeling of stability and premium quality.

The Teana is offered in a choice of six attractive exterior colors, including the addition of Deep Amethyst Gray as an all-new Nissan color. All Teana body colors come standard with Nissan's Scratch Shield, which self-repairs minor scratch marks in the paint surface.

A Relaxing, Artistic Interior With Wave-like Design Themes

The Teana interior is meticulously executed with an emphasis on comfort and fine quality, combining relaxation that soothes both mind and body and hospitality befitting a modern living room for all passengers.

The seats feature a vibrational absorption urethane cushion material and are shaped so that the occupant's entire body is uniformly supported for enhanced ride comfort. In addition, the seat pads adopt a slab urethane layer to form a three-layered structure that noticeably improves the soft feeling of the seating surface. The double-stitching and three-dimensional shape of the seats conveys an enhanced sense of quality and outstanding workmanship.

The driver's seat incorporates an adjustable lumbar support mechanism that reduces the feeling of fatigue on long drives, while the front-passenger seat continues to offer the power ottoman that has been a popular comfort feature on the first-generation Teana.

Teana’s new instrument panel design is highlighted by soft padding, which appears to “float” above the wood-grain paneling. The center cluster panel is integrated with the instrument panel, and the new center console design, which combines slope and wavelike cues, projects a rich three-dimensional image. Even the door trim imparts a comfortable, sofa-like image, while the armrest design projects the impression of abundant size and unity with the seats.

Indirect lighting is thoughtfully provided in the center console and the door assist grips (excluding the driver's door) to illuminate the surrounding area. Even the door assist grips, while based on ergonomic principles, incorporate a wave-like line for a distinctly fresh look.

Other interior features created for enhanced passenger relaxation include a front-seat ventilation system and large rear-seat headrests. (The front-seat ventilation system and large rear-seat headrests are factory-installed options, offered in a set together with genuine leather seats on the Teana 250XV and 350XV.)

Teana is the first in its class to feature a stylish glass roof, extending the open, airy feeling of the interior to the rear-seat area. The new roof is made completely of glass and incorporates a flexible opening/closing mechanism.

The front seat have a power glass roof and inner sunshades over both the front and rear seats open/close by motor power (standard on the 350XV and a factory-installed option on the 250XV, 250XL and 250XL FOUR.)

In addition, Teana comes with an intelligent air-conditioning system featuring a one-touch clean air filtering function for improving the interior air quality at the touch of a button (standard on the 250XV and 350XV and a factory-installed option on all other models).

Teana’s new Bose surround sound audio system is designed to deliver concert-hall-like sound quality. The multiple channels of this Bose-original digital surround sound system reproduce the sounds of musical instruments and singing voices with real, three-dimensional quality – as if listening to a live performance. Bose Centerpoint™* signal processing circuitry also reproduces two-channel asynchronous sound sources such as conventional CDs and DVDs in a 5.1-channel surround sound format for listening quality comparable to that of home theater systems. The Bose system is standard on the 350XV and a factory-installed option on the 250XV.

* Centerpoint™ is a registered trademark of Bose Corporation of the U.S.

The new Teana also comes with Nissan's HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system, featuring a touch panel screen for greatly improved ease of operation. In addition to navigation functionality, the system incorporates enhanced entertainment capabilities, including a music box and DVD audio/video playback. It also includes a Bluetooth hands-free interface (standard on the 250XV and 350XV and a factory-installed option on all other models).

Nissan's Intelligent Key System is also standard on all models. This system provides improved anti-theft functionality, including electric-assisted power steering lockup, engine immobilizer and other deterrents linked to the ID code stored in the key fob.

Significantly Enhanced Performance and a Flat, Comfortable Ride

The fundamental attributes of the new VQ25DE engine and the VQ35DE V6 engines have been thoroughly enhanced to deliver class-leading performance. The 2.5-liter VQ25DE engine generates maximum power of 136 kW (185 PS) at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 232 N-m (23.7 kgm) at 4400 rpm.

The larger 3.5-liter VQ35DE engine produces maximum power of 185 kW (252 PS) at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 335 N-m (34.2 kgm) at 4400 rpm. Both of these VQ engines deliver 80% of their maximum torque at 1600 rpm for exceptional driving ease, combined with smooth, effortless revving to 6000 rpm for acceleration performance.

The VQ engines utilize a six-point engine mounting system that better disperses engine torque-induced vibration and has lower spring constants for reduced engine noise during start-off acceleration.

Teana 4WD models utilize the QR25DE engine, which achieves a 4% improvement in power output, as well as greater torque at low to intermediate speeds. This engine generates maximum power of 123 kW (167 PS) at 5600 rpm and maximum torque of 240 N-m (24.5 kgm) at 4000 rpm.

Both the VQ25DE and QR25DE engines operate on regular gasoline in consideration of better economy.

All Teana models are fitted with Nissan's new XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) incorporating Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), a newly developed shift control system. ASC controls the shift timing according to the driver's personal driving style and the driving environment in order to optimize both power performance and fuel economy. The XTRONIC CVT used on the 3.5-liter-equipped models also includes a six-speed manual shift mode and features a synchro-rev control system that controls the throttle during a downshift to synchronize the engine speed with the transmission for smooth, responsive shifting.

Teana is the first Nissan model in the Japanese market to feature the newly developed “D” platform. This platform optimally balances a flat, comfortable ride with the quietness, superb handling and stability of a car one class higher.

To help ensure high body stiffness, the Teana adopts an X-shaped cowl top structure for increased coupling stiffness with the instrument panel and a new joint member structure for greater coupling stiffness between the upper and lower structures. Along with the extensive use of a high grade of ultra-high tensile steel (980 MPa class), the body has a multiple load path construction that better absorbs and disperses impact energy. This further evolution of Nissan's high-strength Zone Body achieves both enhanced crashworthiness and weight savings.

Teana’s newly developed front suspension incorporates shock absorbers with built-in rebound springs that suppress the extension stroke during body roll to provide stable cornering performance. A newly developed multi-link suspension is used at the rear. Additionally, the shock absorbers are positioned closer to the tires to provide excellent driving stability, even at a lower level of damping force.

Extra attention was also paid to the control of noise, vibration and harshness. Low interior noise levels are achieved through effective isolation of noise outside the cabin by applying paint sealer and foam materials to block tiny holes and gaps in the body structure and by optimally positioning sound-absorbing materials.

Advanced Safety and Environmental Technologies

The new Teana utilizes a number of advanced safety and environmental technologies. For enhanced driving convenience, the Teana comes with a side blind-spot monitor, which helps provides visual assistance by reducing the left front blind spot when positioning the car alongside the curb, parking or meeting oncoming traffic on a narrow road.

Teana also features a back-view monitor, which uses a small CCD camera to take a color picture of the area behind the car for display on the navigation system monitor. Both monitor systems are standard on the 250XV and 350 XV and are offered in a set with the navigation system as a factory-installed option on all other models.

Teana’s advanced safety systems include:

VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) including TCS (Traction Control System) functionality (standard on 350XV and a factory-installed option on the 250XV)
Low-friction seatbelts in all seat positions
Three-point ELR rear seatbelts for three passengers (with self-standing buckles)
Driver's seatbelt with double pretensioners (shoulder/lap belts)
Front seatbelt with pretensioner and two-stage load limiter
High-strength Zone Body construction for high safety
Impact-energy-absorbing body structure for mitigating pedestrian injuries
SRS air bag systems for the driver and front passenger
SRS side air bag systems for the driver and front passenger*1
SRS curtain air bag systems*2
Front-seat Active Head Restraints

Teana is also designed with an awareness and sensitivity toward the environment. For example:

QR25DE engine models achieve fuel economy 5% higher than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards
VQ25DE engine models achieve fuel economy 5% higher than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards when fitted with optional equipment so that the vehicle weight is 1,520 kg
U-LEV certification is achieved for all models by emitting 50% fewer exhaust emissions than Japan's 2005 exhaust emission standards
Achieves a recyclability rate of more than 95% by weight (as calculated according to the guideline adopted by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. in 1998 concerning the definition and calculation method of the recyclability rate of new cars)
A reduction of interior volatile organic compounds (VOC)
A fuel economy indication function
Clean interior environment features developed from the three perspectives of clean air, human skin friendly and sanitary/clean

^{*1 : Standard equipment (Offered in a set with *2 as a factory-installed option on the 250XE and 250XE FOUR)}

^{*2 : Factory-installed option (Offered in a set with *1 as a factory-installed option on the 250XE and 250XE FOUR)}

Price range: Ksh. 1,100,000 to Ksh. 1,350,000, including 16% VAT.

Nissan Releases All-New Teana

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 10:04:00 GMT

The new Teana is developed as a global model with an annual sales target of over 600,000 units in more than 120 countries, including Japan, U.S.*1 and China. The theme for the first-generation model was "modern living," while "hospitality" defined the second-generation car, and for the new, third-generation Teana, Nissan pursued the theme of "driving performance," optimally balancing driving performance and comfort. Nissan is not just seeking a vehicle that can take passengers to their destination, but one that also provides enjoyment getting there.

Highlights of the new Teana:

An elegant exterior design that inspires the soul

Like its predecessors, the new Teana possesses a high-quality premium look. For this generation, the designers gave the exterior a shot of adrenaline, making it look sportier and more vibrant by way of a wider, more aggressive stance. The Teana has an enhanced overall presence thanks to sharp character lines extending from the front face rearward that evoke fluid momentum, and its stately front grille that sits between canted headlamps. The car's svelte profile results in improved aerodynamic efficiency in a classic display of form following function.

A new color, “Waterfall Blue," inspired by the hue of a waterfall, accentuates the premium sedan's presence and quality feel. The color is developed exclusively for the new Teana.

Interior with a touch of glamour and freedom

The third-generation Teana inherits the concept of Omotenashi (hospitality) from its predecessor. The cabin is highlighted by a distinct character line that stretches from the instrument panel to the door trim, reminiscent of a majestic bird with its wings spread out. Again, form follows function as the elegant presentation of the interior also results in plenty of space for occupants.

The new front seat design features "Spinal Support Technology," which greatly improves passenger comfort. The driver is assured of the ideal driving position, thanks to enhanced seat adjustability, a telescopic and tilting steering wheel and the easy-to-use placement of the shift handle. The front passenger seat has been modified with an enlarged support area of the ottoman, providing more comfort than ever, while rear-seat occupants are treated to ample knee room. Also, interior noise has been greatly reduced in the new Teana.

Providing driving comfort for long road trips

The new Teana provides even the most ardent driving enthusiast with a high level of performance. An all new multi-link rear suspension system delivers excellent turn-in response, supple ride quality and improved overall handling, giving the driver a sense of adventure and security. The Active Trace Control refines handling through all variety of corners by minimizing steering corrections.

Providing the power is a new QR25 engine that comes mated to Nissan's XTRONIC CVT. The two combine to deliver excellent acceleration off the line, as well as an ample supply of low- and mid-range torque, handy when overtaking slower vehicles. And thanks in part to revised ratios of the XTRONIC CVT, the new Teana also excels in fuel economy (14.4km/L).

When it comes to safety, the Teana offers a suite of innovative safety and convenience features. It features crash avoidance support technologies inspired by Nissan's renowned "Safety Shield" technologies, including the acclaimed "Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD)." This system detects moving objects around the car, and is an especially helpful tool when maneuvering in parking lots. Additionally, "Blind Spot Warning (BSW)" and "Lane Departure Warning (LDW)" systems are available, helping drivers have a safer and more comfortable driving experience.

Highly visible "Advanced Drive Assist Display" offers navigation and controls for the in-car entertainment system, as well as status information for the car's numerous safety features and an ECO meter to let drivers know when they are driving in an environmentally conscious manner.

Price range: Ksh. 1,450,000 to Ksh. 1,850,000, including 16% VAT.

Overview of the new Teana

1. Design

Exterior design expressing vibrancy and speed with a distinctive character

Stately front grille with three-dimensional design
Canted headlamps that suggest a piercing look of the eyes
Horizontally U-shaped clear-cut LED rear combination lamps that give a more sophisticated impression
Side view with an accented character line flowing from front fender to the rear
Wide rear fender for a lower center of gravity
Two kinds of aluminum wheels for sportier ride
Available in six exterior colors including a new color, Waterfall Blue (Scratch Shield)

High-quality interior design highlighted by an accentuated character line

Instrument panel design combining enhanced interior roominess and comfort
Highly visible "Advanced Drive Assist Display" with a sense of depth
Fine Vision Meter display
Center panel with silver finisher on both sides, creating a sharp impression
Air conditioner control panel finished in deep Piano Black, enhancing a quality feel
Chrome-plated accents used throughout the interior, including inner door handles and cup holders, offering a luxury feel
Available in relaxed wood-grain accents or modern and stylish, mesh-pattern metal finisher creating a sense of depth

2. Driving performance, packaging

Mechanism

Equipped with the newly-developed QR25DE engine with low- and mid-range torque improved by enhanced combustion and emission efficiencies, providing agile driving in a city and strong, stress-free acceleration in overtaking on highways
Frictional resistance reduced by up to 40 percent with about 80 percent of parts either newly-developed or improved
Paired with the engine is the newly-developed XTRONIC CVT with improved fuel economy and acceleration performance realized by a wider gear ratio
Fuel economy in JC08 mode improved by 26% from the previous-generation model by reduced driving load, regenerative braking with an alternator and adoption of electrically controlled power steering, along with enhanced engine and CVT, to achieve the 2015 fuel economy standards
Pedal stroke distance and application force are optimized based on ergonomics for improved operability by measuring the muscle movement in operating the brake pedal

Packaging

Roomy comfortable cabin, along with stylish proportion with lower vehicle height
With side glass placed nearly vertically; ample head clearance is ensured even with lowered height
With the revised shape of front door trim, ample knee room is provided for the driver seat
With an optimized shape of front seats, rear knee room is increased by about 10 mm from the previous-generation model, providing generous knee room
Optimized shape of front seats gives a feeling of spaciousness beyond the actual size
For improved comfort for three passengers in the rear seats, flat seat surface is adopted in the center and the backrest for both sides is extended outward
The lower end of B-pillar trim is downsized to improve ingress and egress
Trunk pass-through is newly adopted, which enables loading of long items; by widening an opening of the trunk, a golf bag can be easily loaded
Coefficient of drag of 0.29 is achieved by changing the shape of aerodynamic parts.
Vehicle weight is reduced by 40kg compared to the previous-generation model, resulting in improved acceleration and braking performance
Handling stability enhancements due to the front and rear weight distribution

Comfort

With optimized position of the ottoman, the calves are supported by an enlarged area; as stress on legs is dispersed more extensively, one feels more comfortable when his/her legs are stretched
Air-conditioned front seats with warm or cold air released through seat cushions and seatbacks to control temperature; the system can warm legs and lower back and get rid of humidity in summer to improve passenger's comfort while driving
Vibration and noise, such as wind noise, are reduced by enhanced body rigidity, optimized exhaust mount, a change of the engine mount material and optimized shape of door mirrors
Best-in-class quietness is achieved thanks to improved sound-absorbing performance; passengers can enjoy conversation in the cabin as usual while driving
Driving position can be adjusted with the height adjusted by a combination of a driver seat lifter and a tilt steering wheel, and lengthwise position by a combination of a telescopic steering wheel and a sliding seat; a range of driver sizes - from a petite woman to a tall man - are assured the ideal driving position
Intelligent Key-linked Auto Driving Position Seat is adopted, which automatically adjusts seat and side mirrors to the specific driver based on information input by individual key
Hood shape is optimized so that it is easier for the driver to see where the vehicle's front end is; improves drivability when turning left and cornering
Operability is improved by placing a shift handle 5cm closer to the driver (compared to the previous-generation model)
Newly-developed multi-link rear suspension system offers improved handling stability and ride comfort; in addition to link bushing, connect bushing is newly adopted so that both excellent response and stable cornering are offered

3. Advanced Equipment

Spinal Support Front Seats with articulated seat back pad is adopted for front seats; the design eases strain on spine by actively supporting heavy chest and spine to further pursue comfort in long-time driving
Active Trace Control allows cornering as intended; it applies brakes on the inside wheels when cornering or accelerating when exiting a corner
Color liquid-crystal Advanced Drive-Assist Display between meters shows a variety of vehicle information and warnings of a number of safety features to help drivers recognize them quickly

4. Safety Features

Around View Monitor*2, which provides a virtual 360-degree view around the vehicle, equipped with MOD (Moving Object Detection) *2 is adopted; detects moving objects on the display and alerts the driver when parking the car
Driving support features, using the rear view camera with audible and visual warnings, are adopted to support safe driving: BSW (Blind Spot Warning) *2 which detects a vehicle in the next lane to help the driver avoid a collision when changing lanes; and LDW (Lane Departure Warning) *2which alerts the driver when the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its travel lane

Other Key Safety, Convenience and Environmental Technologies

Xenon headlights
Auto light system (linked dawn sensors and linked with front wipers)
LED stop lamp
Seatbelt warning light and sound for all seats
VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control )
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
Dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat-belt and occupant-classification sensors for driver and front passenger
Driver and front passenger seat-mounted supplemental side air bagsRoof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front- and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection
Body construction for pedestrian protection
Front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters Rear outboard seatbelts with load limiters and pretensioners
Cruise Control
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), Brake Assist
Fuel economy calculated based on JC08 mode
Every grade achieves the 2015 fuel economy standards
Every grade achieves SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards
Achieves more than 95% recyclability rate (where recycling facilities exist)

As of 2018, the Nissan Teana ceased production as Nissan exited the D-Segment sedan market.

*1: Factory-installed option on XV, XL and XE
*2: Sold as Altima in the U.S. and some other countries.

Nissan Releases All-New Sylphy

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 09:49:00 GMT

The all-new sedan will be sold in approximately 120 countries, including the USA, Japan, China and Thailand. Sylphy is one of Nissan's global core models, along with the new compact Note (released in September) and the new Latio compact sedan (introduced in October).

Featuring an elegant and sophisticated design and class-above comfort, the Sylphy is powered by the newly developed 1.8L MRA8DE engine. The new powerplant is matched with a next-generation XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with sub-planetary gear, delivering powerful and smooth driving.

The Sylphy for the Japanese market is produced in Nissan's Oppama Plant in Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture.

Key features of the new Sylphy:

Design in pursuit of true sedan beauty

With its premium-feel front grille, LED-accented headlamps, large rear combination lights and a flowing character line, the new Sylphy exterior expresses a sophisticated sedan style. Compared with the previous generation model, the new model is 15mm lower in height and 65mm wider in width, giving it well-balanced sedan proportions.

Within the spacious and comfortable interior, Sylphy's high-quality, refined cabin features a seamless, integrally molded instrumental panel and detailed meter design.

Class-above comfort

Sylphy's optimized interior layout creates ample rear legroom that is comparable to that of a sedan one class above. Interior spaciousness is further enhanced with shoulder room that is increased by 30mm from the previous model. Ride comfort is also improved by reducing vibration with strengthened body rigidity, enhancing quietness with efficiently placed acoustic insulation and utilization of a vibration-absorbing suspension. Other features, including a Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) system and air conditioner outlet for the rear seats, which are also offered on Fuga and Teana, create a comfortable cabin for all passengers. Enhanced visibility and ease of driving is provided by large windows and the slope of the hood, which allows the driver to easily grasp the vehicle shape.

Price range: Ksh. 1,050,000 to Ksh. 1,250,000, including 16% VAT.

Overview of the new Sylphy

1.Design

Beautiful exterior design expressing a dynamic and premium feel while improving the functionality of a sedan

Three-dimensional chrome front grille with an imposing presence
Front bumper with horizontal design, emphasizing great width and a sense of stability
Headlights with six LED clearance lights that suggest the power of eyes'
Flowing character line that runs from curved front fender through the rear combination lights
Electric retractable remote control body-colored door mirrors with integrated side turn lamps that are easily seen (standard on G, X)
Rear combination lights featuring bold horseshoe-shaped design with fifteen LED lights expressing a stunning, high-quality feel
A total of six available exterior colors, including a new color, Deep Iris Grey (PM) (PM stands for Pearl Metallic)

Interior design with sophisticated beauty, ample space and refined comfort

Instrument panel design gives a feeling of spaciousness
Instrument panel features integrally molded upper-to-middle section, flowing curved surface and the use of soft pad trim to provide a premium interior feel
Micro-grain' that reduces glare and provides smooth feel to touch and a relaxed atmosphere is adopted in the lower instrument panel and the upper side of the front door trim
Adopted in all grades is easy-to-read Fine Vision Meters with a central color liquid crystal display showing various information, including ECO mode indicator
Class-above high-quality feel achieved with carefully selected and combined materials used for the center panel finisher

2.Driving performance and packaging

Mechanism

Newly developed 1.8L MRA8DE engine adopted in all grades
Powerful and smooth driving achieved by a longer engine stroke, improved combustion efficiency, improved intake/exhaust efficiency and reduced friction
Fuel economy improved by 16% to 15.6km/L (in JC08 mode) compared to the previous model
XTRONIC CVT adopted in all grades

Packaging

Front window glass expanded upward to provide easier viewing of traffic lights and signs
Hood shape that makes it easier to see where the vehicle's front end is
Tilt and telescopic steering wheel for most appropriate driving posture (adjustable by 30mm backward and forward and 40mm up and down)
65mm added to the width and shoulder room increased by 30mm compared to the previous model enhancing interior spaciousness and increasing door thickness, creating ample armrest space
Large rear knee room where passengers can relax with legs crossed
Newly designed flat rear seat back sides improve comfort and ease of egress/ingress when three passengers sit in the rear seat
510-liter luggage space capacity

Aerodynamics performance and comfort

New body shape with lower air resistance and optimized under floor airflow achieve coefficient of drag of 0.29
Strengthened body rigidity and reduced vibration give improved quietness
Clearance, which is a route where noise comes in, is thoroughly removed and noise insulators are efficiently displayed, delivering improved quietness
Ride comfort improved by a longer suspension stroke and improved impact/vibration absorption performance

Key Safety and Environmental Technologies

Xenon headlights (projector type with low beam/auto-control) (standard on G)
Optimum light distribution, multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control) (standard on X, S)
Auto light system (linked front wipers, dawn sensors) (standard on G, X)
VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control )
LED High Mount Stop Lamp
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), Brake Assist
High-strength body construction (Zone Body), body construction for pedestrian protection
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger
Side air bag system and SRS curtain air bag system for driver and front passenger (standard on G)
Based on JC08 fuel-economy mode
Every grade achieves SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards
Achieves more than 95% recyclability rate (where recycling facilities exist)

Nissan Releases All-New Note

Peter Karimi — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 09:16:00 GMT

Featuring an energetic exterior design and spacious interior, the new Note combines a newly developed 1.2L engine with an aerodynamic lightweight body, achieving top level fuel economy. Note also provides outstanding comfort and user-friendliness and includes an advanced Around View Monitor, which is available for the first time in a compact car.

The new Note is powered either by a supercharged, direct-injection HR12DDR Miller-cycle engine or HR12DE engine, with XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) installed in all grades. An Idling Stop System is included for 2WD models. Utilizing the responsiveness of a supercharger, the newly-developed HR12DDR engine delivers agile and exhilarating driving equivalent to that of a 1.5L engine, and great fuel economy of 25.2 km/L (on JC08 mode).*1 This qualifies Note for preferential tax breaks under the Japanese "tax system to promote the diffusion of environmentally friendly vehicles", thereby fully exempting it from the automobile acquisition tax and automobile weight tax*2. The 2WD grades with the HR12DE engine receive a 75% reductions of both new vehicle acquisition and weight taxes*3.

In the highest grade, MEDALIST, provides a premium feel for both interior and exterior. The exterior features plated door handles and an exclusive Beatnic Gold body color that offers a higher quality appearance than typically found in its class. Inside, the premium feel continues, with suede-like cloth seats and artificial leather, piano-like center cluster finisher and genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Around View Monitor is standard.

Based on the dual-pillar strategy of "zero emissions" and PURE DRIVE*4, Nissan continues its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions throughout its product lineup. The new Note with HR12DDR engine or HR12DE engine is one of the Nissan's PURE DRIVE models. Pure Drive is the designation given to Nissan's most fuel efficient, lowest emissions vehicles.

Key features of the new Note are:

Top level fuel economy among gasoline-engine vehicles
Stylish exterior design with great aerodynamic performance and modern, high-quality interior
Comfortable interior space for all passengers and advanced user-friendly features for ease of driving.

Overview of the new Note

1. Design

Exterior

Energetic exterior design

Attractive silhouette created by a vigorous roof line flowing from the front end through the front pillar
Dynamic body-side 'Squash Line', expressing a quick movement of a hard struck squash ball.
Sporty, impressive front design with headlights that suggest the power of eyes' and distinctively-designed grille integrated with each other
Rear styling characterized by a unique boomerang shape, wrapping from the rear window through rear combination lights
Available in eight body colors, each of which has its own character, including the new Sonic Blue and Beatnic Gold (special color for MEDALIST)

Interior

High-quality, refreshing interior space

Wide instrument panel, which adopts a flowing character line inspired by a ripple mark and embraces the driver, while providing an open feeling to the front passenger
High-quality center cluster with glossy black appearance provided by piano-like center cluster finisher combined with silver finisher (standard on MEDALIST, factory-installed option on X DIG-S/X-FOUR)
Fine Vision Meter illumination with easy-to-read white-color graphics
Nissan Eco-meter with the blue outline of the upper side of the Fine Vision Meter and Eco-drive Indicator using high-intensity green LED - supporting the joy of eco-driving (standard on S DIG-S/X-DIG-S/MEADLIST)

2. Driving performance and packaging

Engine and transmission

Every grade is equipped with three-cylinder 1.2L engine (downsized from previous generation Note)
S DIG-S, X DIG-S and MEDALIST adopt the newly developed, supercharged Miller-cycle HR12DDR engine with an Idling Stop System, achieving driving responsive equivalent to that of a 1.5L engine and top level fuel economy of 25.2 km/L among gasoline engine models*1
The highly efficient supercharger combined with an electric clutch efficiently controls on/off operation depending on engine speed. For example, the supercharger operation may stop for low-speed city driving, resulting in both greater fuel efficiency and exhilarating acceleration performance on demand
S, X and X FOUR use lightweight, compact HR12DE engine with strong torque at middle and lower speeds
XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which utilizes a sub planetary gear (two-speed), is adopted in all grades

Idling Stop System is standard on all 2WD grades

Packaging

Spacious interior room is maximized by reducing mechanical space, and locating the accelerator pedal farther forward. Rear seat passengers have excellent field of vision through modification of the front seat back and ensuring largest-level knee room in its class. For easier ingress/egress and loading/unloading, the opening degree of rear doors is up to 85 degrees.

Aerodynamic performance and weight reduction

Air flow improves with lipped rear outlets placed on the rear combination lights acting as wind passages. Body air flow runs smoothly without turbulence at the rear. Adopting the design that reduces air resistance achieves a very low coefficient of drag of 0.29*5.
Weight is reduced by a total of about 70kg compared to the previous Note by adjusting shapes and structures in detail including a change in suspension and exhaust parts, optimization of parts plate thickness inside the engine compartment and a change in the shape of the fuel tank.

3. Advanced and convenient equipment

Around View Monitor (standard on MEDALIST, factory-installed option on X/X DIG-S/X-FOUR)

Around View Monitor, offered for the first time in a compact car, displays an image of the vehicle from above, using four cameras installed in the front, both sides and rear. Since an image is projected on the auto anti-glare inside rear view mirror, a car navigation system is not required to use this feature.

ECO-mode (standard on S DIG-S/X DIG-S/MEDALIST)

ECO-mode, which helps improve real-world fuel economy, is available in HR12DDR engine grades. When ECO-mode switch is on, the engine and CVT are controlled in a coordinated way to provide natural feeling yet fuel-efficient driving. In normal driving mode, the driver can drive without activating the supercharger while Eco-mode is on. When quicker acceleration is needed, the supercharger activates if the accelerator pedal is pressed to a certain degree.

Nissan Eco-meter (standard on S DIG-S/X DIG-S/MEDALIST)

Standard on HR12DDR engine models, Nissan ECO-meter includes an ECO-drive Indicator that shows three eco-levels in on the upper part of the meter in green LED lighting. An Eco-pedal Guide displays accelerator angle on the center display. With the Eco-drive Report function, an eco-drive level is shown on the center display and Eco-drive Indicator.

Storage

Various conveniently located storage compartments include a large-size instrument upper box that can store a large box of tissues, a center console box that can store a 1.5-liter plastic bottle, cupholders and door pocket organizers.
While ensuring class-leading-level rear knee room, a 330-literlarge-capacity luggage space is realized.

Other Key Safety and Environmental Technologies

Rear windshield wiper
Multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control) that provide optimum light distribution
Auto light system (linked front wipers, dawn sensors) (standard on MEDALIST)
LED High-Mount Stop Lamp
Around View Monitor (top view/side blind/front view/rear view) (standard on MEDALIST, factory-installed option on X/X DIG-S/X FOUR)
Rear View Monitor (available only on vehicles equipped with car navigation system - provided as a dealer option)
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution)
VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control ) (factory-installed option on X/X DIG-S/MEDALIST/X-FOUR)
High-strength body construction (Zone Body) and Body construction for pedestrian protection
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats
SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger
SRS curtain air bag system (factory-installed option on X DIG-S/MEDALIST/X FOUR)
Electric-assisted power steering
Variable Valve Timing
Variable control of voltage for power generation
Based on JC08 fuel-economy mode
Achieves more than 95% recyclability rate (where recycling facilities exist)

Price range: Ksh. 750,000 to Ksh. 1,000,000, including 16% VAT

*1: S-DIGS.Engine displacement of 1,000 cc or more, excluding hybrid and mini vehicles (According to Nissan, as of July, 2012)

*2: Achieves both SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards and 20% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards.

*3: Achieves both SU-LEV certification by emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards and 10% improvement in fuel economy over 2015 standards.

*4: PURE DRIVE vehicles are designed to deliver new excitement, creating a new experience and surprise in everyday driving, by combining various vehicles with eco-technologies.

*5: Only S DIG-S