Tim Dahle Nissan - FIRESALE!!

With the New Year creeping up very fast.. TIM DAHLE NISSAN - Sandy is pulling out all of the stops to make this END OF YEAR SALES EVENT the biggest yet. Every New Nissan is being slashed down to the bare bones INVOICE. All of our Pre-owned Vehicles have had the profit slashed right out of them. Nissan has put 0.0% all over their Model Lineup to ensure that this would be the right time in every way to buy a New Vehicle.

Some People are still a bit scared to walk into Dealerships right now.. due to the Economy. Let me take a little of the fright out of what is happening. NISSAN and Tim Dahle Nissan are doing great. If you need a New or Pre-owned Vehicle, take a step into the showroom and let us show you.. that it is OK. Our Lenders are helping People by the truck full get into their Dream Vehicles. The Showroom floors of many of the Competition out here in Utah is so quite a tumble weed may be the extent of their activity. Not here. The word is getting out.. it is OK. The News about the Auto Industry has more to do with the Big Three.

If I needed a vehicle, then my thought process would be this. Wouldn't I want to go now.. If indeed it is slow, won't Tim Dahle do what ever it takes to put me behind the wheel? Won't I get Pricing on a Vehicle right now, that frankly I could not get a few months ago? I can get more for my Trade right now, because they have to sell cars, right? All of these are 100% TRUE!

We want to help everyone right now. We want to sell every car on our lot and have nothing left.. This FIRE SALE that is going on right now, makes the Car Buying Experience the easiest it's been in a long time. Get the BEST PRICE from the get go! Get the BEST TRADE IN VALUE from right off the bat!! Get the LOWEST PAYMENT with out having to go through the back and forth ping pong game! If you take a chance, you will be amazed at just how easy, quick, BUYING A CAR CAN BE!

Here is a link to the REBATES & APR SPECIALS going on right now.. click here

For our ONLINE APPLICATION click here

Contact DAVID LYTLE at Tim Dahle Nissan at (801)979-6519 Cell or e-mail him at dlytle@timdahle.com

Auto Loans in the Bad Economy

The Economy has been the topic of the News for so many months now, that I cannot remember a day that it wasn't. There are some truths to what is happening out there, but there are also some misconceptions that I want to clear up.

NOT EVER CAR DEALER is going Bankrupt. Yes the Big Three have their issues.. but they had their issues before the economy hit hard times. Nissan however is doing very well. According to the higher ups at Nissan there was a steady increase over the last few months, as opposed to a decrease like many other Manufacturers.

Here is the best news, Tim Dahle Nissan Sandy is getting people financed everyday! Even those with Credit problems. Now it is true that some of the Financial institutions have tightened their belts.. but we use so many, that there is practically no way we cannot get you done. Just because you got turned down elsewhere does not mean you will get turned down with us. In fact we take it as a challenge to prove that we will get you done and still provide you with the Best Pricing, Best Service, than any Dealership across the United States. After all we are earning your business, not the other way around.. why on earth would someone who needs to earn your business treat you wrong? Yet it happens everyday, doesn't it?

It's funny when you visit Dealerships that treat you as if they are doing you a favor.. that you need to just take what they give you and be happy with it. Why do that, when there is an alternative.. Get treated right, get the vehicle you want, and get the payment that fits within your budget. That's what we do. We value everyone that comes to Tim Dahle Nissan and no without you.. our doors would be shut. We don't just want to earn a Customer for the moment.. we want CUSTOMERS FOR LIFE! Give us a shot and let us prove to you why there is no other choice when it comes to buying your new vehicle.

There are two different ways you can get started on your Pre-approval. First is by calling the number below, second is by clicking the link below and filling in our secure Credit Application Online!

Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy Credit Application click here

Contact us today to get you started down the right road in your new vehicle today!

David Lytle
Business Development Manager
Tim Dahle Nissan Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle - Murano Special

Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy has Murano's for awesome deals.
Take a look at this, this is just one of the many offers available
now on the MURANO. $262/mo for 39 months or get 0.0%
on any Murano Model.

Since the Murano burst on the scene it has been growing in
popularity for it's styling, versatility and handling. There is
no doubt, that when it comes to the crossover market.. this
Nissan puts up a great fight. Loaded with every option that
you can think of, the Murano is a great choice when it comes
to a Sport Utility or Crossover.

For Nissan Murano Inventory click here

For information on any Murano or details on this Lease offer
contact DAVID LYTLE at the numbers below.

David Lytle
Business Development Manager
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle - Maxima Special

Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy has many New MAXIMA'S available for
purchase and several great programs available on them as well.
Take a look at this great Lease offer... $248/mo for 24 months or
get 0.0% on Maxima.

The all New Nissan Maxima is winning over Consumers and is
quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with with the critics.
The New body style, performance attributes, make this Maxima
the best yet. Already a name everyone knows and trusts the
Maxima's improvements have made it a clear winner on every
level. If you have not had the pleasure of getting behind the wheel
you absolutely have to do it. You will be quickly impressed with
its sportier handling and looks.

For Nissan Maxima inventory click here

For any information on Maxima or for lease details contact DAVID
LYTLE at the information below.

David Lytle
Business Development Manager
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle - Sentra Special

Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy Sentra Special.. Right now we have many
2008's still available for purchase. So we are pulling out the stops
to get them off of our lot. Here is just one of the Specials available
right now on SENTRA. $135/mo for 36 Months or get 0.0% on any
2008 Nissan Sentra model.

The Sentra is as reliable as they come. The vehicle has been around
for a long time and has only gotten better with age. The Newest
version of the Sentra has many options that are sure to please, as well
as a much nicer body style and ride.

For Nissan Sentra Inventory click here

For any questions on Sentra or complete details on the lease above,
contact DAVID LYTLE at the information below.

David Lytle
Business Development Manager
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle - Versa Special

Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy has many Specials available on the
VERSA as of right now. Here is one of the available options for
you that is a FANTASTIC LEASE DEAL!! $99/mo for 39
months or get 0.0% on any Versa Model available. What a
tremendous value on a very reliable, economic, versatile car.

The Nissan Versa has many models available to fit almost any
need you may have.. starting from the 1.6 Base model that start
from $9,999 and up depending on the option packages you are
looking for.

For Nissan Versa Inventory click here

For any questions or concerns on any VERSA at Tim Dahle and for
complete Lease details call DAVID LYTLE at the contact information
below.

David Lytle
Business Development Manager
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Uath 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle - Altima Special

Tim Dahle Nissan celebrates the Holiday Season by giving out
fantastic DEALS!! Here is another Special that is going on right
now. Keep in mind that this is just one deal on the ALTIMA and
that there is much much more we can do for you, if LEASING
is not on your menu...

The 2008 and 2009 Nissan Altima is better than ever, with a
model to fit any need that you may have. Chalk full of options
that are sure to please, Altima is a great choice to drive home.

Get a well equipped NISSAN ALTIMA 2.5S for only $169/mo
for 39 Months or get 0.0% on all Altima Models. Call DAVID
LYTLE for complete lease details or for any questions on any
vehicle right now at Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy.

For Nissan Altima inventory click here

David Lytle
Business Development Manager
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle - Rogue Special

Here are a few Specials going on right now that you do not want to miss
out on. Nissan Rogue is one of the most popular Crossover vehicles on
the market today. The reason is simple... Versatility, Size, and Price!

Right now get a nicely equipped Nissan Rogue for Lease $168/mo for
39 months or get 0.0% on all Rogue models. This is a great way to get
into a fantastic vehicle for a very low payment. Call DAVID LYTLE for
complete Lease details or any other questions you may have on the
Rogue.

Nissan Rogue Inventory at Tim Dahle click here

David Lytle
Business Development Manager
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle Winter Sales Event!

TIM DAHLE NISSAN - SANDY is proud to present our WINTER SALES EVENT! The Holiday Season is here and Tim Dahle is not wasting anytime on showing you what makes them stand out above the rest. Right now Save THOUSANDS on remaining New 2008 and 2009 Nissan Vehicles! We are pulling out all of the stops to help you get the Christmas present you deserve. Now with the economic times many of you out there think that buying a car has become impossible.. With all the Banks and other Dealerships not being able to help you, it would almost seem true. But not at Tim Dahle Sandy! We are going stronger than ever and we are getting good folks like your selves into vehicle, that thought they did not stand a chance. Our Banks are working hand in hand with us to ensure that we get everyone we can, into the vehicle they want, at the payment that fits their budget!

Call us today to set up your VIP APPOINTMENT and allow us the opportunity to show you, that at Tim Dahle you CAN BUY A CAR! Not only that, but right now is the best time to save and save BIG! Contact DAVID LYTLE at the information below and lets get you down to Tim Dahle and on the Road driving today!!

David Lytle
Business Development Manager
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

PS: Tell me that you saw us on BLOGGER for more savings!!

It's the Holiday Season at Tim Dahle

Tim Dahle wants to wish you and yours a Happy Holidays and hope that all is well. We also want to invite you to take part of the HOLIDAY SALES EVENT that is going on right now. For the last couple of months it has been difficult for all and we know that. There have been many Dealerships out there that have said they cannot help you.. that it is close to impossible in these economic times.. The great news is that we are not one of them.

Nissan is doing better than ever. They have great offers on the table for every credit situation out there. If you have been turned down everywhere else, it means you have not stopped in at Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy. We have been helping more people over the last few months secure loans they thought they could not get.. They have been told by such and such Dealership that they cannot get financed and when they come see us, we have put them behind the wheel of a vehicle that was just perfect for their needs at a budget they could afford. So don't let all the others get you down. Contact us today to make your Holiday Season shine.

You will be astounded at what we are able to do for you. Contact DAVID LYTLE Business Development Manager at Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy at the information provided below.

David Lytle
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle Nissan After Thanksgiving Sale!

Tim Dahle is having a Huge After THANKSGIVING SALE!!! All New Nissans wether it is 2008 or 2009 are being sold at INVOICE PRICING! New Car not what you are looking for, we are liquidating our Pre-owned as well. With the success of the last few months we have an overstock of very clean, low mileage Pre-owned Vehicles available at screaming Prices. We have been jammed for the last couple of days trying to make a mad dash to the end of month.. We are the #1 Nissan Dealer in Utah and want to remain that way.. the only way to do so is SELL CARS!!

So give me a call or stop on by and ask for me DAVID LYTLE at 10785 Automall Drive in Sandy Utah at the South Towne Automall and lets get you out of the old and into the New!!

David Lytle
eBusiness Director
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Lease Bonanza At Tim Dahle

Nissan is making a huge push to Lease their products again and Tim Dahle is following suit. Take a look at these great offers going on now...

2008 Altima Coupe 4-cylinder 3.9% APR financing
for up to 60 months for well-qualified buyers*
OR $750 cash back**

2008 Altima Coupe 2.5S CVT Lease 39 Months -
$259/Month - $2,999 initial payment.

2008 Altima Coupe V-6 2.9% APR financing for
up to 36 months or 3.9% APR financing for up to
60 months for well-qualified buyers* OR $1,000 cash back**

2009 Altima Coupe 2.5S CVT Lease 39 Months -
$269/Month - $2,999 initial payment.

2008 Altima Sedan 4-cylinder 0.0% APR financing for
up to 36 months or 2.9% APR financing for up to 60
months for well-qualified buyers* OR $1,250 cash back**

2008 Altima Sedan V-6 0.0% APR financing for up to 36
months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 60 months for
well-qualified buyers* OR $1,750 cash back**

2008 Altima Hybrid 3.9% APR financing for up to 60
months for well-qualified buyers* OR $1,000 cash back**
Only available in California, New York, Massachusetts,
Connecticut, Vermont, Rhode Island, Maine and New Jersey.

2008 Altima 2.5S CVT w/ Splash and Mats Lease 36
Months - $199/Month - $2,999 initial payment.

2009 Altima (excluding Hybrid and Coupe) 0.0% APR
financing for up to 36 months or 4.9% APR financing for
up to 60 months for well-qualified buyers* OR $750 cash back **

2009 Altima Hybrid 3.9% APR financing for up to 36
months or 4.9% APR financing for up to 60 months for qualified
buyers* OR $500 cash back**Only available in California,
New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Rhode
Island, Maine and New Jersey.Contact Dealer for Details

2009 Altima Sedan 2.5S CVT Lease 39 Months - $199/
Month - $2,759 initial payment.

2009 Maxima S with Mats & Splash Lease 39 Months -
$339/Month - $2,999 initial payment

2008 Sentra 0.0% APR financing for up to 36 months or
0.9% APR financing for up to 60 months for well-qualified
buyers* OR $2,000 cash back**

2009 Sentra 0.0% APR financing for up to 36 months or
2.9% APR financing for up to 60 months for well-qualified
buyers* OR $1,500 cash back**

2009 Versa Hatch 0.0% APR financing for up to 36 months
or 4.9% APR financing for up to 60 months for well-qualified
buyers* OR $750 cash back **

2009 Versa Sedan (excluding 1.6L Sedan trims) 0.0% APR
financing for up to 36 months or 4.9% APR financing for up
to 60 months for well-qualified buyers* OR $750 cash back **

Versa Sedan 1.6 Base Starting at $9,990.

2009 Versa Sedan
1.6 Base with Manual Transmission (52059) available late
November 2008. Excludes tax, title, license and $695 destination
charge. Dealer sets actual price. See dealer for details.

2008 Quest 2.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for exceptionally
well-qualified buyers* OR $2,500 cash back**

2009 Quest 3.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or 4.9% APR
financing for up to 72 months for well-qualified buyers* OR $1,500
cash back**

2008 Rogue 0.0% APR financing for up to 36 months or 3.9% APR
financing for up to 60 months for well-qualified buyers* OR $750
cash back**

2008 ROGUE S AWD w/ Splash and Mats Lease 39 Months -
$209/Month - $2,999 initial payment.

2009 Rogue 0.0% APR financing for up to 36 months or 4.9%
APR financing for up to 60 months for well-qualified buyers*

2009 ROGUE S AWD w/ Splash and Mats Lease39 Months -
$199/Month - $2,754 initial payment.

2009 Murano 0.0% APR financing for up to 36 months or
3.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or 4.9% APR financing
for up to 72 months for well-qualified buyers*

2009 MURANO S AWD w/ Convenience Pkg. Lease 39 Months
- $329/Month - $2,999 initial payment.

2008 Xterra 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9%
APR financing for up to 72 months for exceptionally well-qualified
buyers* OR $3,000 cash back**

2009 Xterra 1.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or 3.9% APR
financing for up to 72 months for exceptionally well-qualified
buyers* OR $2,000 cash back**

2008 Pathfinder 0.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for
exceptionally well-qualified buyers* OR $2,500 cash back**

2009 Pathfinder 3.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or
4.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for exceptionally well-
qualified buyers* OR $1,000 cash back**

2008 Armada 0.0% APR financing for up to 72 months for
exceptionally well-qualified buyers* OR $5,000 cash back **

2009 Armada 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or
2.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for well-qualified
buyers* OR $4,500 cash back **

2008 Frontier 4 Cylinder 1.9% APR financing for up to 36
months or 2.9% APR financing for up to 60 months for qualified
buyers * OR $1,750 cash back** 2008 Frontier V-6 1.9%
APR financing for up to 60 months for qualified buyers *
OR $2,500 cash back**

2009 Frontier XE 3.9% APR financing for up to 60 months
for well-qualified buyers* OR $750 cash back** 2009 Frontier
(all trims except XE) 3.9% APR financing for up to 60 months
for qualified buyers* OR $1,250 cash back**

2008.5 Titan 0.0% APR financing for up to 60 months or
0.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for well-qualified
buyers* OR $5,500 cash back**

2008.5 Titan 0.0% APR financing for up to 60 months or
0.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for well-qualified
buyers* OR $5,500 cash back**

2009 Titan 0.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for
well-qualified buyers* OR $4,500 cash back**

2009 Titan 0.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for
well-qualified buyers* OR $4,500 cash back**

Any questions regarding any of these prices or lease payments, contact DAVID LYTLE
at TIM DAHLE NISSAN -SANDY below.

David Lytle
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Nissan Versa New Model - The Cheapest American Car

Tim Dahle has Many New and Used Versa's available for purchase at great prices right now! Visit us online at www.timdahlenissansandy.com for our entire inventory!

The Nissan Versa has a new model coming out in the next couple of months that is going to be extremely easy on the pocket book. $9,990 to be exact, making it the cheapest America car on the market. It comes in the Sedan version that is not pictured and will have standard six air bags, tire pressure monitoring system, 107-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, 14" Wheel covers, Front-seat Active Head Restraints, with a manual transmission. By all means it isn't a fully loaded version of the vehicle and the name tells you this.. 1.6 Base. But for the buck it has a couple of good options. Tim Dahle will have several of these in stock in two months to sell, but they will probably go rather quickly being a great first time buyers car. You can put a deposit on one of these great little cars to secure it, which is nice. Contact DAVID LYTLE at (801)979-6519 or e-mail him at dlytle@timdahle.com for details.

Here is a link to more information on this vehicle click here

David Lytle
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

Tim Dahle Nissan - Your Only Choice!

Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy: The #1 New Nissan Dealer in Utah and your Owner First Award Of Excellence Winner! Visit us online at http://www.timdahlenissansandy.com/ for all of our Inventory!

Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy has been going through many changes. We are getting better everyday with help from our satisfied Customers and great Employees. We know that it takes both to make a good store great! With Management changes and a Revamped Sales Staff we are rising quickly to the top. Our numerous awards for Customer Satisfaction and Sales Excellence are proof in that. We don't just want to be known as the #1 New Nissan Store.. We want to be know as the best store to purchase your vehicle from period. This takes a large commitment from all of us. We have many New and Pre-owned Nissan's in stock to meet your every need as well as just about any make and model pre-owned to satisfy you as well.

All we ask of you is... GIVE US A SHOT! We will do whatever it takes to prove to you that we are the best. From finding the right vehicle, treating you right through the sale and after, and securing you the best financing around.

For a listing of all of our New Nissan's click here

For a listing of all of our Pre-owned vehicles click here

If you don't see what you are looking for, call us, WE WILL FIND IT!

Contact DAVID LYTLE at Tim Dahle's Customer Care Center to help you with anything that you may need.

David Lytle
Tim Dahle Nissan - Sandy
10785 Automall Drive
Sandy, Utah 84070
(801)979-6519 Cell
(801)495-3800 Office
dlytle@timdahle.com

The CUBE is Coming!

The Nissan Cube is finally coming over to the states and Nissan Reveals it will be Spring of 2009. What will it do over here? Will it sell? Will it get talked about? Will as many people dislike as will like it? First, if you look at the sales of the Scion Xb and the Element, it will give you an indication that it will do pretty well considering the market for Gas Mileage Plus Vehicles. Niche vehicles have their audience, but I think the Cube may even break the bank over here. Simply because it already has a following in Japan and People over here have been hearing rumours for so long, they are waiting as well. Several people have driven the Japanese version in the states and the reviews are back and forth. One raves another doesn't. Most likely with the youth today liking different, unusual styled vehicles, at low prices, and good MPG.. It will sell. I can see people doing all kinds of things to it to make it their own.

Anyway, here is the official Nissan Cube Website. They are not giving much away at this point, but there is a couple of things to see. You all tell me, what you think!

Dlytle

Titan is King!

2008 Nissan Titan Major revisions improves this full-size pickup.
By G.R. Whale
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Prices and Specs
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Print This Page
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Introduction
The Nissan Titan gets two noteworthy additions and a host of detail improvements for 2008, delivering more of the truck capability while taking off just enough of the tough-guy truck image to appeal to a broader range of drivers and occupants.

New long-bed models have been added, and are longer than most competitors, along with more bed space, payload, and fuel capacity.

Inside, the 2008 Nissan Titan sports a thoroughly redesigned interior that is at once more attractive and user-friendly. There's plenty of room for a growing family of five or four big sportsmen off for weekend recreation. Titans range from utilitarian models with crank windows to leather-lined cabs befitting a luxurious sport-utility.

Titan's proven and powerful V8 and automatic is the only choice, and it's a stout engine raced at more than twice its street-legal 317 horsepower. Nothing like this gets good gas mileage and if you have no plans to haul stuff around or tow anything, the Titan will be overkill and you should check out a van, or maybe a Pathfinder for those Nissan faithful in need of four-wheel drive. When you do haul and tow, you'll find the features added for such activities very useful and that it's surprisingly capable for a half-ton pickup.

In part because of the engine, the Titan leans to the sporty and heavy-user ends of the pickup truck spectrum. Obviously it can be used on a daily basis and perhaps on an overcast day it might just blend in, but the Titan is more outgoing than that and would prefer a home with an adventurous family, busy independent contractor or landscaper, hard-core four wheeler towing a buggy, or on the job site tending to fickle foremen and agitated architects: At least on the weekdays.

If you need a full-size pickup with power to perform and plenty of room, the Nissan Titan should be on your shopping list.

Model Lineup
The 2008 Nissan Titan line has been expanded to include the new long-wheelbase model. More than 25 variants are available. Choose from two cabs (King, Crew), two wheelbases (short or long bed), two- and four-wheel drive, and four trim levels (XE, SE, Pro-4X, LE) in virtually any combination with these exceptions: Pro-4X models are 4WD only, and the King Cab Pro-4X is short wheelbase only. Four-wheel drive adds about $3000; a long wheelbase adds about $400, and figure $2500-$3000 to move up from King Cab to Crew Cab.

The base XE model is focused on function and includes cloth seating for six, active front head restraints, full instrumentation, cruise control, and on Crew Cabs, power windows and door locks.

Popular SE models add alloy wheels, upholstery upgrades, a CD changer, heated power mirrors, and conveniences such as remote keyless entry and illuminated visor mirrors. The next slot, sort of a 4WD only SE derivative, is the Pro-4X model with larger, more aggressive tires, off-road suspension tuning, two-tone cloth upholstery, and double sun visors.

Luxury characterizes the LE model, which runs 20-inch wheels, fog lamps, leather power seats, a 350-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system, dual-zone climate control, power adjustable pedals, and chrome power folding heated mirrors.

All except the XE offer a front side/side curtain/roll-sensing stability control option package. SE and Pro-4X have the widest choices, from spray-in bedliner to seat choices, while navigation is reserved for Pro-4X and LE trucks. On Crew Cab SE-or-better only, a moonroof and DVD entertainment are among the options.

Walkaround
The 2008 Nissan Titan's most notable change is the new long-wheelbase variant that provides a bed length of almost 8 feet, 3 inches on King Cabs and 7 feet, 3 inches on Crew Cabs, the biggest box on a half-ton crew cab pickup; those models also have the largest fuel tank at 37 gallons. Subtle changes to the grille, lamps, bumpers and wheels have softened the edges a bit but Titan's in-your-face attitude is still prevalent.

The high level of function remains too, and maximum payload has been lifted above 2,000 pounds on certain versions. A tow package (up to 9500 pounds) that includes extendable dual-element mirrors and transmission temperature gauge ranks among the best in half-ton pickups, the locking tailgate is damped and assisted for easy open and close, and available features like the cargo track retention system (bed sides and floor) and storage box in the rear fender ideal for wet tow straps or chains are unmatched in class.

Interior Features
The 2008 Nissan Titan cabin will still serve well for truck duty, but it is now more refined and has less edginess, eliminating one of the few gripes regarding the original Titan.

Dash and door panels are easy-to-wipe-off plastic yet no longer give the impression of cost-cutting in materials, and the new instrument layout provides all the same, complete information but has a more coherent sophisticated look to it. On Pro-4X models the gauges are white-faced, and LE models have enough wood-like acreage to fit in a luxury utility.

Titans can be equipped with a six-person bench seat interior or with captain's chairs in front for a five-seat capacity.

Our Pro-4X had the buckets with heat, power adjustments, and two-position driver memory system to complement the adjustable pedals. The only nuisance in fit is the tilt-and-telescoping steering column adjustment that is spring-loaded and requires you to tilt-and-telescope the wheel with one hand while the other holds the release. You sit high and comfortable, not squeezed but not loosely floating about and visibility is excellent to all corners (and well-behind with the tow mirrors) although some shorter drivers may not like the large base on the windshield pillar. An optional rear-view camera is available and we found it eased trailer hitching.

A new center dash section for 2008 handles audio, climate, navigation, and switching duty (tow mode, VDC off, diff lock, etc.) with a slightly more integrated look. It looks better than last year's setup and more easily handles extras like the dual-zone climate control on LE models. All controls are logical and sensibly arranged, although traditional pickup truck buyers who go for six seats will have to adapt to wipers and shifter on the same side of the wheel. With deep bins in the center console and smaller ones along the sides, big door and seatback pockets, and generous cup holders, you'll find a place to put virtually anything.

Entry and exit is simple, aided by running boards if you value deportment above ground clearance. Rear doors on King Cabs swing almost 170 degrees for easy access and there's room back there for six-footers on short-to-moderate length trips. Crew Cab rear seats are downright spacious and eclipsed only by the Dodge Ram Mega Cab and Toyota Tundra CrewMax, neither of which offers near the bed capacity of a long-bed Titan. Titan Crew Cabs offer an optional moonroof and DVD rear-seat entertainment system.

You won't see any of the noise-reduction materials inside (unless you're under the dash installing a brake controller with the tow-package pigtail) but if you've ever been in a Titan you will notice the 2008 is much quieter and smoother.

Driving Impressions
The Nissan Titan was widely recognized for its stout drivetrain, and it's been slightly uprated for 2008. It comes standard with the big V8 and a five-speed automatic transmission. Although it doesn't have as much horsepower as GM's larger V8 choices or Dodge's Hemi, it matches or betters most on torque and a Titan will outrun most pickups and deliver competitive mileage to similar configurations; only the Tundra's 5.7-liter/six-speed automatic combination really betters it. The exhaust has been retuned to keep the V8 rumble so adored by truck buyers while eliminating the drone that could wear on long highway trips.

On paper, the fuel economy has dropped for 2008, but in reality it's the same as before; the EPA has changed its test procedures, which yields results much closer to the fuel economy most drivers will obtain.

A proper gated floor shift allows direct access to any gear without pressing any buttons, and the transmission responds smoothly and crisply as conditions dictate; a comfortable grip and good location adjacent the driver's leg encourages one to use it. Four-wheel drive and low-range are electrically shifted by a rotary dash knob. The electric locking rear differential (Pro-4X only) is more effective in severe terrain than the all-wheel electronic traction control of regular 4x4 Titans and most competitors. There is no automatic 4WD setting for on-road use, but if the electronic traction aids aren't enough perhaps you should be in 4WD high-range. The rear axle has also been strengthened considerably to accommodate the towing and new load ratings.
Pickup trucks aren't held in high regard for ride comfort or handling prowess yet they have made strides in both. The longer wheelbase only betters cruising comfort but even the short-wheelbase Titans will generate no complaints, at least not from anyone that knows what a ton of payload means. Off-road biased suspension tuning with lots of travel, shocks built specifically for it, and large tires on the Pro-4X contribute to ride softness without giving up control, while the 20-inch wheel/tire combo on LE models offers crisper turn-in but transmits bumps more.
The 2008 Titan also receives more powerful front brakes with larger rotors and all the plumbing changes that go with them: In spec-speak they are not quite as large in diameter as a Tundra's but they have greater swept area, a better indicator of braking capacity. The Titan has always performed well in pickup brake tests, and these offer a larger margin of safety and durability, needed because the previous brakes didn't hold up well.

Summary
The 2008 Nissan Titan adds long bed models to the mix and more refinement, but continues the stuff we liked about the previous version. Titan boasts a robust powertrain with responsive acceleration. For 2008, it gets improved braking and a redesigned, higher-quality interior.

G.R. Whale filed this report to NewCarTestDrive.com from Minneapolis.

For Titan Inventory click here

To talk to someone about Titan call DAVID LYTLE at 801-495-3800
dlytle

Versa is Versatile!

2009 Nissan Versa Roomy and fuel-efficient.
By New Car Test Drive
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Prices and Specs
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Introduction
The Nissan Versa is an excellent choice among subcompacts. It's big and roomy inside with decent head room and legroom and lots of hip room, making it a good choice for larger drivers. Its big, cushy seats are comfortable. Back-seat passengers will find rear-seat leg room as good as that in larger cars and SUVs. The cabin is nicely finished and offers all the modern conveniences.
It offers the small-car virtues of nimble handling, easy parking, and lively yet efficient performance. Versa delivers an EPA-estimated 31 mpg on the highway with the automatic, 33 mpg with the manual transmission.

The Versa is slightly bigger than the lower priced Toyota Yaris and the more expensive Honda Fit. All three are subcompacts designed with tall rooflines for increased interior comfort and visibility. The Versa is the smallest car you'll find in Nissan showrooms: smaller and less expensive than the compact Nissan Sentra, but offering greater interior space and more versatility.

The Versa has received the highest possible ratings in government and insurance industry crash tests, though keep in mind that's among small cars (five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; and a "good" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). Versa safety features include dual-stage frontal air bags, front-seat side-impact air bags for chest protection, and roof-mounted curtain air bags for head protection.

Versa went on sale as a five-door hatchback in July 2006, with a four-door sedan following in January 2007. Combined, the sedan and hatch sold more 59,000 units in less than one model year. For 2009, Nissan has simplified the model lineup by reducing the total number of body, trim, and transmission combinations from nine to six. The Sport Package is restricted to the hatchback.

Bottom line, the Nissan Versa is a big small car with comfort, performance and versatility. It's roomy and offers good fuel economy.

Model Lineup
The 2009 Nissan Versa is available as a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback, each in two trim levels. All are powered by the same 122-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels.

Versa S ($12,990) comes standard with cloth upholstery; air conditioning with micro filter; four-speaker, 120-watt AM/FM/CD stereo; tilt steering column; and 185/65R15 tires on 15-inch steel wheels. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, a four-speed automatic transmission is optional ($1000). Versa S comes in sedan and hatchback body styles; the hatchback features a 60/40 split folding rear seat. Options include cruise control ($200), and a Power Package ($700) consisting of power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, door armrest pads, rear door map pockets, and a glove compartment light.

Versa SL sedan ($15,990) and hatchback ($16,210) upgrade with premium woven seat fabric, a more adjustable driver's seat, center armrests front and rear, the Power Package, cruise control, a 180-watt stereo with an in-dash 6CD changer and MP3 capability, and 15-inch machined alloy wheels. Sedan and hatchback both come with split folding rear seats. A six-speed manual is standard. The CVT automatic ($1,000) is available for the hatchback, while a four-speed automatic transmission is an option for the sedan ($750).

Options include a Convenience Package ($650) with an Intelligent Key system, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The Moonroof Package ($600) adds a power glass sunroof and illuminated visor vanity mirrors. A Sport Package ($700) for the hatch adds fog lights, a rear roof spoiler, side sill extensions, and unique front and rear fascias. The Audio Package ($300) consists of a 100-watt Rockford-Fosgate stereo with premium speakers and subwoofer. An iPod interface ($270) and XM Satellite Radio ($150) are available. Accessories include splash guards ($110), floor mats ($155), auto-dimming inside mirror ($125), interior accent lighting ($300), and aluminum kick plates ($130). A rear roof spoiler ($250) and a new cargo organizer ($160) can be added to the hatchback.

Safety features include frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, roof-mounted curtain airbags, front-seat active head restraints, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) are an option ($250) on all models.

Walkaround
The Nissan Versa looks bigger than it is. One reason for that is an exceptionally short rear overhang: Very little of the car extends past the rear wheels.

Coming at you, the Versa is clearly related to the retro-future-cool Quest minivan, with a smaller rendition of the same flying-V grille that seems to cantilever off a strong center post, emphasized at either end by classy, triangular headlights. Similarly, a tall, steep windshield aids space efficiency in the van and in the Versa as well.

It's very different at the Versa's near-vertical rear, where the little Nissan almost looks like a hatchback BMW never built. The bottom edges of the tailgate angle sharply inward to clear the cat's-eye taillights. We're guessing it was designed this way to allow those trapezoid taillights to stay on the body rather than being mounted on the tailgate itself. It gives the rear end a unique character, though the tailgate opening is smaller than it otherwise could be.

The sedan is nearly seven inches longer than the hatchback and has a more conventional rear end. The sedan is handsome enough, with its long, tapering sail panels.

We find the hatch more appealing. We like its distinctive styling and find it more versatile than the sedan.

Interior Features
The huge front seats in the Nissan Versa are roomy and comfortable. As with the other cars in this class, the Versa driver gets lots of legroom and headroom. In terms of hip room, however, the Versa is a real standout. The width and the substantial structure of the front seats may make the Versa a great choice among subcompacts for big drivers. The cloth-covered seats are comfortable without being too soft and offer plenty of side support.

The back seat is particularly impressive. As you get in you'll be pleasantly surprised by the size of the rear door and how the front edge of the rear wheel well does not intrude as you step in. There are many larger four-door sedans and even many large SUVs that have smaller rear door openings. Even a six-footer shouldn't feel cramped as the rear seat legroom is at or near the top of the class. The Versa sedan gives up about half an inch of rear-seat headroom to the hatch, but that's not all that much.

Nissan has made sure that most of the surfaces you touch, such as the armrests and door handles, have a soft feel to them. No hard plastics here.

The instrument pod contains three large, well-recessed gauges that are easy to read. The speedometer takes pride of place in the center and almost seems as if it is floating over the other two gauges.

Controls for the dash mounted radio and CD changer are well integrated into the center stack, and although they are not very large they are easy to see and comprehend. There is a large volume knob in the center with a very visible power button. Three functional, conventional knobs operate the climate control system. All in all there's nothing fancy about any of the controls, although everything looks well finished. Two large cupholders are conveniently located under the center stack.

The optional Intelligent Key allows for keyless starting of the engine, something that up until now has only been available in luxury cars. We don't recommend it. Tow truck operators tell us they get a lot of calls dealing with keyless starting systems. And we don't find them a big benefit.
Cargo versatility is a strong point for the hatchback. There's a generous 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place. Fold them down and you've got 50.4 cubic feet, which is almost as much space as you'll find in a small SUV. Part of the reason for the spacious rear cargo bay is the careful design of the rear suspension so that no strut towers intrude into the interior. The versatility of the three-door hatchback is one of the unsung tales in the world of automobiles.

The sedan offers a 13.8 cubic-foot trunk, which is good for the class.

Driving Impressions
The Nissan Versa gets an EPA-rated 27/33 mpg City/Highway. One of the reasons for its excellent highway economy is its continuously variable transmission, or CVT. Nissan has been a standout in this technology; it's so well integrated into the Murano that drivers often don't notice it was anything other than a regular automatic.

A CVT doesn't shift gears like an automatic transmission. Instead, a segmented belt rides up and down on cone-shaped pulleys to vary the speed ratio between the engine and the drivetrain. It works more efficiently than a traditional automatic, which is why the Versa equipped with a CVT delivers such good highway mileage. Around town it has the same economy as a manual transmission, better than an automatic, in other words.

A four-speed automatic transmission is available for the Versa, though we expect it may be phased out. A six-speed manual remains for drivers who prefer shifting gears.
We've been pleased with the Versa. It has plenty of zip and there's no problem merging into traffic on a fast free-flowing freeway. When you stomp on the gas pedal the sound of the engine revving instantly before the car accelerates, a phenomenon of the CVT, can be a bit disconcerting at first. We found it not unpleasant, in fact it sounds kind of fun. In regular stop-and-go traffic under slow acceleration there is no sensation other than the car moving forward smoothly with no sound or feel of shifting gears. It's certainly a far cry from the clumsy gear shifting once common on small four-cylinder cars with three- and four-speed automatics.
On winding roads in Tennessee, near where Nissan is building its new U.S. headquarters, we found the car's handling to be perfectly adequate. It's not sporty like a Mini Cooper, nor is it sloppy like budget cars of a few years ago. Sporty drivers might wish for more feedback from the steering and more power, but there's no reason for others to complain.

The Versa is one of the first cars in this price category to feature electric power steering. In the past we have been disappointed in the poor feel of electric steering, but Nissan seems to have designed this system so it feels just as good as any hydraulically powered steering. No complaints here.

Thanks to the long wheelbase with wheels pushed out toward the four corners, the ride is better than one usually expects from a small car.

The brakes are fine. We recommend ordering the anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist for their ability to help you avoid an accident.

Summary
The Nissan Versa delivers decent performance and has a surprising amount of interior space. It feels bigger than it actually is, which is a good thing. There's lots of room for back-seat riders. The hatch offers big cargo space. The Versa gets excellent fuel economy, particularly on the highway. The CVT works well, though it will feel a bit different at first.

New Car Test Drive contributor John Rettie filed this report from Nashville, Tennessee. John F. Katz added some commentary.

For Versa Inventory click here

For more information contact DAVID LYTLE at 801-495-3800

dlytle

Murano Gets an Upgrade!

2009 Nissan Murano All-new version improves on successful original.
By Jim McCraw
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Prices and Specs
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Introduction
Nissan's recent history is for the most part a success story, and part of that success comes from designing one set of parts into a platform and then stretching that platform's length, width, and strength to do other jobs under other kinds of vehicles. Nissan does this better than most manufacturers, and has done it successfully once again with the 2009 Murano, using basically the same kit of parts that goes under the Altima coupe and sedan for a much larger, heavier and more complex crossover SUV. Murano is named after two different luxury items from two very different parts of the world, Murano art glass from Italy and Murano pearls from Japan, which is a good thing, considering it's sold in more than 130 countries.

The outgoing Murano has been one of the most successful models in Nissan's recent history, with sales rising every year since its introduction in 2003, and a loyalty rate upwards of 30 percent. With sales up more than 70 percent, they've stopped production on the original Murano and given us this brand new second-generation version to consider.

The 2009 Nissan Murano is several steps more radically styled that the original. There are many more curves in the body sheetmetal, a much bigger, shinier grille with a less-busy air intake under it, very large, bold, seven-element headlamps, and a completely new rear-end design, more horizontal than vertical, with dual exhaust ports under the bumper.

Murano models come with 18-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels standard on the top LE model and optional on the others. Once you get beyond the grille and the headlamps, the only chrome on the curvy new body shell is the door handles. This design strategy lets the body and the paint do all the talking. The new body is almost two counts better in aerodynamic performance than the 2007 version, improved from 0.37 to 0.39 Cd. The more slippery design should mean better highway mileage and less wind noise.

The flexible, stretchable platform underneath the new Murano has been reinforced from front to rear, and fitted with several additional bumper beams and crossmembers, for the heavier duty cycles a crossover sport ute encounters, so it's now roughly 150 percent stiffer than the old truck. This is meaningful not only in terms of crash safety and survival, but also in terms of long-term durability and reliability for those buyers who aren't going to be back in the market for six or eight years. Things like doors and hoods and hinges will stay where they are put because the frame is strong to start with.

The redesigned 2009 Murano retails for some $1500 less than comparably equipped 2007 models.

Model Lineup
The 2009 Nissan Murano lineup comes in three trim levels. (The SE version has been dropped.)
Murano S is available with front-wheel drive ($26,330) or all-wheel drive ($27,930).
Murano SL models with front-wheel drive ($27,880) or all-wheel drive ($29,480) add rear privacy glass, front fog lights, steering wheel audio switches, leather wrapped steering wheel, eight-way power driver seat and 60/40 split fold-flat rear seatback with power return.

Murano LE all-wheel-drive ($35,910) adds 20-inch alloy wheels, bi-functional xenon headlights, Bose audio system with 11 speakers, XM Satellite Radio, an interface for iPod, seven-inch color display, intelligent key, Bluetooth, driver position memory (seat, mirrors, and steering wheel), leather-appointed seats, heated front and rear seats, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, interior wood trim, power liftgate, and RearView Monitor.

Option packages include the Convenience package ($550), Premium package ($1000), Leather package ($1600), Moonroof package ($1170), Navigation package ($1850), Technology package ($1900), and DVD package ($1600). Standalone options range from heated seats and leather seating to Bluetooth, a rear-view camera, touch-screen navigation, an intelligent key system, XM Satellite Radio with NavTraffic, a Bose 11-speaker sound system, and a 9.3-gagibyte music storage hard drive.

Safety features include dual-stage frontal air bags, seat-mounted side-impact air bags (for torso protection), roof-mounted curtain air bags (for head protection), active head restraints in the front row (for whiplash protection), antilock brakes (ABS), traction control, and electronic stability control. It also comes with seatbelts; be sure to use them because seatbelts are your first line of defense in a crash.

Walkaround
The Nissan Murano made a strong statement with its swoopy lines when it was originally introduced as a 2003 model. The Murano was among the first of a new wave of space-efficient crossover SUVs that are highly styled. Sharing much of its design with the stylish Nissan Rogue launched in late 2007, the new Murano takes crossover styling another step further.

The 2009 Murano has a bolder grille and a more aggressive front end design than that of the compared to the successful original. The grille is more in-your-face and the air intakes under the bumper are larger than before. Very complex aero headlamps hang off the front corners of the body and gracefully lead into the fenders.

Bumper to bumper, this Murano has much more sculpted sheetmetal than the original, with swoops and sweeps and dips from end to end. Nissan calls it curvaceous modern art. One feature that affects both the exterior and interior is a new dual-panel moonroof that lets huge amounts of light into the cabin, but looks from the outside like a single pane of glass covering two thirds of the roof area.

Interior Features
Nissan has redesigned the Murano interior for 2009, starting over with a much more inviting, better organized, and much more modern and user-friendly package of instrumentation and controls, including a new center console and new graphics.

In terms of comfort, we found the new seats more comfortable and supportive than those in the previous version. Every model has a tilt/telescope steering column (manual or power) to accommodate more body types and leg lengths.

Everything on the instrument panel is well marked, and easy to use. The instruments are large, graphically clean and clear, and bathed in red-orange lighting day or night. The multi-function steering wheel is beefier, with better function buttons. The multi-controller knob at the top center of the dash has been redesigned for ease of use. The base AM/FM/CD sound system has been modernized, with a total of six speakers and the inclusion of an AUX plug on lower models and full iPod integration on the LE version, with full control and track information displayed on the central screen. The same deeply hooded screen is used for navigation, backup camera, telephone, HVAC, and radio displays. Pushbutton ignition and an iPod interface are standard.
The interior and exterior dimensions are all within an inch of the previous-generation model, which means it's as roomy and comfortable in the front and second seats as any five-seater on the market, and holds about the same volume of cargo. Many of the midsize crossover SUVs that compete with the Murano, such as the Toyota Highlander, were designed to accommodate three rows of seats. The Murano was designed for just two rows, so the second row in the Murano tends to be roomier than the second row of seats on other vehicles in this class. Bottom line: The back seats of a Murano are comfortable and very roomy for two adults.
For maximum cargo space, the back seats power up and flip down quickly and easily, and there are two different cargo storage systems available, depending on model.

Driving Impressions
We test drove a Nissan Murano SL, the middle model. Ours was equipped with all-wheel drive ($29,480) and loaded with the Technology, DVD, Navigation, Moonroof and Convenience packages, which added $7,070 to the bottom line (total $36,550), but made for a very nice, fully equipped vehicle for family travel.

Nissan's previous V6 earned awards, and its new V6 produces 25 horsepower more than the old engine, up from 240 to 265 hp at 6000 rpm, a 10-percent hike you can feel every time you accelerate at full throttle. Torque is 248 foot-pounds at 4000 rpm. The engine uses continuous valve timing control and variable induction for maximum flexibility under varying loads, meaning it responds quickly anytime you hit the gas.

All 2009 Murano models will come with an Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission instead of a conventional automatic, and this CVT has been thoroughly tuned to the engine's improved power and torque curves for the new model. The CVT has fewer moving parts, lighter parts for lower mass and decreased operating friction, and software that makes it act more like a conventional transmission, shifting 30-percent quicker, which means the engine doesn't drone on at high rpm during full-throttle acceleration away from a stop. Nissan says it's also adaptive to each driver's style and habits. Based on our test drive, we'd have to say it's one of the best CVTs out there now, controlled by a new inline floor shifter that replaces the previous notched-gate shifter for much less wasted motion.

We won't go as far as to say there's a night-and-day difference in the leap from 2007 to 2009 in the Murano, but almost. It's much quieter in terms of mechanical, wind and road noise. The engine is much more willing, and this CVT transmission shifts properly, kicks down quickly, and lets the engine operate just above idle at freeway speeds, which is another way that it saves on fuel costs for the owner in addition to the reduced internal friction.

The new Murano's front and rear suspension is now made entirely of cast aluminum pieces, lighter and faster to reach to inputs, very well isolated from the cabin, and features a set of premium shock absorbers with built-in rebound springs to handle the big impacts. The TOPS speed-sensitive steering is relatively quick and has some feel to it, so it's not completely isolated from the cockpit and not completely numb or dead at the steering wheel. The new premium shocks with bumpers on them help the suspension keep the body flat and straight in the long sweepers and they absorb bumps and potholes very well.

All-wheel-drive versions of the Murano have a new system onboard called yaw-rate moment control, which is an enhanced version of Nissan's electronic stability control and traction control system. The optional $1200 system is set for 50/50 front-rear torque distribution, but can switch up or down to 0/100 or 100/0 depending on driving conditions. That puts the traction down to the tires with the best grip, improving traction and handling stability in slippery, inconsistent conditions, such as rain, snow and ice.

Summary
There is a huge number of competent, comfortable, convenient and roomy crossover SUVs available on the American market for 2009. We think the new Nissan Murano ranks right up there with the best of them. We like the Murano very much, inside and out. It's good looking, easy to use, reasonably powerful, and won't use up all your money on gasoline.
Jim McCraw filed this report to NewCarTestDrive.com after his test drive of a Murano SL outside Scottsdale, Arizona.

For Nissan Murano Inventory and pictures click here

To contact us directly about Murano call DAVID LYTLE at 801-495-3800

dlytle

Maxima Reborn!

2009 Nissan Maxima All-new four-door sports car.
By Jim McCraw
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Prices and Specs
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Introduction
Nissan Maxima is all-new for the 2009 model year, and this seventh-generation model marks the return of the four-door sports car.

The 2009 Maxima was deliberately built, tuned and aimed at drivers who prefer sporty handling and a firmer ride as opposed to the softer, more luxurious ride associated with many cars in this class.

The Maxima four-door sedan has been part of the Nissan lineup dating back to 1981. Maxima was kicked up a notch when the Altima took over the role as the mainstream sedan and it became the Nissan flagship. This new Maxima now competes directly against sporty upmarket sedans. Among them: Acura TL, Infiniti G35, Chrysler 300, Cadillac CTS, and Toyota Avalon, as well as deluxe versions of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

The all-new 2009 Nissan Maxima shares its D-platform chassis and underpinnings with the other cars and SUVs mounted on the Nissan front-drive platform, including the Murano and Altima. The new Maxima is close in physical measurements to the Altima. This seventh-generation Maxima is deliberately shorter by a couple of inches in wheelbase and four inches shorter overall, but is slightly lower and wider than the outgoing (pre-2009) model. The track measurement, the width between the tires, is an inch and a half wider, so that the chassis is better able to handle the corners on its big, fat 18-inch tires.

Nissan has modified the platform and body of the Maxima extensively, with one additional stiffness package for the S and SV models, and additional rear reinforcements for the Sport and Premium package versions that uses a large steel panel behind the rear seat to connect the floor, walls and package shelf into a single, much stiffer unit that Nissan says is up to 17 percent stiffer than the base model. The 2009 base model is, in turn, 15 percent stiffer than the outgoing 2008 model. Sport versions add a tower brace across the front suspension towers for greater stiffness and steering precision.

Model Lineup
The 2009 Nissan Maxima range consists of two models, the S and the SV.
Maxima S ($29,290) comes standard with cloth upholstery, dual-zone air conditioning, power windows, locks, mirrors and driver's seat, trip computer, power moonroof, cruise control, intelligent key and starter button, and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 eight-speaker sound system with an auxiliary jack.

Maxima SV ($31,990) upgrades with perforated leather upholstery, a nine-speaker Bose sound system with speed-sensitive volume control, subwoofers and RDS, leather, a driver's seat with a thigh extension and power lumbar, a compass, fog lights, HomeLink, and turn signal repeaters in the mirrors.

Options for the SV: The Sport Package ($2,300) features a sport-tuned suspension, 245/40VR19 tires and 19-inch aluminum wheels, XM Satellite Radio, rear spoiler, HID xenon headlights, premium leather-appointed seats, heated front seats, premium leather steering wheel, power tilt/telescopic steering column, heated steering wheel, paddle shifters, automatic entry/exit system (with two-driver memory), driver-side memory (driver's seat, outside mirrors, steering wheel), rear bucket seats, rear-seat trunk pass-through, large rear-seat fold-down center armrest with finisher, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, outside mirrors with reverse tilt-down feature, heated outside mirrors, auto-dimming driver-side outside mirror, metallic-link trim, cargo net.

The Premium Package ($3,450) features the Dual Panel Moonroof with power retractable sunshades, power rear-window sunshade, premium mood light, front and rear power windows with one-touch auto-up/down feature, HID xenon headlights, premium leather-appointed seats, heated front seats, premium leather steering wheel with stitch and dimple, power tilt/telescopic steering column, heated steering wheel, paddle shifters, automatic entry/exit system (with two-driver memory), driver-side memory (driver’s seat, outside mirrors, steering wheel), rear bucket seats, rear-seat trunk pass-through, large rear-seat fold-down center armrest with finisher, rear-seat audio and HVAC controls, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, outside mirrors with reverse tilt-down feature, heated outside mirrors, auto-dimming driver-side outside mirror, Eucalyptus wood-tone trim, cargo net, seven-inch color monitor, RearView Monitor, Interface System for iPod, iPod net in center console, auxiliary audio/video input jack.

The Tech Package ($2,400) features the Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with Voice-Recognition, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive, XM Satellite Radio, XM NavTraffic, seven-inch touch-screen color monitor, RearView Monitor, Interface System for iPod, iPod net in center console, auxiliary audio/video input jack. Similar packages allow buyers to mix and match these features and prices according to desired equipment.

Options include the Cold Package ($400) with a climate-controlled driver's seat; HID headlights ($400), the Bluetooth hands-free phone package ($300), a rear spoiler, and 19-inch high-performance summer tires.

Accessories for both models include floor mats and a trunk mat, splash guards, and a trunk sub-floor organizer with first aid kit and emergency kit.

Safety features include frontal, side-impact and curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, yaw control, and tire pressure monitoring.

Walkaround
The all-new 2009 Nissan Maxima is smaller on the outside than the 2004-08 models of the previous generation. The new Maxima is shorter in wheelbase and overall length and lower to the ground, with a wider track for better handling.

Very much on purpose, the Maxima doesn't look anything like the Altima anymore.
Every exterior body panel on the car is new, with much more adventurous and modern design and shaping. The big metal plate out front that held the logo is gone. The grille, headlamps and 12-LED taillamps are larger and more egregious and figure more into the whole exterior design, and the fenders and hood have been given edges and bulges for a much more sporty appearance. The wheel arches are much more pronounced, and the door skins are pulled in from the fenders and flattened out so that the whole body has what the designers call a Coke-bottle shape, with a short nose, a short deck, a long, sloping roof and a BMW-style C-pillar curvature.

In other words, the 2009 Maxima is completely and totally different looking than the sixth-generation car it replaces.

Interior Features
The interior features of the new Maxima are all about concentration of controls and information around the driver. The new interior includes a few items right out of the Nissan parts bin that don't need reinventing, like the radio and navigation control panel on top of the center stack, backed up by newly styled lower controls with large, very readable labels and markings, daytime-lighted instruments, a hefty three-spoke steering wheel with redundant controls for the audio system, and huge paddle shifters for the CVT transmission, with very long upper and lower arms that assure you will never be out of reach of a quick shift. The floor shifter has also been moved over as far to the left as possible, for those who want quick shifts using the stick instead of the paddles).

The driver's seat is multi-adjustable, especially in the Sport package version that we drove, and very huggy and comfortable.

In the rear compartment, the seat can be ordered either as a 60/40 fold-down for cargo hauling, or as a fixed seat with a cargo pass-through in the center for occasional hauling or ski trips.
The design, materials, and execution of the interior are first-rate throughout.

Driving Impressions
The Maxima that we drove was the SV with the Sport package. Like the S model, it comes with a very strong, very responsive 3.5-liter V6 engine uprated from the previous 255 horsepower to 290 horsepower, a 35-horsepower increase with a concomitant gain of nine foot-pounds of torque and a one-mile-per-gallon increase in fuel economy. It has both variable valve timing and a variable intake system, a system that opens wide at about 4500 rpm, wide enough that you can hear the engine sound change dramatically, adding to the driving enjoyment.

At 290 horsepower, the Maxima's V6 is right at the top of the class in terms of power development for its size, but it's not peaky or cranky because the valve and intake systems keep it optimized for whatever gear and rev range.

We found the engine smooth and quiet, right up to the 6200 rpm redline, and it delivered plenty of punch throughout the rev range. A very strong, very enjoyable engine to drive, and if you can keep your foot out of it, you can get better mileage than the 26 mpg label. If you keep your foot in it, expect 0-60 mph times of 5.8 seconds or less.

The only transmission available, much to the chagrin of some critics, is the CVT (continuously variable transmission), a much-improved Nissan innovation. The software offers much quicker and more positive shifting than previous CVTs from Nissan. Maxima's CVT offers a manual mode. We found the transmission a joy to use in either mode. It is perhaps the world's second-best CVT, after the Audi. Nissan says the new CVT software contains more than 700 shifting algorithms to cope with every driving situation in every gear from idle to full-throttle and says the transmission can shift 30 percent faster than a human driver can. In the Sport Drive mode, the shifts were lightning quick, and included a very sporty throttle blip on every downshift.
The chassis and suspension under the new Maxima have been upgraded quite a lot from the previous model, with several new technologies added. The front-drive Maxima has six engine mounts now instead of the usual four, and the engine is mounted lower in the chassis for a lower center of gravity and better handling. The suspension is all new, using premium aluminum components, new shock absorbers, front and rear stabilizer bars, and new, sportier geometry. The front-drive system incorporates a new wrinkle that virtually eliminates torque-steer on full, throttle. We found the Nissan Maxima SV Sport always felt agile, glued to the road, and ready to play, with no hint of harshness in the ride.

The speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering system has been borrowed from the 350Z sports car, and it makes the driver feel like he is truly connected, truly part of the steering and driving process, never over-boosted or ropey. The front and rear ABS disc brakes have been upgraded, and the rear brakes are now ventilated, where they were solid on the previous model, for better fade-resistance and braking power under severe conditions.

The only time this Maxima gets sporty and rorty is when the engine intake system switches over into high-flow mode above 4500 rpm. The rest of the time, the car is very quiet inside, with very little intrusion from the outside world.

Summary
The all-new 2009 Nissan Maxima is one of the most fun to drive cars in the class. It's one of the best-engineered front-drive sporty sedans available, from the accurate, quick steering to the engine power to the remarkably good performance of the CVT. It isn't the roomiest car in the class, and it isn't the least expensive. Instead, it's designed as a premium car for drivers who want something sporty. And if 26 mpg isn't enough for you, you'll be able to get this sporty sedan in 2010 with a diesel engine.

Jim McCraw filed this NewCarTestDrive.com report from Cary, North Carolina.

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To talk to someone at Tim Dahle Nissan, Contact DAVID LYTLE at 801-495-3800