William Maley

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com January 15, 2013 Nissan has introduced the Resonance Concept today at the Detroit Auto Show and it gives a look at where Nissan will be taking the direction of their future crossovers. The Resonance concept features "V-Motion" styling, which Nissan says was inspired "by the future allure of hypersonic travel." Inside, the Resonance concept has a multilayered "holographic" center console displays controls and readouts and seating for five. Power comes from a hybrid-electric drive system that is mated to a 2.5L four-cylinder. The system employs a single electric motor and dual-clutches to provide AWD. Nissan's next-generation Xtronic CVT helps send the power to the wheels. Album: Nissan Resonance Concept 10 images 0 comments William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 INNOVATIVE NISSAN RESONANCE CONCEPT CROSSOVER FEATURES BOLD, DIFFERENTIATING STYLE • Signals the future direction of Nissan crossovers with smart, edgy design • Inspired by a new "innovation era" and optimism for a bright, energetic future • Elevates the crossover experience with engaging aerodynamic exterior, spacious and sophisticated interior and advanced HEV powertrain • Global concept aims to present an intelligent, fresh alternative for U.S. consumers DETROIT (January 15, 2013) – With its boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling and fuel-efficient hybrid-electric powertrain, the Nissan Resonance concept proposes an all-new dynamic and edgy design that once again leads the trend for the crossover category. The global concept makes its world debut today at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. Said Francois Bancon, Nissan Motor Co. division general manager, Product Strategy and Planning: "When the designers were first working on conceptualizing the Nissan Resonance, they were inspired by amazing scientific advancements in technology and material innovations. They also were inspired by the aspirations of those people who unabashedly embrace innovation and are optimistic about the future. It was about serving those people a concept vehicle that is forward-looking and fuses style with an athletic ride." While seen as a concept of global relevance, Resonance was created by Nissan Design America, San Diego, CA, under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. An Energetic, Premium Exterior Design that Resonates Light on its feet, the exterior design signals that Nissan Resonance is pushing the crossover segment forward. The energetic surfaces show a counterpoint of dynamic fluidity and pure edginess. Nissan's designers worked to express an aerodynamic feel that was lightweight yet also protective, and drew inspiration from the futuristic allure of hypersonic travel. The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the hood and resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights. The body is strengthened by powerful surfaces and provocative lines and is accented by the flow through the car to the kick-up shape around D-Pillar. These distinct details give the crossover a very advanced yet spacious impression. The roof's unique "floating" design is created through the use of the thin, steeply raked A-pillars, large full-length glass panel and flowing D-pillar design. The effect created gives the impression of a flowing structure carried by the large windows and overall spaciousness of the cabin. The body color, named Flare Orange, adds even more energy and warmth to the overall exterior design. Other exterior features include a tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents and 22-inch, full dynamic flow aluminum-alloy wheels. Inside, a Futuristic VIP Lounge With the interior, the designers imagined what the future of first-class space travel might be: Welcoming yet exclusive and high-tech yet premium. The resulting "VIP lounge," with its light, buttery leather and premium-stitched seats, exudes genuine sophistication. Thoughtfully considered details, including sequential welcome lighting, add warmth and drama upon entering the vehicle. The dramatic interior illumination highlights the natural wood pattern in the modern cabin. An advanced instrument panel floats on a generous console, creating a forum where the driver can access all infotainment and communication features. Technology is graphically layered to give a holographic experience and visual depth is used to separate information in order of importance. The open glass roof gives passengers a unique panoramic view of the world and floating elements like the roof lining add to the sense of space and airy lightness. The spacious interior atmosphere is enhanced by the sculpted door panels and elegant, deep shape of the center console. Said Bancon: "The Resonance interior reflects the enlightened modernity of today's crossover buyer, who values an amazing experience over traditional indulgence. The architecture of the cabin is open and structured. Like the exterior, it redefines and pushes the segment beyond convention." Sustainably Dynamic Performance Though Resonance is presented strictly as a design concept, its efficient hybrid electric drivetrain signals the desire by crossover drivers to be respectful of the environment without sacrificing driving pleasure. The all-wheel drive Resonance includes Nissan's proprietary "one-motor, two-clutch" system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion gasoline engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system. Resonance also features Nissan's next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission). An Other-Worldly Concept for Real-World Customers The bold Resonance follows Nissan's longstanding leadership in crossover design, demonstrated by such cutting-edge vehicles as Murano, Qashqai and Juke, while pushing the boundaries of design into another dimension. Concluded Bancon: "Resonance is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging – even polarizing. Its edgy yet sophisticated design, combined with an environmentally sensitive powertrain and intelligent utility provides a clear, exciting view into the future of crossover innovation. "This design is not meant to appeal to traditional two-box SUV shoppers, but rather to those whose fashion and design choices make a statement. For Nissan, this concept makes our statement about the future of this segment." View full article

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com January 15, 2013 When Nissan redesigned the Versa for 2012, it got lambasted by the press for being a bit boring. However the Versa has been a huge success for the brand, bringing in buyers who want the most space in a subcompact at a low price. Nissan is hoping with the introduction of 2014 Versa Note at the Detroit Auto Show can keep that success going. The Versa Note's exterior is much more distinctive than Versa sedan thanks to a wider grille insert, flared-out fenders, and sculpting along the doors. The exterior is also very aerodynamic, having a drag coefficient of 0.29 cd. Power comes from a 1.6L inline-four producing 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. The base Versa Note has the choice of either a five-speed manual or CVT. Upper trims only get the CVT. Nissan estimates the Versa Note will get 31 City/40 Highway/35 Combined. Nissan has given a laundry list of available features for the Versa Note: navigation, Pandora internet radio, satellite radio, push-button start, hands-free phone system with text messaging assistant, a backup camera, and Nissan's Around View Monitor that uses a set of cameras around the vehicle to give you a view of your surroundings. The Versa Note will start $13,990 for the base S model. That's about $2,000 more than the base Versa sedan, but does undercut a lot of the competition. The Versa Note arrives at dealers later this summer. Album: 2014 Nissan Versa Note 21 images 0 comments Source: Nissan William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 ALL-NEW 2014 NISSAN VERSA NOTE OFFERS ENERGETIC STYLING, BEST-LEVEL FUEL EFFICIENCY AND SMART TECHNOLOGY Class-Exclusive* Around View™ Monitor, 40 MPG Highway and Class-Leading Cargo Space Lead "Innovations for the Way People Live" - 40 miles per gallon highway fuel economy (CVT-equipped models) - Smart packaging and class-leading* cargo space, with adjustable rear load floor - Available NissanConnectSM with Navigation System, Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant, RearView Monitor and class-exclusive Around View® Monitor - Starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)** of $13,990 USD The Nissan Versa lineup, which has been the longtime sales and share leader in the competitive United States entry-level segment, gets a dramatic new look with the launch of the all-new 2014 Nissan Versa Note. The second-generation hatchback goes on sale at Nissan's U.S. dealers in Summer 2013 and gives notice that in an era of changing consumer needs and expectations, Versa intends to remain far ahead of the rest of the entry-level pack. Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. said: "As the entry segment is expanding with new models and nameplates, it's not enough to offer value alone. The new Nissan Versa Note shakes up the category by satisfying both the emotional and rational needs with features that are truly unexpected in the class – such as sleek styling and advanced innovation features like our Around View® Monitor parking assist system at an affordable price." The all-new Versa Note will complement the Versa family, which includes the best selling entry sedan in America**, starting at $11,990 USD MSRP***. The Versa Note has its own distinctive look, feel and added hatchback utility. It carries the Note designation used in other global Nissan markets, as well as the PURE DRIVE badge, designating it as having low CO2 emissions and exceptional fuel efficiency. Versa Note is offered in a range of well-equipped grade levels: S, S Plus and SV, along with top-of-the-line SL Packages. Each is equipped with an advanced 1.6-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine with dual fuel injection and Twin CVTC (Continuously Variable Timing Control). The Versa Note S features a 5-speed manual transmission, while the S Plus and SV models are equipped with a standard next-generation Nissan Xtronic CVT® transmission. Fuel economy for the front-wheel drive Versa Note is forecast to deliver a best-in-class-level of 40 mpg Highway, 31 mpg City and 35 mpg Combined for CVT-equipped models. A Bold New Look Inside and Out The 2014 Nissan Versa Note's sculpted, modern styling is designed to accomplish two things: provide enhanced aerodynamics to help improve fuel economy and to stand out from the crowd of entry-level competitors. With its steeply sloped front windshield, sculpted front doors and dramatic character lines, Versa Note achieves a coefficient of drag of 0.298 (CVT-equipped models). Attention to aerodynamic detail can be seen even in the selection of the one-piece wiper blades typically found on higher priced vehicles, and, on CVT-equipped Versa Note models, Nissan's first-ever Active Grille Shutter, which reduces drag by controlling airflow into the engine compartment. Versa Note's dynamic design also takes full advantage of its dramatic shape and proportions to provide an energetic look that reflects the active lives of its target buyers. Utilizing Nissan's global "V" platform, it features a long 102.4-inch wheelbase and short front and rear overhangs to provide a sporty stance and maximize interior roominess. Other key exterior features include large multi-reflector halogen headlights, rear combination lights with aero flares for improved aerodynamics and a wide sweeping grille with deep front fascia. Fog lights and heated sideview mirrors are also available. Eight exterior colors are offered: Metallic Peacock, MorningSky Blue, Metallic Blue, Red Brick, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Gray, Super Black and Aspen White. The roomy five-passenger Versa Note interior provides a spacious total interior volume of 115.5 cubic feet, with best-in-class cargo space of 21.4 cubic feet. Interior versatility is enhanced through use of an available Divide-N-Hide® Adjustable Floor. With the standard 60/40-split fold-down rear seat folded down, a large flat cargo area is created. Lifting up the cargo floor board reveals a hidden area to keep valuables out of sight. Lowering the floor board creates a deeper well for carrying taller or bulky items. Said Castignetti: "Along with exceptional spaciousness, Versa Note offers the ingenuity to address the needs of owners who need one vehicle to perform the tasks of many – people hauler, cargo hauler, commuter transportation and weekend playmate." The roomy interior is also a perfect match for the stylish Versa Note exterior. The long list of features starts with the standard cloth seating, 4-way adjustable front bucket seats (S, S Plus) with 6-way seats available (SV), Fine Vision instrumentation, AM/FM/CD/Aux-in audio system with 4 speakers, 12-volt power outlet, front door pockets with bottle holders, dual front and rear cupholders and many more amenities. Heated front seats with upgraded seat cloth and stitching are also available, along with leather-wrapped steering wheel, chrome/silver accents, USB input with iPod® control and steering wheel-mounted audio and Bluetooth® controls. Two interior colors are offered: Charcoal and Wheat Stone. Segment-First Around View Monitor, Advanced Navigation Among the new Versa Note's unexpected and affordable technology is the first-in-segment availability of Nissan's advanced Around View® Monitor. The system utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras mounted on the front, side and rear of the vehicle to provide a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle, helping the driver maneuver the car into tight spots. The Around View® Monitor is offered as part of the SL Tech Package, which also features heated side view mirrors and the NissanConnectSM with Navigation System with NavTraffic and NavWeather (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately). The system includes a 5.8-inch color touch-screen display, Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, Pandora® radio capability (iPhone® only), POIs powered by Google™ and Google™ Send-to-Car. Added Castignetti: "No matter what the vehicle size, people hate parking – whether parallel parking in a tight space or pulling in or out of a space with large vehicles on either side. We're making technology such as the Around View® Monitor and the NissanConnectSM with Navigation System affordable because innovation and piece-of-mind should not be the exclusive territory of higher priced vehicles." Other available Versa Note technology includes Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Ignition, integrated interface system for USB/iPod®, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, RearView Monitor and SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately). Standard safety and security systems include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) (includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags) front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags for chest protection), roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with available Easy-Fill Tire Alert. The Right Combination of Power and MPG With entry-level buyers today looking for value not just in the initial purchase price but also in day-to-day operation, the Nissan Versa Note is designed to provide the perfect combination of fuel economy and performance. Anchoring the front-wheel drive Nissan "V" platform is a 1.6-liter HR16DE 4-cylinder engine rated at 109 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 107 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm. The engine includes a range of cutting-edge technologies, including a dual fuel injector system that allows a wider injection of fuel (versus traditional single injector systems), with the smaller nozzles delivering a spray approximately 57 percent finer than the previous generation single injector design's particle size to help achieve more complete combustion. The compact, lightweight engine also utilizes a Twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC) system mounted on intake and exhaust ports (versus conventional CVTC systems, which are mounted only on the intake port), similar to the system used on the flagship Nissan Maxima. Using a CVTC on the outlet port increases thermal efficiency, decreases inhalation resistance and offers an approximate four percent improvement in fuel efficiency (over the previous engine design). The 2014 Versa Note is offered with a choice of two transmissions – a 5-speed manual transmission (S model only) or a next-generation Xtronic CVT® transmission. The CVT allows continuous change of the transmission gear ratio by connecting the two pulleys with a metallic belt and changing their diameter by using hydraulic pressure. Aiding efficiency is an integrated auxiliary gearbox using planetary gearing. The CVT features a transmission ratio of 7.3:1, broader than those of conventional CVTs and even typical 7-speed automatic transmissions. In addition to the advanced engine and transmission designs, excellent everyday drivability is provided by an independent strut front suspension with stabilizer bar, torsion beam rear axle with integrated stabilizer bar, and electric power steering. Braking is provided by standard power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes with standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The Versa Note rides on standard 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers and 185/65HR15 all-season tires, while 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 195/55HR16 all-season tires are available. Low rolling resistance tires are standard on CVT-equipped models. A Range of Well-Equipped Grade Levels, $13,990 Starting M.S.R.P. The all-new Versa Note will be offered S, S Plus and SV grade levels – along with a Convenience package, SL Package and SL Tech Package. The new Versa Note will start with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $13,990 USD when it goes on sale in Summer 2013. Full pricing details will be announced close to the on-sale date. Versa Note will be assembled by Nissan Mexicana SA de CV in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Said Castignetti: "At Nissan, innovation is more than just a new feature or technology, it's about helping people live their lives a little better, a little easier. This all-new Versa Note does that in many ways – with styling that excites, room for everyone, interior versatility for life's spontaneous moments, fuel efficiency for fewer trips to the gas station, entertainment and navigation systems that complement users' smart phones and other devices rather than compete with them. In a segment driven by value, Versa Note is an invaluable addition for the 2014 model year. View full article