Internationally, cycling is so popular that tens of millions of fans turn out for live events in dozens of countries every year. At the pinnacle of professional performance, cycling is an incredibly demanding sport -- the kind of intense, unforgiving competition that Nissan believes people will further embrace over time.

And, Nissan believes, that time is now.

Nissan North America is stepping up a previous involvement in the professional cycling circuit to become co-title sponsor of an international team of 30 professional riders. Now the automaker’s name will be on every jersey and bike used by the RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK. Nissan vehicles will support all team events and will be regularly seen actively supporting the cyclists.

Brian Carolin, senior vice president, sales and marketing, for Nissan North America, has become very much a race fan himself from marketing and personal perspectives.

“The thing that has really excited us this year is the coming together of a number of really top-class athletes on our team who will increase the exposure for RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK,” says Carolin.

Among them is American Chris Horner who won the Tour of California event last year, the marquee U.S. cycling event. Horner is again a favorite in 2012. Two million spectators turned out for last year’s week-long race from the San Francisco Bay area to Los Angeles.

“It’s a dramatic example of the increasing popularity of the sport in America, and of why Nissan is involved,” says Carolin. “The coverage that television is giving to the sport … we’re seeing viewing figures on TV increasing.”

Carolin also said it’s clear that cycling is becoming more popular as a way to keep fit, and as an alternative means of transportation in an age of energy awareness. It’s also a good fit for a corporation that has consistently demonstrated its interest in environmental issues, along with health and fitness. Nissan has previously sponsored these themes in other sporting events such as the New York and Boston Marathons.

Carolin believes RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK will build on last year’s success in California and in other U.S. races, including an increasingly important new race in Colorado, as well internationally.

“Of course, the blue ribbon event globally is the Tour ‘de France, and you know we have some of the best riders,” said Carolin. “You know it is truly a super team.”

Along with Horner, top team riders include the Schleck brothers (Andy and Frank) of Luxemburg, and Swiss cyclist Fabian Cancellara, team captain in the Spring Classics.

“His nickname is Spartacus”, said Carolin, speaking more as a race fan than as a marketing executive. “I mean this guy is awesome.”

In addition to Nissan’s sponsorship and international marketing opportunities, local Nissan dealerships will participate in events in their region. Meanwhile, the team itself is quite literally gearing up, training on the Mediterranean island of Mallorca. RADIOSHACK NISSAN TREK is already off to a fast start, with an impressive performance at the season opening Tour Down Under in Australia.

Across a race season that stretches into next fall, team riders will sometimes be simultaneously competing in events on different continents. Nissan will be supporting them – and be very visible -- at every stage along the way.

Nissan is looking for alternative uses for its LEAF batteries which are capable of retaining up to 70% of their capacity even after 10 years on the road. One solution has the company partnering with ABB, 4R Energy and Sumitomo Corporation of America. The companies are developing ways to use the LEAF batteries to hold energy for when the power grid is being overused. “It’s important to Nissan that we manage the complete lifecycle of the electric vehicle battery pack, even beyond its use in a Nissan car,” said Ken Srebnik, senior manager, NNA Corporate Planning. Read more about Nissan's commitment to sustainable energy here.

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2012 Versa Hatchback 0% APR financing for up to 36 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 60 months plus $500 NMAC cash for well qualified buyers OR $500 cash back from Nissan.

2012 Sentra SR 0% APR financing for up to 36 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 60 months plus $500 NMAC cash for well qualified buyers OR $1,000 cash back from Nissan.

2012 Altima Sedan 0% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months plus $750 NMAC cash for well qualified buyers OR $1,500 cash back from Nissan.

2012 Altima Coupe 0% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for well qualified buyers OR $1,500 cash back from Nissan.

2011 Maxima 0% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months plus $500 NMAC cash for well qualified buyers OR $3,000 cash back from Nissan.

2011 Quest 0% APR financing for up to 36 months, 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for qualified buyers OR $2,250 cash back from Nissan PLUS $800 bonus cash back on lease or purchase for up to $3,050 total cash back from Nissan.

2012 Rogue 0% APR financing for up to 60 months or 0.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for qualified buyers OR $750 cash back from Nissan.

2011 Murano 0% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months plus $500 NMAC cash for qualified buyers OR $2,500 cash back from Nissan.

2011 Murano CrossCabriolet 0% APR financing for up to 36 months, 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for qualified buyers OR $3,000 cash back from Nissan.

2011 Xterra 0% APR financing for up to 60 months, 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for qualified buyers OR $2,000 cash back from Nissan.

2011 Pathfinder 0% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for qualified buyers OR $3,000 cash back from Nissan.

2011 Armada 0% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for qualified buyers OR $4,000 cash back from Nissan.

2012 Frontier non-S 0% APR financing for up to 60 months or 1.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for qualified buyers OR $2,500 cash back from Nissan.

2012 Titan (all trims except PRO-4X) 0% APR financing for up to 36 months, 0.9% APR financing for up to 60 months or 2.9% APR financing for up to 72 months for qualified buyers OR $2,000 cash back from Nissan.

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– Dramatic Pathfinder Concept Also on Display, Along With Full 2012 Nissan Lineup –

Three key future Nissan vehicles – the all-new 2013 Nissan NV200 compact cargo van, the revised 2013 Nissan 370Z sports car and the Pathfinder Concept, a preview of the re-imagined 2013 Nissan Pathfinder – share the spotlight at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, which runs Feb. 10 – 19 at McCormick Place.

“The Chicago Metro area is a one of Nissan’s top markets, making it the ideal location for the North American debuts of the all-new Nissan NV200 and the updated 2013 Nissan 370Z,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “We’re also excited to show the dramatic Pathfinder Concept – giving show attendees a preview of the next-gen evolution of one of our most popular Chicagoland vehicles, the Nissan Pathfinder.”

2013 Nissan NV200
The Nissan NV200 provides a new entry point for current cargo van and small pickup buyers looking for a compact, efficient alternative to their larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles. It is set to join the growing lineup of Nissan Commercial Vehicles in early 2013 at 300 Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealerships nationwide. The NV200 follows the Nissan NV Cargo, introduced in spring 2011, and the recently announced Nissan NV Passenger that goes on sale this spring.

While new to North America, the Nissan NV compact van is already in use in more than 40 countries around the world, receiving acclaim from both users and media alike for its optimal functionality and smart design. As the next “innovation for business,” NV200 offers a large cargo capacity with a small exterior footprint, making it highly maneuverable in traffic or for negotiating city parking spaces. Yet its proven compact commercial platform also allows for a 1,500-pound (estimated) maximum payload.

The roomy cargo area also allows for loading standard U.S. 40x48-inch pallets. Added utility is provided by the standard integrated mounting points, which allow installation of racks and shelves without drilling into the sidewalls.

The 2013 Nissan NV200 features an efficient 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The engine is matched with a next-gen Xtronic CVT®, which combines smooth operation and responsive performance.

2013 Nissan 370Z
The new 2013 Nissan 370Z is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide next June. Updates for the new model year include a refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights, revised 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (Sport Package equipped models), new 18-inch wheels for 370Z Coupe, red-finished brake calipers (Sport Package equipped models), Euro-tuned shock absorbers (Sport Package equipped models), and two new exterior colors – Magma Red and Midnight Blue. The NISMO 370Z also adds a new Bose® Premium Audio Package with two additional speakers and two subwoofers, premium gun metallic dark-finish 19-inch wheels, and Nissan GT-R style high-rigidity brake hoses and performance brake fluid.

“Since the original 1970 Z® was first introduced, our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013 go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out – keeping it fresh and exciting,” said Castignetti.

The 2013 Nissan 370Z will once again be available in Coupe, Roadster and NISMO Z configurations.

Nissan Pathfinder Concept
The Pathfinder Concept previews the all-new premium style and attitude Nissan will bring to the segment when the next-gen Pathfinder goes on sale in fall 2012 at Nissan dealers nationwide. The stylish fourth-generation Pathfinder design brings new look and packaging that’s ideal for today’s customers who need SUV versatility and capability without compromise.

The new Pathfinder’s aerodynamic body is combined with a refined V6 engine and next-generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to make it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in the segment. It is projected to deliver a 25 percent increase in combined City/Highway fuel economy (over the previous V6-equipped model). In addition to offering an intuitive four-wheel-drive system, the new Pathfinder will also have towing capacity competitive with the leaders in the segment.

The Pathfinder Concept also features innovative 3-row/7-passenger interior flexibility and more room than the previous generation Pathfinder. Details on the Pathfinder Concept’s innovative interior design are being released for the first time at the Chicago Auto Show.

“The Pathfinder Concept demonstrates that when it comes to modern interior design, you can have it all – premium features, versatility and user-friendly technology,” said Castignetti. “By giving equal priority to both the driver and each and every passenger – including those in the 3rd row – we’ve created a premium driving experience and environment for all.”

The Pathfinder Concept’s quiet, comfortable interior includes rich leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated 2nd row seats, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Start and multiple user memory settings, and an advanced Bose® Audio System with 13 speakers.

Unique versatility comes to life in the design of the 2nd and 3rd rows. In addition to what is expected to be among the roomiest 2nd rows in its class, it also features exceptional 3rd row access – thanks to large rear door openings, 5.5 inches of 2nd row seat travel, and tilt-and-slide 2nd row seat for ease of entry and exit to the 3rd row. The 60/40-split 2nd row features an innovative “child seat mode” allowing forward movement and access to the 3rdrow with a child safety seat remaining securely in place (on the 40 percent split-fold side).

Thoughtful technology is also found throughout the Pathfinder Concept interior, starting with the instrument panel, which includes an advanced drive-assist display directly in front of the driver – along with an 8-inch multifunction IT display in the center of the dash, Nissan Navigation System and RearView Monitor.

DealerRater, the world’s premier car dealer review web site, today announced that Carson Nissan is a winner of the 2012 Dealer of the Year Award Program. The award is given for distinction in outstanding customer service based upon customers’ reviews of their dealership experiences shared on DealerRater’s web site. 

Nissan's Facebook fans share the top reasons to purchase a Nissan cube. Do you have another reason to add to this list?

Nissan has released official footage of a demonstration race in which the Juke-R - the world's fastest crossover - took on and beat three supercars around a specially-constructed circuit at the glamorous Dubai International Marine Club.

The muscular, 485bhp Juke-R made its global debut as the official pace car for the Dubai 24 Hours on January 13and then stayed in Dubai to take on the supercar establishment in their own urban back yard.

At the wheel of the triumphant Juke-R for the demo race was Lucas Ordonez - winner of the inaugural Nissan GT Academy in 2008 and podium finisher in last year's Le Mans 24 Hours.

Taking on the Juke-R around the 0.58km course, which featured the dramatic Dubai skyline on one side and a Monaco-style selection of yachts on the other, were a Lamborghini Gallardo, a Mercedes SLS AMG and a Ferrari 458 Italia.

_The Nissan Quest Recognized for its Family-Friendly Features in Magazine’s First-Ever “Genius” Issue

The Nissan Quest LE is perfect for big families with its three rows and seven seats. The Quest even has an easy touch button that will open the side doors and rear lift gate so you don't have to fumble with groceries anymore. Adding to the tech is the inclusion of rearview cameras.

Click here to view the entire article.

_NISSAN MOTORSPORTS INTERNATIONAL CO. LTD. (NISMO) has announced the official release of a Nissan GT-R (R35) that conforms to FIA GT3 regulations: the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3.

NISMO and JR Motorsports (JRM), its official partner for this major project, have been jointly developing the car during 2011 and, following a series of extensive tests - which have included three competitive outings - the car's performance and durability has proven its credentials for GT3 racing worldwide.

The Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3 features a 3.8 V6 twin-turbo engine that is based on a standard road car unit, developing 530ps at 6400 rpm. Power is delivered via six-speed transaxle that drives the rear wheels, activated by a semi-automatic paddle-shift system.

Designed with customers in mind, driveability has been an important factor in the new car's development program. Therefore, as well as featuring a chassis that inspires confidence, suspension set-up and driver controls can easily be adjusted to suit a range of preferences.

The car was displayed at the UK at Autosport International (Europe's biggest motorsport exhibition) on January 12. The car appeared alongside the GT1 Nissan GT-R that won the 2011 FIA GT1 World Championship.

Sales and customer support for the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3 will be implemented by NISMO for Japan, Asia, North America, South America, and Oceania, whilst JRM will cover Europe, Russia and the Middle East.

The car is priced at 298,000 Euro (32,000,000 JPY)*. Enquiries should be made to either NISMO or JRM.