Nissan Leaf Wins Award For European Car Of The Year

Nissan Leaf takes away the title of European Car of the Year leaving behind all other hatchbacks and saloons standing in line.

Nissan Leaf is based on a high end technology base which is the major reason behind its superior performance making it the best in class option. The car is powered by a 120 bhp electric motor along with efficient lithium-ion batteries. With these strong figures, the car becomes capable of reaching the top speed of 145 kph and on one charge and can smoothly travel a distance of 175Km. The car not only considers the environment factor but also assures superior comfort to the users and that is the major reason why Nissan Leaf was able to beat top car models and grab the graceful title of European Car Of the Year. It comes with parking camera, advanced telematics, air conditioning system etc.





Press Release

100% ELECTRIC NISSAN LEAF PICKS UP EUROPEAN CAR OF THE YEAR 2011 TROPHY


The trophy recognizing the revolutionary Nissan LEAF as Europe's Car of The Year 2011 was handed over to Nissan Motor Co.'s President and CEO Carlos Ghosn in a special ceremony at the Pavillion Gabriel in Paris.

To win the award, the 58 CoTY members - leading motoring journalists from 23 European countries - placed Nissan LEAF ahead of six conventional new cars on the shortlist. It is the first time in CoTY's 48-year history that the annual award has been won by an electric vehicle.

"I am convinced that we will see other electric cars named Car of the Year in the future. But when we do, we must always remember that only one can be the first. And that is why Nissan LEAF Car of the Year 2011 is - and will remain - so very special," said Håkan Matson, president of the CoTY jury, speaking at the ceremony.

"It is a great honor for Nissan LEAF to be recognized as the European Car of the Year - the first all-electric car to receive this distinction. Like previous Car of the Year winners, Nissan LEAF is an appealing, competitive car, with no compromise on style, features, safety, performance or handling. Yet it stands apart as an innovative car that reflects a clear vision of the future of transportation - a vision of sustainable mobility," said Ghosn after receiving the trophy.

Nissan LEAF is powered by an in-house developed compact electric motor and inverter in the front of the car driving the front wheels. The AC motor develops 80 kW of power and 280 Nm of torque, enough for a maximum speed of 145 km/h (90 mph). The electric motor is powered by an advanced laminated lithium-ion battery with a power output of more than 90 kW. Developed by the Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC), a joint venture between Nissan and electronics giant NEC Corp., the breakthrough battery has the capacity to store twice as much energy as the previous generation battery.

The zero-emission car is fully equipped with features such as regenerating braking, air conditioning, satellite navigation and a parking camera. Innovative smart phone connectivity will allow an owner to heat or cool the interior of the car remotely via a mobile phone. The single option is a solar panel mounted in the rear spoiler.

Pre-orders for Nissan LEAF have reached more than 27,000 units globally. The zero-emission car is currently built in Japan, but will also be manufactured in the United States and United Kingdom when new manufacturing facilities there open in late 2012 and early 2013 respectively. Deliveries to individual customers in Japan and the US began in December. In Europe, deliveries will start shortly to Portugal, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands followed by more markets later in the year.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance aims to be a global leader in zero-emission mobility and is taking a comprehensive approach encompassing both the product and the infrastructure required to support the mass marketing of electric vehicles. To date, the Alliance has entered into more than 90 partnerships with governments, municipal authorities and companies worldwide to prepare the markets and infrastructure for the successful adoption of electric vehicles.

* The current version of the coveted marble trophy, introduced in 2004, was created by Emmanuel Zurini, a French artist famous for his automotive sculptures. Zurini was a leading Grand Prix photographer in the 1960s before turning to sculpture in 1975. It is the third specially created trophy in the history of the Award.

Nissan has won the CoTY award before. In 1993, the Micra became the first Japanese-badged car to win the accolade and started Europe's love affair with the little car that continues today with the recent launch of the latest generation Micra in late 2010.

XPLORE ADVENTURE SERIES VEHICLES SUPPORT OUR NATIONAL PARKS

The first XPLORE Toyota FJ Cruiser will be auctioned with the proceeds donated to the National Parks Foundation.
XPLORE Special Edition packages will be available through participating new car dealerships nationwide in January 2011.



Press Release

Adrian, MI (December 20, 2010) – The National Parks are one of America's greatest treasures and a new line of adventure vehicles now gives you and your family another reason to support and enjoy a vacation this year to your favorite National Parks.

XPLORE Adventure Series vehicles will be available at your local new car dealers beginning in January 2011 and each one sold delivers a donation to the National Park Foundation for our National Parks. The first XLPLORE Toyota FJ Cruiser will be auctioned in the Spring of 2011 with the proceeds donated to the National Park Foundation.

"Venchurs is pleased to introduce the XPLORE Adventure Series line of specialty vehicles for all major brands of vehicles", states Jeff Wyatt, CEO of Venchurs. "It is a privilege to be able to support our National Parks and the automotive new car and Aftermarket communities, with a program that serves America's need for exciting vehicles."

XPLORE Adventure Series vehicles are available in four packages featuring increasing levels of equipment and capability. XPLORE Stage 1 Vehicle Packages featuring Katzkin leather interiors are available for Toyota, Jeep, Ford, Ram, Chevrolet, GMC, Nissan, Honda, Subaru, Hyundai and Kia vehicles.

XPLORE Stage 2 Vehicle Packages for select SUVs and trucks include, BFG off-road tires, Method aluminum wheels, Bilstein 5100 Series shocks, Magnaflow stainless steel cat-back exhaust and optional XPLORE/Katzkin leather and suede seats.

XPLORE Stage 3 gets serious; ARB winches, racks, rock-rails, suspension, roof-top tents, Warn winches and IPF lighting are all available as mix-and-match accessories.

XPLORE has partnered with TLC to offer Build-To-Order Stage 4 Toyotas and Jeeps with a multitude of custom personalized options including special paint, electronics and expedition-grade upfits.

Each XPLORE vehicle comes with a free, one-year Annual Pass to over 52 National Parks and other Federal lands. New owners receive a one-year membership in XPLORE CLUB and a subscription to XPLORE Lifestyle Journal; a high-quality quarterly featuring amazing places to go, fun things to do and interesting people.

"XPLORE vehicles are designed to deliver adventure for enthusiasts and families" quotes Ron Flint, XPLORE Program Director. "You can't have one of these in your driveway and not be inspired to get out into the Great American Outdoors!"

For more information, please visit www.xplorevehicles.com

Nissan Leaf Aero Style Concept

Nissan revealed today the LEAF Aero Style Concept, a new show car, which will be introduced in January, at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Salon.

The Leaf Aero Style concept boasts a new front bumper, extended side skirts, and restyled mirrors. Other goodies include LED daytime driving lights and unique wheels.

Among the highlights, visitors will be able to check out the Nissan Leaf Aero Style Concept, which as you can see from the photo, comes fitted with a futuristic looking aero body kit, the JUKE Sporty Package, which enhances the automaker's compact crossover with a series of exterior accessories, various chrome parts and 17 inch aluminium alloys or the Elgrand Rider Premium Concept which received a tuned engine, body and suspension.

The suspension and power steering have also been tweaked to provide a more dynamic ride, and engine output is up 16kW to 261kW.

The firm will also show off the charmingly-named Juke Sporty Package which previews a host of exterior accessories designed for the European and North American markets. The car includes chrome parts and 17-inch alloys.

Also making their debuts at the show will be the Motul Autech GT-R, which appeared in the 2010 Super GT season, and the Nissan Nismo GT-R RC, a specifically developed circuit racer designed to FIA standards.
The nine vehicles will be on display at the Tokyo Auto Salon on January 14-16, 2011, at Makuhari Messe.




Press Release

Nissan to Showcase Nine Exciting and Innovative Models at Tokyo Auto Salon

YOKOHAMA (Dec. 21, 2010) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., together with AUTECH Japan and Nissan Motorsports International Co. Ltd. (NISMO) will present nine exciting and innnovative models equipped with the latest custom and aftermarket parts at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2011 with NAPAC (Japan Car Parts and Aftermarket Promotion Association). It will be held January 14-16, 2011 at Makuhari Messe.

Nissan will recreate the exciting atmosphere of its participation in the SUPER GT domestic racing series with a display of a race vehicle, transporter and hospitality cars, along with "pit stop" tire changing demonstrations, Also on display will be the 100% electric, zero-emission Nissan LEAF Aero Style Concept and Nissan's range of standard road cars stylized with the latest genuine aero body kits that complement the vehicles' pure forms.

Autech will showcase its expertise in custom cars with three fun, relaxing models, including "Elgrand Rider" concept. NISMO will be presenting its new production race car, the Nissan NISMO GT-R RC, which will be officially announced at the Salon, and the MOTUL AUTECH GT-R racecar that competed in the 2010 SUPER GT series.

Highlights of the exhibit include:

NISSAN Area
• Nissan LEAF Aero Style Concept
Equipped with an aero body kit that accentuates Nissan LEAF's distinctive silhouette and character lines, this concept car expresses an image of futuristic sport EV driving.

• JUKE Sporty Package (Reference exhibit)
With its dealer-installed option enhancing JUKE's strong, dynamic feel, this custom car is equipped with exterior accessories designed for the European and North American markets. The car includes chrome parts and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

AUTECH Area
• Elgrand Rider Premium Concept (Reference exhibit)
Seeking the ultimate level of "mobility space,"' the engine, body and suspension are specifically tuned up for a higher level of driving performance. The genuine leather seats are configured in two rows, accommodating four people, and feature a quilted design. Based on the Elgrand Rider, the Premium Concept also features a cabinet with indirect lightning for the ground below and a cool/warm storage box. The custom exterior items such as a smoke-plated front mask, 19-inch wheels and tires and a front protector accentuate the uniqueness of this car.

• Serena Rider
Based on Serena, this custom car adopts punchy aeroform coating and an emblematic front grille design, which are features of the Rider Series of custom cars. Black-themed special seat materials and silver carbon-style instrument shift finisher enhance its sportiness.
With the front protector* installed in the display model, its unique styling is emphasized.

• March Bolero
This March-based model has an elegantly coordinated interior and exterior. For the exterior, the front grille, which has been characteristics of previous generation models, features a plated mesh design, while its interior is highlighted by wine-colored, horizontal-striped seat materials delivering a distinguished atmosphere.

* Special front protector for the Rider series, to be scheduled to go on sale in January, 2011, for Elgrand and Serena.

NISMO Area
• Nissan NISMO GT-R RC**
Based on the iconic Nissan GT-R, which offers the world's highest level of performance as a road going car, the NISMO GT-R RC was specially developed for circuit driving. It features a slick tire-compatible suspension, lightweight components and special safety equipment and devices - including a welded roll cage that meets the FIA standard, a 120-liter safety fuel tank made by ATL and air jacks. It is able to compete in various production races held around the world. This car will be officially released at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
** RC=Racing Competition

• NISMO Version FAIRLADY Z
This model builds on the Fairlady Z's high level of driving performance with added fun and sporty functionality. Along with engine output that is increased to 261kW(355PS), a higher level of sporty handling is realized through special body and suspension tuning and modification of the power steering characteristics. For the exterior, excellent aerodynamic performance is achieved through use of special body components providing greater downforce and reduced air resistance.

• Elgrand S-tune
This model is equipped with NISMO S-tune kit for exhilarating driving on the street, and genuine optional parts for enhanced comfort and sportiness.

• MOTUL AUTECH GT-R
This car, campaigned in the 2010 SUPER GT season took the pole position in Round 5 in Sugo and finished in second place in Round 4 in Sepang and Round 6 in Suzuka.

NISMO will also have a "Kids & Ladies Ride Event," where participants can experience what it's like to be inside a racing car, and the "Pitwork Simulation," where NISMO mechanics will be demonstrating racing tire changes and other techniques.

NISSAN/NISMO Collection Booth
Official Nissan merchandise, including Nissan LEAF, Nissan GT-R and NISMO motorsports products, will be available at the Nissan/NISMO booth.

2012 Nissan Sunny

Nissan today unveiled the new 2011 Sunny sedan at the 8th China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Exhibition. It will go on sale first in China in January 2011 and then progressively across 170 countries worldwide under different vehicle brand names. The All-new Sunny Sedan, which is the second model to be built on Nissan’s versatile ‘V’ platform, will be launched in India in the second half of 2011 and will be manufactured at the company’s plant at Oragadam, near Chennai.

The 2012 Nissan Sunny aims at young families in their 30s looking for a medium sized sedan that offers plenty of interior space. The 2012 Nissan Sunny is powered by a 1.5-liter HR15DE engine with dual injectors coupled with a Xtronic CVT with an auxiliary transmission. the output and performance numbers of the 2012 Nissan Sunny have not been announced yet.

The all new 2011 Nissan Sunny is a mechanical clone of the Micra. MacPherson struts are fitted up front while a simple torsion beam axle arrangement is installed on the rear as Nissan keep the costs within target.

2012 The new Nissan Sunny will be produced and assemble in Dongfeng Nissan Huadu Plant in Guangzhou and estimated price from RMB 82.8K to 112.8K (1.04 million – 1.41million yen).





Press Release

Nissan Unveils New Global Sedan at the 8th China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Exhibition

YOKOHAMA (Dec. 20, 2010) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled an all-new sedan model at the 8th China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Exhibition. Using the famed ‘Sunny' name in China, this new model will go on sale first in China in January 2011 and then progressively across 170 countries worldwide under different vehicle brand names.

The Nissan Sunny was first introduced in China in 2003 and was significant as the first locally built model from the new Dongfeng Nissan partnership. Acclaimed by consumers for its combination of quality, space and driving performance, the Sunny quickly help establish a foundation for the Nissan brand in the passenger vehicle market in China.

A projected class leader in fuel economy, the all-new Sunny is expected to appeal to young families in their 30s looking for a medium sized sedan that combines a dynamic upscale design with the space, quality and features associated with the Sunny and Nissan brand.

Combining the proven Nissan 1.5-liter HR15DE engine with dual injectors and a new-generation Xtronic CVT with an auxiliary transmission, both of which are newly introduced in China, Sunny delivers ease in handling for city driving where there's frequent acceleration and deceleration, and superior environmental performance as a projected class leader in fuel economy.

MacPherson struts are used for the front suspension and a torsion beam for the rear suspension, making for sporty and agile driving at low speeds, and steady and stable driving at higher speeds.

The new Sunny will be produced in Dongfeng Nissan's Huadu Plant in Guangzhou and will be priced from RMB 82.8K to 112.8K (1.04 million - 1.41million yen).

Highlights at the Nissan booth:

[Teana]
Refreshed in November, the new Teana sports a modified exterior, including front grille, front bumper, rear combination lamps and wheels and detailed interior changes to areas such as the cluster and meters. Teana retains the combination of a V6 engine with X-tronic CVT. Environmental and safety features include the addition of an eco-drive support function, an emergency rescue service and CARWINGS Navigation Service.

The price ranges from RMB 190K to 370K (2.4 million - 4.66 million yen).

[Nissan LEAF]
The 100 percent electric, zero-emission Nissan LEAF will be another highlight at the show. A feasibility study for Nissan LEAF is planned for China and will be conducted by Nissan and the People's Government of Wuhan for a 2011 pilot program.
Highly acclaimed by customers all over the world as new mobility for a sustainable zero-emission society, Nissan LEAF has won the European Car of the Year 2011.
Nissan LEAF is being released in Japan and the United States this month and is scheduled for release in select European markets in early 2011.
Nissan's product lineup will promote sustainable mobility through zero-emission vehicles, such as the Nissan LEAF and a range of PURE DRIVE low-emission technologies.

[Other]
Also on display at the Nissan booth will be a wide range of Nissan's product lineup, including the multi-performance super car, the Nissan GT-R and the recently introduced March compact car.

About Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company (Dongfeng Nissan)
Dongfeng Nissan is an affiliated company of Dongfeng Motor Co., Ltd., Nissan's joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Group. Dongfeng Nissan includes research & development operations, manufacturing and distribution of passenger vehicles.

Nissan Business in China
Since the establishment of DFL, Nissan's sales volume, including both passenger and light commercial vehicles, has risen dramatically from 94,000 units in 2003 to 756,000 units in 2009. Nissan also launched its luxury brand, Infiniti, in China in 2007.

Nissan's sales are forecasted to exceed 1,000,000 units in 2010 compared to the original plan of 860,000 units, including passenger and light commercial vehicles, along with Infiniti products. Nissan expects to sell 1,150,000 units in 2011.

Note: Amounts in Japanese yen are translated for the convenience of the reader at the foreign exchange rate of RMB 1 per 12.6 Japanese Yen.

LA 2010: 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet

Nissan has releases photos and details for the 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet

The automaker touts the midsize Murano CrossCabriolet as the “world’s first all-wheel drive crossover convertible,” featuring room for four adults along with space for assorted gear such as golf clubs or luggage. Here at Family Car Guide, we think that qualifies the new Murano CrossCabriolet as a family vehicle.

The power of the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet 2011 comes from the 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 engine developing 265 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque coupled with the second-generation Xtronic CVT transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). The Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet 2011 is equipped with an all-wheel drive system, the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors and steering angle sensors.
For extra safety, the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet 2011 also comes with 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and a G-sensor.

The cabrio's top is hydraulically operated with an automated latch/unlatch function. Trunk space with the top down is 7.6 cubic feet (0.2 cubic meters). Other technology includes the High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon headlights and the LED taillights similar to those on the Nissan 370Z.

The Murano CrossCabriolet also promises a lot of amenities for the driver, as there is just one fully loaded trim level available starting at $46,390, not including an $800 destination charge. That means a navigation system and Bose stereo, heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control and 20-inch wheels are standard equipment.

Source: Nissan




Press Release

2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet – “Innovation for Fun” Leads Design of World’s First AWD Crossover Convertible

– Bold Expression of Nissan’s Commitment to Design and Innovation Goes On Sale in Early 2011, Offered in One Luxurious All-Wheel Drive Model –


As the world’s first all-wheel drive crossover convertible, the 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet breaks new ground in both the crossover SUV and convertible segments. With its never seen before design and custom boutique style, the Murano CrossCabriolet is unlike anything on the road – blending all of the things people love in a crossover with the open air enjoyment of a convertible. Making its world debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Murano CrossCabriolet is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early 2011.

“When people think of a crossover, they think of a combination of the driving sophistication of a sedan with the utility of a sport utility. This new Murano CrossCabriolet adds an unexpected third element, the ability to make everyday activities more exciting with open air driving,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “However, with its extraordinarily engineered convertible top, standard all-wheel drive and room for four adults plus cargo, the CrossCabriolet is not just for cruising South Beach or Malibu. It’s a vehicle to take to lunch, running errands or on a long ski weekend in any part of the country.”

Possibilities Await: Murano CrossCabriolet Design Concept
The impetus behind innovation is often as simple as asking questions not posed before, such as how do you overcome the functional limitations of a convertible? “Everyone loves the convertible experience, no one loves the convertible reality – compromised trunk space, a cramped back seat or none at all, and a lack of flexibility for everyday life,” said Castignetti. “The Murano CrossCabriolet is the reinvention of versatility, encouraging people to rethink what a convertible can be.”

The all-new Murano CrossCabriolet overcomes these obstacles, combining elegant design and state-of-the-art engineering. One of the priorities in the convertible top design was the retention of the traditional Murano silhouette with the top up, and a luxurious, sophisticated appearance with the top down.

The transformation of the Murano body from Crossover to CrossCabriolet and from 4-door to 2-door meant more than just removing the top. Along with creating new front doors (7.9 inches longer than 4-door Murano front doors) and eliminating the B-pillars, the structure has been reinforced from the A-pillar rearward. The cloth convertible top also includes a rear glass skylight, helping create a wide-open interior environment even with the top in the closed position. Dual Pop-up Roll Bars are also standard. The coefficient of drag remains close to that of the hardtop Murano, just 0.39 Cd versus 0.37 Cd.

One of the keys to the CrossCabriolet’s design’s success is the convertible top’s exceptionally compact size when stowed, which allows both additional interior and cargo volume (normally taken up by a traditional convertible stowage design). The hydraulically operated top mechanism includes an automatic power latch/unlatch system. Operation switches are located on the center console and driver’s door handle. With the top down, the stowed size is similar to that of a conventional 2-seat roadster. Trunk capacity with the top down is 7.6 cubic feet, enough to fit two sets of golf clubs or two carry-on suitcases. With the top closed, cargo capacity expands to 12.3 cubic feet.

Along with the unique convertible top appearance, the Murano CrossCabriolet exterior also includes High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon projector headlights with auto on/off function, front fog lights and Nissan 370Z-inspired LED taillights.

Other features include body-colored front and rear bumpers, chrome door handles, body-colored dual power/heated outside mirrors, and rear window defroster with timer. Along with convertible style, the CrossCabriolet offers the high ground clearance of a Murano for easy ingress and egress and enhanced driver visibility.

Six exterior colors are available: unique Murano CrossCabriolet colors Sunset Bronze and Caribbean, plus Merlot, Platinum Graphite, Super Black and Pearl White.

A Highly Rewarding Interior
The luxurious Murano CrossCabriolet interior starts with a foundation of the top-of-the-line Murano LE and takes it to the next level of standard features and convenience items. The tall windshield and A-pillar design combines with the body’s high beltline and high rear seat shoulders to help reduce conventional interior air turbulence with the top down, allowing conversation between occupants.

Premium materials are used throughout the interior, with the standard leather- appointed seats available in a diagonally quilted premium leather, double-stitched pattern for added elegance. The interior’s curving, sculpted lines, half-matte chromed trim finish and unique wood-tone trim, tuned to match each of three available interior colors, add an additional rich, quality feel. Interior colors include Black, Cashmere (light brown) and Camel (brown).

The Murano CrossCabriolet comes fully equipped, with a long list of standard features including 8-way power heated driver’s seat with power lumbar support, 4-way manual heated front passenger seat with easy entry function, heated steering wheel, 2-position driver’s seat memory system for seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, passenger seat easy entry release button on instrument panel for driver access, driver and front passenger seatback pocket, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition.

Every CrossCabriolet also comes with a standard Nissan Hard-Drive Navigation System with 9.3GB Music Box® hard drive and XM NavTraffic® (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver and RearView Monitor.

Open-air road tunes are provided by a Bose® AM/FM/CD audio system with 8 speakers including subwoofer, automatic audio adjustment for soft-top up/down position, integrated Interface System for iPod®, speed-sensitive volume control and auxiliary audio input jack. XM® satellite Radio (XM® subscription requires, sold separately) is also standard.

“The interior of the Murano CrossCabriolet provides a custom boutique feel. With numerous color combinations offered between the exterior, interior and convertible top, owners can express their own distinctive sense of style,” added Castignetti. “It’s a rare convertible that allows four passengers to feel equally comfortable, which this stunning new design absolutely does – as well as equally indulged.”

Under the Skin: Pure Murano
Open air driving is not the only emotional reward the Murano CrossCabriolet provides – it also offers a secure, rewarding driving experience. Its no-compromise drivetrain is shared with the all-wheel drive hardtop Murano, starting with the proven “D” platform (also utilized on Maxima and Altima sedans) and standard 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 producing 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine design includes the Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), twin knock sensors, low exhaust pressure, a 10.3:1 compression ratio, and 6,000 rpm redline.

The engine is mated to a standard second-generation Xtronic CVT™ with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) for sporty response and smoothness, which utilizes an advanced, sport-tuned controller with adaptive logic for driving comfort or driving performance as conditions require. The advanced all-wheel drive system connects the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors and steering angle sensors to distribute torque according to driving conditions.

The Murano CrossCabriolet’s lightweight 4-wheel independent suspension features MacPherson struts in front, a multi-link rear design, cradle-type front subframe and front and rear stabilizer bars. Also utilized are dual-flow path shock absorbers for responsiveness and reduced ride harshness.

Steering is provided by a twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted steering system, while the braking system includes 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and G-sensor. Every CrossCabriolet comes with 20-inch split 5-spoke titanium finish aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/55R20 Toyo Proxes A20 all-season tires.

Standard Murano CrossCabriolet safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor and door-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor, along with front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, front seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Security System (VSS) and Dual Pop-up Roll Bars.

One Fully Equipped Model
The 2011 Murano CrossCabriolet is offered in one fully equipped model. Along with the many items previously mentioned, standard features include power front windows with one-touch up/down and auto-reverse feature, Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, and a 7-inch color display for audio, climate control, fuel economy, maintenance and comfort and convenience systems.

Also included are highly functional storage systems, including a two-tier center console storage box with fold-out function, cell phone holder, dual seatback pockets, Fine Vision gauges and driver instrumentation with white backlighting, illuminated steering wheel controls, auto door lock feature, four cupholders, tilting and telescoping steering column, auto-dimming rearview mirror, cruise control with illuminated steering wheel mounted switches, front door map pockets, and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system.

Only two options are available with specific exterior colors – a Camel interior with upgraded leather and the black top, and the Brown top/Cashmere interior combination (with upgraded leather).

“The versatility and functionality of a true all-wheel drive crossover, the unique open air driving experience of a pure convertible – the Murano CrossCabriolet is a breakthrough in concept, design and execution,” said Castignetti. “Innovation meets Murano with stunning results.”