Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Review: 2010 Nissan Maxima SV Sport is a lot of car for a lot of coin]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-nissan-maxima-sv-sport-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-nissan-maxima-sv-sport-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-nissan-maxima-sv-sport-review/#comments Filed under: , ,

2010 Nissan Maxima SV Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Front-wheel drive is a funny thing. When originally introduced during the Thirties in the Cord 810 (then later in the awesome supercharged 812) and the Citroën Traction Avant, FWD was hailed as a major breakthrough, a wondrous technological innovation that allowed for lower ride height and greatly increased passenger space. Postwar consumers got a taste of the wonders of FWD with the iconic Citroën DS. At the top of its game in the Sixties, General Motors reintroduced FWD to American consumers with two remarkable luxury coupes: the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado and the 1967 Cadillac Eldorado. Come the Seventies, Citroën produced what is arguably the greatest GT coupe of that decade, the impeccable (and FWD) SM.

It's not that RWD is always better than FWD. Only in this case, it is.
Roll the clock forward to the Eighties and suddenly everything was being tugged around by its front wheels. Honda, Toyota, Nissan, General Motors, Ford and Chrysler all jumped head first onto the FWD bandwagon and, for the most part, they haven't looked back. Granted, Cadillac has rethought which wheels get driven, but with the exception of a dinosaur livery-mobile, there isn't a single rear-wheel-drive Lincoln to be found. Even Volkswagen got in on the transversely-mounted engine madness. This left only the Germans - namely Mercedes-Benz and BMW - to seriously carry the rear-wheel drive passenger car torch for nearly a decade. Sure, Lexus and Infiniti brought out some heavy hitting RWD sedans along with a raft of FWD offerings (M30 I30, G20 anyone?), but Acura never bothered.

The average gearhead hates FWD for all the right reasons (weight distribution, steering feel, the front tires being asked to both propel and turn, etc.), and during a recent discussion we had with a half-in-the-bag PR guy, [NAME REDACTED] exclaimed, "Front-wheel drive sucks!" So, how can a technology go from the penthouse to the doghouse like that? One answer (of many) comes from the Minnesotan economist/social philosopher Thorstein Veblen and his book The Theory of the Leisure Class. Here's a quick, ten-cent Cliff Note version: When electric lighting first appeared, only the rich could afford electric lights. As such, electrically lit dinners were considered romantic and desirable. However, once electrification trickled down to the unwashed masses, only the rich could afford both bulbs and candles. Hence, candlelit dinners became en vogue. Which - believe it or not - leads us very nicely to the 2010 Nissan Maxima SV Sport and its $38,384 asking price.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV Sport


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Nissan Maxima SV Sport is a lot of car for a lot of coin

Review: 2010 Nissan Maxima SV Sport is a lot of car for a lot of coin originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Nissan Maxima SV Sport2010NissanMaximaSvSportfeaturedmaximamaxima sv sportMaximaSvSportnissannissan maximanissan maxima sv sportNissanMaximaNissanMaximaSvSportreviewreviews Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST <![CDATA[Spy Shots: First Nissan Qazana prototype caught testing]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/spy-shots-first-nissan-qazana-prototype-caught-testing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/spy-shots-first-nissan-qazana-prototype-caught-testing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/spy-shots-first-nissan-qazana-prototype-caught-testing/#comments Filed under: , ,

Just when you thought Qashqai was about a weird a name as a car could get comes some spy shots of the Nissan Qazana. Mmmm... yeah, you're right. Qashqai is still weirder. However, the Qazana, which we first saw in Geneva, is weirder looking than the Qashqai. Or practically anything else, for that matter. But it's not bad-weird, just weird-weird. That said, sticking with the maxim that all SUVs (and cars that look like SUVs) want to either be WW2 Jeeps or lunar rovers, the Qazana isn't that odd. We quite like it.

The lads at AutoExpress just caught some spy shots of a Qazana prototype, complete with black trash-bag crypsis. Despite the budget camo, it does look like some of the show car's more novel elements are making it into production -- specifically, its large headlights. It even seems as though the highly-stylized grille will see the light of day.

AutoExpress claims that it doesn't stop there: The motorcycle-inspired (and highly whacked-out) interior will also allegedly make the final cut. In terms of where it fits in the lineup, the Qazana will slot below the larger Qashqai. Like the Qashqai, look for the Qazana to be built at Nissan's Sunderland, UK plant. Here's hoping Nissan chooses the bold path and brings out a Qazana that truly resembles the concept. Odds of it making to the US? We'd normally say "zilch," but we did just get the Cube, so who knows?


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Nissan Qazana


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Nissan Qazana


[Source: AutoExpress]

Spy Shots: First Nissan Qazana prototype caught testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 14:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> NissanNissan QashqaiNissan QazanaNissanQashqaiNissanQazanaQashqaiQazanaSpy PhotosSpy Photos Nissan QazanaSpy Photos QazanaSpy ShotsSpyPhotosSpyPhotosNissanQazanaSpyPhotosQazanaSpyShots Sun, 13 Dec 2009 14:13:00 EST <![CDATA[Yes, Again: Nissan rumored to be reviving 240SX, bringing it to the U.S.]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/yes-again-nissan-rumored-to-be-reviving-240sx-bringing-it-to/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/yes-again-nissan-rumored-to-be-reviving-240sx-bringing-it-to/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/yes-again-nissan-rumored-to-be-reviving-240sx-bringing-it-to/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Nissan Foria Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan's plans to revive the 240SX (Silvia in JDM parlance) has almost become a running joke, right up there with the fake moon landing and Tom Cruise's heterosexuality. But still, this old chestnut carries forth, with a new report from Insideline's editor in Japan who says the coupe's revival is due to hit the market sometime in 2011 or 2012.

Details, per usual, are both scarce and obvious. The next-generation Silvia will supposedly be built atop Nissan's popular FM platform (370Z, Infiniti G, etc.), come in a 2+2 seating configuration and tip the scales around 2,800 pounds. Naturally, as the S15's successor, it will be a front-engine, rear-drive setup, and is rumored to be packing a turbocharged 1.8-liter inline-four putting out around 200 horsepower. A naturally aspirated variant will also be available to keep the cost of entry low, but the turbo'd model is obviously the pick of the litter and should deliver a 0-60 time of between six and seven seconds.

IL's man in Japan points to the Nissan Foria concept (shown above) as the stylistic inspiration, but notes that the coupe would only be "loosely based" on the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show concept. Judging by Nissan's recent design endeavors, we doubt the Foria -- or as previously rumored, the Urge concept -- will be a heavy influence on this supposed Silvia revival.

Although we're all for more budget-oriented FR sports cars, the popularity of the Toyota FT-86 is sure to be a factor in Nissan's decision to bring the 240SX back to life. That, coupled with the unknown demand for the Hyundai Genesis Coupe (Hyundai doesn't break out Genesis Sedan from Coupe sales in its monthly reports) makes the proposition of a new 2+2 from Nissan even more hazy. So until we hear something solid from Ghosn and Company, we'll resume our normal respiration routine.


Gallery: Nissan Fiora Concept



[Source: Insideline]

Yes, Again: Nissan rumored to be reviving 240SX, bringing it to the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 nissan 240sx2011 nissan silvia2011Nissan240sx2011NissanSilvia2012 nissan 240sx2012 nissan siliva2012Nissan240sx2012NissanSiliva240sxnissannissan 240sxNissan240sxsilvia Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:26:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: <i>Autocar</i> pits Nissan GT-R vs. Porsche 911 Turbo and Audi R8 V10 on Castle Combe]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/video-i-autocar-i-pits-nissan-gt-r-vs-porsche-911-turbo-and/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/video-i-autocar-i-pits-nissan-gt-r-vs-porsche-911-turbo-and/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/video-i-autocar-i-pits-nissan-gt-r-vs-porsche-911-turbo-and/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

These are our favorite kinds of car videos. Take a few super hot, fire-breathing, track-ready road cars and pit them against one another on a race track and see who wins. Autocar magazine's Steve Sutcliffe assembled the Nissan GT-R, the Porsche 911 Turbo and the Audi R8 V10 at the UK's Castle Combe circuit to see which of the entry level supercars could turn in the fastest lap.

The GT-R is the low-cost track star of the bunch, with the most mass, the least power and, arguably the most grip of the group. The 911 Turbo is the featherweight of the entry supercar trio, with middle-of-the-pack power and an (apparently) adventurous ride. The R8 V10 has the most power and Audi's excellent Quattro all-wheel drive system.

Sutcliffe took all through road warriors through the paces at Castle Combe, and the dynamic trio finished within about one second of each other. One of them could have won if it weren't for some iffy brakes, another didn't quite have the grip to win the day while the winner was quickest in and out of turns. Who won? You'll have to hit the jump and watch the high-res footage to find out.


Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro


Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Nissan GT-R


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo


[Source: Autocar via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Autocar pits Nissan GT-R vs. Porsche 911 Turbo and Audi R8 V10 on Castle Combe

VIDEO: Autocar pits Nissan GT-R vs. Porsche 911 Turbo and Audi R8 V10 on Castle Combe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 Nissan GT-R2009 Porsche 911 Turbo2009NissanGt-r2009Porsche911Turbo2010 Audi2010 Audi R82010 Audi R8 V102010Audi2010AudiR82010AudiR8V10audi r8 v10AudiR8V10autocarcastle combeCastleCombenissan gt-rNissan GTRNissanGt-rNissanGtrporsche 911 turboPorsche911Turbo Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST <![CDATA[Rumormill: Next generation Nissan GT-R to go hybrid]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/rumormill-next-generation-nissan-gt-r-to-go-hybrid/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/rumormill-next-generation-nissan-gt-r-to-go-hybrid/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/rumormill-next-generation-nissan-gt-r-to-go-hybrid/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2010 Nissan GT-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Japan's Best Car magazine seems to be on a little bit of a hybrid high lately. Just a couple of weeks ago, the publication ran a story stating that Toyota is planning to revive its beloved MR2 nameplate with a new hybrid roadster. Now they're reporting that the Nissan GT-R will also gain a gas-electric drivetrain in its next iteration.

According to the report, the R36-generation GT-R will supplement its 440-horsepower gasoline engine - down from the current twin-turbo V6's 480 - with an electric motor worth about 160 galloping horses, for an overall equivalent of 600. That's a whole lot of power, and if the reports prove to be accurate, Porsche won't be the only one looking in the rear-view mirror when it comes along.

[Source: Best Car via 4WheelsNews.com]

Rumormill: Next generation Nissan GT-R to go hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> gt-r hybridGt-rHybridnissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r hybridNissanGt-rNissanGt-rHybrid Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:29:00 EST <![CDATA[Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-announces-pricing-on-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-rogue/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-announces-pricing-on-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-rogue/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/nissan-announces-pricing-on-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-rogue/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition - click above for high-res image gallery

We're not apologizing to Nissan, but we were pretty flippantly dismissive of both the 40th Anniversary Z and the Rogue S Krom Edition. Why? Because both struck as as badge jobs. When we think of special edition Nissans, we think of V-Spec, and that typically entails more power and/or pumped up handling. But not with these two cars. Though at least the Krom gets a new front end, which sadly isn't nearly as eye-catching as the nose of the not-for-us 2010 Qashqai.

However, the truth of the matter is that our favorite ever special Nissan was the legendary Black Gold 10th Anniversary Datsun 280ZX (and the even rarer Black Red - only 500 made, as opposed to 3,000 Black Golds). And that car was little more than a plaque and a coke habit paint job. Our point? Nissan had better produce a theme song for this new car.

Anyhow, the prices of both the 40th Z and the Rogue Krom have just been announced. The Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition will set you back $38,860. Some of you might be asking why not spend the extra $330 and get the better-than-a-regular-370Z NISMO for $39,190? Well, Nissan will only be producing 1,000 40th Anniversary Zs. Other than that, we can't think of any reason. The Rogue S Krom Edition comes in at $23,940 for the front-wheel drive version, $25,140 if you want all-wheel drive. The 40AZ will be available in Q2 of 2010, the Krom in late Q3. Press release(s) can be found after the jump, along with a little surprise.


Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Rogue Krom Edition


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO]

Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Nissan 370Z2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition2010 Nissan Rogue2010 Nissan Rogue S Krom Edition2010 Nissan Z2010Nissan370z2010Nissan370z40thAnniversaryEdition2010NissanRogue2010NissanRogueSKromEdition2010NissanZ280ZX Black Gold280ZX Black Red280zxBlackGold280zxBlackRed370Z370Z 40th Anniversary Edition370z40thAnniversaryEdition40th 370Z40th Anniversary 370Z40th Anniversary Z40th370z40thAnniversary370z40thAnniversaryZBlack GoldBlack RedBlackGoldBlackRedNisamo 370ZNisamo370zNismoNissannissan 370Znissan roguenissan ZNissan370zNissanRogueNissanZRogueRogue SRogue S KromRogue S Krom EditionRogueSRogueSKromRogueSKromEditionspecial editionSpecialEdition Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST <![CDATA[Nobushige Wakatsuki, the man responsible for bringing Nissan/Datsun to U.S. dies at 81]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nobushige-wakatsuki-the-man-responsible-for-bringing-nissan-dat/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nobushige-wakatsuki-the-man-responsible-for-bringing-nissan-dat/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nobushige-wakatsuki-the-man-responsible-for-bringing-nissan-dat/#comments Filed under: ,



Here's a bit of interesting folklore for you history-obsessed car buffs out there. Nissan (then selling Datsuns) was tricked into coming to America. Seems that Nissan never planned to sell cars here, as they felt that their diminutive, economical rides were too small and slow for the mighty U.S. market. However, one man felt different: Nobushige Wakatsuki.

The year was 1958 and Wakatsuki had a job with Marubeni Trading Corp. where he was charged with finding Japanese products to import into the U.S. Wakatsuki approached Datsun's management and asked them if they'd be interested in bringing the brand Stateside. After all, Toyota had just began selling cars to Americans in 1957. Wakatsuki was humiliated when he heard their blunt reply, "No."

But Cazy Nobe -- as Nissan execs would later refer to the then 29-year-old -- refused to let a good business opportunity go to waste. He went ahead and procured some cars from Nissan under the pretense of a marketing exercise and proceeded to put them on sale. All of this was done behind Nissan's back. Which really pissed them off. In fact, it took another full year of pestering before Nissan took over the dealer network Crazy Nobe established here in 1960. However, the joke is on them, as Nissan/Infiniti sold nearly 1,000,000 cars in the US last year.

Nobushige Wakatsuki died on November 13, 2009 at the age of 81. Thanks for all the good memories, Mr. Wakatsuki.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: Fudge]

Nobushige Wakatsuki, the man responsible for bringing Nissan/Datsun to U.S. dies at 81 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> DatsunNissanNissan DatsunNissanDatsunNobushige WakatsukiNobushigeWakatsuki Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Nissan V2G wins LA's 2009 Design Challenge]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nissan-v2g-wins-las-2009-design-challenge/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nissan-v2g-wins-las-2009-design-challenge/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/nissan-v2g-wins-las-2009-design-challenge/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Nissan V2G -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The LA Auto Show's Design Challenge has a victor from among its Youthmobile 2030 entries: the Nissan Vehicle-to-Grid, aka V2G. It envisions a nationwide electric highway system (the "grid") driven on by Generation Z, and their cars will pay for use of the grid like a mobile phone plan. The V2G doesn't offer much in the way of variety, but it's ultra-efficient, cheap to run, and convoys of them can gather in interlocked formations called "flocks."

But when the Gen Z'ers get their hacking fingers on it, they customize it so it can be taken off-grid, creating the V2G Unlimited and the Halo-esque future we are beginning to think is inevitable. Sadly, none of the customized demos feature guns, which is all the V2G Unlimited appears to lack and will make it difficult to deal with the Covenant.

When the V2G is finished providing useful service, it can be recycled. Made of bioresin impregnated carbon nanotube cloth, a specially yet-to-be-created bacteria would devour the bioresin and leave only the cloth, which can be used to build another V2G. Or something. Check out the V2G in the high-res gallery below and start studying for the future, now.


Gallery: LA 2009 Design Challenger Winner: Nissan V2G


[Source: Car Body Design]

Nissan V2G wins LA's 2009 Design Challenge originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> awardsconcept carConceptCardesign challengeDesignChallengela 2009la auto showla auto show design challengeLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShowDesignChallengenissannissan v2gNissanV2gv2g Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Godzilla vs. Super Snake: MT pits Nissan vs. Shelby in amusingly epic battle]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-godzilla-vs-super-snake-mt-pits-nissan-vs-shelby-in-am/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-godzilla-vs-super-snake-mt-pits-nissan-vs-shelby-in-am/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/video-godzilla-vs-super-snake-mt-pits-nissan-vs-shelby-in-am/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Super Snake vs. Godzilla - click above to watch the video

Recently, we ran a little poll in which we asked which car would you prefer: A Nissan GT-R or a Ford Shelby Mustang GT500? The results - which aren't too surprising - had just over two thirds of you rooting and tooting for Godzilla. And that's all fine. However, someone pointed out that the contest should have been between Godzilla and the new Shelby Super Snake. Well guess what?

Thankfully, Motor Trend has totally obliged you. In this video, the 412-horsepower and 393 pound-feet of torque (at the wheels, people, at the wheels) Nissan GT-R takes on the 635 hp and 581 lb-ft of torque Shelby GT500 Super Snake do the quarter-mile. The results? We're going to make you jump to find out, but we aren't surprised. At all. But then again, we've driven both cars (in fact, this appears to be the exact 2010 GT-R we drove). We will however say hats off to our buddy Ed Loh at MT for making such a fun video. Click here to watch it. Thanks to Pete for the tip!


Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Shelby Super Snake

supersnake---01supersnake---02supersnake---03supersnake---04supersnake---05

[Source: Motor Trend]

Continue reading VIDEO: Godzilla vs. Super Snake: MT pits Nissan vs. Shelby in amusingly epic battle

VIDEO: Godzilla vs. Super Snake: MT pits Nissan vs. Shelby in amusingly epic battle originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Ford Shelby Mustang Super Snake2010 Ford shelby super snake2010 Nissan GT-R2010 Nissan GTR2010 Shelby Super Snake2010FordShelbyMustangSuperSnake2010FordShelbySuperSnake2010NissanGt-r2010NissanGtr2010ShelbySuperSnakeDragDrag RaceDrag RacingDragRaceDragRacingFordFord MustangFordMustangGodzillaGT-RGTRMotor TrendMotorTrendNissanQuarter-MileShelbyShelby GT500Shelby GT500 Super SnakeShelbyGt500ShelbyGt500SuperSnakeSuper SnakeSuper Snake GT500SuperSnakeSuperSnakeGt500 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/gran-turismo-5-demo-coming-to-psn-on-dec-17-gt-academy-returns/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/gran-turismo-5-demo-coming-to-psn-on-dec-17-gt-academy-returns/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/gran-turismo-5-demo-coming-to-psn-on-dec-17-gt-academy-returns/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Click above to watch the video after the jump

Just when we thought we were going to wait until the end of March to get our hands on Gran Turismo 5, our friends at Joystiq tell us that Polyphony Digital will release a demo version of hotly anticipated racing game on December 17. The demo will be available on the Playstation Network for download both in Europe and North America, giving long-patient fans a taste of what the full game will be like when it finally arrives in stores.

And as cool as it is that the demo arrives within two weeks time, even cooler is the fact that gamers will be given the opportunity to compete for some nifty prizes. All you have to do is post your best time trial by January 24, 2010. The best time from the U.S. and Canada wins a trip to the Indianapolis 500. A sweet prize, no doubt, but it doesn't come close to the top Euro prize. The best driver from select European countries gets to enter the GT Academy. After completing training the lucky skilled gamer will race in the European GT4 Cup in a non-virtual race-spec Nissan 370Z. How amazing is that?

It would be even better if GT5 actually shipped on December 17, but it looks like we won't be racing one of the world's best driving simulators until March at the earliest. Hit the jump to view a slick video that contains more information about the GT Academy.


Gallery: Gran Turismo 5 screen shots

top002top004top001top005top003

Gallery: Gran Turismo 5


[Source: Joystiq]

Continue reading Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO]

Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 370Zcontestdriving gameDrivingGameEuropean GT4EuropeanGt4gran turismoGrand TurismoGrandTurismoGranTurismoGT AcademyGT4 CupGt4Cupgt5GtAcademyindianapolis 500Indianapolis500Indy 500Indy500nissan 370ZNissan370zPolyphonyPolyphony digitalPolyphonyDigital Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Nissan updates Qashqai crossover - and no, we're still not gonna get it]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-updates-qashqai-crossover-and-no-were-still-not-gonna/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-updates-qashqai-crossover-and-no-were-still-not-gonna/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/nissan-updates-qashqai-crossover-and-no-were-still-not-gonna/#comments Filed under: , ,

2010 Nissan Qashqai - click above for high-res image gallery

The Nissan Qashqai has a silly name. Though not as silly as the Qashqai+2, the seven-seat version of the British built small CUV. But silly name not withstanding, the slightly smaller than a Nissan Rogue compact crossover has been something of a sales phenom for Nissan, selling more than 500,000 copies around the world since 2007 despite not being offered in the North American market.

For the 2010 model year, some things are changing, and some aren't. The biggest and most obvious difference is the front end, which is all-new and quite handsome looking. We especially like the sculpted lower fascia and intake. And while it is slightly smaller than the Rogue we do have in America, the Qashqai (named after a nomadic Iranian tribe) looks tougher. In the rear, the song remains largely the same, though the taillights have been slightly revised. The colors you see here are both new -- Magnetic Red and Mineral Gray.

Inside, functionality is up with a new dash computer, gauges, lighting and "oddments" storage. Refinement is also up, with more baffling in place to reduce NVH, along with a revised windscreen and A-pillars to cut wind noise. The suspension has also been redesigned to improve both ride comfort and handling. All in all, the Qashqai looks to be a pretty tasty package. But you can almost set your watch to the fact that Nissan will not be bringing it to our red, white and blue shores, and while we like the Rogue just fine, we'd just assume that Nissan give us this one instead. What do you think? Check out the ress release after the jump and the high-res gallery below, and then let us know which one you'd prefer to see on sale in America.


Gallery: 2010 Nissan Qashqai


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan updates Qashqai crossover - and no, we're still not gonna get it

Nissan updates Qashqai crossover - and no, we're still not gonna get it originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Nissan Qashqai2010 Nissan Qashqai+22010 Qashqai2010 Qashqai+22010NissanQashqai2010NissanQashqai+22010Qashqai2010Qashqai+2NissanNissan QashqaiNissan Qashqai+2Nissan RogueNissanQashqaiNissanQashqai+2NissanRogueQashqai Fri, 04 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show...]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/autoblog-podcast-155-twas-the-night-before-the-la-auto-show/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

With the LA Auto Show near at hand, Chris, Dan, and Editor Extraordinaire Paukert sat down and talked over some of the latest for Episode #155 of the Autoblog Podcast. First up is the surprisingly thorough re-rework of the Mustang, before we move on to talk about the early release of U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta pictures. Gazing at photos brings us to the Chevrolet Cruze, which has also been lensed in North American garb. The Chinese-market Buick Excelle is rumored as a possibility for our market, and we scratch our heads about that for a while. Toyota's handling of its gas pedal recall and Nissan's low-priced and well-integrated navigation unit wraps it up before we move on to some of your questions. Right before signing off, we jump back to talk briefly about the newly unveiled Audi A8 and Saab's sad fortunes. At one hour, 50 minutes, it's an epic. We blame Paukert.

If you get bored once the new Autoblog Podcast bliss has worn off, check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show...

Autoblog Podcast #155 - 'Twas the night before the LA Auto Show... originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Ford Mustang2010FordMustang2011 mustang v62011MustangV6audi a8AudiA8auto showautoblogautoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastAutoShowbuickbuick excelleBuickExcellechevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevy cruzeChevyCruzefeaturedfiesta hatchfiesta hatchbackFiestaHatchFiestaHatchbackFord Fiestaford fiesta picturesFord fiesta sedanford fiesta unveilFordFiestaFordFiestaPicturesFordFiestaSedanFordFiestaUnveilla auto showLaAutoShowlos angeles auto showLosAngelesAutoShowlost angelesLostAngelesmustangmustang v6MustangV6nissan navigationNissanNavigationpodcastsaabsaab dealsaab koenigseggSaabDealSaabKoenigseggtoyota accelerationtoyota gas pedaltoyota pedaltoyota recallToyotaAccelerationToyotaGasPedalToyotaPedalToyotaRecallv6 mustangV6Mustang Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #155Autoblog1:49:25LA auto show; cruze; chevrolet cruze; buick excelle; toyota recall; fiesta; ford fiesta; toyota; nissan; nissan navigation; mustang; v6 mustang; mustang v6; autoblog podcast <![CDATA[Better Than Before: 2010 NAIAS welcomes return of Nissan and Porsche, 54 carmakers total]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/#comments Filed under: , ,



For many auto enthusiasts, the 2009 North American International Auto Show was the official beginning of the US economic downturn. Nissan, Infiniti, Mitsubishi and Porsche didn't even bother to show up for the once-prestigious event and Honda chose not to unveil any new product. A couple months back, the NAIAS organizers gave us some hope for the 2010 extravaganza when they said that the show would be better attended this time around. Well it appears that the show will at least be marginally better.

NAIAS co-chair Doug Fox has reportedly told the Detroit Free Press that at least 54 automakers will take part in the show this year, up four from 2009. Fox also estimates that a couple more automakers may decide to join in on the fun, but nothing is official at this time. Also exciting is news that both Porsche and Nissan will participate in this year's show, though the extent of their presence isn't very clear. We do know that Nissan will, at the very least, participate in the Detroit show's 37,000-square-foot Electric Avenue exhibit, which features electric vehicles from 26 automakers. So far Porsche will only participate in a special event called "The Gallery," which will be held for holders of the American Express Centurion card. The invitation-only event will be held at the MGM Grand on January 10.

While it's nice to see that Porsche and Nissan are going to be active at NAIAS 2010, we're a bit disappointed at the level of participation. At least the show will top the down year that was NAIAS 2009, but it looks like we may still be a ways away from the grandeur of shows gone by.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Better Than Before: 2010 NAIAS welcomes return of Nissan and Porsche, 54 carmakers total originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> detroit 2009detroit 2010Detroit2009Detroit2010naiasnissannorth american international auto showNorthAmericanInternationalAutoShowporsche Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Nav for All: Nissan offering inexpensive nav system on popular cars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-to-offer-low-price-nav-system-for-high-volume-products/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-to-offer-low-price-nav-system-for-high-volume-products/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/nissan-to-offer-low-price-nav-system-for-high-volume-products/#comments Filed under: ,



When navigation systems started showing up in the center stacks of luxury vehicles, the new (at the time) tech typically would set owners back a couple grand or more (and still does). As we gear up for 2010, mapping tech is everywhere from the most expensive luxury sleds to economical hatchbacks, but there is still one problem. If you want an LCD screen with navigation capability, the option will still set you back from over $1,000 to above and beyond $2,000 in most cases. The only exception is Suzuki, which includes its TRIP nav system as standard equipment on the sub-$20k SX4.

Nissan is looking to change the navi pricing paradigm by offering a $400 navigation system in some of its high volume 2010 MY products. That's $400, or the same price as Ford's LCD-less SYNC system. Or less than half the price of most options available in vehicles today. The nav system, which was developed by Nissan and Bosch, gives directions, integrates your tunes with USB and Aux inputs and has integrated Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling. The low cost system also connects with a backup camera and can help you save money by pointing out the route that will cost you the least fuel.

The Detroit News reviewed the nav system in 2010 Nissan Sentra and came away impressed with its overall operation, though the smallish five-inch LCD screen was reportedly a bit hard to read at times. We're hoping low cost navvies are here to stay, and with the ultra-competitive nature of the auto industry, we're thinking any automaker that doesn't follow Nissan's lead will be at a major competitive disadvantage.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Nav for All: Nissan offering inexpensive nav system on popular cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 nissan sentra2010NissanSentralow cost navigationLowCostNavigationnavigation systemNavigationSystemnissannissan navigationNissanNavigation Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:57:00 EST <![CDATA[Production Nissan Qazana will bring new era of design, love it or hate it reaction]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-production-nissan-qazana-bringing-new-era-of-design-lov/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-production-nissan-qazana-bringing-new-era-of-design-lov/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-production-nissan-qazana-bringing-new-era-of-design-lov/#comments Filed under: ,

2012 Nissan Qazana - Click above for high-res image gallery

By this point in the year it's not as easy to find worthy entries for Understatement of the Year - there is just so much competition - but a comment made about the Nissan Qazana certainly qualifies: a Nissan insider told UK-based Autocar that the gelatinous crossover "will split opinion."

And not only will you get your chance to buy one in 2012, statements by Nissan indicate that you'll have your chance to buy other cars that also look like it. Nissan's customer research appears to have also given the company every reason for believing "it will be a success," and that this will give the brand "a more attractive and emotional appeal in the future."

Nissan hasn't said what Qazana design features might be seen on other cars, and we don't know if we're ready to even think about that possibility. Europeans have three years to get ready for it, and we in the States have that time to prepare for an Altima that looks like Admiral Ackbar.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Nissan Qazana


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Autocar]

Production Nissan Qazana will bring new era of design, love it or hate it reaction originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 nissan2012 nissan qazana2012 qazana2012Nissan2012NissanQazana2012Qazanacrossoverdesignnissan qazanaNissanQazanaqazana Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:58:00 EST <![CDATA[Nissan's self-healing Scratch Shield paint to be applied to mobile phones]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/nissan-scratch-shield-paint-to-be-applied-to-mobile-phones/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/nissan-scratch-shield-paint-to-be-applied-to-mobile-phones/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/nissan-scratch-shield-paint-to-be-applied-to-mobile-phones/#comments Filed under: , ,



A while back, Nissan scientists helped to develop a paint clearcoat called Scratch Shield that can self-repair light scratches overnight or over the course of a week.

Now the Japanese automaker is spreading the love, licensing the technology to Japan's largest wireless company, NTT DoCoMo. The clearcoat uses a special top layer of highly elastic resin that gives the coating a 'flexibility' that reportedly means that it can prevent or "heal" 80% of surface marks. The coating itself is also tougher, so it is less susceptible to marks in the first place. Official press release after the jump.

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan's self-healing Scratch Shield paint to be applied to mobile phones

Nissan's self-healing Scratch Shield paint to be applied to mobile phones originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cellphonemobile phoneMobilePhonenissanntt docomoNttDocomoScratch ShieldScratchShield Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #154]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/autoblog-podcast-154/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/autoblog-podcast-154/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/autoblog-podcast-154/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


Episode #154 of the Autoblog Podcast is here for your tryptophan-addled pleasure. Chris, Sam, and Dan kick it, starting with the BMW 5 Series, then move on to such appetite supressants as the Lexus GX, Acura ZDX and its pricing, and Infiniti's re-style of the massive QX56 rig. Before we become an emetic, we move on to the pretty new Infiniti M, the ongoing anticipation for a US-bound Chevrolet Spark, and Hyundai's new 2.4 liter direct-injection 4 cylinder for the next Sonata. We hit some questions, and wrap it up in time for pie.

If you're looking to bulk up on podcast excellence over the Thanksgiving holiday, check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #154

Autoblog Podcast #154 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Acuraacura pricingAcura ZDXAcuraPricingAcuraZdxautoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastbmw 5BMW 5 seriesBMW 5-seriesBmw5Bmw5-seriesBmw5Serieschevrolet sparkChevroletSparkfeaturedhyundaihyundai four cylinderhyundai gdihyundai sonatahyundai sonata 2011HyundaiFourCylinderHyundaiGdiHyundaiSonataHyundaiSonata2011infinitiInfiniti MInfiniti M SeriesInfiniti M35Infiniti QXinfiniti qx 56Infiniti QX56InfinitiMInfinitiM35InfinitiMSeriesInfinitiQxInfinitiQx56lexus gxlexus GX 2010Lexus GX 460LExus GX 470LEXUS GX460lexus GX470LexusGxLexusGx2010LexusGx460LexusGx470new bmwNew BMW 5 SeriesNewBmwNewBmw5Seriespodcastsonata four cylinderSonataFourCylinderzdx pricingZdxPricing Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:10:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #154Autoblog1:17:34podcast; autoblog podcast; lexus gx; infiniti; infiniti m; acura; acura zdx; hyundai; hyundai gdi; chevrolet spark; bmw 5 series <![CDATA[Quick Spin: Nissan Leaf the tip of mass market EV spear]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/quick-spin-nissan-leaf-the-tip-of-mass-market-ev-spear/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/quick-spin-nissan-leaf-the-tip-of-mass-market-ev-spear/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/quick-spin-nissan-leaf-the-tip-of-mass-market-ev-spear/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan has gone into a back room, pulled out its Ouija board and decided that the time is right to make a huge bet. The Japanese automaker, along with its partner Renault, wants to be the world leader in pure electric vehicles. Even though you can go buy an Altima hybrid right now, the company didn't develop its own gas-electric technology (the sedan uses Toyota tech). This time around, Nissan believes the future belongs to vehicles without an internal combustion engine (ICE) and is preparing to put its own foot forward. It's way too early to know for sure, but Nissan's gamble could pay off handsomely. Toyota leads the hybrid race, General Motors and others are adding plugs to vehicles with liquid-fueled engines, but no major automaker has claimed the pure EV pole position. If everything goes right, Nissan will be that automaker.

The flagship vehicle for the automaker is, of course, the Leaf EV hatchback, which was unveiled in August and recently made its North American debut in Los Angeles. We were on hand to take a Leaf mule out for a short (very short) spin and heard directly from Nissan how this unique-looking EV will secure Nissan's place in the auto industry as tremendous changes take place in the coming years. Follow us after the jump to learn about Nissan's wager and find out if the Leaf has got the potential to (silently) propel the company to the top.


Gallery: Quick Spin: Nissan Leaf Test Mule


Photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Quick Spin: Nissan Leaf the tip of mass market EV spear

Quick Spin: Nissan Leaf the tip of mass market EV spear originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> battery electric vehicleBatteryElectricVehiclebevelectric vehicleElectricVehicleevfeaturedleafnissannissan leafNissanLeafquick spinQuickSpin Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Ghosn still thinks Renault-Nissan should have partnered with GM in 2006]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-ghosn-still-things-renault-nissan-should-have-partnered/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-ghosn-still-things-renault-nissan-should-have-partnered/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-ghosn-still-things-renault-nissan-should-have-partnered/#comments Filed under: , ,



With all the trials and tribulations General Motors has endured during the past year, we almost forgot that the Detroit, MI-based automaker nearly got itself tied up with Renault-Nissan. Back in 2006, the two companies discussed joining forces to become a singular global automotive juggernaut, but in the end, GM felt it was in its best interests to go it alone and face the quickly disintegrating global automotive market by themselves.

While GM's situation ultimately improved via bankruptcy and a $50 billion helping hand from the U.S. government, Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn still thinks the partnership would have been "without a doubt" in everyone's best interests. Ghosn reportedly made the comments during a meeting of the Council on Foreign Relations, adding that "there was a possibility to create something that would be extremely competitive."

Ghosn then went on to say that he wasn't happy the two companies didn't end up working together after GM nearly collapsed because "when you see the disaster and the waste of energy and skills and talent, nobody can be happy." The charismatic CEO also said that Renault-Nissan was very concerned about GM's precarious position earlier in the year due to the fact that his company uses many of the same suppliers. If GM had gone down, it would have probably taken more than a few suppliers with it, and Ghosn says that as a result, Nissan wouldn't have been able to make a single vehicle in North America.

While we can definitely understand why Ghosn would have preferred that the marriage of his company to GM was consecrated, we still don't see how it would have helped The General in the long run. GM still would have been in a very uncompetitive cash situation, and Renault-Nissan doesn't have much in the way of technology or platforms that the General doesn't already the equivalents to.

[Source: The Detroit News | Image: Raveendran/AFP/Getty]

REPORT: Ghosn still thinks Renault-Nissan should have partnered with GM in 2006 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> carlos ghosnCarlosGhosnGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGhosngmmergermergersnissan Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:02:00 EST <![CDATA[Choices: Nissan GT-R or Ford Mustang GT500?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/choices-nissan-gt-r-or-ford-mustang-gt500/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/choices-nissan-gt-r-or-ford-mustang-gt500/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/choices-nissan-gt-r-or-ford-mustang-gt500/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Click above to read the rest of the post and vote in our poll

A few months back we were lucky enough to roll around in a 2010 Nissan GT-R. On our way up to a pre-burnt Angeles Crest Highway for the now infamous flip-flop-gate photoshoot, yours truly began explaining to our intrepid photographer Drew Phillips just exactly how Nissan's latest and greatest is faster than a speeding Gallardo, more powerful than a F430 and able to leap tall canyon roads without breaking a sweat. And on and on and on. When I finally shut up, Drew asked me, "Would you take a GT-R over a GT500?" Whoa...

Read the rest of the post and vote in our poll after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan GT-R


Gallery: 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang

Continue reading Choices: Nissan GT-R or Ford Mustang GT500?

Choices: Nissan GT-R or Ford Mustang GT500? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Nissan GT-R2010 Shelby GT5002010NissanGt-r2010ShelbyGt500FordFord MustangFord Shelby Gt500FordMustangFordShelbyGt500GT-RGT500NissanNissan GT-RNissanGt-rShelbyShelby GT500ShelbyGt500 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST