Ever since the new Nissan GT-R made its return, it’s been considered the pinnacle of supercar performance. It nails everything from acceleration, to braking, to cornering to the overall way it makes a driver feel. Our friends at AutoCar decided to pin the new 540-hp 2013 Nissan GT-R (known as the 2012 model year in the UK) against the new 560-hp 2012 BMW M5 to find out if the new M5 can hold up to the hardcore Godzilla.

Check out their take after the jump.

Refresher:

• BMW M5: The 2012 BMW M5 is powered by a 4.4L V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo (consisting of Twin Scroll Twin Turbo Technology) making 560-hp between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 502 lb-ft from 1,500 rpm. Mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic (with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters), the 2012 BMW M5 goes from 0 to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds, 0 to 124 mph in 13 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph or 190 mph with M Driver’s Package.
• Nissan GT-R: The 2013 Nissan GT-R being the most powerful, is powered by a 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 engine making 545-hp, an increase of 15-hp over the 2012 GT-R, and torque has been increased from 448 lb-ft to 463 lb-ft. 0 to 62 mph for the 2013 GT-R has been reported to come in at 2.84 seconds.

- By: Omar Rana

At the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder made its concept debut. However, at the time Nissan focused much its attention on the exterior redesign of the Pathfinder. Today, Nissan is showing us more of the interior along with some significant details on what we can expect when the new model goes on sale.

Check out our original post on the Nissan Pathfinder Concept.

“As Nissan has expanded its range of adventure-ready SUVs to include Armada, Xterra, Murano, Rogue and JUKE, Pathfinder maintains its very important position in the heart of the lineup and the market – as a right-size, 3-row/7-passenger SUV with the seating and cargo capacity that growing families need,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “As families spend more time in their SUVs everyday as well as on weekends, the next-gen Pathfinder is stepping up with enhanced comfort, innovative technology, increased fuel efficiency, and most importantly, more flexibility for the family.”

The unibody platform of the new Nissan Pathfinder offers more benefits including a flat floor for more interior volume.

Some of the things we can expect from the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder’s interior:

• A quiet, comfortable interior includes leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated 2nd row seats, heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start and multiple user memory settings, and an advanced Bose Audio System with 13 speakers.
• Expected to be among the roomiest 2nd rows in its class, it also features exceptional 3rd row access. Larger rear door openings, 5.5 inches of 2nd row seat travel, and forward folding seat allow for ease of entry and exit to the 3rd row.
• 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.
• The 3rd row seat is a 50/50 split folding design, offering added cargo room.
• Technology: Advanced drive-assist display directly in front of the driver; a large multifunction IT display in the center of the dash, Nissan Navigation System with real-time traffic and weather information and Zagat Survey restaurant guide, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio and RearView Monitor.
• Nissan’s advanced Around View Monitor, which shows the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle. Tri-zone climate control system, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, power rear liftgate, iPod integration, and tri-zone entertainment system with 2nd row headrest-mounted DVD display screens.  Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) includes an individual tire pressure display and EasyFill Tire Assist.

- By: Omar Rana

Check out more news on the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

“There is an increasing need for a ‘right-sized’ van that optimizes cargo space while offering the best possible fuel economy and an affordable price – the exact sweet spots of the innovative new Nissan NV200,” said Joe Castelli, vice president, Nissan Commercial Vehicles and Fleet. “Businesses today, both large and small, are also looking for vehicles that represent their brands in the best light – smart, innovative, and professional. NV200 does that and much more.”

If you’v already head of the Nissan NV200 – then that’s because the van is already sold in more than 40 countries around the world and like usually – we’re the last ones to get it.

Alright let’s lay out the figures you van guys are waiting for – The Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van offers:

• Cargo capacity of 123 cubic feet (estimated using SAE J1100 rev 2009).
• The body has been extended 7.9 inches (200 mm) versus the models sold in other global markets. Longer body length offers additional cargo carrying capability for North American buyers (because we’re special).
• Measures 186.2 inches in overall length, on a 115.2-inch wheelbase,
• Allows for 1,500-pound (estimated) maximum payload.
• Cargo area dimension between the wheelhouses allows for loading standard U.S. 40×48-inch pallets. There are standard integrated mounting points, which and six available floor mounted cargo hooks in the cargo area.
• You can add business signage and graphics.
• Tall 40/60 split opening doors with dual opening positions (90 and 180 degrees).
• Offers ‘Mobile Office’ functionality with a center console featuring laptop/hanging file folder storage, pen/pencil tray, CD holder, and dual upholders.
• 12-volt power outlet on the instrument panel is standard, along with an available 12-volt power point in rear of center console.
• Passenger-side underseat storage tray, drive computer, battery saver feature, AM/FM/CD with auxiliary input and two front door mounted speakers.
• Optional Navigation System, Bluetooth wireless communications, XM Satellite Radio, RearView Monitor, and telematics pre-wiring (Nissan Fleet Tracker).

Power comes from a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine mated to at Xtronic CVT transmission. Hang on for pricing info.

- By: Omar Rana

“Since the original 1970 Z® was first introduced our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013, though subtle, go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

The updates for the 2013 model year include:

• Refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights
• Red reflector added to rear fascia (replaces previous black center cover)
• 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)
• Dark-finish fuel gauge trim
• Euro-tuned shock absorbers (Sport Package equipped models)
• And two new exterior colors – Magma Red and Midnight Blue

For 2013, the Nissan 370Z will be available again in Coupe, Roadster and NISMO Z trim levels.

Power for the 2013 Nissan 370Z Coupe and Roadster still comes from a 3.7 liter V6 making 332-hp mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic. The 2013 Nissan NISMO 370Z gets an upgraded 3.7 liter DOHC V6 engine matched to a H-configured exhaust system, muffler tuning and an upgraded ECM – helping it pump out 350-hp and 276 lb-ft of torque. The NISMO is only available with a 6-speed manual.

Prices will be announced closer to June.

- By: Omar Rana

Called the Nissan Invitation, the concept hints at a new mainstream B-segment model that is due to be launched in the UK from 2013. The Invitation concept itself well debut next month at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

“Invitation is an energetic design, bringing fresh style, innovation and excitement to the mainstream market,” Nissan said in a statement. “The clean fluidity of the silhouette hints at its dynamic potential and showcases class-leading aerodynamics for enhanced efficiency.”

The Invitation Concept brings together advanced engine tech, a lightweight platform and an aerodynamic design create a fuel-sipping compact vehicle. Nissan said it also ensures strong driving dynamics with agile handling.

Well, we won’t know if all this is true until 2013. Stay tuned.

- By: Omar Rana

Teasing GT-R enthusiasts, Francois Bancon, Infiniti of Tokyo head of advanced planning, has recently mentioned the strong possibility of an Inifiniti model based on the Nissan GT-R platform.

“It’s too good a platform to use only on one model,” Bancon said. The GT-R based model would be a flagship sports car for the luxury brand.

He also adds that “We have three or four proposals we are looking at right now. Once we have launched the new smaller Infiniti (coming in 2015), the time would be right to have a flagship.”

It will be at least two years before we know Infiniti’s plans for sure, so if the brand does decide to move forward with the project, it would be at least another five years before production.

Check out more news on the Nissan GT-R.

If Infiniti does need a halo car, is it right to mess with the 545hp V6 icon? In order to place its badge on the car, it would take some refinement over the sports car, which almost feels wrong. Part of what makes the GT-R iconic is that it is great in its own way, all by itself, boasting awesome horsepower and track-ready performance. On the other hand, Bancon could be right, is it simply a waste to use this platform on just one model? From a business standpoint this may be a good perspective, but as an enthusiast, the GT-R platform should be left alone.

By: Alexandra Koken

Source: CARMagazine

The pace for U.S. light vehicle sales rose by 11 percent last month and was set by a few major automakers including Chrysler Group, Volkswagen Group and Hyundai/Kia.

All major automakers posted sales gains last month except General Motors, which fell 6 percent from a strong January 2011. The automaker sold a total of 167,962 vehicles with Chevrolet being the main highlight as sales for the brand were up 13 percent.

“Chevrolet drove our performance once again and sales of our fuel-efficient new cars were especially good,” and Don Johnson, vice president, U.S. Sales Operations. “The strength that the economy and the auto industry showed in the fourth quarter carried into January, so we believe the year is off to a good start.”

FoMoCo sold a total of 136,710 vehicles in January, a 7 percent increase. Ford as a brand sold 131,589 vehicles in January, making it the best January sales month for the Ford brand since 2008.

Chrysler shined the most out of Detroit automakers with U.S. sales coming in at 101,149, a 44 percent increase compared with sales in January 2011.

Toyota sold a total of 124,540 units – up 7.5 percent. Honda sold 83,009 units a increase of 8.8 percent. Nissan was up 10.4 percent after selling 79,313 units.

Korean’s Hyundai was up 15 percent with total sales coming in at 42,694.

Germany’s Volkswagen Group sales were up 40 percent to 36,681 units. The sales were led by a 48 percent increase for the VW brand and 20 percent increase at at Audi.

- By: Omar Rana

The Nissan Juke-R may be a joke to many, but the car deserves its performance credits thanks to its 3.8 liter twin-turbo V6 from the Nissan GT-R along with the drivetrain, suspension and transmission. It produces a whopping 485-hp and can apparently go head-to-head with a Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and a Ferrari 458 Italia.

Check out more news on the Nissan Juke-R.

While it is street legal, sadly, the Nissan Juke-R is not a production car and only two versions were built (a right-hand drive and a left-hand drive).

Either way, check out a the official video by Nissan after the jump.

- By: Omar Rana

At the 2012 Chicago Auto Show next week, Nissan will be debuting the 2013 Nissan 370Z. As the name suggests the 370Z will continue on with its 332-hp 3.7 liter V6 engine, which is not a bad thing at all.

What you can expect is some subtle design changes to the front and back – but you shouldn’t expect a total redesign.

We’ll have more details from Chicago next week.

- By: Omar Rana

Car and Driver loves doing special features. So they’re back with their latest one for the 2012-year: the annual Lightning Lap. The competition is to compare some of the most critically acclaimed cars as of recent.

Taking place at Virginia’s International Raceway, the C/D team will compare a series of cars organized in various price classes and see who’s the fastest. The diversity includes and are not limited to the latest Volkswagen Jetta GLI, the Corvette ZR1, and for the first time, SUVs like the BMW X5 M and the hot new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8.

It really needs no explanation. And to make things more interesting, they even provided a video!

Check it out after the jump.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: CARandDRIVER

Nissan announced yesterday that it plans to invest up to $2.0 billion USD for an all-new plant in Aguascalientes, Mexico, to support the company’s growth strategy in the Americas.

The new plant, which will complement the Japanese automaker’s already two existing Mexican plants, i scheduled to kick off operations in late 2013. The new complex will support production of up to 175,000 units annually of Nissan’s ‘B’ platform products. Nissan will explore expansion of the site in phases as product and capacity are formalized.

The plant will create up to 3,000 direct jobs with approximately 9,000 positions to be generated within the supply chain and wider community.

“Mexico is a key engine for Nissan’s growth in the Americas,” said Carlos Ghosn, chairman and chief executive officer, Nissan Motor Co, Ltd. “Together with our new plant in Brazil, this new manufacturing facility in Aguascalientes is an important pillar in our strategy to ensure that Nissan has the capacity it needs to increase sales volume and market share across the Americas.”

- By: Omar Rana

Nissan has just unveiled its newest racecar for the FIA GT3 European Championship and Japan’s own SuperGT league: the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3.

Co-developed by Nissan’s in-house tuning firm, NISMO, and their official motorsports partner, JR Motorsports, the new Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3 is powered by a 3.8L twin-turbocharged V6 that’s based on the mill in the original GT-R. The result is 523hp at 6400rpm, which is channeled through a semi-automatic six-speed rear-mounted cog swapper.

Click here for more news on the Nissan GT-R.

So if you feel like you have what it takes to handle such a beast, pricing for the GT-R NISMO GT3 starts at just 298,000 Euros.

- By: Chris Chin

Nissan North America has just announced pricing for the 2013 Nissan GT-R, which is currently arriving at certified dealers nationwide.  Prices for the 2013 Nissan GT-R will start at $96,820 for the Premium Edition.

For the 2013 model year, output has been bumped to 545 hp (from 530 hp), with torque now at 463 lb-ft (from 448 lb-ft). In addition, the suspension has been retuned to enhance both performance and comfort. Other changes for the 2013 model year include a standard RearView Monitor and the Black Edition receives a new dry carbon fiber rear spoiler.

Mated to a dual-clutch transmission, 0 to 62 mph comes in just 2.8 seconds.

Check out our original post on the Nissan GT-R.

MSRP for the 2013 Nissan GT-R include:

Check out the official Nissan GT-R website:

- By: Omar Rana

For those of us iPhone users, we all appreciate the brilliant engineering that has come from Apple over in Pasadena, California in the world with iPhones. But we all dread the inevitable wear and tear that could be found on iPhones after being used…and dropped. And Nissan feels the pain, which is why they just introduced their own Scratch Shield iPhone case featuring the brand’s “self-healing paint finish.”

Beginning with Nissan’s paint technology, the brand has been employing their special paint jobs since 2005 on various Nissan and Infiniti models. Developed in conjunction with the University of Tokyo and Advanced Softmaterials Inc., the paint’s special ingredient is polyrotaxane. The beauty of that toxic sounding chemical is that when damage happens to the paint in the form of say, a fine scratch, the chemical structure of the paint “reacts” to the scratch and morphs its original shape to fill the gap, essentially “healing the blemish.”

“We like to think laterally by taking the great innovations we’ve got from an automotive point of view, and looking at how they could be applied to improve everyday issues,” said Bob Laishley, Overseas Programme Director in Business Development for Nissan in Europe. “The Scratch Shield iPhone case is a great example of us taking a Nissan automotive technology that has had a huge impact for our customers, and then shifting the boundaries to apply it to another everyday product.”

Nissan’s iPhone case is made of a combination of ABS and a tactile gel-like material to provide a more scratch-resistant surface and for better grip. The case is compatible with both iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S models. Product release details were not disclosed.

- By: Chris Chin

Recently there has been a bit of concern over the fact that the next Nissan Pathfinder will be a car-based crossover i.e. not a proper off roader.

Nissan might also be off their rocker in thinking that their Frontier will be serious competition for the Chevy Colorado and Toyota ‘taco when the Ford Ranger goes away, but there is this: Nissan engineers say that the next Nissan Xterra will be a body on truck frame SUV.

Back when the Xtrerra came out, Nissan did not produce the Rogue and so they didn’t have a direct competitor for the Toyota Rav4/Highlander (shopping car) crowd, but now they do.

- By: Sawyer Sutton

Source: CARandDRIVER

Officials at Nissan apparently confirmed that the Pathfinder will come with their long-running VQ V6 in its latest form, pumping out 3.5L, mated to a CVT transmission—with Nissan being one of the very few manufacturers who’ve made CVTs not so terrible—and all-wheel drive. Official power figures haven’t been released, but it’s safe to assume that the V6 in the Pathfinder will be similar to the Infiniti JX’s 3.5L V6, which makes 265hp and 248 lb-ft of torque.

Nissan also supposedly said that those thinking the Pathfinder has gone too soft shouldn’t jump the gun with their assumptions. The new Pathfinder’s AWD is said to be fully lockable in four-wheel drive mode for when the going gets rough.

To conclude, Nissan said that we could all expect a big show to come around for the full production debut of the new Pathfinder later in the spring at the New York International Auto Show.

All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana - egmCarTech.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: MotorTrend

Ford recently gave us something that used to be Euro-only: the Fiesta, and it has been well received, but they will be pulling the Ranger. Due to this gap, Nissan seems to think that it will capture the Ranger’s sales: “We’re really the beneficiary of Ford pulling out of the segment,” says Al Castignetti, Nissan Division’s U.S. sales boss.

This begs the question though: how long will the alleged gravy train last for Nissan? The next Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon will be coming out soon, and what is the Toyota ‘Taco then, chopped liver?

Ford’s truck sales figures as this question as well: Nissan thinks they have a fighting chance in the more roomy compact pickup segment, but when Ford sold over 70,000 now-discontinued Rangers last year (28% more than 2010), nearly 50,000 more than the number of Nissan’s full-size pickup, the Titan, it seems implausible that Nissan will fill the gap.

They might be punching through with an aggressive ad campaign to bring awareness of the company’s truck division, but as we have seen with the Suzuki Kizashi (they only sold 5,000-6,000 of them last year), aggressive advertising is not everything. Only time will tell.

- By: Sawyer Sutton

Source: Automotive News

Following the unauthorized Juke-R concept that was slyly crafted by Nissan UK, Fox Marketing comments “”When we first saw the Nissan Juke-R that Nissan UK built, we were blown away. But, to build a vehicle like the Juke-R you are talking a seven figure build budget.”

So to solve the cash shortage issue, Fox still used the inspiration to fuel a power upgrade that kicks 400hp out of the 1.6-liter engine with addition of a massive turbo and intercooler.

Click here for more news on the Nissan Juke.

A set of 20-inch wheels and 14 inch 6 piston calipers are included in the exterior mods, finished off by an aero package. On the inside, minor adjustments have been made, and a set of Yonaka racing seats replace the stock front seating.

- By: Alexandra Koken