Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van and 2013 Nissan 370Z Debut at Chicago Auto Show

CHICAGO, Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Three key future Nissan vehicles – the all-new 2013 Nissan NV200 compact cargo van, the revised 2013 Nissan 370Z sports car and the Pathfinder Concept, a preview of the re-imagined 2013 Nissan Pathfinder – share the spotlight at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, which runs Feb. 10 – 19 at McCormick Place. 

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

2013 Nissan NV200

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

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

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

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

2013 Nissan 370Z

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

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

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

Nissan Pathfinder Concept

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Nissan North America

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, design, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing.  Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010 and has been recognized as a 2010 and 2011 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency.  More information about Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.Infiniti.com.

About Nissan

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second largest Japanese automotive company by volume, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan and is an integral pillar of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 150,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4 million vehicles in 2010.

With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of fuel-efficient and low-emissions vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands.  A pioneer in zero emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award.

For more information on our products, services and commitment to Sustainable Mobility, visit our website at http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/.

SOURCE Nissan North America, Inc.