What's new at Nissan?
By Daniel Fricker • Bankrate.com

In August, 32 years after introducing the original, Nissan launched the latest in its series of Z sports cars. The 2003 Nissan 350Z traces its DNA directly to the 1970 Datsun 240Z, the dependable and affordable sports car that many credit with ending the British sports car reign.

At a base price of $26,269, the latest Z offers reliability and performance wrapped in a distinctive body design. Its 24-valve 3.5-litter dual overhead cam engine produces 287 horsepower and 274 foot-pounds of torque. The rear-wheel drive car comes with an electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission that allows drivers to shift without a clutch or with a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission.

"People certainly will be impressed by the performance,'' Nissan spokesman Fred Standish said. "They'll be impressed by the handling characteristics and they'll have an extremely distinctive car.''

Nissan unveiled the 350Z in January at Detroit's North American International Auto Show. To build prelaunch buzz for a car that has spawned clubs of devotees, Nissan offered a presale program capped at 7,800 cars.

"We wanted those folks who wanted it badly to get one early,'' Standish said.

Drivers who want a 2003 Z with all the options can expect to pay $37,187, he said.

In December, Nissan will launch the Murano, the automaker's first entry into the crossover sport utility market. With a sloping hoodline and steeply raked windshield, the Murano offers a unique silhouette.

Nissan Murano

click image for larger view

It comes with a standard 240-plus horsepower, 3.5-liter dual overhead cam V-6. It offers Nissan's version of the continuously variable transmission or CVT, which eliminates shift shock while providing smooth, responsive performance. The Murano also features four-wheel independent suspension. Nissan plans to offer a front-wheel drive model. No price has been set.

Infiniti's new offerings for 2003 are the M45 performance sedan and the G35 Sport Coupe.

Based on the flagship Q45, the M45 offers a 340-horsepower, 32-valve, 4.5-liter dual overhead cam engine and an electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. No price has been set.

The G35 has a stylish two-door 2+2 body and a long list of standard performance features. They include a 275-plus horsepower, 3.5-liter dual overhead cam V-6 producing 260 pounds of torque, enough to push you back into your seat. It also offers premium amenities such as ultra-soft leather seats, Bose audio system and a DVD-type navigation system. It is scheduled to go on sale in November. No price has been set.

Daniel Fricker is a business writer at the Detroit Free Press.

-- Posted: Oct. 1, 2002

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