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2003 Buyer's Guide: Nissan
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| New car changes for 2003 |
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| Updated |
Mar 17, 2005 19:41:50 |
| Rating |
 16 ( -2 -12.5% ) | | Author | Staff |
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What's New in 2003
From the A4 Cabriolet to the Nissan 350Z.
2002 vs. 2003
New car...or newer car?
All About Rebates
Understanding rebates is the first step to getting a great deal.
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Since the debut of last year's new Altima, Nissan has been aggressively re-energizing its image through exciting new vehicles. From the Altima to this year's 350Z and Murano SUV, Nissan has reshaped itself as a powerful and hip force in the automotive world. Coming up later in 2003 and 2004 are still more changes, including a full-size truck, a 350Z convertible and a redesigned Quest minivan. This year's immediate debuts include the 350Z and the Murano.
Nissan Murano
Built on the same platform as the Altima, the Murano will have Nissan’s Continuously Variable Transmission and a 3.5 liter V-6. Murano means “sculpture”, and Nissan designers did a good job of staying true to the name: the exterior lines run smoothly from back lights to front, and a stylish back hatch adds personality to the overall look. Best of all, however, is the upgraded interior. Murano features comfortable seats, spacious rear seats and a high-tech central information center. The design of the dash shows a thoughtful, refined touch. The Murano, which launches in November, should compete with the Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot.
Developed, designed and engineered specifically for North America, it combines the functional aspects of an SUV with improved agility and ride comfort. The Nissan Murano comes with a standard 240-plus horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6. It also offers the first North American standard application of Nissan’s advanced Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Other performance features include 4-wheel independent suspension for a smooth, car-like ride and a new all-wheel drive system. A front-wheel drive model will also be offered. The Nissan Murano will be available December as a 2003 model.
Nissan 350Z
MSRP Range: $26,269 - $34,079
Few cars enter this world with as much anticipation as the new Nissan 350Z. Fewer still live up to the expectations as the 350Z has -- from inside to outside. Nissan's affordable sports car has zippy power, great torque and superb handling. The interior is a bit austere, but you won't buy this for plush seats and cupboards -- this 2-door, 2-passenger sports coupe is all about performance. Available in 5 trims, ranging from the Coupe to the Track, the Z is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 287-horsepower engine that gets 20-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. The Nissan 350Z is priced starting under $30,000, but good luck getting it for MSRP. Call your dealer and get on the waiting list.
Nissan Altima
MSRP Range: $16,649 - $22,649
For 2003, several minor enhancements have been made to the interior, including new charcoal seat fabric, padded cloth front center armrest cover (leather on leather-equipped vehicles), and bright titanium interior accent colors for all models. On the 2.5 SL, front seats will be heated along with the outside mirrors.
Nissan Frontier
MSRP Range: $12,799 - $26,549
Nissan will introduce a host of enhancements in 2003, including a power-operated retractable roof, available Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and a tire pressure monitoring system. Other changes include the addition of 10 horsepower to all normally aspirated V-6 models.
Nissan Maxima
MSRP Range: $24,699 - $27,099
No significant changes are planned for 2003. Look for a new Maxima in 2004.
Nissan Pathfinder
MSRP Range: $26,649 - $31,499
The Pathfinder receives only minor changes in 2003, including the addition of Satellite radio and a new four-spoke steering wheel.
Nissan Quest
MSRP Range: $22,739 - $27,149
The Quest is not a part of Nissan's line up this year. Look for a new Quest in 2004.
Nissan Sentra
MSRP Range: $11,999 - $13,949
The Sentra and Sentra SE-R received will receive minor changes in 2003, including a new power steering ratio and a close-ratio six-speed manual for the SE-R.
Nissan Sentra SE-R
MSRP Range: $16,199 - $17,199
The Sentra and Sentra SE-R received will receive minor changes in 2003, including a new power steering ratio and a close-ratio six-speed manual for the SE-R.
Nissan Xterra
MSRP Range: $17,999 - $26,499
For 2003, all 3.3-liter normally-aspirated V6-equipped Xterra models receive an additional 10 horsepower (an increase to 180 hp) and two additional lb-ft of torque (now 202 lb-ft) for 2003. In addition, Vehicle Dynamic Control with Traction Control System will be available on Xterra for the first time. All Xterra XE V6 models now come with standard 16-inch alloy wheels and side step rails. Four new exterior colors are available for 2003.
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