This 2010 Nissan vehicle road test and review compilation Includes several articles about the new Nissan GT-R Super Sports Car and a couple of bonus articles on Nissan Xterra and Altima. All the Nissan sports cars, sedans, trucks and SUV's shown in these road tests and reviews are available as either new or Nissan Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) from Kelly Nissan in Easton, PA. The Kelly Nissan facility is one of America's best Nissan Dealerships as measured by sales and service customer satisfaction. The Kelly Nissan dealership is located in Easton, PA and sponsors the unique social network based Kelly Automotive Community website at http://www.KellyCarCommunity.com. You should visit and join this automotive social network to receive special discounts on Nissan new and used vehicles, genuine Nissan accessories, parts and Nissan repair and maintenance service. Kelly Nissan also hosts a more typical dealership eCommerce website located at http://www.KellyCar.com where their entire inventory of new Nissans, including a huge selection of 2010 Nissan Rogues, as well as their large inventory of Certified Pre-Owned Nissan cars, trucks and SUV's is updated daily, providing car buyers with full details including prices and optional equipment descriptions.

1. Issue 11
Winter Edition
NISSAN GT-R
Godzilla
is Back
. 2008 Nissan Xterra - What Role Are You Playing Today?
. Nissan Navara - Go Anywhere Do Anything
. Altima Coupe - Nissan’s Exciting New Coupe Races in GCC

2. NISSAN GT-R

3. EDITORIAL
“At Nissan we have the products. We have credible plans. We are
embracing opportunities, prepared to handle whatever comes our way.
We are building our future – and creating lasting value – one step at a
time, one product at a time. We have a lot to offer today, and so much
more promise yet to deliver. We are focused and on plan to deliver our
objectives. You can continue to expect the best from Nissan”.
MR. CARLOS GHOSN
PRESIDENT & CEO, NISSAN MOTOR CO. LTD.
The vision behind “SHIFT_” has led us to look at each car segment to identify what we can make
even better than before. This has resulted in the next generation of Nissan products. In this issue
you will witness the display of our latest models revealed during several regional motor shows.
Our newly revealed sporty model, which is generating enormous interest among the public, is the
Nissan GT-R. A legend in automotive design and engineering, the GT-R is one of the world’s fastest
vehicles, and probably the world’s easiest and most secure high speed car to drive fast. Fresh from
a triumphant debut at the Tokyo Motor Show, the Nissan GT-R was revealed for the first time to
the Middle East motoring enthusiasts during the Middle East International Motor Show in Dubai,
followed by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan Motor Shows.
Another main strength this year lies in our newly-launched Nissan Altima Coupe. The celebrity
Altima Sedan, with the escalating sales in the GCC market, is now mounting with the arrival of
the new Altima Coupe. Nissan Altima Coupe’s unique exterior design is intended to stand out in
a crowd of sedan-based two-door models. A lot of thought and strive for distinction resulted in
its magnetic, perfectly proportioned style. The new dramatically designed Nissan Altima Coupe
presents a true expression of style, individuality and sportiness. MR. TORu HASeGAwA
MANAGING DIRECTOR, NISSAN MIDDLE EAST FZE
As part of our motivational schemes, we organised recently the Nissan NISTEC and NISAC
competitions, which showcased some of the best talent the regional national sales companies
(NSCs) have. It was a challenging event and all the contestants contributed their very best, with 13
GCC and non-GCC NSCs being represented by a total of 28 participants for both competitions.
We also celebrated the success achieved by RYMCO, our official distributor in Lebanon, securing
No. 1 market leader position for the third year in a row. The entire region is witnessing remarkable
growth, and we have surpassed our targets ahead of schedule and by a large margin. This coincided
with Nissan Middle East successfully achieving its Nissan Value-Up sales objectives a year ahead
of schedule. Testimony to the continued growth and success of our products thanks to our loyal
Middle East customers.
One of our main announcements is for Nissan Motor Company winning the 2008 Catalyst Award,
the annual worldwide prize that honours exceptional initiatives from companies that support and
advance women in business. This is the first time that a company headquartered in Asia has won the
award which was conferred on the strength of a Nissan programme called Women in the Driver’s
Seat: Gender Diversity as a Lever in Japan.
In today’s competitive automotive landscape, there is no place for half-measures, no place for
shortcuts and no substitute for great products. At Nissan, passion drives our brands, passionate
people drive our products.
And the next generation SHIFTs today.
1

4. cOnTEnTs
1 Editorial
10 News
28 Technology
30 Me & My Nissan
4 Cover Story
Nissan GT-R
Godzilla Is Back
15 Heritage
Nissan And Record Breaking
16 Road Test
2008 Nissan Xterra
What Role Are You Playing Today?
20 Feature
Altima Coupe
Nissan’s Exciting New Coupe Races in GCC
22 Travelogue
Nissan Navara
Go Anywhere, Do Anything
26 Concept Car
Nissan Forum Concept
A Family Limousine
Editorial Team
Monal Zeidan
29
Design & Production
AdCom Advertising & Publishing
Motor Sports
Toyo Tyres 24-hrs of Dubai
Nissan 350Z Proves Its Mettle
Published for Advertising
Hakam Kherallah Nissan Middle East FZE AdCom Advertising & Publishing
Omneya Fawzi by Devshri Global Inv. Inc. P.O. Box 34556, Dubai, UAE
Issue 11 Pankaj Dev
Neville Jal Darukhanawalla
Editorial Office
P.O. Box 61111, Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAE
Suite #215, 933 N. Tel.: +971-4-3522337
Hania Tabet (TBWA/RAAD)
Winter Edition Suzan Dargham (TBWA/RAAD)
Vivian Hawat (TBWA/RAAD)
e-mail: shift_mag@nissan-me.ae
Website: www.nissan-me.com
Kenmore Street,
Arlington, VA 22201, USA
Fax: +971-4-3595983
E-mail: pankaj@adcomonline.com
Copyright
Law prohibits reproduction in whole or part of any matter, without prior written permission of the publisher. Copyright SHIFT_2008
Legal Disclaimer
Views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Nissan Middle East FZE and the publisher. We shall not be held liable in any manner.

5. cOvER sTORy
NISSAN GT-R
Godzilla InIEvery Nissan
A Little Bit Of GT-R
s Back
It is a supercar legend. And
it has been reinvented in
a totally new avatar and
will be smoking rubber in
the Middle East in 2009.
With pumped up bodywork
punctured with vents, mean-
eyed headlamps, swooping
roofline – the all-new Nissan
GT-R has recaptured the flair
of the Japanese supercars
of yore. Other supercars
beware; be afraid, very
afraid… The GT-R is here.
T he Gran Tourismo moniker has always
graced cars oozing with charisma, grace,
style and power. There have been many
distinguished cars carrying the GT badge – mostly
coming from Europe - but there has been one
many. So when Nissan decided to do away with the
Skyline name and make a new icon for the new (and
old) enthusiast, with emphasis only on the GT-R
brand, it was a massive challenge.
Nissan put the Skyline nameplate to bed in 2002
outstanding car from the Far East; Japan to be more whilst the GT-R in its concept form first saw the
specific, which has taken the GT tag to completely light at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, stunning
new heights by adding yet another alphabet to those public and industry alike with its dynamic and
famous two. So the GT becomes a GT-R. aggressive styling. Then in 2005, again at the Tokyo
Through the years, Nissan’s famous Skyline GT-R Motor Show, the GT-R Proto was unveiled and this
has avowed motoring enthusiasts around the world, was to be the most definitive incarnation of today’s
spawning a diehard following while at the same time production GT-R, with nearly 80-90 per cent of the
instilling fear in competition much more expensive. Proto’s features making it into production. The Nissan
It is always a hard act to follow something iconic GT-R, although no longer carrying the ‘Skyline’ badge
and the Skyline GT-R was, no still is, an icon for has heritage in the Nissan Skyline GT-R.
4 5

6. The new GT-R was launched on October 24 last completion every GT-R undergoes a battery of The GT-R’s new engine produces 480PS at
year and lives up to the concept of “an ultimate comprehensive tests to ensure the proper operation 6400rpm and maximum torque of 588Nm from
supercar enjoyable to anyone, anywhere, at anytime”. of all vehicle components. 3200 to 5200rpm. Putting the power to the
The 480PS twin-turbo GT-R features a newly To properly support the all-new GT-R, Nissan ground via all four wheels is an all-new GR6-type
developed Premium Midship package, including the has established special Nissan High Performance dual clutch transmission, with paddle shifting and
world’s first independent transaxle 4WD developed Centres in Japan, where all certified advisors and a Borg Warner six-plate dual clutch for direct
independently by Nissan. technicians have received extensive training. Total control.
The GT-R slippery shape is moulded in a support for the GT-R owner is offered for the first Suspension duties are handled through a special
combination of steel, carbon fibre and aluminium, three years of ownership, including measurement Bilstein DampTronic system, which utilises
providing a unique combination of stiffness and and adjustment of the engine, transmission and all pertinent vehicle information to provide
lightness, giving it a low coefficient of drag of 0.27 wheel alignment after the first 1000 km. appropriate damping forces for all situations
which enhances fuel efficiency. and helps maintain a high level of control for
The high level of advanced technology is evident Packaging and Driveline Apt for a straight-line driving, cornering, and braking.
even in GT-R’s paint – which utilises a “double Supercar There are three levels of adjustability – R (Race),
clear coat” and “anti-chipping” process and is The all-new Nissan GT-R uses a Premium Midship S (Sporty) and C (Comfort), along with a choice
painstakingly hand-polished by craftsman. GT-R package, an all-new platform which enables the use of full auto or semi-manual gear shifts and the
features Ultimate Silver as a special new colour. of the world’s first application of an independent wherewithal to completely switch off all stability
GT-R was developed with a new understanding transaxle 4WD system. The transaxle’s layout places control systems.
and appreciation of the Earth’s natural forces the dual-clutch transmission, transfer case and final Four-wheel drive is an essential ingredient.
– gravity, inertial force and aerodynamics – and drive at the rear of the vehicle (instead of the usual It is electronically controlled with mechanical
translates those forces into a completely new front location), which enables vehicle weight to be operation using pinion-type differentials, in
design, maximising tyre grip and airflow. A design evenly distributed throughout the car. This gives normal driving conditions power going straight
that is wedgy, with menacing headlamps and sheet GT-R a superb front-to-rear weight balance, while to the rear wheels and when required up to 50 per
metal carved with lines that end up in an absolutely enhancing leg and foot space and allowing for an cent heads up front.
curvaceous form. The GT-R has character, super optimal pedal layout. Braking is essential for a daily-driven supercar
proportions and more sophistication. Powering the GT-R is an all-new 3.8-litre twin and GT-R features large Brembo full-floating
This is seen by the in-car display designed by the turbo V6 “VR38” engine, featuring plasma-sprayed drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads
team that created Gran Turismo (the game that is). It bores and a special twin-turbo exhaust manifold and Brembo mono block six-piston front and
shows the car’s vital signs, plus some more info like system – Nissan’s first twin-turbo V6 since the four-piston rear callipers, which in combination
the g-force you are pulling when blasting through 300ZX. A secondary air management system minimise fade and provide stable braking. Run-
fast curves. No doubt this info came in handy when enables the newly designed power-plant to provide flat tyres, exclusively designed for use on GT-R,
the GT-R lapped the awesome Nurburgring in a approximately 40kgm of torque during ordinary balance high grip and all-weather capabilities and
time of 7m38s – the fastest a production car has low-rev driving, which provides for an optimum a comfortable ride in all driving situations. The
ever lapped this famed and daunting circuit! air-fuel ratio for around-town efficiently and helps tyres are designed to maintain their integrity for
Engines and transmissions are assembled in GT-R meet ultra-low emission vehicle (U-LEV) 80km of travel at 80 km/h and also provide a
a “F1-style clean room” environment and upon standards in Japan. level of performance after a loss of pressure.
Kazutoshi Mizuno
driving and sporty performance, putting every possible driving situation under the
control of the driver. We took this idea to a new level for the new Skyline. The
“Premium Midship package” used for the first time in the Nissan GT-R, is a result
Chief Vehicle Engineer / Chief Product Specialist, gets all nostalgic on the of our challenge to create the world’s best supercar with total performance. This
package came about as we focused on the fundamental principles of cars, without
new GT-R. Here’s what he has to say… dividing them into categories like racing cars, mass-production vehicles and the
like. It’s the ultimate development of two core ideas: First, airflow can become
power. Second, when weight is evenly distributed to the four wheels, the tyres grip
T
he new GT-R inherits the tradition created by the long line of GT-Rs, the put supercars in a market supposedly for a very limited class of users. We were the road surface, so grip limits can be determined by how we distribute weight.
highest class of the domestic Skyline series, and is now reborn as “The committed in developing the Nissan GT-R with a whole new concept, “a supercar Based on these ideas, every component in the Nissan GT-R, the body, engine,
supercar that creates the greatest inspiration” to the world. Not only that, it which offers a safety and a high performance supercar life for anyone, anywhere, transmission, suspension, tyres, everything, was newly developed exclusively for
also shows the way for all future Nissan vehicles. As a vehicle which represents at anytime”. It is a supercar that offers speed and fuel efficiency, power and the Nissan GT-R. We concentrated on the creation of performance through vehicle
Nissan, it has been given the name “Nissan GT-R”. There are two major purposes clean air, high performance and safety. Nissan’s new GT-R, a multi-performance packaging and ‘the development and utilization of an overall vehicle measurement
of this Nissan GT-R. supercar, creates a whole new position for supercars. system’ for unified technology communication. Members from planning, designing,
First and foremost, represented by dynamic performance and active safety, as Racing cars remain stable under any condition by applying downforce and testing, and production have come together as a dedicated team to develop this
well as an approach toward environmental-friendliness and safety by a supercar, distributing the load equally to all four wheels. They offer both comfort and a vehicle and create a whole new sales and service structure.
the Nissan GT-R was born with the role to appeal Nissan’s technology to all feeling of stability described by drivers as ‘the tyres are sucked to the ground’. There was a supercar boom in the late 1970s, and I am sure many people have
corners of the world. Beginning with the development of new technologies, the Beyond that they are very safe, keeping the driver from harm even in high-speed dreamed of owning a supercar and enjoying it to the fullest, with total confidence.
developmental process and engineering team structure, methods for measurement accidents. Why aren’t these technologies applied to mass-production cars to The Nissan GT-R has a different perspective and aspires to makes those dreams
in testing and production, quality guarantee, performance guarantee, and through benefit customers? come true. The Nissan GT-R represents a new dimension of multi-performance
to the unique sales and services structure at special Nissan GT-R dealerships, we In my mind I formulated a study for applying racing technologies to mass- in a supercar developed with a completely new approach, returning to the first
aimed to demonstrate the future for all Nissan models through everything created production cars, and shortly thereafter I ended my racing career and took charge of efforts by our team to make that dream come true resulted in the development of principles of moving in a straight line, cornering and braking. In the Nissan GT-
for the Nissan GT-R project. developing consumer vehicles. I met with people I believed could share my dream, the FM package and its realization in the Skyline and Fairlady Z. R I have instilled my hopes on how a car can excite people worldwide, how
Second is the creation of a whole new supercar market. Traditionally, elements and began developing the FM package. At the time most considered the idea The concept of the FM package is “flat-ride sport”. Flat body-control that automakers worldwide might react to it, and for the car itself, that it continues to
such as the roads it could be driven on, weather conditions, and driving techniques, of applying racing technologies to mass-production cars just a dream. Dedicated requires no eye movement creates a flat-ride environment that allows for precise evolve to satisfy customers.
6 7

7. N
issan can now reveal that the Middle East Inside Story
motor sport hero, who was one of the first It’s not only power and the way it ride and handles to the GT-R’s psyche.
to test the legendary Nissan GT-R before Nissan wants this car to appeal not only to aficionados of the GT-R mystique but
it was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show earlier
also the middle-aged middle classes this time round so the interior is of a much
in 2007, is none other than the Middle East Rally
higher standard than before. There is an incredibly high level sense of solidity,
star Mohamed Ben Sulayem.
Nissan invited Rally legend Ben Sulayem with the fit and finish on a different plane altogether. The doors close with a well-
to test drive the Nissan GT-R super car at an damped thud, with seats swaddled in leather. Aluminium trim adds style while
undisclosed race track location in Japan in late reminding that this is a Grand Tourismo in the true sense of the word offering
2006, ahead of its official launch in Japan last flair and function to the sporty driver as well as to the bloke who just wants to
year. In the presence of Nissan CEO, Carlos make a statement. There are side airbags in the front seats, while a Bose audio
Ghosn, who also tested the super car, Ben system gets occupants in the mood with some awesome sound quality fit for a
Sulayem took the advanced super-car through premium supercar owner.
its paces and tested the GT-R thoroughly on the
highly technical mountain test track. His initial
findings and comments on the car have confirmed
GT-R’s styling follows the function over form theory. Sculpted performance
bucket seats give the driver and passenger a comfortable driving experience, and Design talk...
soft pads are utilised on the lower portion of the instrument panel and doors to
Secret Test Driver
the ultra-high capabilities and performance of the
legendary Nissan GT-R. The verdict was clear – give an extra level of comfort and safety. Hiroshi Hasegawa
nothing is normal about the new GT-R. The instrument panel surrounds the driver, with all meters and multi-function Product Chief Designer
meter at a uniform height to minimise the driver’s head movement when travelling
For GT-R Revealed
“High performance cars have a tendency to
This is the first globally marketed GT-R in the
handle best only when driven by experienced at high speeds. A large centre-mounted tachometer, with gear display on its upper history of the line, which started with the PGC10 GT-R
drivers yet the GT-R has the handling, right, as well as the easy-to-read graphics of the display, gives the driver instant in 1969. Through the process of design I worked to
transmission, traction and performance to enable detailed information, essential for the performance nature of the GT-R. A large, give this car an overwhelming presence, persistently
anyone to drive this car with ease. This makes
the GT-R stand out from other super-cars – it
Mohammed Ben Sulayem in exclusive metallic-framed centre console features the ergonomically designed shift lever expressing the originality of Japanese car culture.
This is why the body is not derived from a production
and a red “engine start” button.
enables performance from anyone,” explained test drive of Nissan Supercar The screen interface features not only the navigation system, but also an
sedan or coupe, but is one of a kind, the first in GT-R
history. This is our ultimate, most faithful rendition of
Ben Sulayem.
enriched entertainment system with a Music Box hard drive, DVD and CD player, the GT-R redefined.”
“Nissan sees the Middle East as key growth wide torque spread, good fuel economy and low leading aerodynamic drag co-efficient of just
market and is proud to build on this association and Bluetooth® audio function.
emissions. The engine powers an independent 0.27 Cd, one of the world’s slickest cars. “What makes a Nissan GT-R boils down to two
by bringing in a leading motor sports driver to test Dampers, gear shift and VDC-R (Vehicle For special use in the GT-R application, the multi-function display also includes
transaxle 4WD system - a world first - that ideas: ‘design backed by function to realize exceptional
the Nissan GT-R. We are very proud to see such a Dynamic Control) are all manually adjustable, mechanical and driving information for safe high performance driving, including performance,’ and ‘continuation of the original design heritage’.”
continuously adjusts torque front-to-rear and
positive response from Mohammed Ben Sulayem by simple switches on the dashboard. The GT-R accelerator opening, brake pedal pressure, and steering angle. It also includes an
vice versa. A new six-speed paddle shift dual- “Landmark features from the Nissan GT-R design history that the new model
and are pleased to see the high level of Nissan includes a multi functional instrument display, “optimal gearshift map,” to encourage economical vehicle operation.
clutch gearbox featuring the exceedingly quick maintains are the edgy box-shape of the PGC10 GT-R of 1969, the four round
engineering, design, performance and comfort designed by the people who did the graphics for Standard safety equipment includes a pop-up engine hood, system for enhanced
gearshift plus full automatic function for ease-of taillamps of the KPGC110 GT-R (1973), and the grille opening of the R34 GT-R
shine through the GT-R, demonstrating that there the Sony PlayStation Gran Turismo game. pedestrian safety, driver and front passenger SRS Air Bag System, front seat belts
driving. The big ventilated Brembo disc brakes (1999), a symbolic use of the cooling feature in the design.
is a little bit of GT-R in every Nissan,” said Toru The Nissan GT-R was born with a challenger with tension reducer, front seat belts with load limiter, and three-point rear seat
Hasegawa, Managing Director of Nissan Middle offer immense stopping performance. spirit as one of the most accomplished and belts. Driver and front passenger SRS Side Air Bag System and SRS Curtain Air
East. The Nissan GT-R’s lightweight body, which technologically advanced high performance car
Bag System are also offered. Shiro Nakamura
The GT-R is a truly world-class super-car, uses a new combination for the first time (Nissan’s ever made. Senior Vice President, Design
powered by a brand new V6 3.8-litre twin turbo ‘Premium Midship’), features die cast aluminium, The GT-R went on sale in Japan in December last with 1000 units rolling
engine, mating great horsepower (480 hp*), a carbon fibre and advanced steel and has a class- *Japanese specs. off the production lines per month to ensure high quality control whilst further We wanted to design a car that looked uniquely
fueling the already insatiable demand. Japanese - it is very definitely not a European or
American fast car. We also wanted to highlight the
There’s no doubt: Nissan has a winner in the GT-R and going by the response functionality of the car - it is a car that is easy to use
garnered at the Dubai Motor Show last year, the GT-R is sure to embrace many and easy to drive - and continue the proud heritage
converts in the Middle East to its cause. Converts from European and American of the GT-R.”
sports cars, that is.
“The mission was to achieve a distinctive car, a
It is truly a supercar for the masses with the style, design and guts to take on supercar, but not a normal fast car – it’s chunkier,
the establishment with aplomb. Now you don’t need big bucks to go chasing the more practical and more muscular. The element of functionality is core to the GT-R.
big boys. The big boys are gonna chase you…and fail! It’s not too low; it’s easy to get in and out of, has good visibility and is easy to drive.
That functionality is reflected in the design. It is clearly not an Italian, German or
American car - it is unmistakably Japanese. It is very mechanical, almost like an
Neville Jal Darukhanawalla animated robot - it is obviously made from metal, has big shoulders and looks strong
and muscular. The previous R34 GT-R had the same image. Almost like you could
*Please Note: All Specs in this article are pertaining to Japanese version be playing this car on a video game.”
“We didn’t want a nice elegant shape - we wanted an original shape. Some
people who buy this car will also have a Ferrari and a Porsche. This car must be
different from all others. I see it as a car influenced not by feminine beauty, like
Italian cars, but by masculine beauty - it is strong, well toned, well muscled. It has big
deep flanks and is very toned – that’s part of the muscled stance.”
“Designing a car is always a balance between engineering and aesthetics. But
with the Nissan GT-R we had very little conflict. We knew this car had to be Nissan’s
technological showcase.”
“An underlying philosophy of the Nissan GT-R is that it is a fast car that’s easy
to drive fast. So there is nothing intimidating about the controls. Everything feels
instantly familiar, apart from the novel multi-function meter - which is also highly
intuitive and we believe will prove very popular with owners.
8 9

8. nEWs
NISSAN URVAN SALES EXCEED 1,000 A MONTH
NOVEMbER SALES Of NISSAN URVAN A RECORD ACHIEVEMENT Genuine Nissan Accessories
Gulf sales of Nissan’s Urvan have surpassed a Nissan Middle East. Sales Companies to satisfy customer requirements
significant milestone with over 1,000 units sold in “Nissan Urvan annual sales have been consistently across the Gulf. The Nissan Urvan benefits from
November last year, for the first time ever. Across rising over the past few years and this month is a the best support and customer care services in the
the GCC, Nissan’s National Sales Companies sold record achievement. This performance represents a region, championed by Nissan Middle East,” added
a total of 1,022 Nissan Urvans, demonstrating its 50 per cent increase compared to last year’s average Alavi.
strong appeal in the Light Commercial Vehicle monthly sales.” added Alavi. The Nissan Urvan is available in four options
(LCV) market. The Nissan Urvan offers unique features that – a luxury 12 passenger microbus, a standard 15
“Businesses across the region are looking for offer significant economic benefits as well as more passenger microbus, a six passenger Half Panel
reliable commercial vehicles that are economical, comfort, flexibility, convenience, safety and better Van (HPV) or as a three passenger van with large
comfortable and also convenient. These businesses performance than its competitors. It is the ideal and versatile carrying capacity. Nissan’s Light
have found everything they need in the Nissan business partner for transporting passengers and Commercial Vehicles range also offers the Nissan
Urvan. This is clearly proven by Nissan and its cargo in superior comfort, cost-efficiency and Civilian bus that seats up to 30 passengers and the
National Sales Companies exceeding sales of 1,000 convenience. famous single-cab and double-cab Nissan Pickup
units a month in the region,” said Reza Alavi, Head “The November figures are the result of that offers a premium choice to entrepreneurs and
of the Light Commercial Vehicle Business Unit at remarkable collective efforts by Nissan’s National individuals alike. Hatch Tent - Armada
Load Warrior by Yakima - Xterra
Nissan has introduced a range of genuine accessories for your favourite Nissan model.
NIssaN hoNourEd For WoMEN IN BusINEss proGraMME So pamper your Nissan with great add-ons to enhance the looks as well as add more
Nissan Motors Co. Ltd has won the 2008 Catalyst in business and in the automotive market,” said Toru sales staff at Nissan dealerships has also increased, while functionality. Without a doubt, ‘Nissan Genuine Accessories’ are the way to go to add
Award, the annual worldwide prize that honours Hasegawa, Managing Director at Nissan Middle East. the percentage of women in manufacturing plants more more value to your Nissan. Discover a wide selection, with everything from floor mats
exceptional initiatives from companies that support and “Nissan Motor Co. Ltd is determined to promote women than doubled. to roof spoilers.
advance women in business. and spread gender diversity in its workplace. We empower Components of the initiative include career advancement
But that’s just part of the story, because you can pick up all of our car accessories
support through specialist career advisors for women only,
This is the first time that a company headquartered women who are great leaders and present innovation to knowing you’re getting the best price and peace of mind as all accessories bought along
as well as ergonomic adjustments to equipment and other
in Asia has won the award which was conferred on the our company. With this, we tend to inspire and encourage with your new Nissan is guaranteed by the company. Custom-designed to custom fit
improvements in facilities and working conditions at plants
strength of a Nissan programme called Women in the other manufacturers to embrace gender diversity.” that allow women to contribute fully. your Nissan; these accessories are durable and tough, and meet stringent Nissan quality
Driver’s Seat: Gender Diversity as a Lever in Japan. Since 2004, women in Nissan management positions The business case for having women as decision-makers standards.
“Nissan worldwide is have increased from 36 to 101 and the percentage of and in positions of influence was developed in response Go now to your nearest Nissan dealership and pamper your car.
very conscious of the women managers in the design, planning and product to research by Nissan identifying women as influencers of
role of women planning function has doubled. The percentage of female two-thirds of all car purchases.
Running Boards, Body Side Moldings,
Splash Guards - Path Finder
Roof Spoiler - Qashqai
NIssaN
QashQaI a hIt IN
EuropE… aNd IN MIddlE
East too!
Just nine months into its life cycle, the Nissan Qashqai has taken Europe by storm, selling over 100,000 units in just nine
months! And this trend seems to carry on in the Middle East too – the Qashqai generating tremendous response and sales in
the two months since its launch here.
The Qashqai was launched in Europe last year in
March and has exceeded sales forecasts in the European markets of Holland, Portugal and Austria, Greece, Slovakia and Norway. Built in
Emergency Road Kit - Altima
the UK, this latest urban crossover from Nissan has taken the fancy of the car buying public there; the UK along with Russia being the Qashqai’s two largest markets.
“Today’s motorists have a wide range of requirements when choosing their SUVs, which is why Nissan has the largest range of SUVs in the Middle East,” said Abdul Ilah
Wazni, SUV Brand Manager at Nissan Middle East. “An increasingly important factor for customers in making their decisions is fuel economy and the opportunity to take cars over all types
of terrain; making the Qashqai an ideal choice for many.”
With the Middle East being a playing ground for SUV-like vehicles, the Qashqai has created a veritable niche for itself combining the merits of a SUV along with the styling, size and agility of
a traditional hatchback to envelope new converts to its cause.
“Qashqai is a new concept in compact crossover SUVs; providing the economy of a compact car with the ruggedness and off-road capability expected of an SUV, the Qashqai combines these
elements to provide drivers with two increasingly popular requirements – fuel economy and off-road capability,” added Abdul Ilah.
A 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine is the powerplant of choice in the Qashqai. Developing 142hp/5,200 rpm with torque of 20.5 kg-m/4,400 rpm, this unit has the power and the
efficiency to cater to a wide audience of buyers. Nissan’s excellent Xtronic CVT transmission with six-speed manual-shift mode is employed to send power to all four wheels shod
with 17-inch tyres. Nissan’s highly praised electronically controlled ALL MODE 4x4® system and a four-wheel drive is implemented to provide greater traction for safer
driving and extra control in all weathers. Other safety features include side and curtain airbags and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).
Main features include front fog lamp, Bluetooth Hands Free Phone System, Xenon head lamps, auto air-conditioning with dual zone temperature control, six-speaker
audio system with six-disk CD changer, rear parking sensors, intelligent key, fine vision instrument gauges, cruise control, illuminated steering wheel controls and
rain-sensing wipers. Rear Park System - Qashqai All-season Floor Mats - Xterra
In May 2007, the car was awarded the maximum five-star rating for adult occupant protection from the European New Car Assessment
Programme (Euro NCAP), with the highest-ever score for any vehicle.
10 11

9. NAVARA TAKES THE HONOURS
NIssaN No.1 For thrEE YEars IN roW FROM NORTH TO SOUTH
Nissan Middle East celebrated the success Russia, China and the Middle East. ahead in 2008, but they were confident to continue
achieved by RYMCO, its official distributor “Our achievement is a signal of our confidence their strong sales momentum. the rigours and extreme temperatures
in Lebanon, securing No. 1 market leader in the Nissan brand and winning mindset. We have Lebanon is seen as a trend setting market in the of the desert environment.
position for the third year in a row. great products to sell and service, and the challenge Middle East and a top tourist destination for GCC Double-cab Navara, is available
Abdo Sweidan, travelers. in a 4WD & 2WD models in Nissan
CEO of Rasamny Nissan Middle East showrooms. The 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder,
Younis Motor Co. anticipates retail sales in the 16-valve petrol engine turns out 162
(RYMCO), received territories that fall under hp at 5,200 rpm and 41 kg-m torque
the award on behalf its jurisdiction will register at 2,000 rpm, while the turbo diesel
of his company remarkable growth in the
from top executives equivalent produces 171 hp at 4,000
fiscal Year 2007(April 20007- rpm and the same torque output.
from Nissan HQ
March 2008). Navara is equipped with either a
in Japan as well as
“Nissan Middle East 5-speed automatic transmission and
Nissan Middle East
management. estimates retail sales in its 6-speed manual. Some of the key
Motoring editors from Russia to South Africa
RYMCO is one of territories in the fiscal year features include power door locks, front fog lamps,
have named the Nissan Navara in their 2007 honours
the leading vehicle 2007 (April 2007 to March 6-speaker audio system with CD player, power
list, bestowing awards from ‘Car of the Year’ to ‘Top
retail dealerships 2008) will reach 184,000 windows, keyless entry, guard frame protector, dual
in Lebanon,
representing both
units, representing a 35 per
cent growth compared to the
Pick-up’.
Almost 50 years after Nissan pioneering in the airbags, anti-lock braking, and Xenon headlamps. NISSAN POWERS
GULF CUP CRICKET
compact pick-up truck, the all new Navara sets the One-time luxuries for pick-ups, such as cruise
Nissan and Infiniti fiscal year 2006”, commented control, premium trim and upholstery, are standard
standards around the world.
brands. The award Toru Hasegawa, Managing equipment on the Navara. The double cab seats five
In South Africa, Bakkie and Truck Action
was also given Director of Nissan Middle
magazine designated the Navara as ‘Best Bakkie while still providing ample storage space in the rear A total of 27 teams from the UAE,
to RYMCO in East.
2007’, following its ‘Double Cab of the Year’ title load bay.
recognition of its contribution to consolidating was to grab the top position in sales. To come “Nissan has the largest SUV lineup of Inside, comfort complements the exterior UK and India played in the Nissan Gulf
Nissan’s brand equity in the Lebanese market. second was not an option for us at all”, said Abdo awarded by Caravan and Outdoor Life Magazine in
any auto-manufacturer in the region, giving 2006. ruggedness, with superior fittings and finishes Cup cricket tournament for young players.
“What has been achieved in Lebanon is a huge Sweidan, CEO of RYMCO.
success. Generally, the entire region is witnessing He said the uphill task of gaining the top position customers an option to suit every lifestyle and In Europe, the Navara was named 2007 ‘Car of having overtaken the Navara’s early commercial
Sides from top six UAE universities took
remarkable growth, and we have surpassed our in a competitive market like Lebanon started in budget. Add to this a superb range of award- the Year’ by Russia’s Autopanomara magazine, ‘Best origins.
targets ahead of schedule and by a large margin”, 2005. “In 2004, Nissan was in the second position. winning passenger cars such as new recently- Pick-up of the Year’ by Formula Todo Terreno in “The Navara is a consistent award-winner, and part for the first time at the Sheikh Zayed
Gilles Normand, Corporate Vice-President Nissan In 2005, we scored the first position. 2006 was the launched all-new models, such as the Altima Spain, ‘Pick-up of the Year’ by the UK’s 4x4 magazine the latest honours add to a long list of accolades,” Stadium in Dubai.
Motor Co. Ltd told a gathering of Nissan Middle year we repeated our success with slightly higher and ‘Top Pick-up’ by the ‘Professional Juries’ panel said Abdul Ilah Wazni, SUV Brand Manager at
sedan and coupe, the Xterra, Qashqai and Navara This is the fourth successive year that
East office in Dubai. sales. At the end of 2007 we managed to keep our in Russia – representing editors -in-chief and leading Nissan Middle East. “Middle East owners are now
He laid particular stress on the significant increase #1 position and strengthen our market share up to SUV’s, have been a major boost to Nissan’s journalists from the automotive media. discovering why this vehicle is so enduringly popular Nissan has sponsored the event, which
in sales in a number of overseas markets, including 19%”, he revealed. He said many more challenges lie profile in the region,” added Hasegawa. In France, the Navara was chosen as best ‘Sort and we are confident that by the end of 2008 it will
Style’ at the 4x4 Motor Show and ‘Best-Selling also be an award-winner here.” develops cricketing talent at three age
Pick-up in Europe’ by Turkey’s Hurriyet Otoyasam The all-new 2008 model makes another award- levels – under-11s, under-14s and under-
Gazetesi auto magazine. winning addition to Nissan’s SUV line-up in the
Nissan NISTEC and NISAC competitions wrap up Having been launched in the Middle East this year,
the Navara’s latest international awards underline
region, which with eight different nameplates is
17s. Monal Zeidan, General Manager,
Marketing and Corporate Communications
already the largest offered by any manufacturer.
finals of the Nissan International Service Technical The NISAC contest, although covering the GCC its distinguished pedigree. Now the Navara is part The Navara – along with fellow newcomers
Contest (NISTEC). He held off tough competition countries, managed to attract an impressive 11 at Nissan Middle East said, “Nissan is keen
of the region’s biggest Nissan SUV line-up. Along Qashqai and Xterra – has joined the five established
from 16 other competitors, representing 13 Nissan finalists. The winner was recognised at a ceremony with all Nissan SUVs, the Navara – has undergone to power sporting challenges that enrich
members of the Nissan SUV stable: the Armada,
dealerships from the six GCC countries, as well as held at Metropolitan Palace Hotel. extensive testing to make sure it more than matches Murano, Pathfinder, Patrol and X-Trail. people’s lives.”
Syria, Lebanon, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and “Both the NISTEC and NISTAC competitions
Azerbaijan. are part of Nissan’s motivation scheme for dealers “The Nissan Gulf Cup gets bigger
Janaka’s Arabian Automobiles colleague, Anil and employees. Each competition is always YEMEN’S MiNiSTRY OF DEFENcE SElEcTS NiSSAN
Tauro, took the silver medal, whilst bronze was contested at every level, including individual every year. With such an exciting line-up of
Nissan’s 12th NISTEC and 2nd NISAC awarded to Ricardo Lopez from Qatar’s NSC dealership, country qualification and area finals.”
competitions ended, showcasing some of the best
international young cricket talent and with
Saleh Al-Hamad Almana Co. Tauro also won ‘Best said Abdul Hamid Saleh, General Manager, DLR
talent Nissan’s regional national sales companies Performance’ award for the category ‘body electrics’, Development and Customer Service Department, the sport being so popular in the GCC
(NSC) have to offer. It was a challenging event and whilst Janaka and Lopez took the same prize for Nissan Middle East & North Africa and CIS
all the contestants contributed their very best, with region, it has been our pleasure to give
‘Periodic Maintenance & Chassis Repair’ and ‘Engine Region.
13 GCC and non-GCC NSCs being represented by a Management’ respectively. The competitors were judged upon their practical future generations a challenging platform
total of 28 participants for both competitions. In the corresponding Nissan Service Advisor skills, such as maintenance and engine management
Dubai technician, Rohan Janaka, has proven to compete,” added Zeidan.
Contest (NISAC) for service advisors personnel, for NISTEC and consultation proficiency for
himself to be the best Nissan technician throughout Arabian Automobile’s Raj Varghese was awarded with NISAC. Participants were exposed to the four
12 Middle Eastern countries. He will be flown to the gold medal, whilst silver went to Gamil Ibrahim “We are extremely proud of the results of both
Japan to be honoured at the company’s headquarters new Nissan models that recently joined
Rabie and bronze to Mustafa Ali Alheyyari, both from the competitions. It was an excellent opportunity to
for his achievement. Saudi Arabia’s NSC Al-Hamrani United Co. Varghese show our utmost appreciation to our dealers and the large Middle East line-up from Nissan
Janaka, who works at Arabian Automobiles, the also won ‘Best Performance’ for the ‘Receiving and their staff. The true power behind any company is Tehama Trading Company, Nissan’s Yemen NSE recently delivered 50 vehicles
Nissan distributor for Dubai and Northern Emirates, Handling Telephone Calls’ category, and Al-Hamrani the talent and motivation of its people and that’s the (30 nos. Sunny, 10 nos. Civilian Bus & 10 nos. Urvan Bus) to the Ministry of such as all-new Nissan Altima, Xterra,
overcame intense competition to win the Middle East United’s Ahmed Taj Elsir for ‘Vehicle Delivery’. vision at Nissan Middle East”, concluded Saleh. Defence, Govt. of Yemen. Qashqai and Navara, concluded Zeidan.
12 13