The cleverly designed Nissan cube®, with its asymmetrical rear window, refrigerator-style rear door and wide range of personal accessories, enters its second year of production in 2010 with its unique style firmly intact – plus a number of enhancements to its audio and entertainment systems and one new exterior color, Sapphire Black.

The 2010 Nissan cube is available in three well-equipped models: cube 1.8, cube 1.8 S and cube 1.8 SL – along with a specialty vehicle cube 1.8 S Krom™ Edition with exclusive sport body pieces, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, a custom interior with exclusive black and gray seats, premium audio system and more.

“The Nissan cube took the North American market by storm in 2009 with its unique blend of fashion and functionality,”

said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA).

“Designed to enhance people’s lives, cube is a vehicle that people fall in love with, moving beyond mere transportation to become a core part of their social activities.”

For 2010, the Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, leather-wrapped steering wheel and steering wheel audio controls are now standard for cube S and SL models; the Interface System for iPod®, MP3 CD-ROM playback capacity, Radio Data System (RDS), speed-sensitive volume control (SSV) and two additional speakers (six total) are now standard on cube S models.

The cube 1.8 S Krom Edition adds a new 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor, along with Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition. In addition, the 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor is added to the optional SL Preferred Package.

Unique, Asymmetrical Design
At first glance, the 2010 Nissan cube’s appearance seems to embody the simplistic nature of its name – a box on wheels. But a closer look reveals a more complex and intricate design with a surprising sense of dynamic movement.

With cube’s long wheelbase relative to its overall length (a 99.6-inch wheelbase against a 156.7-inch overall length) and wide track, the wheels, in effect, are pushed out to each corner – providing exceptional space utilization and a confident-looking stance that has been compared to a “bulldog in sunglasses.” Along with its stance, its distinctive look is aided by the wide headlights and grille treatment, the small but substantial body proportions and the short “tail” section.

In the rear, the bar-type taillights reinforce the wide, anchored look. The cube’s creators also sought to maintain a sense of “pure design,” reducing the number of character lines to give simplicity and freshness to the styling. Another unique aspect of the cube’s exterior is the greenhouse. The A-pillars are positioned far outward and relatively upright, giving a wider range of forward visibility. The front door windows utilize a “photo frame” design patterned after a personal photo frame, while the asymmetrical wraparound side/rear window creates enhanced rear diagonal visibility for lane changes and reverse parking.

“The ‘geometric circle shape in the square’ rear window is cube’s signature,”

said Castignetti.

“Though there are D-pillars on both sides of the cube, the visual effect of the narrower passenger-side pillar is quite remarkable in the overall appearance, a look aided by the asymmetrical back door.”

Unlike typical top-hinged or clamshell-style utility rear doors, cube features an easy-access refrigerator-style opening, which makes it possible to open or close it even if parked tight against other cars in parallel parking spaces or when backed in against a wall or other obstacle. The back door opens fully when space allows for loading groceries, luggage or large-sized objects – or to a limited-access position (about eight inches) when space is restricted for retrieving or loading a backpack or other small objects. The one-hand door handle operation is designed for easy use, even while carrying things in the other hand or arm.

For 2010 Nissan cube is available in eight mild-to-wild exterior colors: Scarlet Red, Sapphire Black (new for 2010), Moss Green, Steel Grey, Chrome Silver, Bitter Chocolate, White Pearl and Caribbean Blue.

2010 Nissan Cube – Hi-res. Images

A “Casual Lounge” Interior
The centerpiece of cube’s universal appeal is its “social space” – the surprisingly roomy interior that offers room for five in a lounge-like comfort.

“Cube is not wasteful in terms of its footprint, carbon or physical. It creates a third space, in addition to home and school, for interacting with friends. It’s a space that is highly changeable and adaptable to owners’ evolving lives, with plenty of room for personalization,”

said Castignetti.

Cube’s clever, inspired and surprisingly open occupant space combines “casual lounge”-style passenger seating with a relaxed driving experience. The interactive interior is anchored by its curve-themed architecture, such as the subtle wavy shaping of the instrument panel, door panels, seat shapes, armrests and the iconic circular/oval shapes of elements ranging from air conditioning vents, door pulls and climate controls.

The comfortable cube seating includes a 6-way manual driver’s seat and 4-way manual front passenger’s seat, along with a “lounge sofa” style reclining rear bench seat. The sliding rear seat can be adjusted to three positions – full rearward (providing ample legroom), mid-position (3.9 inches forward) or front position (6.0 inches forward). The rear seat also is positioned higher than the front seats, theater style, enhancing rear passenger comfort and visibility.

Other interior features include the “floating pod” instrument panel with asymmetrical light blue and white gauges, which are designed to make it easier to distinguish between the speedometer and the tachometer. The gauge needles “sweep” when the engine is started to add a sense of flair, while the gradation effect gives a natural ambience similar to the glow of the white moon and the blue earth. Sub-gauges are concentrated for enhanced visibility. The three-spoke steering wheel is available with leather wrapping and steering wheel-mounted audio controls (now standard on cube S and SL models).

Convenient storage spaces and cup/bottle holders are abundant throughout the cube interior – including six cupholders (instrument panel, front center console and rear armrests) and five bottle holders (door panels and center console). There are also detachable multi-hooks for holding bags or hats, which can be moved from place to place – including the instrument panel and rear passenger doors.

The “shelf expression” concept features two “shelves” located on top center and the passenger side of the instrument panel. Not designed for holding objects when the cube is in motion, they provide convenient spaces for placing keys, cell phones or digital music players when the vehicle is parked. Cube’s accessory “Front Door Bungees” are colorful rubber straps (red, yellow, orange or gray) that slip into cutouts on the door armrests to secure items such as maps, nametags, photos, towels or small stuffed animals.

The cube interior design also incorporates a series of subtle “Water Drop” concentric circles. Inspired by nature and the calming way that ripples move outward from a drop in water, the circles can be seen in items ranging from the roof headliner to the cupholders to the climate control design.

A Wide Range of Available Features
Cube’s heating and cooling system provides quiet, efficient operation with easy to recognize and use knobs and switches. Other standard equipment offered on the 2010 Nissan cube includes power windows with driver’s side one-touch auto up/down feature, Remote Keyless Entry system, power door locks with auto-locking feature, variable intermittent windshield wipers and intermittent rear window wiper, rear window defroster with timer, cargo area hooks, 12-volt power outlet and adjustable front seat belt upper anchors.

Available cube technology features include Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six upgraded speakers, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Interface System for iPod®. For 2010, a new 4.3-inch color audio display with RearView Monitor is offered on cube 1.8 S Krom Edition and with the SL Preferred Package.

The cube interior is offered in two color environments, Light Gray and Graphite. Light Gray, available in a quilted suede-like fabric with special “natural wave” stitching only, is designed to create a relaxing contrast between the warm, light gray upholstery and warm off-black interior accents. The warm off-black Graphite interior, available in two cloth grades, provides a combination of relaxation and more traditional “driving enjoyment” attitude. The cube 1.8 S Kr?m Edition features exclusive gray and black interior coloring.

Unexpected Power and Driving Ease
Just as cube has its own unique take on styling and interior design, the engineering team took a fresh approach to performance – creating a vehicle that is easy to drive and easy to handle in traffic. Cube’s stress-free driving experience is the result of a number of factors: an extremely tight 33.4-foot curb-to-curb turning radius, a tall seating position made possible by the tall body height, an extremely short hood “invisible length” (the area of the hood panel that the driver is unable to see) and good rear visibility for parking and backing up.

Cube combines an advanced 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder with a choice of Nissan Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmission for good acceleration response, smooth operation and fuel efficiency. The 6-speed manual is available with cube 1.8 and cube 1.8 S models, while the CVT is available with the cube 1.8 S and standard on the cube 1.8 SL and cube 1.8 S Krom Edition. Engine torque is rated at 127 lb-ft.

Fuel economy is estimated at 27 mpg City/31 mpg highway with the CVT and 25 mpg City/30 mpg Highway with the 6-speed manual transmission.

Cube’s suspension combines an independent MacPherson strut front design with stabilizer bar with a torsion beam rear axle with integrated stabilizer bar. Its comfortable, flat ride is a result, in part, of the “Ripple Control” shock absorbers and the high body stiffness. Other standard equipment includes vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power-assisted steering, power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes and 15-inch wheels with P195/60R15 tires.

Cube’s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), seat-mounted driver and front-passenger side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection. Cube also offers standard front-seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The 2010 Nissan cube has been named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Three Well-Equipped Models
The cube is offered in three well-equipped models: cube 1.8, cube 1.8 S and cube 1.8 SL.

Two option packages are offered – the SL Preferred Package and Krom Edition. The SL Preferred Package includes the Nissan Intelligent Key™ with request switches on the driver’s door, front passenger door and rear door; Push Button Ignition, fog lights; 4.3-inch audio display; USB connectivity, RearView Monitor; upgraded speakers; Rockford Fosgate subwoofer; and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately).

The 1.8 S Krom Edition (available only on cube 1.8 S with CVT) includes exclusive upper and lower front grilles, fully integrated front and rear bumper fascias and body side sills, rear roof spoiler and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, along with a custom interior with exclusive black and gray seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, upgraded audio system with 4.3-inch color display, RearView Monitor and Rockford Fosgate subwoofer, aluminum trimmed pedals and new-for-2010 Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition. Cube Kr?m Edition is available in only four exterior colors – Steel Gray, Bitter Chocolate, White Pearl and Sapphire Black.

More than 40 individual accessories are offered – ranging from a unique 20 Color Interior Accent Lighting kit and “shag dash toppers” to aerodynamic body kits and custom wheels – allowing cube owners to personalize their vehicles to reflect their own tastes and needs.

Other accessories include illuminated stainless kick plates, rear cargo area organizer, wheels, aero kits and more. Three Accessory Packages are also available, which combine a number of popular features: the Interior Designer Package, Interior Illumination Package and the Ginormous Package with both exterior and interior personalization parts and equipment.

For 2010, the Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, leather-wrapped steering wheel and steering wheel audio controls are now standard for cube S and SL models; the Interface System for iPod®, MP3 CD-ROM playback capacity, Radio Data System (RDS), speed-sensitive volume control (SSV) and two additional speakers (six total) are now standard on cube S models. The cube 1.8 S Krom Edition adds a new 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor, along with Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition as standard equipment. In addition, the 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor is added to the optional SL Preferred Package.

The front-wheel drive cube is built on Nissan’s proven B-platform and is offered with a standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a choice of Nissan’s advanced, smooth shifting Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmission.

The cube’s roomy interior is designed as an inviting social space for up to five passengers, with comfortable front seating and a three-position sliding, reclining theater-style rear seat. Unique interior features include asymmetrical Fine Vision gauges, “Water Drop” interior accents and detachable multi-hooks.

Available cube technology includes the Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six upgraded speakers, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), 4.3-inch audio display, RearView Monitor and Interface System for iPod®.

The cube also meets the practical needs of today’s active, environmentally aware drivers, providing a small footprint with a large interior space – along with fuel efficiency of 31 mpg Highway with the CVT transmission. The 2010 Nissan cube was named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The specialty vehicle cube 1.8 S Krom Edition includes exclusive upper and lower front grilles, fully integrated front and rear bumper fascias and body side sills, rear roof spoiler and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, along with a custom interior with exclusive black and gray seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum-trimmed pedals, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, upgraded audio system with 4.3-inch color display, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer and RearView Monitor.

More than 40 individual accessories are offered – ranging from a unique 20-color interior accent lighting kit and “shag dash toppers” to aerodynamic body kits and custom wheels – allowing cube owners to personalize their vehicles to reflect their own tastes and needs.

2010 Nissan Cube – Hi-res. Images

Highlights of the 2010 Nissan cube include:

Body

• 99.6-inch wheelbase, 156.7-inch length, 66.7-inch width, 65.0-inch height
• 58.1-inch front track/58.3-inch rear track
• Unique design with wheels pushed out to the corners, high-visibility near-vertical A-pillars, large window areas with “photo frame” front windows and iconic asymmetrical rear “wraparound” window
• Wide door openings, refrigerator-style left-hand hinged rear door
• Multi-reflector halogen headlights, fixed roof antenna
• Body-color bumpers and door handles
• Available unique Kr?m Edition front and rear fascias, grille, side sills and rear roof spoiler
• Eight exterior colors: Scarlet Red, Sapphire Black (new for 2010), Moss Green, Steel Gray, Chrome Silver, Bitter Chocolate, White Pearl and Caribbean Blue

Engine and Driveline

• Front engine/front-wheel drive
• Nissan “B” platform
• 1.8-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, rated at 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque
• Available Nissan Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC)
• Available 6-speed manual transmission

Suspension, Steering and Braking

• Independent front strut with coil springs and stabilizer bar
• Torsion-beam rear axle with integrated stabilizer bar
• Vehicle-speed-sensing electric power-assisted steering
• Power-assisted vented front disc/rear drum brakes
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
• Standard 15-inch steel wheels with P195/60R15 all-season tires
• Available 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P195/55R16 tires

Interior Features

• A unique mix of fashion and functionality
• Roomy, comfortable “lounge” interior with wide front bucket seats
• Sliding and reclining 2nd row “sofa style” theater layout bench seat
• “Floating meter pod” instrument panel with large diameter Fine Vision gauges
• “Water Drop” interior accents (headliner, controls, cupholders, door speakers)
• Available “witty” details and accessories including “Front Door Bungees,” detachable multi-hook holder and console pockets
• Power door locks with auto-locking feature
• Power windows with one-touch up/down driver’s window
• Remote Keyless Entry system
• Adjustable front seat belt upper anchors
• Front door map pockets, six cupholders and five bottle holders
• Available Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition
• Available Interface System for iPod®
• Available Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System
• Available Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six upgraded speakers
• Available 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor
• Available XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately)
• Wide range of available interior accessories, including 20 Color Interior Accent Lighting kit, “shag dash topper” and body color-matching interior appliqués

Safety and Security

• Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS)
• Seat-mounted driver and front-passenger side-impact supplemental air bags
• Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection
• Front-seat Active Head Restraints
• 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
• Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones
• LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)
• Child safety rear door locks
• Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Models and Manufacturing

• Offered three well-equipped models: 1.8, 1.8 S and 1.8 SL, along with special 1.8 S Krom Edition
• Assembled by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., in Oppama, Japan

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced pricing for the 2010 Nissan cube®, which is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide. The 2010 Nissan cube is available in three well-equipped models: cube 1.8, cube 1.8 S and cube 1.8 SL and in a special cube 1.8 S Krom Edition. The starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price* (MSRP) for the cube 1.8 Base model of $13,990 USD is unchanged from 2009. Earlier today, the 2010 Nissan cube was named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Every cube includes many standard safety features, including six standard air bags.

The front-wheel drive cube is offered with a standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a choice of Nissan’s advanced, smooth shifting Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmission.

The 2010 cube Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) are:

2010 Nissan Cube – Hi-res. Images

For 2010, the Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, leather-wrapped steering wheel and steering wheel audio controls are now standard for cube S and SL models. New standard equipment for cube S models includes the Interface System for iPod®, MP3 CD-ROM playback capacity, Radio Data System (RDS), speed-sensitive volume control (SSV) and two additional speakers (six total). One new exterior color is available, Sapphire Black.

The cube 1.8 S Krom Edition adds a new 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor, along with Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition as standard equipment. In addition, the 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and RearView Monitor is added to the optional SL Preferred Package.

About the 2010 Nissan cube
The cleverly designed Nissan cube®, with its asymmetrical rear window, refrigerator-style rear door and wide range of personal accessories, enters its second year of production in 2010 with its unique style firmly intact. The cube’s roomy interior is designed as an inviting social space for up to five passengers, with comfortable front seating and a three-position sliding, reclining theater-style rear seat. Unique interior features include asymmetrical Fine Vision gauges, “Water Drop” interior accents and detachable multi-hooks.

Available cube technology includes the Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six upgraded speakers, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Interface System for iPod®. The cube also meets the practical needs of today’s active, environmentally aware drivers, providing a small footprint with a large interior space – along with fuel efficiency of 31 mpg Highway with the CVT transmission.

The specialty vehicle cube 1.8 S Kr?m Edition includes exclusive upper and lower front grilles, fully integrated front and rear bumper fascias and body side sills, rear roof spoiler and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, along with a custom interior with exclusive black and gray seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum-trimmed pedals, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, upgraded audio system with 4.3-inch color display, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer and RearView Monitor. More than 40 individual accessories are offered – ranging from a unique 20-color interior accent lighting kit and “shag dash topper” inserts to aerodynamic body kits and custom wheels – allowing cube owners to personalize their vehicles to reflect their own tastes and needs.

Forty years ago, in October 1969, the Datsun 240Z arrived in North America, heralding a new era in sports car design. The new import from Japan was a revelation – offering the performance of a Porsche, the looks of a Jaguar and the price and reliability of, well, a Nissan. It was an affordable sports car that could be driven every day and was accessible to anyone with the $3,626 base price.

And though the price of a new Z® might have changed a little in the past 40 years, its unmatched value, style, performance and segment leadership remains stronger than ever. To celebrate, Nissan has created a special, limited production version of the 2010 Nissan 370Z Coupe, the 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition. It will be available at select Nissan dealers nationwide beginning in spring 2010.

The 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition starts out as a 370Z Touring model equipped with manual transmission and Sport Package (including SynchroRev Match™, front chin spoiler, rear spoiler, Nissan Sport Brakes, 19-inch Rays forged aluminum-alloy wheels and viscous limited-slip differential) and adds a premium “40th Quartz” exterior color and red leather-appointed interior.

Additional exclusive equipment includes a high-luster smoke wheel finish, red brake calipers and 40th Anniversary badges on the rear hatch and front shock tower brace. Inside, along with the red leather-appointed seats, are red door panel inserts, 40th Anniversary seatback and floormat embroidery, red stitching on the center stack, shift boot and kneepads, smooth leather steering wheel with red stitching and a plaque of authenticity. Every 40th Anniversary Z® also comes with a commemorative premium satin car cover.

Other changes for the 2010 model year 370Z Coupe are minimal. Following the total redesign of the iconic Z® for the 2009 model year, the enhancements include revised Navigation Package contents, the addition of heated mirrors and in-cabin microfilter and one new exterior color, Black Cherry.

“With the introduction of the totally new 370Z last year, Z® solidified its position as one of the most desirable sports cars on the planet at any price – as it has for the previous four decades,”

said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

“Just as the original 240Z design still looks remarkably fresh today, we think this current generation 370Z is also destined to endure for many years to come.”

In addition to the 2010 Nissan 370Z Coupe, an open-air 370Z Roadster and 350-horsepower NISMO 370Z are also available as (full information on both models available separately – see Nissannews.com).

A Sculptural Yet Functional Exterior Design
The 2010 370Z’s dynamic styling offers dual benefits – an aggressive appearance and a light, highly rigid structure for enhanced performance. The 370Z Coupe’s wheelbase is nearly four inches shorter than the previous generation Z® (100.4 inches versus 104.3 inches), accomplished by moving the rear wheels forward in the 2nd generation FM platform, while overall length is reduced by 2.7 inches (167.1 inches versus 169.8 inches). At the same time, the overall width been increased by 1.3 inches, the rear track by 2.2 inches and overall height reduced by 0.3 inches, giving the 370Z a much more aggressive stance.

The Z® features aluminum door panels, along with an all-aluminum hood (the previous aluminum hood design utilized steel reinforcements) and an aluminum hatch. At the same time, the body structure was extensively revised for this generation design, improving front body torsion rigidity by 30 percent; a new front suspension cradle to reduce front body lateral bending; new rear structural reinforcements; and an underbody “V-bar” to help reduce rear lateral bending. Other enhancements include the use of a carbon fiber composite radiator housing and strengthening of the rear fender and hatch areas.

Rear body torsion rigidity is improved by up to 22 percent and rear body vertical bending rigidity is improved by up to 30 percent (versus the previous generation). The result is enhanced overall solidity and handling capability. Even with all of the body strengthening measures the overall body-in-white is lighter than the previous body-in-white.

The 370Z taut exterior design incorporates intentional 240Z styling cues, a sleek aerodynamic shape, a “dynamic motion” feel with a dramatic cantilevered roof and a “low visual gravity.” The coefficient of drag is 0.30 (0.29 with the Sport Package), the same as the previous generation 350Z Coupe. The 370Z also maintains the previous generation’s zero front lift and zero rear lift when equipped with the rear spoiler, thanks to extensive aerodynamics efforts – including an “inverse area” front bumper design which smoothes the flow of air to the sides of the vehicle, while the rear design maximizes the control of air flow from the roof to the rear hatch. In addition, the front overhang was extended 1.2 inches and more than 200 rear quarter panel patterns were made and wind tunnel tested to counter the negative aerodynamic effects of shortening the wheelbase (versus the 350Z).

One of the most distinctive features of the bold exterior design is the headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce “boomerang” shape. High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard.

The hood’s deep character lines continue over the windshield into the cantilevered roof design. The intense broad-shouldered rear shape is highlighted by the integration of the boomerang taillights and wide, flared rear fenders.

The 370Z’s sleek silhouette is defined by its upswept quarter window design that is echoed by the dynamic upward curvature in the lower rocker panel and the sense of the taut sheet metal molding itself around the wheels and frame. Attention to detail and functionality is evident throughout the exterior design, including the addition of a flashing (repeater lamp) side marker lamp/emblem.

Performance body pieces are available as part of the optional Sport Package, including a front chin spoiler and rear spoiler. The 370Z is offered in eight exterior colors: Pearl White, Monterey Blue, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Black, Solid Red, Platinum Graphite, Black Cherry (new for 2010) and 40th Quartz (exclusive to the 40th Anniversary Package).

2009-2010 Nissan 370Z Coupe – Hi-res. Images

A Cockpit Equipped To Make Car and Driver Feel Like One
The interior design of the 2010 370Z Coupe continues the Z® tradition of enhancing driving pleasure, no matter what the road or traffic conditions offer. The traditional 2-seat layout is built around a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger’s seat. In the rear is an open cargo area with enhanced storage and accessibility. The design focus incorporates a “layer concept,” with an information layer, an operation layer and a holding layer.

The information layer provides enhanced visibility with easy access to all key data. The gauges are once again attached to the steering column, so the driver doesn’t have to choose between the perfect steering wheel position and visibility of the gauges. The large upper steering wheel opening in front of the gauges is designed to provide a good view of the readouts. Gauge size was increased over the previous generation design, including a 15 percent increase in the tachometer, and the gauge angle was adjusted for improved readability.

The instrument panel retains the traditional 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer include an “initial sweep” function, coming alive when the Z® is first started.

The operation layer includes the steering wheel, shifter and switchgear. The steering wheel is an “oval” 3-spoke design, which offers baseball-style stitching and large thumb grips and palm rest areas for improved feel on long drives. The surface of the leather-wrapped wheel is “shaved” to provide a more kidney-like shape to better fit in the hand. The shifter was also redesigned versus the previous generation, with the manual transmission shifter padded in different areas to improve the accuracy of diagonal shifts and to feel softer in the hand for forward and backward motions.

The holding layer includes the seats, knee pads and door trim support. The driver’s seat is uniquely different from the passenger’s seat, with lower seat cushion cut-outs on the sides where the thighs rest – allowing the driver to push on the pedals without the seat fighting them. The seat also features an improved frame that helps it to better hold the driver in place during cornering.

Both the driver and passenger’s seats are structured with an anti-slip material in the main seating surface. The sporty woven cloth seats feature standard 8-way driver’s/4-way passenger manual adjustments, with heated 4-way power-adjustable leather-appointed seats standard with the 370Z Touring model. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are also standard.

The door armrests have been designed to provide extra support when cornering and the kneepads are better integrated to help the driver maintain the proper position while cornering.

In addition, the available aluminum-trimmed pedals utilize rubber insert material to improve grip. The accelerator pedal is floor-mounted (versus hanging) to provide better contact with the foot, less effort to operate and easier pedal-to-pedal foot/heel movement. The brake pedal is a variable ratio design with enhanced rigidity and easy operation.

Interior packaging is also enhanced from the previous generation, including the removal of the rear strut brace (replaced with less intrusive structural reinforcements) and by adding a new “shelf” area behind the seats, creating an ideal area for storing briefcases. A retractable cover is standard on the 370Z Touring model.

Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Start, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature, a center console box with a new non-intrusive cover design, automatic climate control, rear window defroster with timer, two 12-volt power outlets, three cupholders, dual overhead map lights and a AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.

The 370Z Touring model adds standard 4-way power adjustable heated leather-appointed and synthetic suede sport seats with adjustable lumbar support, 6CD Bose audio system with eight speakers (includes dual subwoofer) and MP3/WMA playback, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver.

The new 40th Anniversary Package includes exclusive red seats and door panel inserts, seatback embroidered with 40th Anniversary logo, 40th Anniversary floor mats, and interior plaque of authenticity.

The available enhanced Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with 7-inch VGA touch-sensitive display, 9.3GB HDD Music Box, USB connectivity and iPod® connection, XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ (XM® subscription required, sold separately), automatic phonebook download (select phones) and Bluetooth® Streaming Audio.

The 370Z interior is available Black cloth or for 370Z Touring models, a choice of Gray, Black or Persimmon leather-appointed and synthetic suede seating. The 40th Anniversary Package includes special red leather-appointed and synthetic suede seating.

2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition – Hi-res. Images

Taking Performance To A New Level
Many aspects of a sports car’s performance come down to the simple formulation of power-to-weight. The 370Z represents a major achievement on both sides of the equation versus the previous generation 350Z – with a net weight reduction of 95 pounds (Nissan 370Z versus the comparable 350Z Enthusiast model) and a power increase of 26 horsepower. In addition, the center of gravity was lowered through use of a lower engine positioning (-0.6 inches) and lower driver hip point (-0.4 inches). Rotating mass was reduced with a shorter carbon-fiber composite driveshaft.

All 2010 370Z Coupes utilize the fourth generation of Nissan’s award-winning VQ-series V6. The 3.7-liter VQ37VHR engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) is rated at 332 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm.

Key to the enhanced performance is the VVEL system, which is able to optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time. Since the VVEL system can adjust to open the valves slightly, it improves fuel efficiency by reducing camshaft friction and fuel waste. It also provides cleaner emissions by allowing for quicker warm-up of the catalyst and by stabilizing combustion when the engine is cool.

The engine is backed by a choice of two advanced transmissions, both designed to improve driver performance. The close-ratio 6-speed manual includes an available synchronized downshift rev matching system, which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The SynchroRev Match™ function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less vehicle intervention. The SynchroRev Match™ system is offered as part of the optional Sport Package.

Overall shift feeling has also been improved, with reduced vibration and noise (accomplished through improved lubrication) and a modification to the lever angle of the short-throw shifter.

The 370Z’s 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode with a target time of 0.5 seconds between shifts. Drivers can use the standard paddle shifters or the shift lever. With optimized torque converter lock-up logic, the new 7-speed automatic feels more direct, like a manual transmission. The 7-speed’s wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency (versus the previous 5-speed), while the Adaptive Shift Control is designed to adjust to the driver’s driving style.

Fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg City/26mpg Highway for both the 7-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions.

The previous generation Z®’s suspension has also been rethought to reduce weight, improve strength and improve camber change and lateral displacement. The double-wishbone front suspension (replacing the lower multi-link setup in the 350Z) uses lighter forged aluminum arms and a lightweight rigid aluminum-alloy cradle, along with a lighter stabilizer bar with a 35 percent improved lever ratio.

The 4-link rear suspension is also stiffer and lighter, with the rear cradle entirely integrated into a single part (no welding). “High response” shock absorbers are utilized on each corner, with ride comfort improved through reduced shock friction.

The standard 370Z wheel and tire package features 18×8.0-inch front/18×9.0-inch 5-spoke lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/50R18 front/P245/45R18 rear Yokohama ADVAN Sport high performance summer tires. Also available as part of the optional Sport Package are 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A P245/40R19 front/P275/35R19 tires. The 40th Anniversary Package utilizes the 19-inch wheels and tires with a special premium smoke wheel finish.

The Z®’s standard 4-wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The optional Sport Package includes Nissan Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors (versus 12.6-inch front/ rear standard rotors) with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers.

Steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design that provides improved response. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced through use of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load. The standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system has also been revised with new electronic hardware and all-new logic (versus the 350Z).

The Nissan 370Z’s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted side-impact air bags; seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Two Models, Three Options
The 2010 370Z model line-up consists of two models – 370Z and the 370Z Touring – and three available packages.

Along with the long list of standard features of the 370Z, the 370Z Touring adds heated leather-appointed and synthetic suede power seats, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker Bose® audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription, sold separately) cargo cover and aluminum-trimmed pedals.

The optional Sport Package features 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, aerodynamic front and rear spoiler, larger Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match™ (6-speed manual transmission only) and Viscous Limited Slip Differential.

The Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System, enhanced for 2010, features a 7-inch VGA touch-sensitive display, 9.3GB HDD Music Box, USB connectivity and iPod® connection, XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ (XM® subscription required, sold separately), automatic phonebook download (select phones) and Bluetooth® Streaming Audio.

Finally, the 40th Anniversary Package, with its long list of exclusive content, will be available in limited numbers beginning in spring 2010.

The 370Z is again offered in two models in 2010, 370Z and 370Z Touring, each available with a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) and choice of 6-speed manual transmission with an available SynchroRev Match™ synchronized downshift rev matching system or a 7-speed automatic transmission. Crisp handling is provided by a refined 4-wheel independent suspension.

The 40th Anniversary Package, available beginning in spring 2010, includes unique red leather-appointed seats and red door panel inserts; 40th Anniversary seatback embroidery, floor mats, car cover and exterior badging; premium smoke finish wheels and red brake caliper finish; and an exclusive “40th Quartz” exterior paint color. The 40th Anniversary Package is offered only on the 370Z Touring manual transmission model.

The dramatic 370Z interior utilizes an innovative driver-centric three-layer design which groups items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place – so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive.

Available technology features include the enhanced Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with 7-inch VGA touch-sensitive display, 9.3GB HDD Music Box, USB connectivity and iPod® connection, XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ (XM® subscription required, sold separately), automatic phonebook download (select phones) and Bluetooth® Streaming Audio; Nissan Intelligent Key™ and a Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System.

The 2010 Nissan 370Z is also offered in 370Z Roadster and the NISMO 370Z models.

2009-2010 Nissan 370Z Coupe – Hi-res. Images

2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition – Hi-res. Images

Highlights of the 2010 Nissan 370Z Coupe include:

Body:

• High rigidity body with a dynamic presence and enhanced aerodynamics
• Authentic Z® sports car design and proportions with long hood and canopy cockpit
• Improved body rigidity for enhanced handling, NVH (noise/vibration/harshness), ride comfort and safety
• Shorter wheelbase (100.4 vs. 104.3 inches) and length (167.1 vs. 169.8 inches) than previous generation Z; more aggressive stance
• Lightweight aluminum hood, doors and hatchback
• High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights and LED brake lights with distinctive “boomerang” design
• Signature vertical door handles, dual remote control mirrors
• Electric rear window defroster
• Front fender-mounted “flashing” Z® emblems/sidemarkers
• Available front chin spoiler and rear spoiler
• Eight available exterior colors: Solid Red, Magnetic Black, Brilliant Silver, Platinum Graphite, Pearl White, Monterey Blue, Black Cherry (new for 2010) and40th Graphite (exclusive to 40th Anniversary Package)

Engine and Driveline

• Front engine/rear-wheel drive
• Fourth-generation VQ series 3.7-liter engine, 24-valve DOHC V6 (VQ37VHR), rated at 332 horsepower @ 7,000 RPM, 270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 RPM
• Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system
• Micro-finished crankshaft and camshaft; small pitch, silent cam chain; drive-by-wire throttle
• Available electronically controlled 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and standard paddle shifters; or 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission with available SynchroRev Match™, the world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission allowing perfectly matched heel-toe-like downshifting
• Dual outlet exhaust
• Carbon Fiber composite driveshaft

Suspension, Steering and Braking

• 4-wheel independent multi-link suspension with use of lightweight aluminum components
• Double-wishbone front suspension, rear multi-link suspension; 3-point front strut tower brace; high response shock absorbers
• Large diameter front and rear hollow stabilizer bars
• Vehicle speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering
• Available Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD)
• Power-assisted vented front and rear disc brakes, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
• Available Nissan Sport Brakes with 14.0-inch front/13.8-inch rear rotors and 4-piston front/2-piston rear aluminum calipers
• Red brake caliper finish on 40th Anniversary Package, along with plaque on shock tower brace
• 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and P225/50R18 front / 245/45R18 rear Yokohama ADVAN Sport tires
• Available 19-inch RAYS lightweight 5-spoke forged-alloy wheels with P245/40R19 front / 275/35R19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires (premium smoke wheel finish on 40th Anniversary Package)

Interior Features

• Enhanced, high quality interior with innovative, driver-centric “three-layer” design with information, operation and holding layers
• 2-passenger seating, with unique driver and passenger seat designs and functions
• Driver’s seat shaped to help hold the body firmly in place without interfering with shifting
• 8-way manual driver’s seat, 4-way manual passenger’s seat with manual seatback fold-down function; available 4-way power adjustable heated seats
• Standard black woven “carbon” seat cloth; available synthetic suede and leather-appointed seating
• 40th Anniversary Package includes exclusive red seats and door panel inserts, seatback embroidered with 40th Anniversary logo, 40th Anniversary floor mats, interior plaque of authenticity
• 3-bay gauge pods – similar to the original 240Z design
• Tilt steering column with integrated instrument cluster
• Adjustable front head restraints
• Standard automatic temperature control
• Leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel with Z® emblem
• Available Bose® audio system with 6-disc CD changer and 8 speakers (standard on Touring model)
• Available XM® Satellite Radio (standard on Touring model, XM® subscription required)
• Available Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System (standard on Touring model)
• Available enhanced Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with 7-inch VGA touch-sensitive display, 9.3GB HDD Music Box, USB connectivity and iPod® connection, XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ (XM® subscription required, sold separately), automatic phonebook download (select phones) and Bluetooth® Streaming
• Power windows with auto one-touch up and down feature
• Power door locks with auto locking feature
• Available aluminum-trimmed pedals (standard on Touring model)
• Available HomeLink® Universal Transceiver (standard on Touring model)
• Two 12-volt power outlets, four cupholders (two in door panels, two in center console)
• Available rear cargo area cover (standard on Touring model)
• Standard cruise control
• Standard Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition

Safety and Security

• Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors
• Front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags
• Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags
• 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
• 3-point ALR/ELR seatbelts (driver’s seatbelt ELR only)
• Front seat Active Head Restraints
• Zone Body Construction
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Standard Vehicle Security System
• Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System
• Standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Models

• 370Z Coupe offered in two models: 370Z and 370Z Touring
• Three available packages: Sport Package, Navigation and 40th Anniversary

A limited edition 40th Anniversary Package with unique content and an exclusive exterior/interior color combination, celebrating 40 years of the iconic Z®, will be available in spring 2010. The 370Z is also offered in a new Nissan 370Z Roadster with fully automatic cloth convertible top.

The 2010 Nissan 370Z Coupe Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (M.S.R.P.) are:

All 2010 370Z Coupes are available with a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) and choice of 6-speed manual transmission with an available SynchroRev Match™ synchronized downshift rev matching system or a 7-speed automatic transmission.

The changes for the 2010 370Z, following the total redesign for the 2009 model year, include an enhanced navigation system, the addition of heated mirrors and in-cabin microfilter, one new exterior color (Black Cherry).

2009-2010 Nissan 370Z Coupe – Hi-res. Images

About the 2010 Nissan 370Z Coupe
Forty years after the arrival of the original Datsun 240Z, the Z® remains one of the best-selling sports cars in North America, as well as one of the best performance values. Following the total redesign of the iconic Z? for the 2009 model year, the changes for the 2010 370Z include an enhanced navigation system, the addition of heated mirrors and in-cabin microfilter, one new exterior color (Black Cherry) and a limited edition 40th Anniversary Package with unique content and an exclusive exterior/interior color combination.

The 370Z will again be available in two models in 2010, 370Z and 370Z Touring, each available with a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) and choice of 6-speed manual transmission with an available SynchroRev Match™ synchronized downshift rev matching system or a 7-speed automatic transmission. Crisp handling is once again provided by a 4-wheel independent suspension.

Available in spring 2010, the 40th Anniversary Package includes unique red leather-appointed and synthetic suede seats and red door panel inserts; 40th Anniversary seatback embroidery, floor mats, car cover and exterior badging; premium smoke finish wheels and red brake caliper finish; and an exclusive “40th Quartz” exterior paint color. The 40th Anniversary Package is offered only on the 370Z Touring manual transmission model.

The dramatic 370Z interior utilizes an innovative driver-centric three-layer design which groups items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place – so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive.

Available technology features include the enhanced Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with 7-inch VGA touch-sensitive display, 9.3GB HDD Music Box, USB connectivity and iPod® connection, XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ (XM® subscription required, sold separately), automatic phonebook download (select phones) and Bluetooth® Streaming Audio; Nissan Intelligent Key™ and a Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System.

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the Mazda2 (known as Mazda Demio in Japan) at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. The globally-acclaimed Mazda2 brings a level of style and driving dynamics to the North American subcompact segment that no other competitor can offer. The vehicle will be sold in the U.S. and Canada beginning in late 2010. The LA Auto Show press days are December 2-3; public days run from December 4 through 13.

“Bringing Mazda2 to North America completes the bookends in our lineup,”

said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations.

“With the seven-passenger crossover CX-9 at one end and the subcompact Mazda2 at the other, Mazda’s lineup now spans the most significant product segments in the industry, and is the strongest, best-designed, best-built we have ever offered. Mazda2 will be true to everything that makes our cars stand apart from the competition: it will be stylish, fun-to-drive and a heck of a value. In short, it will be the definition of Zoom-Zoom.”

Mazda2 has been a sales and media success in markets around the world, winning 48 awards and being recognized as Car of the Year in more than 20 countries. Additionally, Mazda2 was named “2008 World Car of the Year,” besting all other new cars around the world.

2009 Mazda2 Three-door Version (European) – Hi-res. Images

Mazda’s press conference is scheduled to take place from 11:05 to 11:30 (local time) on Wednesday, December 2, 2009.

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Nov. 18  2009 — Subaru of America, Inc. today announced that it has been recognized as the only manufacturer with all vehicles named a TOP SAFETY PICK by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

“We are extremely pleased to be the only manufacturer with all vehicles named a TOP SAFETY PICK. This is an outstanding success and a tribute to the engineering that goes into Subaru products,”

said Tom Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc.

“To have this recognition by the IIHS reinforces to our customers that we maintain the highest standards when producing vehicles that are safe, durable, reliable as well as fun-to-drive.”

“Subaru is the only manufacturer with a TOP SAFETY PICK winner in every vehicle class in which it competes,”

said IIHS president Adrian Lund.

“The vehicles that earn this designation are the cream of the crop for protecting people in the most common kinds of crashes, and they have electronic stability control for helping drivers stay out of many crashes altogether.”

The TOP SAFETY PICK recognizes vehicles that, in IIHS testing, does the best job of protecting people in front, side, rear, and now rollover crashes based on ‘good’ ratings, which denotes ‘good’ as the top ranking status possible in Institute tests. Winners also must have electronic stability control.

About IIHS
The Institute’s frontal crash-worthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph frontal offset crash tests. Each vehicle’s overall evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment, injury measures recorded on a Hybrid III dummy in the driver seat, and analysis of slow-motion film to assess how well the restraint system controlled dummy movement during the test.

Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Ratings reflect injury measures recorded on 2 instrumented SID-IIs dummies representing a small (5th percentile) woman, assessment of head protection countermeasures, and the vehicle’s structural performance during the impact.

Rear crash protection is rated according to a two-step procedure. Starting points for the ratings are measurements of head restraint geometry — the height of a restraint and its horizontal distance behind the back of the head of an average size man. Seat/head restraints with good or acceptable geometry are tested dynamically using a dummy that measures forces on the neck. This test simulates a collision in which a stationary vehicle is struck in the rear at 20 mph. Seats without good or acceptable geometry are rated poor overall because they can’t be positioned to protect many people.

In the roof strength test, a metal plate is pushed against 1 side of a roof at a constant speed. To earn a good rating for rollover protection, the roof must withstand a force of 4 times the vehicle’s weight before reaching 5 inches of crush. This is called a strength-to-weight ratio. For an acceptable rating, the minimum required strength-to-weight ratio is 3.25. A marginal rating value is 2.5. Anything lower than that is rated poor.

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation announced today that its unique idling stop system, i-stop, has won the 2009 Automotive Researchers’ and Journalists’ Conference of Japan (RJC) Technology of the Year award.

Idling stop systems reduce fuel consumption by automatically shutting down the engine when the driver stops the vehicle. Mazda’s i-stop system is fitted to direct injection engines and uses combustion energy to restart the engine in just 0.35 seconds, about half the time necessary for most other competing systems. The i-stop system also suppresses noise and vibration as the engine shuts down and restarts, ensuring that drivers experience a natural driving feel with no sense of discomfort.

Mazda introduced i-stop on the all-new Mazda Axela^*1 (known overseas as the Mazda3), which launched in Japan in June 2009. The new Axela with i-stop offers approximately 15 percent improved fuel economy compared to the previous model when tested under Japan’s 10-15 mode test cycle.^*2 Axela models with i-stop also qualify for Japan’s eco-car incentive program as well as tax reductions of 75 percent under the government’s eco-car tax reduction program. Almost half of the total Mazda Axela sales volume in Japan to date has been for i-stop models.^*3

Seita Kanai, Mazda’s senior managing executive officer in charge of R&D, said,

“Mazda’s i-stop system is one of the green technologies that form the base of our future product strategy. It improves fuel economy without adversely affecting driving performance. In this way, we believe i-stop perfectly reflects Mazda’s commitment to provide our customers with driving pleasure as well as superb environmental and safety performance. We are honored to receive this award. In recognizing our environmental efforts, this prize holds a special significance for Mazda.”

The Automotive Researchers’ and Journalists’ Conference of Japan, a non-profit organization (NPO), was established in 1990. It aims to contribute to the development of the automotive industry through various activities, including the recognition of outstanding vehicles and technologies by the Car of the Year selection committee.

Automotive technologies eligible for the 2009 RJC Technology of the Year competition must be introduced to the market in vehicles sold between November 1, 2008, and October 31, 2009. This is the third time that Mazda has won the RJC Technology of the Year award. Previously, Mazda won for its Miller-cycle engine (used in the Eunos 800) in 1993 and for the RENESIS Rotary engine (for the RX-8) in 2003.

2010 Mazda3 Sedan – Hi-res. Images

2010 Mazda3 5-Door hatchback – Hi-res. Images

^*1 i-stop is standard equipment in 2.0-liter front-wheel-drive Axela models (20S, 20C, 20E FWD).
^*2 Compared to the previous Axela 20C, which achieved 14.2 km/L in Japan’s 10-15 mode test cycle.
^*3 As of September 30, 2009.

MODIFICATIONS

2006 Modified Scion tC – Hi-res. Images