Motor Trend : Not Out of The Woods Yet: Toyota, Honda Down in September, Nissan Up 25.3 Percent

Not Out of The Woods Yet: Toyota, Honda Down in September, Nissan Up 25.3 Percent

Alex Nishimoto on October 3 2011 3:00 PM

Continuing the trend from the past few months, Nissan sales were up for September, while Toyota and Honda sales were down. Though September marked a return to normalcy for the automakers most affected by the March earthquake and tsunami that rocked Japan, the numbers seem to show that a return to pre-earthquake sales performance could take a bit more time.

Nissan North America

Nissan is up 25.3 percent, raising sales in September 2010 from 74,205 units to 92,964 in September 2011. The automaker also reports year-over-year sales gains for both Nissan and Infiniti brands in September. The Nissan brand is up 28.2 percent at 84,485 units sold, compared to the 65,900 units sold during the same month last year, while Infiniti rises slightly over last September, with sales of 8479 units compared to 8305 for a gain of 2.1 percent.

Nissan – 84,485 units sold, Up 28.2 percent

Nissan’s bread-and-butter Altima sedan once again led in sales volume, selling 24,356 units in September, compared to 20,016 units sold the same month last year – a gain of 21.7 percent. The Nissan Versa was second highest in volume, with 11,800 units sold in September. That number eclipses the 7081 units sold September 2010, and represents an increase of 68.1 percent, perhaps due in part to the new Versa sedan, which had its first full sales month in September. The Nissan Rogue also saw strong sales in September, gaining 2.9.1 percent with 10,740 units sold versus the 8318 units of the small crossover moved the same period last year.

But not all models came out ahead this past month. The Nissan Cube dropped 71.1 percent, with just 440 units sold compared to the 1523 Cube models sold September last year. The 370Z dropped 40.4 percent, with 469 units sold compared to 787 the same period last year.

Infiniti – 8479 units sold, Up 2.1 percent

The Infiniti G sedan range led sales volume for Nissan’s luxury marque, with 3940 units sold compared to the 3056 G sedan models moved in September 2010, representing a gain of 28.9 percent. The Infiniti QX SUV sold 1206 units, versus 822 the same period last year for a gain of 46.7 percent. The Infiniti M lost ground this past month, selling 905 units, compared to last September’s total of 1460 – a decrease of 38 percent. The EX crossover also came up short this past month, selling 610 units compared to the 747 sold the same period last year for a decrease of 18.3 percent.

American Honda Motor Company

Despite the automaker now claiming to be up to speed at all of its production facilities, overall sales were down for American Honda, dropping 8.0 percent from last September’s total of 97,362 units sold, at 89,532 this past month. Year-to-date, Honda is down 6.2 percent, with 859,797 units sold in the first three quarters of 2011, compared to 912,436 the same period last year. The Honda brand is down 8.2 percent, selling 79,522 units, shy of the 86,641 units sold in September 2010. The Acura division is down 7.9 percent, with 10,010 units sold, compared to the 10,720 Acura models sold September of last year.

Honda – 79,522 units sold, Down 8.2 percent

The CR-V was Honda’s sales volume leader, selling 19,604 units in September for a gain of 9.5 percent over the 17,907 sold the same period last year. The Accord was Honda’s second best-selling model of the month, moving 18,639 units. But despite high sales volume, the model was down 13.8 percent from September 2010, when 21,620 Accords were sold. The Honda Pilot increased sales by 27.9 percent over September of last year, selling 10,306 units, compared to the 8059 units sold the same period in 2010. Honda’s dedicated hybrid, the Insight, saw a substantial decrease in sales compared to September 2010, with just 512 units sold compared to 1679 last year, a loss of 69.5 percent. The hybrid hatchback CR-Z also took a hit in September, decreasing 56.6 percent at 537 units sold, compared to 1236 the same period last year. The Crosstour, which recently had its affiliation with the Accord severed, decreased 54.2 percent, with 1148 units sold compared to 2507 in September 2010. The new-for-2012 Civic is down 26.4 percent, with 13,724 units sold compared to the 18,637 units of the previous generation sold September of last year. Honda says assembly of that car is nearing full-production status.

Acura – 10,010 units sold, Down 6.6 percent

Acura reports the TSX experienced a record September, posting sales of 3112 units – a gain of 37.9 percent over the 2507 units sold September of last year. The rest of Acura’s lineup was down from September of the previous year. The aging RL lost the most ground, selling just 43 units compared to the 240 sold in September 2010, representing an 82.1-percent decrease. The ZDX crossover also didn’t fare as well as it did last September, moving 87 units compared to 251 the same month in 2010 for a loss of 65.3 percent. The newly refreshed and face-lifted TL was just a smidge below its performance in September 2010, selling 2507 units compared to 2514 last year, a decrease of 0.3 percent.

Toyota Motor Sales

Production hang-ups relating to the March earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan have apparently been resolved for Toyota, as the automaker reports that production in both North America and Japan returned to pre-earthquake levels in September. Still, Toyota was down overall for the month, posting total sales 106,456 vehicles compared to 130,214 units sold in September 2010, a decrease of 17.5 percent.

Toyota – 106,456 units sold, Down 18.2 percent

Sales of 24,851 Camry models led the Toyota brand’s sales volume, though that number is down 19.2 percent from the 30,769 units sold September of last year. The Corolla also saw a decrease in September, selling 16,147 units compared to the 21,060 units sold the same period in 2010, shrinking 23.3 percent. Toyota moved 9325 units of its dedicated hybrid Prius in September, down 18.2 percent from the same period last year, when 11,394 Prius models were sold.

Among Toyota’s light trucks, SUVs, and vans, the Sienna minivan led sales volume, posting sales of 8975 units in September. That number is down 9.5 percent from the 9920 units sold the same period last year. The low-volume Land Cruiser SUV was up 21.1 percent, with 132 units sold versus 109 in September 2010.


Lexus – 14,995 units sold, Down 11.5 percent

The ES 350 was the sales volume leader among Lexus’ passenger cars in September, with 3627 units sold, just shy of the 3697 units sold the same period last year – a decrease of 1.9 percent. The IS was up slightly for the month of September, raising 3.8 percent with 2539 units sold, compared to 2447 a year earlier. Lexus’ flagship LS, the first nameplate sold under the Lexus banner in the U.S., was also up slightly for the month, selling 729 units compared to 711 in September 2010 for a gain of 2.4 percent. Four more LFA supercar models were sold in September, bringing the total number sold in the U.S. to 44. The HS hybrid was down 67.5 percent, selling 231 units in September, compared to 711 the same month the previous year. The RX took the sales lead among Lexus’ SUVs, selling 5003 units, but sales of 7420 RX models a year prior makes for a decrease of 32.6 percent.


Scion – 3838 units sold, Up 7.7 percent

Scion came out ahead in September, partially due to relatively strong sales of its tC sports coupe, which led sales volume at 1752 units sold and was up 78.6 percent from the same month in 2010, when just 981 tC models were sold. The xB was close behind in sales volume, with 1415 units sold, but last September’s sales of 1687 units equate to a decrease of 16.1 percent for the quirky five-door. Down 24.9 percent, the xD nearly repeats its performance from last month, when the model was down 24.5 percent, posting sales of 671 units, compared to 894 the same month a year prior.

Source: Nissan, Honda, Toyota

This Article From Motor Trend was brought to you by University Nissan of Boone, NC. To read the full article and find out more information, please follow this link: http://wot.motortrend.com/not-out-of-the-woods-yet-toyota-honda-down-in-september-nissan-up-25-3-percent-122873.html#ixzz1Zw2wcOQs

Nissan Altima Sedan Review

2011 Nissan Altima Review

This Article is from http://ebodhitree.com/2011-nissan-altima-review.html

Written By Alison   May 2, 2011

The Nissan Altima has been the flagship sedan for Nissan, and is the top selling car worldwide for Nissan. The 2011 Nissan Altima comes in two variants sedan and coupe. Learn more about the Nissan Altima in the 2011 Nissan Altima Review.

2011 Nissan Altima Review

The 2011 Nissan Altima comes with a choice of either gasoline or hybrid engines, the front-wheel-drive 2011 Nissan Altima 2.5S sedan has a 2.4-liter in-line 4 cylinder with direct-injection gasoline engine, giving it ample power, however the Nissan Altima also provides you with a luxurious feel in the interiors with top of the line finishing, electronics and fabulous design making the Nissan Altima a complete package when compared with the price of the car.

The Nissan Altima has been and is a true family car, Nissan have never meant the Altima to be a sports sedan and do not shy away from admitting to that fact. However as a family car the Nissan Altima scores maximum points. The 2011 Nissan Altima has been given a makeover with changes to the hood, front grille, front bumper and rear license plate area of the car along with 16- and 17-inch wheels.

2011 Nissan Altima Power Train

The 2011 Nissan Altima has two engine choices 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 175 horsepower with180lb-ft of torque and continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) on the Altima sedan, for the Altima coupe a six-speed manual transmission comes as standard with CVT as an option. The Nissan Altima is capable of 0-60 mph in 8.5 sec and delivers a fuel efficeincy of 23/32/27 mpg.

The Nissan Altima 3.5 SR has a 3.5-liter V6 capable of 270 hp with 258 lb-ft of torque, g7 sec. and a fuel efficiency of 20/27/23 mpg .

The 2011 Nissan Altima is available as a sedan or coupe. The hybrid-powered Altima sedan is reviewed separately. There are three trim levels: 2.5, 2.5 S and 3.5 SR.

Nissan Altima Features

The 2011 Nissan Altima comes in tree different trims:

Nissan Altima 2.5: the Altima 2.5 is the base trim which includes16-inch steel wheels, cruise control, keyless entry, full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning and a trip computer.

Nissan Altima 2.5 S: The Altima 2.5S which is available both as a sedan and coupe has keyless ignition and entry and a six-speaker stereo and 17-inch alloy wheels for the coupe along with the 2.5 package.

Nissan Altima 3.5 SR: The Altima 3.5SR comes with a V6engine,17-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, along with the 2.5 S Convenience package.

2011 Nissan Altima Price

The Nissan Altima retails at $20,270.00 upwards.

Overall the 2011 Nissan Altima is a complete family car with ample space for a road trip while giving you a luxurious feel of an expensive car. The Nissan Altima does well on the performance front as well with a decent power train. Over all the 2011 Nissan Altima is a great car to have at a great price.

HOT OFF the PRESS! Consumer Reports released its Top Ten ranking of 4-cylinder family sedans:

We are pleased to announce that the Nissan Altima ranked #1

***Nissan Altima topped the list for the 4 ^th Year in a row and will be featured in the June issue that hits newsstands on May 10!***

Consumer Reports’ top-scoring four-cylinder family sedans include the Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry, in that order!

 This is a GREAT vehicle that everyone will LOVE so come test drive one today at University Nissan! 

When the Roads are Rather Frightful...

Let's face it, we all have places that we have to be. Whether you need to go to work, school, or run errands around town, there is a time when you have to venture out into the winter weather. But how do you know if your vehicle can handle the roads and keep your family and yourself safe? I've done some research and have compiled a list of Do's and Don'ts for driving in the winter time. I hope that it will help you to stay safe this season when you are traveling.

Let's Start with the Don'ts of Traveling in Inclement Weather:

• Don't drive when you are fatigued. Make sure you are fully rested and alert when you get behind the wheel, or try carpooling with a friend. 
• Don't let your gas tank get below half-full. A low tank can lead to the gas line freeze-up, so make sure you make a stop at the gas station before parking your car overnight.
• Avoid using cruise control. It can be dangerous to use this feature on wet, icy, and sandy surfaces. 
• Don't warm up your vehicle in a garage or enclosed area.
• Don't stop on a hill. It is difficult to start going on a sloped surface, especially when it is icy. Also, avoid stopping in most situations. Determine if it is possible to safely coast forward as you wait for the light to change without having to fully stop.
• Don't spin your wheels if you get stuck in the snow--it will dig your vehicle deeper into the snow. 
• Don't leave your car unless you know where you are (if you get stranded). You are more likely to be found on the side of the road than if you are walking through a storm in an unknown area. 
• Don't feel pressured to always keep up with the speed limit. Use your own judgement and go slower if the weather is harsh. Police are likely to pull an aggressive driver over in the winter time, even if he is driving at the speed limit or below.

Now, the Do's:

• Make sure your car is in good working condition. Get a tuneup, check the tires, brakes, battery, coolant, and wipers.
• Always carry supplies for emergencies: flashlight and batteries, non-perishable foods, tire chains, cell phone, compass, first aid kit, ice scraper, matches, reflective triangles and brightly-colored cloth to attract attention. 
• Clean off your car fully before driving anywhere. Make sure your lights are uncovered and you have full use of your windshields and mirrors. 
• Carry sandbags in the back of your car for added weight.
• Accelerate and Decelerate slowly. Rushing is very dangerous this time of year--watch out for black ice and out-of-control drivers. Don't try to speed up a hill either. 
• Always look ahead. Be aware of other drivers and of upcoming traffic signals. 
• Always, always, always buckle up! Although it is state law to wear a seat belt, it is even more important to do so in the winter time. You may be the safest winter driver in the world--but there are others on the road, too. This is an easy way to keep you and your family safe.
• Slow down before turning or going on curves. Sure, your car may do fine on that curvy mountain road on a sunny day in May, but it can be very hazardous in the winter. Slow down, make sure no other vehicles are coming your way, and proceed with caution.
• Keep both hands on the wheel, preferably at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock position. 
• Though the normal following distance is 3-4 seconds, this should be increased to 8-10 seconds in the winter to ensure that you have ample space to stop. 
• Be aware of your location and have specific directions when traveling in the snow. 
• Stay home if at all possible and use caution when traveling.

Enjoy the beautiful snow and have a happy, safe remainder of the winter.

Please comment with any additional Winter Driving suggestions that you may have!

Check out these links for additional tips:

Weather.com        AAA      CarTalk.com      The Chicago Tribune

Snow, Snow, Snow..

With the weather warming up outside for so long, I almost believed the winter to be over. Now, the forecast calls for a snow storm lasting the rest of the week! These zero golf ball days are hard, but they are impossible without a Four Wheel or All Wheel Drive vehicle. With a set of studded snow tires and a 4x4, even a Boone Blizzard can't stop me! I love being able to shop, go to the slopes, and run errands even when the weather outside is.. well, let's just say it's not too pretty. 

Having a 4 Wheel Drive allows me to spend more time with my family because we have the opportunity to get out of the house and have fun and then return home later safely and cozy up by the fire. I don't know what we would do without a reliable vehicle when we live and work in these beautiful, though sometimes treacherous, mountains. 

I love living here--the people are so kind and polite, the scenery is breathtaking, and the atmosphere is great for my family--but having a vehicle that you can depend on is essential for thriving in these winter months. At University Nissan we have a great selection of New and Used vehicles that are great for the winter. Especially since, as we have to admit, it is far from over. Come in and speak with our friendly sales staff, or bring your own vehicle in for some easy winter additions in our Service Department. Remember, we service all makes and models. 

I hope that you had a Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year. Best wishes for 2011, and we hope to see you here at University Nissan. 

Mast Store Celebrates Christmas in the Valle

The original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis hosts Christmas in the Valle on weekends now through December 24.  You can even have your pet's picture taken with Santa Paws! 
To read the full article, please follow this link provided to you by University Nissan of Boone, NC --A New and Used Car Dealer-- Mast Store Celebrates Christmas in the Valle

Hickory Boy Scouts Collect $17,000 in Food for Charity

"Boy Scouts in Catawba County collected 31,511 pounds of food from residents as part of an annual food drive last weekend. The food was distributed to local food pantries."

This excerpt is presented to you by University Nissan of Boone, NC (A New & Used Car Dealer). To read the full Hickory Daily Record article, please follow this link: Boy Scouts help fill local food pantries