Nissan shows NV200 compact cargo van, updated 370Z

(February 11, 2012) CHICAGO — Three key future Nissan vehicles — the all-new 2013 Nissan NV200 compact cargo van, the revised 2013 Nissan 370Z sports car and the Pathfinder Concept, a preview of the re-imagined 2013 Nissan Pathfinder — share the spotlight at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, which runs Feb. 10 – 19 at McCormick Place.

“The Chicago Metro area is a one of Nissan’s top markets, making it the ideal location for the North American debuts of the all-new Nissan NV200 and the updated 2013 Nissan 370Z,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “We’re also excited to show the dramatic Pathfinder Concept – giving show attendees a preview of the next-gen evolution of one of our most popular Chicagoland vehicles, the Nissan Pathfinder.”



The Nissan NV200 provides a new entry point for current cargo van and small pickup buyers looking for a compact, efficient alternative to their larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles. It is set to join the growing lineup of Nissan Commercial Vehicles in early 2013 at 300 Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealerships nationwide. The NV200 follows the Nissan NV Cargo, introduced in spring 2011, and the recently announced Nissan NV Passenger that goes on sale this spring.

While new to North America, the Nissan NV compact van is already in use in more than 40 countries around the world, receiving acclaim from both users and media alike for its optimal functionality and smart design. As the next “innovation for business,” NV200 offers a large cargo capacity with a small exterior footprint, making it highly maneuverable in traffic or for negotiating city parking spaces. Yet its proven compact commercial platform also allows for a 1,500-pound (estimated) maximum payload.

The roomy cargo area also allows for loading standard U.S. 40x48-inch pallets. Added utility is provided by the standard integrated mounting points, which allow installation of racks and shelves without drilling into the sidewalls.

The 2013 Nissan NV200 features an efficient 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The engine is matched with a next-gen Xtronic CVT, which combines smooth operation and responsive performance.

The new 2013 Nissan 370Z is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in June.

Updates for the new model year include a refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights, revised 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (Sport Package equipped models), new 18-inch wheels for 370Z Coupe, red-finished brake calipers (Sport Package equipped models), Euro-tuned shock absorbers (Sport Package equipped models), and two new exterior colors – Magma Red and Midnight Blue. The NISMO 370Z also adds a new Bose Premium Audio Package with two additional speakers and two subwoofers, premium gun metallic dark-finish 19-inch wheels, and Nissan GT-R style high-rigidity brake hoses and performance brake fluid.

“Since the original 1970 Z was first introduced, our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013 go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out – keeping it fresh and exciting,” said Castignetti.

The 2013 Nissan 370Z will once again be available in Coupe, Roadster and NISMO Z configurations.