Tag Archives: Nissan

Be Proud to Sport the PUREDRIVE® Badge This Earth Day

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Happy Earth Day, Tischer friends! It’s actually the 45th anniversary of Earth Day, and we thought we’d take a moment to honor this beautiful planet we all share as well as remind you about the Nissan PUREDRIVE® badge and what it stands for.

The PUREDRIVE® badge has been around for some time and so it’s easy for drivers’ eyes to glaze over that emblem without a second thought as to its meaning. Debuting on the 2012 Versa sedan, Nissan launched its “Pure Drive” initiative, which showcases Nissan’s continuing commitment to development of environment-friendly technology through improved fuel economy on internal combustion engine vehicles with reduced CO2 emissions.

The crux of this technology is replacing an automatic transmission (AT) with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This technology replaces fixed gears with two tapered pulleys linked by a metal belt, which curtails the typical waste of significant amounts of fuel by the AT’s selecting gear ratios less-than-efficient for specific road conditions. The result is smooth acceleration and a much wider range of gear ratios that serve to boost fuel economy.

Early CVTs gave birth to Nissan’s even more efficient and lightweight new generation of XTRONIC CVTs. XTRONIC CVTs help with fuel efficiency and fuel economy, and create less internal friction. With Adaptive Shift Control, which offers more than 1,000 shift patterns in sporty, normal and city modes, XTRONIC lets you choose a driving experience that suits the road and your mood.

In one Edmunds.com article about the PUREDRIVE® badge, one commentator added,

“Pure Drive is, quite frankly worth mentioning. It basically means that the vehicle that carries it has exceeded the 2016 CAFE Standards. The CVT transmission is a large part of how it accomplishes this, but there’s also improved aerodynamics, microfinished surfaces in the engine, and electrically assisted power steering instead of one driven by the engine. Some, but not all Nissan models carry the badge also. I’m writing this the day after the Climate March in New York City where 400,000 people came to support the Climate Change Initiative and the line of people stretched 4 miles in Manhattan. That is a sign that people want change, the US Congress is demanding change through the laws they create and vehicle manufacturers are delivering it!”

You might also be interested to know that PUREDRIVE® technology is just one component of Nissan’s overall Green Program, which aims to deliver the following:

  • No.1 in Zero-Emission Vehicles: cumulative sales of 1.5 million zero-emission vehicles across the Renault-Nissan Alliance
  • Leading fuel efficiency: 35% fuel economy improvement compared with 2005 on a corporate average for all Nissan vehicles sold in Japan, China, Europe and the United States
  • Leading low corporate carbon footprint: 20% reduction per vehicle of CO2 emission of corporate activities compared with 2005
  • Leading closed-loop recycling: raise the usage rate of recycled materials to 25%

To clarify, PUREDRIVE® technology is different than the technology behind the Nissan LEAF’s technology. The 100% electric LEAF is also a fantastic option for environmentally-conscious drivers. But Nissan explains, “Nissan believes it is important not only to develop and circulate zero emission vehicles such as electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles, but also to improve the fuel economy of engine-powered vehicles. Vehicles that are powered by engines which burn fuel suffer from energy loss in various situations. Maximizing energy efficiency in order to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emission— Nissan’s undertaking entitled “PURE DRIVE” is our action to improve fuel economy of engine-powered vehicles.”

The next time you are in the market for a new car but are also looking for a car that is a little kinder to the planet, consider one of our Nissan models with the PUREDRIVE® badge. And just because a car is more earth-friendly doesn’t mean that it can’t be modern, sporty, or refined. As one writer for Autobytel pointed out, “Vehicles with the Pure Drive badge should prove that low emissions vehicles don’t have to be boring.”

By purchasing a car with the PUREDRIVE® badge not only will you be helping the environment, but through these more efficient and greener technologies, you’ll be a little kinder to your wallet as well.

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What Happens When My Nissan Lease Is Over?

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Very often at the dealership we have customers who are approaching the end of their lease and aren’t really sure what their options are, especially if it’s a new driver or if it’s the customer’s first time leasing a vehicle. We’re here to tell you that there are actually several options for Nissan customers approaching the end of their lease.

Option 1

Get a new Nissan. Current Nissan lease holders can opt to turn in the current vehicle and lease or buy a new Nissan. There are also incentives to do so. According to the Nissan website,

“Nissan Motor Acceptance Corporation wants to make it easy for you to buy or lease another Nissan. That’s why we reward our current customers with incentives to purchase or lease a new Nissan. We’ll waive wear and use charges. When you lease or purchase a new Nissan, we will waive up to $500 of excess wear-and-use liability on your current NMAC lease.”

In order to take advantage of these incentives, check out this form.

You should also know that before your lease expires, it will need to be inspected. But we’re not talking about the tear-your-hair-out DMV-type of inspection. Before your lease expires, contact the Nissan Lease Customer Network at (800) 778-4211 to set up a complimentary vehicle inspection. This inspection may help you avoid a wear-and-use charge for items that may be covered by your insurance policy (such as a damaged windshield). And it will help you decide what to do with your leased vehicle.

This inspection takes approximately 30 minutes, and can be done at your local Nissan dealership, your home, or your place of business. It will be performed using a laptop computer, and the results will be printed immediately after the inspection. The inspector will review the report with you and address your questions. You will be given a copy of the condition report. A second copy will be left in your vehicle, and should remain in the vehicle until the time of return.

We don’t advise to do this inspection too early out before your lease expires. This is because if the vehicle’s condition changes prior to its return due to repairs or additional damage, another inspection will be necessary. (source)

Option 2

Keep your Nissan. You can actually purchase the car you had leased instead of buying a new car or starting a new lease. If you suspect you will be charged for wear and tear, or additional mileage, you won’t be responsible for these charges if you decide to buy your car. In fact, you will not be responsible for any costs other than the predetermined purchase option price and the incidental charges stated in your Nissan lease contract or required by law. These may include sales tax, vehicle registration, a purchase option fee, etc. (Certain state and local laws may require you to pay a smog or safety inspection fee, etc.) (source)

One thing to keep in mind if you decide to buy your leased car is that the car’s interest rate could be higher than the interest rate of a new car. This is because your leased car is technically a used car and used cars generally have higher interest rates.

Here’s a tip: If you think at the end of your lease you might buy the car, before you sign a lease, you can always ask your salesperson what the estimated buyout price or resale value of the car might be to help you determine the best financial approach for you.

Option 3

Return your Nissan. At the end of your lease, you always have the option of returning the leased vehicle and taking no further action towards buying a car or leasing a car. This is very rarely the case, however, as in this day and age the majority of people need a car!

If for whatever reason you do decide you will not be getting a replacement car, there are a few things to wrap up.

  • You will need to have the car inspected (as per the explanation above)
  • You will need to schedule an appointment with you local dealership to come in and return the vehicle and fill out any exit paperwork Federal Odometer/Lease Termination Statement and the Vehicle Condition Report.
  • You will also want to call the Nissan Lease Customer Network to report the return of the vehicle.

Typically, before your lease is approaching its expiration, your local Nissan will contact you to remind you about the approaching end-of-lease date as well as to help you decide what your next move will be.

If you’ve never leased a car, we hope this post serves as a heads-up of what to expect in the end, but also, you can check out a previous blog post we’ve written on the benefits of leasing a vehicle. No matter if you buy or lease with us at Tischer Auto, we simply want to help our customers make the most informed decision as possible.

If you have other questions about leasing, feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to us on Facebook or Twitter.

*image: Thinkstock/Getty Images

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Nissan: Improving the Global Future

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Nissan is a very future-forward company. A significant part of their corporate vision is the betterment of both the people and the planet. Lately, they’ve been busy with both.

People

Nissan understands that today’s young people are the employee base of the future. Investing in youth educational programs is one of the best ways of improving everyone’s lives in the years to come. So, Nissan in collaboration with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) has contributed $180,000 to LULAC’s National Educational Service Centers (LNESC). This set of programs enables Latino students to “choose paths which lead to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)”. A part of Nissan’s financial contribution is put towards scholarships for young people with ability but not the means to study.

Nissan believes that giving back to the community keeps their company strong. For example, by supporting the top-notch students of today, Nissan will be making sure there is an available pool of scientists, engineers, and designers to help Nissan continue to manufacture innovative vehicles using cutting-edge technology.

Planet

Creating zero-emissions vehicles is a great achievement. Yet, what about the CO2 emissions generated during the manufacturing process involved in producing those vehicles? According to LEAF Chief Vehicle Engineer Hidetoshi Kadota, Nissan feels that “if too much CO2 is emitted during the vehicle’s production, we cannot call it a sustainable car”. As a result, Nissan has developed a program which uses recycled materials in the manufacture of LEAFs. At the moment, this amounts to about 25% of the steel, copper, aluminum, plastics, etc. which make up a LEAF. Nissan reassures that there is no need to worry about quality control. Chief Vehicle Engineer Kadota explains that Nissan “ensures the parts made from recycled materials are of the same quality as parts made from new materials”.

For Nissan, this is just the beginning. The company vision includes a consortium of companies, Nissan Motor Corporation included, which supports a recycling system. Nissan feels that working on a larger scale will enable such a system to be cost-effective and succeed, contributing to a “recycling society”.

What do you think about Nissan’s global efforts? Share your thoughts with us below or on Facebook and Twitter!

*header image courtesy of Nissan News

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Nissan’s Proactive Safety Plan

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Nissan has a very bold and important target: It aims to halve the number of fatal and serious injuries from accidents involving Nissan vehicles in Japan by 2015, compared with 1995. To that commendable end, Nissan has been working progressively to design and engineer safer vehicles.

Just last week, The Detroit Free Press published an article about Nissan’s changing direction on safety features. Nissan is one automaker that is leading the way in developing the best possible proactive safety features for its vehicles.

As usual for Nissan, all of these features are highly innovative: electronically-managed steering and cars that park themselves are just a couple of them! This is in contrast to the existing passive safety features that are triggered by a crash, such as airbags. 

Next-generation steering uses electronic signals to control tires, not a mechanical link, and this is set to be introduced in an Infiniti model within a year and would be the first in the world for a commercially produced car. Buzz around the auto industry says that this is the biggest innovation in steering since the adoption of power-steering!

Proactive safety features such as electronic steering will make cars much safer because drivers tend to overcompensate when driving in a gusty wind or a similar weather condition. The proactive safety features also help a driver feel a stronger sense of security and lower stress levels while driving – always a good thing!

Nissan also is in production of a system called “autonomous emergency steering.” This dynamic system is designed to avoid collisions through turns when braking would be too late. Many other automakers have offered automatic braking; however, Nissan takes the idea a step further to steer away in unexpected situations such as a pedestrian suddenly moving into the path of the vehicle. Nissan’s Executive Vice President, Mitsuhiko Yamashita, says that the technology, which relies on radar and cameras, is still incomplete and needs to be fine-tuned and perfected before it is released.

Another cutting-edge offering is the automatic parking technology, which senses if a driver mistakenly steps on the gas pedal instead of the brakes and corrects! As illustrated above, Nissan’s target by 2015 is to halve deaths and serious injuries from traffic accidents involving Nissan vehicles, when compared with 1995 data. However, it is Nissan’s ultimate goal to make that number zero!

Snug Kids

Nissan introduced Snug Kids®, an industry-first program geared specifically toward safety for children in child restrained systems (CRS), commonly referred to as “child safety seats.” Not all CRS fit in all vehicles, so Nissan safety engineers have spent thousands of hours evaluating hundreds of CRS by installing them in all the rear seats of current Nissan vehicles. The result is the Snug Kids® Child Safety Seat Fit Guide which helps parents confidently select a CRS that fits their vehicle while also providing valuable tips on the proper fit of a CRS. Thus, Nissan is strongly committed to providing the best possible safe driving situation for those driving/riding in Nissan vehicles. The Snug Kids® guide for each Nissan vehicle is provided in links at www.nissanusa.com/snugkids/.

Nissan’s triple-layered design approach involves making vehicles that provide rich and joyful driving experiences, while offering dependability and safety to assure peace of mind.  In addition to enhancing the safety of the cars themselves, Nissan is applying ITS (Intelligent Transport Systems) concepts and pursuing research to provide drivers with information about other vehicles and pedestrians beyond the range of sight. 

Nissan has developed an “All-Around Driving Support System.” In fact, the starting point behind the Nissan approach to safety technology is the fact that people have a blind spot! So Nissan’s vision is the conceptual view of a 360-degree safety system which helps protect drivers from potential risks.

We would be glad to discuss Nissan’s superb safety features, especially those specific to each vehicle, any time! Just use our easy scheduling tool to set up your test drive(s) today! 

 Schedule Your Test-drive Today! 

 

In the meantime, please share your questions, thoughts, and comments with us below. We would be glad to discuss these with you as soon as possible!

*Image courtesy of Browns Dulles Nissan

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Check out our Nissan Frontier
Rated #1 in Compact Pickup Trucks!

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2012 Nissan Frontier

We are so excited that the 2012 Nissan Frontier was rated #1 out of 6 compact pickup trucks on the market by USNews Rankings and Reviews!  This ranking was based on an analysis of 55 published reviews and test drivers, who said that the Frontier is the top pick in its class!

The Nissan Frontier is offered in S, SV, Pro-4X and SL trims, with manual or automatic transmission, a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine, and with choices of two cab styles, two bed lengths and two- or four-wheel drive.

The word is out on the Frontier with these professional reviews:

“A favorite in the mid-size-pickup market, the Frontier blends truck usefulness with sportiness.” — Car and Driver

“The 2012 Nissan Frontier is a top pick in the compact-pickup segment thanks to its brawny nature, relatively nimble handling and innovative features.” — Edmunds

“Built on the same frame as the bigger Nissan Titan, the Nissan Frontier is more than a compact pickup…it’s the perfect downsize from a full-size truck when cabin room and pickup capacity are still important.  And yet, the Frontier also excels when frugality’s at the top of the list, since it still comes in a four-cylinder, bare-bones model…Safety is among the best of compact and mid-size trucks.” – The Car Connection

Performance

The 2012 Frontier is equipped with a 261-horsepower engine, which is more powerful than its top three competitors:  GMC’s Canyon SLE1, Toyota’s Tacoma Base V6, and Chevy’s Colorado 1LT.  Also, this vehicle packs 281 lb.-ft. of torque!

The professionals say:

“A solid feel pervades. Next to its rivals, the Frontier’s lively steering, firm suspension, and V-6 power make it a sports car.” — Car and Driver

“Credit for this flexibility goes in part to the Frontier’s rugged construction, powerful V6 engine and relatively agile handling.” — Edmunds

While the four-cylinder engine, manual transmission version of the Frontier offers the best gas mileage on this vehicle, Edmunds says, “we think more people will prefer the 2012 Nissan Frontier’s gutsy V6 engine. … While it’s nice to see manual transmissions still offered here, the automatic transmission is a good match for this engine, delivering well-timed shifts whether you’re negotiating a rugged backcountry trail or just driving home from work.”

Safety

USNews gave Frontier safety a 9.1 (Excellent) rating because the 2012 Nissan Frontier scored the highest possible rating of “Good” in tests that evaluated front, side and roof strength performance by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), a non-profit organization funded by auto insurers.   All Nissan Frontiers come with standard 4-wheel anti-lock brake systems, traction control system and vehicle dynamic control.  Every Frontier comes with seat-mounted driver side-impact airbags and passenger side-impact airbags.  Curtain airbags are located in both the 1st and 2nd rows.  Occupant classification system and side impact beams are also standard.  The Car Connection concurs that the safety of the Frontier is among the best of compact and mid-size trucks.

Pricing

The 2012 Nissan Frontier has a competitive MSRP right in line with other compact pickups in its class.  However, most interior dimensions are greater for the Frontier than its competition.  For example, among other areas, the Frontier’s shoulder and hiproom exceeds others in its class by several inches, ensuring a comfortable ride for both driver and passenger(s).  In addition, the Frontier received a 2012 Best Value Award from USAA, and Vehicle Satisfaction Award from AutoPacific.

In other money-saving news about the Frontier, Insure.com named the 2012 Frontier to its list of “Least Expensive Vehicles to Insure,” while J.D. Power and Associates’ 2012 Vehicle Dependability Study ranked the 2012 Frontier highest in dependability based on the feedback of more than 30,000 consumers past 12 months.

Ask Someone Who Knows – Buyer Reviews

What’s the scoop on the 2012 Nissan Frontier?  Hear it from those who know best – Frontier owners:

“Handles really well, steering feels good and tight and I love the locking tailgate. Headlights and fog lights light the roads well and was very comfortable on an 8 hour road trip.”

 “This is by far the best truck on the road. It drives awesome. It looks awesome and I love it –plenty of room. Thanks again…”

 “Best value for the money!! Very comfortable with tons of room and very admirable performance!! MPG has been averaging 19.8-22.0 overall! Would recommend to all who value a truck in their ‘vehicular’ arsenal!!”

 “The power of the V6 is just about right and handles any situation I will get into. Very comfortable ride and love the stereo system plus XM. I have had Nissan products in the past and they have all performed admirably.”

 Schedule your test-drive today!

We invite you to check out the #1 Rated Compact Pickup – the 2012 Nissan Frontier! Simply click below to schedule a test drive of this amazing vehicle!

Schedule Your Test-drive Today!

In the meantime, please share your questions, thoughts, and comments with us below.  We would be glad to discuss these with you as soon as possible!

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The 2012 Nissan Quest
The #1 Vehicle for Busy Families!

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The 2012 Nissan Quest is an ideal family car for your busy life.

The 2012 Nissan Quest is the perfect minivan for your active family! Whether you’re driving your child off to college, scooting around town doing errands, using all seven seats to drop the kids off at practice, taking all the gear to the game, or driving 1,500 miles on vacation – the Quest has you covered!

Did you know that SmartMoney magazine rated the 2012 Quest as the #1 recommended vehicle for family haulers? The Quest was chosen for this distinction due to its powerful V6, a 260-hp “powerplant” it shares with Infiniti’s EX, FX, and JX models. SmartMoney also gave a nod to Quest’s continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides a quiet drive and excellent fuel economy. The 2012 Nissan Quest’s impressive interior and unexpected bonuses like an available backup camera and keyless entry system were mentioned in the analysis as well.

The MSRP of the 2012 Nissan Quest is nearly 8% lower than the average MSRPs of its closest competitor vehicles:  the Toyota Sienna, the Chrysler Town & Country Touring, and the Honda Odyssey. As with any vehicle, gas mileage varies with usage, weight and weather/road conditions, but the 2012 Quest gets slightly better fuel economy with city driving than others in its class. Owners rave about the storage capacity – some call it vast – under the third seat, even when the seat is stored! The Quest also has more head room and leg room in the front and third seating areas, assuring more driver and passenger comfort.

The 2012 Nissan Quest has more than ample interior space for your family.

Patrick Olsen recently wrote about his trip to take his daughter to college. This was quite a journey, because he drove 1,500 miles round-trip from the Chicago suburbs to upstate New York in a packed-to-the-gills 2012 Nissan Quest! He previously had the opportunity to travel in a Ford Flex crossover, so he was able to compare the two. One of the major accolades Olsen gave the Quest was for comfortable seating for both the driver and all passengers. Also, he compliments the storage under the floor in the rear, the excellent visibility for the driver even though the car was completely packed, and the engine power despite the added weight! To read more, check out the article here.

The 2012 Quest received the top safety rating of “good.” In addition to providing standard front-wheel drive, all-disc anti-lock brakes with brake assist, high-intensity-discharge headlights, a backup camera and a blind spot monitoring system, the Quest also has front and side-impact airbags and curtain airbags in all three rows of seating. Unlike the competition, the Quest offers front and rear height adjustable seat belts and vehicle security and immobilizer systems.

BreAnn Ahara, 2012 Nissan Quest owner and mother of two, said:

“There are three sets of lower latch anchors in the 2012 Quest, with two sets in the second row and a third set in the third row…Both my rear- and forward-facing car seats fit well in the second row. My husband and I also were able to fit our forward-facing convertible in the third row. A booster seat would easily fit into any of the rear seats.

Here’s what some of the professionals say about the 2012 Nissan Quest:

“The newest and latest Nissan Quest…is the most competitive model yet.  Its bold styling, interior refinement and smooth V6/continuously variable transmission (CVT) place it firmly in the discussion among the leaders of the pack:  the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.” – Edmunds

“It’s a minivan…if you’re a parent it can make life easier.  And that is something to smile about.”  – Road and Track

“Nissan’s ubiquitous 3.5-liter V6 provides ample power in all situations…” – Consumer Guide

 “Passing slower traffic on the highway is made easier thanks to quick reactions from the throttle and transmission, while there are advantages in fuel efficiency as well.” – Edmunds

“Quest’s tight turning radius aids close-quarters maneuverability.  Steering is responsive and has a solid, weighted feel.  Braking action is firm and smooth.” – Consumer Guide

“The Quest’s rock-solid new structure yields a wonderfully boom-free cabin as well as reasonably tidy handling, and the electrohydraulic speed-sensitive steering has positive on-center feel with a natural buildup in effort as one turns the wheel.  Smooth transitions are easy in the Quest, and that’s not something we say about every family box out there.” – Car and Driver

2012 Nissan Quest owners, however, have the most to say about their vehicle:

“The cargo area behind the rear seat is massive!”

“Interior is outstanding; styling is unique, rear storage bin is huge, ride and handling is great, decent gas mileage”

“The 2012 Nissan Quest SL is the best driving van I have owned, interior is beautiful, the kids love the DVD screen that drops down from the ceiling with the push of a button…fun to drive crossover feel with all the space needed for the kids and their stuff.  You have to drive this!”

“A great vehicle through and through.  I love the CVT on the Quest – the CVT is quiet and extremely smooth.  The interior is just unbelievable for a minivan.  It basically is a carbon copy of the Infiniti’s interior design.  Favorite features are CVT, power lift gate, simple fold flat seats.”

Many crossover vehicles, such as the Chevy Traverse, offer similar features to drivers. However, most crossover vehicles don’t provide the physical space necessary to transport up to seven people at a time, and still have some storage space! The 2012 Nissan Quest can transport up to seven people at a time with no drawbacks whatsoever. We know that you will want to come on over and take a look for yourself.

Schedule your test drive today!

Simply click below to schedule your test drive to see what a great fit the Quest would be for you and your family!

Schedule Your Test-drive Today!

In the meantime, please share your questions, thoughts, and comments with us below.  We would be glad to discuss these with you as soon as possible!

 

*Images courtesy of VroomGirls and ConceptCarz

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Hybrid Cars vs. Electric cars
Which one is right for me?

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The Nissan LEAF & The Acura ILX

With the focus on renewable resources these days, the decision to buy a hybrid car or an electric car should be an informed one!  There are big differences between these types of vehicles – much more than between hybrids and non-hybrid cars.

Structure/Mechanics

First, let’s take a look at structural and mechanical differences.  Hybrid cars run on a combination of a gas or diesel engine and one or more electric drive motors.  These electric drive motors can power large or small engines and typically get more miles per gallon of gasoline or diesel (mpg) than non-hybrids.  The battery charges when braking or stopped while the ignition is still on; this is called regenerative charging.  Some manufacturers have guaranteed the batteries up to 100,000 miles.  They also have lower tailpipe emissions, producing approximately 90% less pollutants than non-hybrids.

On the other hand, electric cars are powered by an electric motor, with power stored in one or more batteries.  They need to be plugged into a power source, preferably a high voltage line for a quicker charge (2-3 hours).  They need no oil or gasoline, usually have no tailpipe and produce no emissions.

Range

The driving range of your vehicle is definitely one of the most important to consider before purchasing.  If you are a commuter who drives less than 40 miles each way, an electric car may be a great solution to your gas usage/cost/planet conservation issues.  The range for most electric cars is 80-100 miles before needing a complete charge, and the charge takes approximately 6-8 hours to accomplish.  For families on-the-go within a small range of miles, electric cars are definitely the shape of the future.  As electric cars gain in popularity, networks of charging stations will be seen and used all over the country.  Currently, the west coast of the US leads in charging station availability.

Conversely, hybrid cars are repowered the same as any non-hybrid – at the gas station.  There is no set range of miles the hybrid car can go and no charging stations involved.

Charging

As above, most hybrid cars perform regenerative charging while they are running, so no charge is necessary.  On the other hand, electric cars need to be charged quite often.  Again, this depends on your usage – if you run the battery down completely every day, then you will be charging your vehicle overnight at your home and paying the lower electric rates.  It typically takes 6-8 hours to do a full charge of your electric car battery.  Out and about, electric cars may need a quick charge here and there and there are more and more networks of charging stations popping up all over the US.  However, electric car owners benefit from not needing gasoline or oil in their cars, so instead of watching your gas meter on the dashboard, you’ll be very conscious of how much battery power you have left!

Maintenance

Hybrid cars need to be maintained in virtually the same manner as non-hybrids.  The electric car, of course, has no oil and less moving parts – so there is less maintenance.  The batteries in both types of vehicle must be replaced.  The electric car batteries usually last 5-7 years depending on the owner’s charging habits.

Pricing

Both types of vehicles have higher starting prices than their non-hybrid/non-electric counterparts.  There has been much said about whether the higher prices paid by buyers are really worth it.  Most articles are favorable as to achieving the buyer’s goals.  Most buyers of hybrid or electric cars usually have some pre-conceived goals in mind when they are ready to buy:  they want to spend less money on gas, they are environmentally conscious – so they want lower or no emissions, and they want to benefit from any federal and/or state incentives given for purchasing such cars.

Ultimately, the benefits achieved from your hybrid or electric car are tied to your usage, particularly for the electric car.  For example, what distance you drive, what speed you go, the amount of air conditioning or heat used, or even radio usage directly affects drain on the battery.  Trade-in or sale value on your hybrid or electric car depends on the length of time you plan to keep it.  As Hybrid-car.org states, “it is not abnormal for a hybrid car to run like new when it has 250,000 miles on it.”  The electric car, due to its small percentage of moving parts, can last beyond that and still run like new.

As with all new technology, prices on both types of vehicle are expected to come down as the technology becomes more widespread and available.  Also, tax credits are making both vehicles, but especially the electric car, more affordable.

Some last thoughts

  • Driving a hybrid car is the same experience as driving a non-hybrid car
  • Electric car considerations – commuters and family hops around town are best uses for an electric car
  • The electric car is a surprisingly quiet ride!

At Tischer, we carry both the brand new Acura ILX, which is Acura’s first Hybrid car, as well as Nissan’s electric car, the LEAF.

Click here to take Nissan’s brief questionnaire to determine whether an electric car would be a good fit for you!

If you’ve determined that the LEAF is a good fit for you, check out our blog on the 2013 Nissan LEAF for more specifics about that amazing car!  Since seeing is really believing, come on over and take a test drive in one of our new hybrids or electric cars and see for yourself.

We would be delighted to show you what a perfect fit either one of these types of vehicles would be for you!  Simply click below to schedule a test drive!

Schedule Your Test-drive Today!

In the meantime, please share your questions, thoughts, and comments with us below.  We would be glad to discuss these with you as soon as possible!

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THE 100% ELECTRIC NISSAN LEAF
The perfect fit for commuters and families!

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The Zero-Emission Nissan LEAF

Pure electric cars are definitely the shape of the future in the automobile industry, and Nissan doesn’t disappoint with the LEAF.  We believe it can change everything for commuters and families, while helping the planet as well!  Electric vehicles (EVs) have motors that gain energy from controllers, then power is regulated based on the driver’s use of the accelerator.  There is absolutely no need for gasoline, oil, or even a tailpipe!

Perfect for the commuter

The Nissan LEAF is uniquely designed to operate like a standard car, but without the expense and inconvenience of having to fill with gasoline or have oil changes performed.  Commuters typically spend between $5,000 and $10,000 per year on gasoline for their commutes.  This cost is on top of the purchase price originally paid for their vehicle.  Add in 3-4 oil changes per year and you’re paying thousands for the fuel, maintenance and upkeep necessary for a commuter car.  With the LEAF, that additional expense goes away!   In this economy and recovery, we feel that it’s extremely important to provide options to consumers that cut expenses – and the LEAF is a terrific alternative!

Nissan LEAF - Pure Electric Car

The LEAF’s rechargeable battery uses common household electricity.

The LEAF’S rechargeable battery uses common household electricity.  With a purchase price starting at about $27,500, after government incentives, the LEAF is quite affordable.  Add to this fact that once you have made the initial investment in this car, there is no gas expense!

Click here to take Nissan’s brief questionnaire to determine whether the Nissan LEAF would be a good fit for you!

But what about the increased electricity expense to charge my new LEAF?  That’s a great question, and one that has a very affordable answer.  Electricity is much cheaper than gasoline, and many LEAF owners report a great deal of surprise and satisfaction at the efficiency of this car.   Nissan estimates that the LEAF gets the equivalent of about 106 mpg city, 92 mpg highway.  We think that this is amazing efficiency for such a high-quality vehicle and it keeps much more money in your wallet!  Nissan concludes, “We know that you’ll love the outstanding features of this EV, which produces no tailpipe emissions, needs no oil changes and is less expensive to operate!”

Perfect for your active family

In addition to being a more cost-efficient, environmentally friendly option for active families with multiple daily trips close to home, the LEAF also was awarded a “Top Safety Pick” rating by the prestigious Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  According to Nissan’s brochure for the LEAF:

“The Nissan LEAF® has all the conveniences of a new car: five doors, room for five, and a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat that gives you 24 cubic feet of cargo volume when folded flat.”

Nissan LEAF Cargo Space

The Nissan LEAF’s 60/40-split fold-down rear seat gives you 24 cubic feet of cargo volume!

For your family, this means leg room in the back seat, even with five people in the car!  Plus the cargo space provided enables you to take your family and the gear to sports/club practices, run errands, go food shopping, and other nearby trips without having to make those inconvenient and expensive stops for gas.

The Nissan LEAF’s interior technology includes:

  • a high-tech dash with digital displays provides crisp, clean readouts of everything you need to know.
  • a cutting-edge telematics system, called CARWINGS®[*], keeps you connected to your car even when you aren’t in it, and connects you to charging stations when you are.
  • the stylish, modern, and comfortable light grey seats are heated and partially made from recycled bottles!
  • RearView Monitor[*] helps give you a clear picture of what’s behind you, on the display monitor that’s right in front of you.
  • And when you just want to unwind and enjoy the ride, standard iPod and USB connectivity[*] ensures you’ll always have access to all your favorite songs.

The exterior of this car is much different than most current EVs.  It is considered a mid-size hatchback – highly unusual and way ahead of the competition in EVs.  Many EVs are extremely small and lightweight, so they tend not to have the pickup, nice ride and handling of the LEAF.  Also, the battery is positioned so that it gives the car a low center of gravity, which makes it feel “planted” when turning.  And that’s because Nissan offers technologies in the LEAF that other new cars don’t – ALL WITHOUT A DROP OF GAS!  Which brings us to why the Nissan LEAF is…

Perfect for your wallet

LEAF owners have a myriad of great things to say about this car:

  • “low operating cost”
  • “plenty of pick up”
  • “nice ride and handling”
  • “feels like a luxury car, not an economy car”
  • “a smooth, quiet ride”
  • “outstanding cabin technology”
  • “love driving past gas stations knowing that I don’t have to go there!”
  • “I save about $120 per month in fuel”
  • “the car can schedule charging for itself at the low night electricity rates”
  • “environmentally responsible”
  • “I feel much safer in this car than I would in most of the other EVs because it’s bigger”

Perfect for the planet

No tailpipe, no emissions, and no gasoline burn means that the Nissan LEAF is a car that is much better for our planet than a standard gasoline-operated car.  Nissan has equipped the LEAF with many features to ensure that there is efficient battery run-down.  The car even gives the driver up-to-the-minute energy usage and gives tips and suggestions on how to maximize that data.  As Nissan details in its brochure, other energy-saving features:

  • The Regenerative Braking System that makes it stop is capturing energy while you coast or brake, and recycling it back into the power supply.  Accelerating or braking, the power meter clearly displays whether you are using power, or gaining it. To give it a road-hugging drive, the lithium-ion battery pack is situated under the floor of the passenger compartment for an even distribution of weight and low center of gravity.
  • The Nissan LEAF® is designed for maximum efficiency, and that doesn’t just mean the electric motor. Its LED headlights use only about 50% of the energy of traditional headlights. The flat underbody meshes with a front spoiler and rear diffuser, to create the smoothest airflow and lowest drag possible. An optional solar rear spoiler harnesses energy from the sun, helping to power the air conditioning and the entertainment system.

Charging your new LEAF is easily done at your 240-volt home-charging dock.  On the go, there are 6300+ public charging stations across the US and 1300 miles of charging stations along the West Coast of the US.  The average range between charges on the LEAF is 100 miles.  Of course, road, traffic and weather conditions will affect this range.  As we said before, the LEAF has the technology to tell you how to make your range better on a real-time basis!

Schedule your test-drive today!

We think you will agree that the Nissan LEAF would be a great investment!  We would be delighted to show you what a perfect fit the LEAF would be for you!  Simply click below to schedule a test drive of the Nissan LEAF.

Schedule Your Test-drive Today!

In the meantime, please share your questions, thoughts, and comments with us below.  We would be glad to discuss these with you as soon as possible!

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The All-New 2013 Nissan Altima
The Most Innovative Altima Ever!

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Have you seen the all-new 2013 Nissan Altima?  “Wow!” was just about all we could say after not only seeing this beauty, but taking one for a spin.  Nissan has completely redesigned the Altima – changing everything except the name!

One of the things we love most about Nissan is that this company is all about innovation. Nissan strives to make changes to its vehicles only when they are necessary and have an innovative reasoning behind them. Making changes for change’s sake is what a lot of other car manufacturers do, and that is just not how Nissan operates.

Each and every change from the outgoing Nissan Altima to the 2013 edition was made for a reason: either to improve the overall performance and safety of the vehicle and/or to improve the owner’s driving experience.

Design Modifications

Exterior Changes

The 2013 Nissan Altima has gone through what we would call a moderate body style change.  Not only does the new Altima resemble the Nissan Maxima more than it ever has before, but it was also designed to resemble the Infiniti M37. This is a tactic Nissan used back in the ‘90s when they first released the Altima.  To recap, when the original Altima launched 20 years ago, it wore a kid-sized version of the Infiniti J30’s luxury “jumpsuit.”

In the car world, many of the manufacturers of affordable models (like the Nissan Altima) will copy the look of more expensive, luxury vehicles to enhance their appeal.   We think this is genius because Nissan copies higher models in its own brand and also from its Infiniti luxury brand.  Nissan’s goal in modeling the Altima after the Infiniti M37 is to provide the look and feel of a $40,000+ car for far less. The 2013 Altima’s price tag tops out in the $25,000 range.  In this economy, who wouldn’t opt for the least expensive of the two?

2013 Nissan Altima Looks Very Similar to the Infiniti M37

As you can see in the side by side images above, the 2013 Nissan Altima has a sticking resemblance to the 2013 Infiniti M37. Very smart move on Nissan’s part!

The most noticeable body style changes from the 2012 Altima to 2013 Altima include:

  • A wider front end, giving it a more aggressive, sportier look.
  • A more sophisticated back end that consists of sharper angles and straighter lines than previous models.
  • The position of the tail lights:  dropped slightly lower on the back end, giving the car the illusion of being wider.

Existing Altima owners reported that they were perfectly happy with the size of their cars.  Respecting the feedback from its client base, Nissan kept the size essentially the same.   Minor tweaks to the car’s dimensions were made making the vehicle wider, longer and lower to the ground by a mere inch or so.

Materials/Weight Changes

In addition to the physically noticeable changes to the body’s look and feel, Nissan has also made some significant and innovative changes that are not so obvious to the eye. The fully-loaded SL 2.5-liter four-cylinder model now weighs in at 3,102 pounds, an impressive 124 pounds less than last year’s model. The reduction in weight contributes greatly to enhancements in performance as well as increasing fuel-efficiency.

What has contributed to the weight reduction is a change in materials. The trunk, hood, and roof are now made from aluminum, and the body uses more high-strength steel to cancel out the modest increase in size. The wheelbase is unchanged, but the added width makes for extra shoulder room in the larger cabin.

Interior Changes

Nissan used a NASA zero-gravity study to determine the best support points for the front seat. Photo © Aaron Gold

At first glance, the interior of the 2013 Altima is essentially the same as the 2012 model.  The basic layout of the dash is unchanged, and drivers are still presented with clear gauges, a large, easy-to-read LCD screen, and simple climate controls that can be operated without taking your eyes off the road.

One change that is worth noting, although not visually noticeable, is the amazingly comfortable new front seats, called Zero-Gravity® Seats.

[From Nissan]

Zero-Gravity® Seats – In the weightlessness of space, humans tend to take a relaxed posture that minimizes stress on the body. To recreate this “neutral posture” when you’re behind the wheel, Nissan designed a new, articulated front seat shape that offers continuous support from the pelvis to the chest, along with seat cushions that flex in response to your unique pressure points. The result is a seat that helps reduce fatigue for drivers of all sizes.

Nissan used data from a NASA study that determined the optimum support point for the human body. They used this information to create some of the most comfortable car seats available today.  Supportive and soft, the seats have a memory-foam-like feel that embraces your body with a uniform amount of pressure.  Meanwhile, back seat passengers have an excellent amount of leg room.

Performance Upgrades

Engine Refinements

Nissan has done extensive refinements to the Altima’s 4-cylinder engine and Continuously Variable Transmission® (CVT) to help ensure it is as powerful and fuel-efficient as ever.

The 182-hp 4-cylinder engine gets an amazing 38-MPG HWY (which is a best-in- class fuel economy).  Nissan has also refined the Xtronic CVT® to reduce friction by up to 40% which provides better acceleration, smoother performance, and ensures excellent fuel economy.  In addition, the 2013 Altima is proud to wear the PUREDRIVE® badge, meaning that it meets or exceeds the industry average US Federal CAFE standards for model-year 2016.  We think that is especially impressive, and it is just one of the many things that Nissan is doing to stay on the forefront of eco-friendly vehicle development.

Bucking the trend of offering only four-cylinder engines in mid-size family sedans, Nissan offers an optional 270-hp V-6 engine. The V-6 provides drivers with a sports car-like performance, while getting an astounding 31-MPG HWY.  One of the popular attractions of the V-6 is the incorporation of paddle shifters. They are mounted right to the steering wheel and give drivers the option to shift gears quickly and easily.

Driving Refinements

In addition to the engine refinements, Nissan has done some pretty innovative changes to the way the car handles the road that make driving a breeze.  We think Nissan does a great job of explaining these in the 2013 Altima brochure, so we have extracted that content for you below:

[From Nissan]

Active Understeer Control. This innovative technology helps improve control when you take a corner. It reads the cornering situation and, if needed, will imperceptibly brake the appropriate wheel to help you steer though the turn.

Suspension. Altima’s all-new rear multi-link suspension was designed for exceptional agility. You’ll feel it especially in the corners, when the layout of the suspension allows the rear wheels to turn slightly to match the front – giving you the sensation of riding on rails.

Shocks. Altima’s luxury sedan-inspired shocks significantly reduce vibrations for a smooth, flat ride. A rebound spring inside of each shock absorber makes for minimal roughness and more secure cornering, combining great performance with great ride comfort.

Technology Upgrades

Nissan’s Advanced Drive Assist™ Photo © Nissan Motors.

The 2013 Nissan Altima comes equipped with the new Advance Drive-Assist™, an in-dash screen that presents you with important information while you are driving. Whether it is turn-by-turn navigation, Caller ID from your cell phone, or other important information about your car, Advance Drive-Assist puts the info right in front of you, minimizing time looking away from the road.

Pandora Radio Capabilities and iPod USB Input

Why settle for listening to just the radio?  Nissan has taken huge strides in incorporating technology that drivers and passengers use every day on other devices, like their Smartphones, and incorporating it into the 2013 Altima. The all-new Altima has the capability to stream music from Pandora Radio, as well as any Bluetooth-enabled device. That means your friends can connect their Smartphones and play DJ from the back seat – AWESOME!

In addition to these great new music features, the 2013 Altima continues to offer direct inline hook-ups for the iPod and other USB devices.

Safety Shield Technologies

The 2013 Nissan Altima is available with Nissan’s Safety Shield Technology.  Safety Shield uses the RearView Monitor system as a second set of eyes to check your driving situation at all times. Below is how Nissan describes each aspect of the Safety Shield Technology:

[From Nissan]

Blind Spot Warning.  If another vehicle is detected in your blind spot area, an indicator appears in the driver’s or front passenger’s doors and on the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display.  Put your turn signal on, and the indicator flashes with a warning chime to alert you.

Lane Departure Warning.  If Altima detects that you’re straying from your lane, the Lane Departure Warning system will give both a visual and audible alert.  The system is so smart that it is designed to stop the warnings whenever your turn signal is engaged!

Moving Object Detection.  Shift into reverse, and the available next- generation RearView Monitor displays what’s behind you.  If it detects something moving by the rear of the vehicle when you’re in reverse, it gives a visual and audible alert.

Schedule your test-drive today!

We think you will agree that the all-new 2013 Nissan Altima is, in fact, the most innovative Altima ever.  We would be delighted to show you in person just how amazing this car is!  Simply click below to schedule a test drive of the all-new 2013 Nissan Altima.

Schedule Your Test-drive Today!

In the meantime, please share your questions, thoughts, and comments with us below.  We would be glad to discuss these with you as soon as possible!

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