USA - Nissan announces pricing and Specification for the 370Z Range of sports cars.

Nissan today announced U.S. pricing for the 2018 370Z Coupe, 370Z NISMO and 370Z Roadster, which are on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide. The starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs)1 for the entry-level 370Z Coupe and 370Z Roadster remain unchanged from 2017 – $29,990 and $41,820 respectively. The iconic Nissan Z® is offered in a selection of eight 370Z Coupe models, two 370Z NISMO models and four 370Z Roadster models.

For 2018, 370Z Coupe and 370Z Roadster models add a number of significant enhancements – starting with revised exteriors that include dark headlight treatments, dark tinted rear combination lights, new blackout rear lower fascias and new 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheel designs. Under the skin, the legendary 370Z driving experience has been enhanced through optimized acceleration and torque profile tuning. Manual transmission-equipped 370Z models (including the 370Z NISMO Tech 6MT) feature a new motorsports-inspired EXEDY® high-performance clutch.

One vibrant new premium exterior color, Passion Red, is added for 2018 (except NISMO models) – with a tinted clearcoat that includes Nano-sized pigments for unparalleled depth and character. Two additional speakers (six total) are added to base Coupe and Roaster models.

In addition, a new Heritage Edition package is offered on the base 370Z. Intended for 370Z Coupe buyers who want to stand out from the crowd even further, the new Heritage Edition package is offered on the base 370Z grade. The Heritage Edition is available in two exterior colors. The Chicane Yellow Heritage Edition features black outside mirrors, gloss black graphics and yellow interior trim. The Magnetic Black Heritage Edition includes gloss silver graphics and yellow interior trim.

2018 Nissan 370Z Coupe

The Nissan 370Z once again offers extraordinary performance, design and an unmatched heritage. It is offered in four well-equipped trim levels: 370Z, Sport, Sport Tech and Touring, along with the new Heritage Edition. Each 370Z model comes equipped 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 with paddle shifters. 

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2018 Nissan 370Z Coupe:

370Z Coupe 6MT	$29,990 USD
370Z Coupe 7AT	$31,390 USD
370Z Coupe Sport 6MT	$33,570 USD
370Z Coupe Sport 7AT	$34,970 USD
370Z Coupe Sport Tech 6MT	$37,070 USD
370Z Coupe Sport Tech 7AT	$38,470 USD
370Z Coupe Touring 6MT	$38,190 USD
370Z Coupe Touring 7AT	$39,590 USD

Destination and Handling $885.

2018 Nissan 370Z Coupe NISMO

For Nissan GT-R enthusiasts, one model stands above the rest: the GT-R NISMO. The same holds true for fans of the iconic Nissan 370Z – it's the one wearing the instantly recognized black-and-red NISMO badge.

For 2018, the 370Z NISMO Tech continues its role as the ultimate Z®. The changes for the 2018 model year are performance related. Dunlop SP Sport MAXX GT600 high-performance tires, which adopt the same tread pattern as the GT-R, replace the previous Bridgestone Potenza S001 tires. The new tires offer a 20 percent reduction in rolling resistance and a one decibel reduction in road noise while maintaining the current handling performance.

Also, for 6-speed manual transmission-equipped 2018 370Z NISMO Tech models, driving response is further enhanced with the addition of a new EXEDY® high-performance clutch. The new EXEDY L-PEC (Light Pedal Effort Clutch) clutch was developed in part through EXEDY's longstanding relationship with Nissan Motorsports.

The 370Z NISMO Tech's GT-R-inspired functional and fully integrated aerodynamic body pieces provide an aggressive and more aerodynamic appearance while optimizing front and rear downforce. The standard 19-inch NISMO super-lightweight forged aluminum-alloy wheels by RAYS feature a twin-five spoke design and a charcoal gray machine-finish. Inside, the unique NISMO-styled interior features black-and-red Recaro® leather-appointed seats with Alcantara® accents.

The 370Z NISMO Tech is powered by a potent 350-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL). Torque is rated at 276 lb-ft. Two transmission choices are offered for the 370Z NISMO model – a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission with standard SynchroRev Match® or a refined 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM), Adaptive Shift Control and manual shift mode with paddle shifters.

The 370Z NISMO Tech also features a refined 4-wheel independent suspension, NISMO-branded strut tower brace for enhanced body rigidity, and a pair of performance dampers to help minimize road-input vibrations and help contribute to the 370Z NISMO Tech's high levels of handling and performance feel. Large Nissan Sport Brakes and a Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD) – with a shorter final drive ratio for better acceleration feel – are also standard.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2018 Nissan 370Z NISMO: 

370Z Coupe NISMO Tech 6MT	$45,690 USD
370Z Coupe NISMO Tech 7AT	$47,090 USD

Destination and Handling $885.

2018 Nissan 370Z Roadster

The Nissan 370Z Roadster is available in a choice of three well-equipped grades: 370Z Touring Sport Roadster, 370 Touring Roadster and 370Z Roadster. It again offers an unmatched balance of dynamic performance, sculptured styling, innovative technology and exceptional value – matched with the exhilaration of pure open-air motoring.

The major enhancements for 2018 are detailed above – revised exterior styling, EXEDY® high-performance clutch, two additional audio system speakers (base model) and jaw-dropping Passion Red exterior paint.

The convertible top, which is designed to provide a sleek silhouette matching the 370Z Coupe's stunning styling with the top up or down, features an easy, single-action open-close operation. The 370Z Roadster's interior is completely driver-centric, with its three-layer design grouping items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place – so drivers feel completely connected and engaged.

The 370Z Roadster's outstanding performance starts with a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), matched with a choice of electronically controlled 7-speed automatic transmission with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and standard paddle shifters or a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission with available SynchroRev Match®. Responsive handling is provided by a refined 4-wheel independent suspension.

Along with the long list of standard equipment on the base 370Z Roadster, including Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, USB input and black-finished 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, the 370Z Touring Roadster adds Nissan Navigation System with 7.0-inch touch-sensitive display, Bose® Audio System, cooling and heated ventilated leather-appointed seats and RearView Monitor. The top-of-the-line 370Z Touring Sport Roadster includes Viscous Limited-Slip Differential, SynchroRev Match® (manual transmission only), 19-inch RAYS super lightweight forged aluminum-alloy wheels and Nissan Sport Brakes.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2018 Nissan 370Z Roadster: 

370Z Roadster 7AT	$41,820 USD
370Z Roadster Touring 7AT	$46,570 USD
370Z Roadster Touring Sport 6MT	$48,100 USD
370Z Roadster Touring Sport 7AT	$49,400 USD

Destination and Handling $885.

Jaguar started the trend, now Aston Martin are rebuilding a continuation model the DB4 GT.

• Iconic DB4 G.T. brought back to life by Aston Martin Works
• Cars will be built at Newport Pagnell - home of the original DB4 G.T.
• Strictly limited to 25 track-only cars
• Newport Pagnell production re-starts after 10 years

One of Aston Martin’s most iconic models – the  DB4 G.T. - is to be celebrated with a special series of 25 track-only continuation cars built to lightweight specification by Aston Martin Works at Newport Pagnell.

Launched in 1959, the DB4 G.T. was immediately celebrated as one of the rarest and most revered of all Aston Martins. 

Evolved from the production DB4 and introduced in the same year Aston Martin scored its historic outright win in the Le Mans 24 Hours, the DB4 G.T. was a true supercar of its day. 

Shorter, lighter, sleeker and with a more powerful version of the legendary 3.7-litre straight-six engine, not only was the DB4 G.T. Britain’s fastest passenger sports car, it was a born winner, scoring a debut race victory at Silverstone in the hands of Sir Stirling Moss.

A total of 75 DB4 G.T.s were built between 1959 and 1963. Of these only eight were lightweight models, most of which survive today, and values now comfortably exceed £3m.

Remaining faithful to the design of those original eight factory lightweights, each DB4 G.T. Continuation will be built with Aston Martin Works’ unrivalled experience and exemplary attention. 

Employing a blend of old world craftsmanship and modern techniques, continuation cars benefit from improvements in engine performance, handling, braking and safety, with great care taken to ensure these enhancements build upon the original’s exceptional qualities while retaining its feel and character.

Underlining that authenticity are the continuation car VIN numbers, which carry on from the last original DB4 G.T. ordered - Chassis 0202R - for an unbroken bloodline and impeccable Newport Pagnell-built pedigree spanning half a century.  

At its heart is a version of the celebrated Tadek Marek-designed straight-six cylinder engine with two spark plugs per cylinder, transmitting its 340bhp to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential, just as in the original DB4 G.T. 

Thanks to its shortened wheelbase the DB4 G.T. is a strict two-seater blessed with greater agility than the regular four-seater DB4. Its body follows the original construction, with thin-gauge aluminum panels fitted over a tubular frame. 

To improve the accuracy and consistency of the panels, the continuation car’s bodywork uses state-of-the-art digital technology, before being hand-finished in time-honoured tradition. 

Fittingly for a car created to celebrate one of Aston Martin’s most illustrious competition models, the DB4 G.T. 

Continuation is built to be enjoyed on track. 

Aston Martin Works has created a two-year international track driving programme held at a number of the world’s finest race tracks, including the spectacular Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi. 

The ultimate arrive-and-drive experience, customers may also take advantage of Aston Martin’s dedicated driver training team. Comprised of expert instructors, including Aston Martin Racing’s multiple Le Mans class winner (and Goodwood Revival regular) Darren Turner, they will help customers master driving techniques from an era when track driving was more art than science.

Paul Spires, Commercial Director, Aston Martin Works said of the DB4 G.T. Continuation programme: “For over 60 years Aston Martin Works has devoted unrivalled skill and experience to preserving Aston Martin’s heritage. 

Now we are creating something for the future, with a special series of 25 continuation cars that celebrate one of Aston Martin’s greatest cars - the DB4 G.T. Lightweight.

“Built in our recently refurbished, state-of-the-art facilities in Newport Pagnell, the DB4 G.T. Continuation is hand built in the same location as its illustrious forebears, and marks the return of production to the historic home of Aston Martin for the first time since the last Vanquish S was completed in 2007. 

Combining the authenticity of a hand-crafted David Brown era car with sympathetic application of modern engineering advancements and performance enhancements, the DB4 G.T. Continuation is a fusion of classic design and contemporary methods.

“The result is a truly remarkable machine. One that offers 25 individuals the opportunity of commissioning a classic, built to modern day standards and ready to be enjoyed in an international track driving programme as bespoke and individual as the cars themselves.”

Dr Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President and CEO commented: “Aston Martin has a rich and vibrant heritage, as you’d expect from a company that has been building some of the world’s finest sports cars for 103-years. 

Of those the DB4 G.T. stands proud as one of the most coveted of all. It’s a mark of Aston Martin’s breadth of abilities that in the same year we launched the DB11 - our most advanced ‘DB’ production car ever - we can also embark on an adventure such as the DB4 G.T. Continuation. 

A project that taps into the unique passion and skills that exist within Aston Martin, I’m thrilled we have the imagination and capability to offer 25 enthusiasts the unique opportunity to commission their own piece of Aston Martin history.” 

First deliveries of DB4 G.T. Continuation will commence in QTR 3 2017.

USA - One family opts for a Transit passenger vehicle over a minivan as it is far bigger inside for their family and kit.

Growing numbers of families are turning to the Ford Transit passenger wagon instead of minivans.

Through June, large families helped drive a 30 percent year-over-year increase in Transit passenger wagon sales. Transit vans outsold every other van in the United States over the first half of 2016, including minivans.

In a new video, Matt and Beth Hoyt of New Richmond, Ohio, explain what convinced them to replace their old minivan with a new, full-size Ford Transit passenger wagon.

Among the features the couple highlight are the ability to stand upright to buckle their five children into their car seats, an aisle that lets them walk all the way to the back row, plenty of storage space, an easy-clean vinyl floor, powerful 3.7-liter V6 engine with EPA-estimated fuel economy of 14 mpg city and 18 mpg highway*, driver visibility, and safety features including side curtain airbags.

Ford Transit, America’s best-selling van, is available as a cargo van, passenger wagon, chassis cab and cutaway. 

The flexible Transit can be ordered with a choice of three roof heights, two wheelbases, three body lengths and three engines, for a total of 64 configurations from Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant.

The passenger wagon comes with seating for eight, 10, 12 or 15 passengers. 

*EPA-estimated rating of 14 mpg city, 18 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined is for Transit low- and medium-roof regular-wheelbase wagon. Actual mileage may vary.

USA - Nissan relaunches the 370Z for the 2017 model year loads of updates and upgrades but no price increases.

Nissan today announced U.S. pricing for the 2017 370Z Coupe, 370Z NISMO and 370Z Roadster, which are on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide. The iconic Nissan Z® is offered in a selection of eight 370Z Coupe models, four 370Z NISMO models and five 370Z Roadster models. One new exterior color, Chicane Yellow, is added for 2017 (except NISMO models).

Pricing for the new model year remains unchanged from 2016 across the entire lineup. The starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 370Z Coupe with manual transmission is $29,990 USD, while the 370Z NISMO has a starting MSRP of $41,990 USD (manual transmission). The 370Z Roadster starts at $41,820 USD.

 2017 Nissan 370Z Coupe

The Nissan 370Z once again offers extraordinary performance, design and an unmatched heritage. It is offered in four well-equipped trim levels: 370Z, Sport, Sport Tech and Touring, with no available option packages. 

Each 370Z model comes equipped 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 with paddle shifters. 

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2017 Nissan 370Z Coupe:

370Z Coupe 6MT	$29,990 USD
370Z Coupe 7AT	$31,290 USD
370Z Coupe Sport 6MT	$33,570 USD
370Z Coupe Sport 7AT	$34,870 USD
370Z Coupe Sport Tech 6MT	$37,070 USD
370Z Coupe Sport Tech 7AT	$38,370 USD
370Z Coupe Touring 6MT	$37,970 USD
370Z Coupe Touring 7AT	$39,270 USD

^{Destination and Handling $835.}

2017 Nissan 370Z Coupe NISMO

Significantly revised two years ago with a new exterior design and redesigned RAYS aluminum-alloy wheels, the 370Z NISMO and 370Z NISMO Tech's GT-R-inspired functional and fully integrated aerodynamic body pieces provide an aggressive and more aerodynamic appearance, along with optimizing front and rear downforce. 

The standard 19-inch NISMO super-lightweight forged aluminum-alloy wheels by RAYS feature a twin-five spoke design and a charcoal gray machine-finish.

Inside, the unique NISMO-styled interior features black-and-red Recaro® leather-appointed seats with Alcantara® accents. The seats were designed with Recaro® specifically for the 370Z NISMO to provide more uniform body pressure and better all-direction holding during spirited acceleration, braking and cornering. 

The interior also features red seat trim and stitching with NISMO logo, an Alcantara®-appointed leather-wrapped steering wheel with red center stripe and NISMO red tachometer.

The 370Z NISMO is powered by a potent 350-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL). 

The 370Z NISMO's enhanced engine power and acceleration (versus non-NISMO 370Zs) is provided through use of an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design and muffler tuning, along with optimized ECM (Engine Control Module) calibration, to help create 18 horsepower more than a standard 370Z Coupe. Torque is rated at 276 lb-ft.

Two transmission choices are offered for the 370Z NISMO model – a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission with standard SynchroRev Match® or a refined 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM), Adaptive Shift Control and manual shift mode with paddle shifters.

The 370Z NISMO also features a refined 4-wheel independent suspension, NISMO-branded strut tower brace for enhanced body rigidity and a pair of performance dampers to help minimize road-input vibrations and help contribute to the NISMO 370Z's high levels of handling and performance feel. 

Large Nissan Sport Brakes and a Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD) – with a shorter final drive ratio for better acceleration feel – are also standard.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2017 Nissan 370Z NISMO: 

370Z Coupe NISMO 6MT	$41,990 USD
370Z Coupe NISMO 7AT	$43,290 USD
370Z Coupe NISMO Tech 6MT	$45,490 USD
370Z Coupe NISMO Tech 7AT	$46,790 USD

^{Destination and Handling $835.}

2017 Nissan 370Z Roadster

The Nissan 370Z Roadster is available in a choice of three well-equipped grades: 370Z Touring Sport Roadster, 370 Touring Roadster and 370Z Roadster. 

It again offers an unmatched balance of dynamic performance, sculptured styling, innovative technology and exceptional value – matched with the exhilaration of pure open-air motoring.

The convertible top, which is designed to provide a sleek silhouette matching the 370Z Coupe's stunning styling with the top up or down, features an easy, single-action open-close operation. 

The 370Z Roadster's interior is completely driver-centric, with its three-layer design grouping items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place – so drivers feel completely connected and engaged.

The 370Z Roadster's outstanding performance starts with a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), matched with a choice of electronically controlled 7-speed automatic transmission with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and standard paddle shifters or a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission with available SynchroRev Match®. Responsive handling is provided by a refined 4-wheel independent suspension.

Along with the long list of standard equipment on the base 370Z Roadster, including Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, USB input and black-finished 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, the 370Z Touring Roadster adds Nissan Navigation System with 7.0-inch touch-sensitive display, Bose® Audio System, cooling and heated ventilated leather-appointed seats and RearView Monitor. 

The top-of-the-line 370Z Touring Sport Roadster includes Viscous Limited-Slip Differential, SynchroRev Match® (manual transmission only), 19-inch RAYS super lightweight forged aluminum-alloy wheels and Nissan Sport Brakes.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2017 Nissan 370Z Roadster: 

370Z Roadster 7AT	$41,820 USD
370Z Roadster Touring 6MT	$45,270 USD
370Z Roadster Touring 7AT	$46,570 USD
370Z Roadster Touring Sport 6MT	$48,100 USD
370Z Roadster Touring Sport 7AT	$49,400 USD

^{Destination and Handling $835.}