The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

2002 Geneva Motor Show: Three New Cars and Two Concepts Show Nissan’s Present and Future

At the 2002 Geneva Motor Show Nissan will present three new production cars in what is a significant moment in the revision of the European line-up. The bold new Primera epitomises the future direction of Nissan's passenger cars. The recently launched X-TRAIL, the new Terrano and the fully redesigned Pickup certify that Nissan is ready to play a leading role in the European 4x4 market.

The world premiere of the innovative Yanya B-segment Sports Utility Vehicle concept defines new limits of flexibility and technology for Europe’s next generation of young people.

The left-hand drive GT-R Concept makes its European debut and completes its world tour of introductions after Tokyo and Detroit Motor Shows. Nissan’s GT-R Concept represents the ultimate expression of driving exhilaration and signals Nissan’s intention for the GT-R to become a global player.

Yanya The world premiere of the Yanya concept offers the practical, hi-tech, stylish yet affordable solution for the daily and weekend lives of the sophisticated and active European youngsters of the next generation. The stylish, yet unmistakably SUV derived exterior, hints at Yanya’s 4x4 credentials whilst contrasting with the imaginative use of soft touch, durable interior materials inside and cutting edge entertainment and IT systems. Developed under the concept of ‘Urban Activity Gear’, compact city-car meets SUV in the Yanya, and through its innovative and adaptable interior and roof section, it transforms into a ‘Sports Utility Truck’.

Primera The new Primera celebrates its market debut in Geneva, with sales starting Europe-wide from 1st March.

Showcasing Nissan’s new commitment to design and equipped with the unique N-FORM system, Primera breaks new ground by integrating all of the advanced in-car technology into one central console and information screen. Based upon the ‘Human Machine Interface’ concept, developed to increase the interaction between man and machine, Primera’s N-FORM system controls all of the in-car systems: entertainment, climate control, fully integrated telephone, DVD navigation and an innovative rear parking camera. The last two features are introduced to the European D-segment for the first time.

Building on the dynamic excellence synonymous with the Primera name, Primera’s new chassis and multi-link suspension layout brings new levels of ride comfort to equal the further improved handling capabilities. Combined with the latest in dynamic technology, Primera sets a new pace for both ride and handling in the European D-segment.

New Terrano Making its first public appearance, the updated Terrano, Nissan’s top-selling off-roader in Europe, enters 2002 with a new engine, class-leading safety package, and aggressive new looks. Production of the new Terrano started at Nissan’s Barcelona plant 21st January, with sales starting 5th March.

The 3.0-litre direct injection turbo diesel engine, also fitted to the Patrol GR, brings Terrano to the top of its category in terms of torque and outright top speed whilst also delivering more refinement – all at a lower cost to the consumer.

Improved performance is matched by a new safety package inside, reinforcing Terrano’s appeal to the active family. Side-airbags SRS become available, and for the first time in a medium 4x4, in combination with whiplash-reducing active headrestraints.

Design updates inside and out confirm Terrano’s identity as a genuine, authentic 4x4. The hood is redesigned to accommodate the new power plant and a sharper, more imposing air-intake sits below Nissan’s trademark angle-strut grille to give Terrano a more aggressive and dynamic front face.

New Pickup In showrooms as from January, Nissan’s completely redesigned new Pickup shows that active leisure pursuits are not just the preserve of SUVs, but of pickups too. With a muscular and appealing exterior styling the new Pickup is an authentic 4x4 designed for outdoor sports as well as hard work.

Fitted with an all-new 2.5-litre direct injection turbo-diesel engine, the Pickup moves ahead of its rivals to offer best in class power, torque and towing capacity but with more refinement and lower emissions. With the introduction of a two-wheel-drive ‘4x4 Look’ version, the new Pickup also now offers a lower cost alternative to appeal to more lifestyle and image oriented consumers.

X-TRAIL The stylish X-TRAIL, Nissan's crossover SUV introduced last year, combines sophisticated on-road ride with real off-road ability. Since its September '01 showroom introduction, the Nissan X-TRAIL has already made a significant impact on the high growth, 'compact' sector of the 4x4 market, outperforming expectations. At the heart of X-TRAIL's dynamic abilities is the ALL MODE 4x4 system - the first electronic 4x4 system in its class -, which offers instant response under all circumstances.

GT-R Concept Following appearance at the Tokyo and Detroit motor shows, the left-hand drive GT-R Concept comes to Geneva to demonstrate its global attitude. Although still under development, the GT-R Concept exudes high-performance, with its aggressive styling and purpose-oriented sports car interior.