Nissan Launches First Mini SUV

Tokyo, Oct 30, 2008; Nissan Motor Co. said Thursday it has launched the Kix, its first mini sport-utility vehicle, in Japan, targeting men in their 50s and 60s.

The Kix, Nissan's fifth mini model, is built for the company by Mitsubishi Motors Corp. <7211> under an original equipment manufacturer deal.

Nissan aims for monthly sales of 300 units of the new car, priced at 1,402,800 yen to 1,591,800 yen.

The automaker hopes the launch of the mini SUV will meet growing demand for small vehicles, a Nissan executive officer said.