Nissan launches diesel version of X-Trail

Japans Nissan Motor Co. launched its first diesel version of the X-Trail sports utility vehicle for the domestic market that meets Japan’s stricter emission standards. The X-Trail 20 GT is environmentally friendly also because the new 2,000 cc diesel engine emits less carbon dioxide than a comparable 3,500 cc gasoline engine, Nissan said. The new model consumes 30% less fuel than the 2,500 cc gasoline version with the same power output in the X-Trail series, it noted. The new emission standards, to take effect in October 2009, call for a 47% cut in nitrogen oxide emissions and a 64% cut in particulate matter emissions from the current regulations. The recommended retail price of the X-Trail 20 GT with a six-speed manual transmission is set at ¥2,999,850 (US$28,550) including consumption tax. Nissan is also developing a plug-in hybrid vehicle that could hit the market after the debut of its electric cars in 2010. “Development is already underway and we are conducting performance tests,” said Executive Vice President Mitsuhiko Yamashita. He said the timing of the commercialization and sales launch of the vehicles are still undecided. (September 2/4, 2008)