Nissan Gives Us a Glimpse Into the Future

Nissan has been struggling as of late, trying to find the right product mix that will appeal to the new market dynamics and preferences. Some products that we are likely to see in the near future are meant to occupy unfilled niches. A new sport ute, based on the Frontier will be known as the XTerra. The objective of this new vehicle is to provide a more truck based alternative to those seeking a mini ute. Criticisms of Honda’s CR-V and Toyota’s RAV4 being too car like have been heard loud and clear by Nissan. On the opposite end of the spectrum, a new sports car is expected. The 250Z will go back to its very roots in the 240Z. The retro styled Z should capitalize on the trend of emptynesters buying cars that take them back to the days of their youth. The idea is to buy now what you longed for then but could never afford. Besides taking advantage of market trends, the new Z should capture some of the magic of one of the most beautifully styled sports cars of the late sixties and early seventies.Overall the S80 is a fine car that just seems to have turned its back on the family. As a result the car tends to be more conforming to the status quo. While the S80 is very well equipped, its $50K price tag will pit it against some very stiff competition. The T6 raises the price to $56K where some real attractive options exist for buyers. Personally, my attention in a Volvo showroom will still be directed towards a V70.