Nissan's 2012 Frontier Holds Mass Appeal for Drivers

RAYNHAM, MASS. (08/06/2012)(readMedia)-- More than 74,000 drivers have once again weighed in on how gratifying it is to drive their new vehicles in the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study. The recently announced results highlight a dynamic duo from Nissan, with the 2012 Nissan Frontier topping the Midsize Pickup category and the 2012 Nissan Quest rated best in the Midsize Van segment.

J.D. Power's 2012 APEAL Study surveyed consumers about what they like about their new, 2012-model-year vehicles after 90 days of ownership. More than 80 attributes were evaluated across eight different areas to determine the cream of the crop in each vehicle segment. Both the Nissan Frontier and Quest garnered their top ratings after leading the same segments in J.D. Power's 2012 Initial Quality Study released in June. In the new APEAL Study, the Frontier was ranked by drivers to be "among the best" in the Overall Performance and Design, Features and Instrument Panel, and Style and Performance categories.

"The Nissan Frontier has nearly all the capabilities of a full-size truck, but without the thirst," said Jason Ferreira, general sales manager of Mastria Nissan, a Raynham, Massachusetts Nissan dealership. "Drivers looking for a work truck or weekend vehicle can get a maximum payload of more than 1,500 pounds in the Frontier, or save at the pump with a fuel economy of up to 23 mpg on the highway."

Across vehicle segments, driver satisfaction with fuel economy grew more than any other category in this year's APEAL Study, a finding that plays into one of the strengths of the upcoming all-new 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. Recently revealed on Facebook and going on sale this fall, the redesigned Pathfinder will move from its previous body-on-frame construction to a unibody design, which should result in less weight, improved fuel economy and a more comfortable ride.

Nissan estimates that fuel economy will improve by 25 percent overall in the 2013 Pathfinder, which would place the SUV's highway rating at around 27 mpg. Drivers will also be able to optimize their fuel efficiency without sacrificing capability, thanks to the class-exclusive ability to choose between 2WD, 4WD or Auto modes. The Intuitive Auto Mode will adjust power to all four wheels when it senses slippery conditions, then switch back to the more-efficient two-wheel drive when conditions improve.

Even with its significantly improved fuel efficiency, the new Pathfinder will have just six less horsepower than its predecessor, churning out 260 horsepower. Nissan's latest seven-passenger SUV will also be capable of pulling 5,000 pounds, which is the highest standard towing capacity in its class. Inside, the 2013 Pathfinder will open up to an impressive 79.8 cubic-feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded flat, providing room for groceries, sporting equipment and anything else required for a weekend adventure.

"Nissan recognized that SUV buyers are looking more and more for fuel economy and comfort when it redesigned the Pathfinder, but it didn't lose sight of the vehicle's reputation for capability," added Ferreira. "Better efficiency without sacrificing much in terms of power means the 2013 Pathfinder is a highly functional, well-rounded vehicle that can tackle everything from a day of shopping in Boston to hauling a boat to Maine for a weekend on the lake."

About Mastria Nissan:

Mastria Nissan has been serving Massachusetts Nissan fans since 2004, focusing on exceptional customer service and a low-pressure sales environment. Their Nissan dealership offers the full line of Nissan sedans, crossovers and pickups, as well as a state-of-the-art Nissan service department staffed with skilled technicians. Plus, Mastria Nissan is the only authorized NV dealer in the area, making them the destination for business owners in Southern Massachusetts who need commercial vehicles. Located at 1305 New State Highway in Raynham, they can be reached by phone at 888-820-9028 or found online at www.mastrianissan.com and www.facebook.com/MastriaNissan.