No Tricks, Just Treats in Nissan's October Sales

RAYNHAM, MASS. (11/14/2011)(readMedia)-- While some Japanese automakers have seen sales take a dive this year, Nissan is on an upward stroke, posting its strongest October sales ever in the United States. Powered by its popular Altima midsize sedan and the refreshed Versa sub-compact that arrived at Nissan dealerships in August, Nissan has flourished as its competition has floundered.

Nissan's October sales were up 22.1 percent compared to the same month last year, led by the 2012 Nissan Altima, which saw a 15.1 percent increase with 21,838 units sold. The 2012 Nissan Versa was a big winner last month as well, selling 8,889 units, an increase of 47.1 percent compared to the same month last year. As the most affordable car on the U.S. market, the redesigned Versa is proving popular with Nissan fans looking for fuel efficiency and practicality.

"Nissan has hit the right notes with the Versa," said Jason Ferreira, general sales manager of Massachusetts Nissan dealership Mastria Nissan. "It's small on the outside, but surprisingly roomy on the inside, which makes it feel more like a midsize than a sub-compact. That space, in addition to its great fuel economy, has made the new Versa so popular with our customers."

Capable of returning 38 mpg on the highway when equipped with its continuously-variable automatic transmission, the Versa achieves its impressive fuel economy with the help of a new dual injector system in its reworked 1.6 liter engine. Adding to that fuel efficiency is a ride height that is one inch lower than the previous Versa model, helping the 2012 Versa save fuel through improved aerodynamics.

Available as a sedan and hatchback, the Versa can hold a surprising amount of people and cargo. In fact, the Versa has more rear leg space than the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Lexus LS 460, which gives it a leg up with those looking for a more economic family runabout. Trunk space in the Versa sedan is also deceivingly plentiful, with its almost 15 cubic-feet of room able to fit a week's worth of groceries or luggage for a vacation on the Cape.

"The Versa is sized right for urban adventurers who don't want to spend all their money at the gas pump," Ferreira noted. "It's great for college students, young professionals or people who just need a small, affordable car that they can rely on for many years to come."

The Versa isn't the only small Nissan selling well in America, as the Nissan Sentra also had big gains in October. With 8,384 units sold, the Sentra saw a 41.4 percent increase compared to October of 2010, hinting that Nissan may have the small-car market figured out.

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 carries the full line of Nissan vehicles, including Altima sedans, Rogue crossovers and Titan pickups. 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. With a state-of-the-art Nissan service department, Mastria Nissan has the latest tools and equipment to make even the most involved repairs. Located at 1305 New State Highway in Raynham, they can reached by phone at 888-820-9028, or found online at www.mastrianissan.com and Facebook.