"The 2008 model year is already shaping up to be a tremendous year for Nissan with the previously announced Altima Coupe and all-new Rogue crossover SUV ? and now new Titan, Pathfinder and Armada," said Larry Dominique, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. "Attendees at the Chicago Auto Show will have five great new reasons to visit the Nissan display."

2008 Nissan Armada:

Although major changes are expected in 2010 year model Nissan-Armada-2008 is the largest SUV by Nissan.

Mechanical Specifications:

This vehicle is equipped with 5.6 L 32-valve V8 engine and LEV emission system. Flexible Fuel compatibility is optional and only available in North Central, South Central, South East and Mid-Atlantic regions. It has two variations SE and LE and each has two options of drivetrains- front engine rear wheel drive(2WD models) and front engine all mode 4WD models. It is equipped with four wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce System (EBS). For more details visit [http://www.nissanhelp.com/Models/2008/Armada/Specifications.htm]

Tires and Wheels:Full size spare tire is standardised for this. SE models come with 18" by 8" 6-spoke alluminium alloy wheels and P265/70R18 tiires whereas LE models come with 20" by 8" 6-spoke alluminium alloy wheels and P275/60R20 tires.

Packages

(1) Moon-roof Packages(M): which include power sliding glass sunroof with one-touch open/close and tilt features for all models and Power liftgate for SE and LE models. It costs USD1,000.

(2) Tow Package(TW): This package includes heavy duty batteries, Lower final gear ratio(3.357:1), two-reciever hitch, seven-pin wiring harness and trailer brake pre-wiring for all models and auto-leveling rear suspension for SE models. This package can enable a vehicle to tow upto 9100 lbs(4*4) or 9000 lbs (4*2). This option is available for both type of Armada models.

(3) LE preferred packages(PR): This package is exclusively for LE model. It include puddle light,power folding auto dimming outside mirrors with turn signals, Blue tooth hands-free phone system, power flip-out rear quarter windows,heated front seat, memory driver's seat, mirrors and pedals.

(4) SE driver package(D): This package is exclusive for SE models. It includes fog lights, front sonar system, rear view mirror, homelink universal transceiver, auto-dimming rear view mirror, digital compass and outside temperature display, digital bose audio system, dual media playback with wireless headphone capability and two headphone jacks, radio data system (RDS), 12-speakers, XM- sattelite radio,

Besides there are many packages which are available for both models of Nissan Armada. Some packages are standard for any model. In that case it does cost extra money but in case of adding the option price is increased by cost of the package.

Capacity:

The capacity of fuel tank is 28 Gallons. According to EPA estimation the average mileage given by this vehicle is 12mpg in cities and 17 to 18 mpg on highways. Seating capacity is 8 people and towing capacity is maximum 9100 lbs if properly equipped.

Pricing:

Prices for the new 2008 Nissan Armada, which is offered in eight models, start at ,250 for the Armada 4x2 SE and ,750 for the Armada 4x2 LE. FFV (Flexible Fuel Vehicle) editions of the same models are offered at no additional cost in select markets. Four-wheel drive Armadas begin at ,050 for the Armada 4x4 SE and ,550 for the Armada 4x4 LE. As with the 2WD models, Flexible Fuel Vehicle versions are available at no additional cost in select markets.

Advancement:

(www.nissanhelp.com/News/Nissan%20Announces%20Pricing%20on%202008%20Titan%20and%20Armada.htm):
The major enhancements to Armada for 2008 include a new front fascia, new headlight and fog light designs, new one-piece roof rack design, revised rear fascia and an available 20-inch wheel and Michelin tire package (LE only).

Inside, the 2008 Armada offers an available power folding 60/40 3rd row seat (LE only), new interior colors and fabrics, new gated shifter, new wood grain accents (LE only), available heated steering wheel (LE only), a locking glove compartment and revised steering wheel and combination meter illumination. Armada LE 2007 had 7 seating capacity whereas Armada LE 2008 has 8 seating capacity.

Armada technology enhancements include an Intelligent Key with twist start (standard LE, optional SE), enhanced Bose sound system with 9.3-gigabyte Music Box hard drive and 3rd row speakers and amplifier (standard LE, optional SE), Bluetooth hands-free phone system (optional on LE), improved available Nissan Navigation system with an XM NavTraffic system with real-time traffic information (XM contract required), a standard integrated 7.0-inch color information monitor and a larger 8.0-inch screen for the optional DVD Entertainment Package.source:Right now following types of packages are offered:

Over the last six months, I've gotten a lot of questions about how I can better my fuel economy in a large SUV. While consumers are expecting impossible solutions to achieve the 25-30 mpg by any means necessary, I found it hard to tell them to do this, or to install that, or just don't do these things. And full knowing I know that the overall improvement on the bottom line was only 10% better, very little change to make it worthwhile and could be costly. The Chevrolet Tahoe has been one of the quintessential niche vehicles in GM's line up, and it's easily important to further research new, innovative ways to further keep themselves in contention when it came to expensive gasoline or thrilling competition. When I heard through the grapevine that a 2-mode hybrid system was going to be making its way into these benchmark SUV's, I just had to research more and find out if what it had to offer was worth the king's ransom. I drive the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and get the full array of details the consumers must know.

At first, I could not help but notice the amount of hybrid decals the Tahoe was sporting. Apparently, GM is trying to get the word out in a big way, if it were up to me, I would send mine to the detail shop to get them removed. There are noticeable details that set this model out from the rest. The front bumper and bumper have been modified for better aerodynamics. This one has 20" wheels that are an exclusive feature and puts this Tahoe apart from the rest. Additionally, this one has LED taillights, resculptured panels and more plastic pieces to fit into the lightweight design. It was a Tahoe, but very much distinguishable against an army or 50 other Tahoe models.

The difference maker is what is inside, the technological marvel pleases with a hybrid system that works together in harmony. Hybrid Tahoe's are naturally equipped with a 6.0L V8 with a continuously variable transmission, 2 81hp electric motors, and a 300-volt nickel hydride battery system. Let's see how it all works together.

The 2wd LT2 model I drove was quiet starting. It used a combination of motors and engine power on the start up and quieted down with only motor power on idle. As I shifted into drive, the first 7-15 mph was quiet, sounded like a golf cart. And as I accelerated further, the engine kicked in and it is easily known by the navigation interface and exhaust sound. This interface is neat, it made knowing what mode I was in a snap by using easy, colorful pictures to show me all the specifics. Also, this was great as it taught me to be more frugal on foot power and try to drive in a more economical fashion. The total engine power didn't disappoint either, it was fluid and seamless. The continuous transmission was slick, I didn't feel the gear shifts or throttle kickdown as the electric motors filled in those gaps. It is with this power that the Tahoe Hybrid can still tow an unbelievable 7000 lbs, fascinating! With the interface, there is also an economy gauge and an instant fuel economy meter in the driver information center that gave me all the pertinent info. In my 50+ mile trip, I averaged about 17.8 mpg, this considering I was flogging the accelerator quite often.

So with all the use of power, exactly how does the Tahoe Hybrid regenerate itself? First of all, this is not a "plug in hybrid", its regeneration comes from the braking system. As we slow down, the motors recharge the batteries using the regenerative braking system, a very smart and innovative feature. This made maintenance a non-issue and was very easy to understand from the get go. The batteries are hidden under the second row seating, I had to literally ask the sales consultant where it was, hidden very well. I also found out that there are some features (power lift gate, power release second row seats) you can't get on this hybrid that other Tahoes have, more or less for weight savings.

All in all, the Tahoe Hybrid didn't boast huge fuel economy gains, I wasn't too deeply impressed, but I had to look at the overall picture. This is of course the large SUV arena, so any new trends at this point is certainly welcome. Basic 2WD LT2models start in the neighborhood of k and go up from there depending on how fancy consumers get. The base model comes stacked however with nav, leather appointed seating, bose, very nice indeed. This hybrid system is expensive, it does all the right things very nicely, consumers just have to decide whether it is the money they want to invest in such a bulbous automobile. A great move and step in the right direction for GM, will this new technology make its way into other GM vehicles? It would be a smart idea...

2011 will be the last year of production of Mercury Mariner. 2011 Mercury Mariner competes with other SUV models like Chevrolet Equinox, KIA Sportage, Honda CRV, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rouge. National base price of 2011 Mercury Mariner is around $ 23, 565 which excludes destination charges.

Style and Trim Levels:

2011 Mercury Mariner is a crossover SUV available with four trim levels which include Base I4, Base V6, Premium I4 and Premium V6. Both I4 and V6 variants are armored with different power source and no other features distinguish these variants.

Base model is offered with 16 inch alloy wheel, privacy glass, fog lights, full power accessories; steering wheel mounted audio control, Air Conditioning and audio system with satellite radio, CD stereo system and AIX-IN jack. Premier model is armored with ambient interior lighting, parking sensors, heated front seats, power driver seats, audio system with six speakers, Sync, auto dimming rear view mirror and leather upholstery.

Some optional features offered with base model are moon roof, roof rack, sync, power driver seat, leather upholstery and ambient interior lighting. And optional feature available with Premium trim levels are 17 inch wheels, chrome appearance package which include roof rail covered with shinny stuff and 17 inch wheels, back up camera, dual zone automatic climate control, full micro fiber upholstery, auto parking system and upgraded stereo system with seven speakers with HD radio, real time traffic updates and Sirius travel link and hard drive based navigation system.

Engine and Performance:

2011 Mercury Mariner is armored with either front wheel drive channel of all wheel drive channel. Base trim is armored with 2.5 L capacity inline 4 engine and Premium variant is armored with 3.0 L capacity V6 engine; this powertrain is capable of pumping 240 HP of power and 223 lb-ft of torque. Both power sources are mated with six speed automatic gear transmission.

Specifications:

* Engine size (Base Model): 2.5 L
* Cylinders: inline 4
* Cam type: Double overhead camshaft (DOHC)
* Valves: 16
* Valve timing: Variable
* Torque: 171 ft-lbs at 4500 RPM
* Horsepower: 171 HP at 6000 RPM
* Turning circle: 36.7 feet

Mileage (Estimated Value):

I4 Front wheel Drive

* City: 21 MPG
* Highway: 28 MPG
* Combined: 23 MPG

I4 Four Wheel Drive

* City: 20 MPG
* Highway: 26 MPG
* Combined: 22 MPG

V6 Front Wheel Drive:

* City: 19 MPG
* Highway: 25 MPG
* Combined: 21 MPG

V6 Four Wheel Drive

* City: 18 MPG
* Highway: 23 MPG
* Combined: 20 MPG

Interior and Exteriors:

2011 Mercury Mariner's cabin is packed with ample features with huge center console. Some of the attractive features of this sedan are adjustable head restraints, floor console with three tire storage system, front and rear cup holders and two removable bins, power door locks with child safety, rear door locks, and power window with one touch down driver seat window, Sirius satellite radio with six month subscription. Center console is offered with metallic accent and upgraded leather upholstery. In terms of comfort and space, this model presents good room for all its occupants. Front seat is are well shaped and rear seat is quite flat which lacks recline and adjustability property. Some of attractive exterior feature of Mercury Mariner are front fog lamps, chrome exhaust tip, privacy glass on rear doors, lift gate and quarter windows, satin aluminum grille and variable intermittent front windshield wipers with 2 rear wipers with washers.

Dimensions:

* Width: 71.1 inch
* Height: 68.0 inch
* Length: 175.2 inch
* Ground clearance: 8.4 inch
* Front track: 60.7 inch
* Rear track: 60.2 inch
* Wheel base: 103.1 inch
* Cargo capacity: 29.3 Cubic Feet
* Maximum cargo capacity: 66.3 Cubic Feet
* Maximum towing capacity: 3500 Pounds
* Maximum payload: 1059 Pounds
* Gross weight: 4400 Pounds
* Curb weight: 3341 Pounds
* Angle of approach: 19.3 degrees
* Angle of departure: 26.5 degrees
* Front head room: 40.4 inch
* Front hip room: 53.4 inch
* Front leg room: 41.6 inch
* Front shoulder room: 56.6 inch
* Rear hip Room: 49.1 inch
* Rear head room: 39.2 inch
* Rear leg room: 35.6 inch
* Rear shoulder room: 55.9 inch

Safety:

2011 Mercury Milan is armored with some advanced and standard safety accessories which include Personal safety system for both passenger and driver which include dual stage front airbag, safety belt energy management retractor, safety belt pretensioners, safety belt usage sensors, crash severity sensors, driver's seat position sensors, restraints control, front passenger sensing system and restraint control module. This vehicle is also offered with Advance trac system with Roll Stability Control, Battery saver system, Belt minder, front seat side curtain airbags, dynamic side impact airbags, side collision foam bolsters and roll over sensors. My-Key owner control feature, remote keyless entry system with two integrated security code, safety restraint system with 3 point safety belts in all position, intrusion door beams, security lock with passive anti theft system and height adjustable shoulder belts. Mercury mariner is awarded with five stars for both side and frontal crash protection from NHTSA and IIHS has awarded GOOD rating in side and frontal offset crash protection.

Suspension System:

* Front: McPherson Struts with Multi link rear suspensions
* Rear: Four wheel independent suspension with stabilizer bar

2011 Mercury Mariner

Pros:

Impressive drive

Adequate performance

Excellent crash test scores

Cons:

Rear seat is difficult to fold

Forgettable drive experience