Many automakers have different vehicles that are suited for different markets. For example, some vehicles may be sold only in Europe, while others may only be sold in North America. But while the North American automotive market suffers and economic factors have reduced auto sales across the board, automakers like Nissan are seeing more value in supplying vehicles globally.
While many automakers struggle in North America, Nissan and other Japanese brands seem to be a little more flexible to meet the changing needs of American car buyers. With gas now above the $4 mark and the economy weakening, many new car buyers are looking to downsize or purchase more compact vehicles, and vehicles that get excellent fuel mileage. As a result, domestic automakers who are known more for their trucks and large SUVs are hurting much more than their Japanese counterparts.
Nissan luckily has a range of vehicles available globally that should help meet the needs of U.S. consumers, suggests Auburn Nissan dealers. The Nissan Micra is one such vehicle that is currently sold in Europe, but could make its may to out shores. The Micra is a subcompact vehicle that offers both affordability and excellent gas mileage. This vehicle would also be a strong contender for Nissan to battle Toyota’s youth-oriented Scion brand, or even the increasingly popular Fit from Honda. With a 50 mile per gallon diesel engine, the Micra can certainly give buyers plenty of time between fill-ups.
In addition to the Micra, Nissan also manufactures the Note. This vehicle is a MPV-like five-door that is an alternative from the typical minivan or station wagon. Already popular in Europe and elsewhere, hatchback vehicles are finally becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. Many American buyers typically go for either a sedan or wagon, but haven’t typically been drawn to compact hatchbacks and five doors, but as they become increasingly popular, Worcester Nissan observes that the automaker appears to have the segment covered in other markets.
One of the ways in which Nissan has help satisfy customers in the looking for compact crossover is by recently introducing the Nissan Rogue in the States. Even though the vehicle is relatively new, it already has become a hit with buyers. But Nissan has other compact crossovers that aren’t available domestically. One is the Qashqai+2, which is similar to the Rogue in size and styling but includes a third row of seating and a fuel efficient diesel four cylinder engine.
Among the new cars expected from Nissan will be more compacts and more hybrids. Nissan has long been known for long-last compacts, which is why Virginia used Nissan Sentras are still among the top pre-owned sellers. But aside from more competitive offerings in the compact and sub-compact segments, Nissan is banking big on innovative technologies to improve fuel economy and reduce carbon emissions.
While Nissan is faring better than some other automakers in North America, the company still has plenty of options when it comes to filling gaps in the lineup and offering fresh models. With the price of gasoline weighing heavily on the minds of North American consumer, many unique European models may find their way to American dealerships.
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See how Nissan’s global lineup changes here.
