Nissan Releases 2002 Maxima Pricing

Nissan North America, Inc. released pricing on its 2002 Maxima sedan, which went on sale August 2, 2001 at more than 1,100 Nissan retailers nationwide. The new Maxima features an MSRP of $25,449 for the most popular model, the SE equipped with automatic transmission - only $200 higher than a comparable 2001 model. The 2002 Maxima boasts an extensive list of exterior, interior and mechanical improvements including a new 260 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 engine (see Purchasing News issue # 115 dated July 23, 2001 for more details). Complete pricing and trim levels are listed below. 2002 Nissan Maxima MSRP Pricing GXE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 4-speed auto. $24,699 SE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 6-speed man. $25,449 SE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 4-speed auto. $25,449 GLE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 4-speed auto. $27,099 Destination and Handling $540 Note: 2002 Maxima GXE models include equipment offered as part of the optional $1,069 Comfort & Convenience package in MY01. 2002 Maxima SE models include equipment offered as part of the optional $1,799 Comfort & Convenience package (minus the $899 sunroof feature) in MY01.

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NO-CHARGE POWER GROUP NOW AVAILABLE ON 2002 E-SERIES VANS

The Ford E-Series Van No-Charge Power Group is now available to Fleet Customers for the 2002 MY. To qualify, customers must have a valid Fleet Identification Number (FIN). Please use order codes (43P) for the Power Group and (62P) to make the group a no charge option. The Power Group discount (62P) is not compatible with (31G) Racks and Bins. If this group is ordered with Racks and Bins, there is a variable charge (depending on the mirror option selected). The E-Series No-Charge Power Group includes: •     Power Door Locks •      Power Windows •      Power Mirrors (exterior)

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ISUZU ANNOUNCES 2002 FLEET INCENTIVE PROGRAM

American Isuzu Motors recently announced the following incentive program for the 2002 Model Year: Model Fleet Incentive (a) Early Order Incentive (b) Early Deliver Incentive (b) Axiom $500 $150 $150 Trooper $500 $150 $150 Rodeo/Rodeo Sport $500 $150 $150 (a) Retail incentive available if greater than the fleet incentive. If factory retail incentive applies, Early Order and Delivery Incentives will also be available, as well as a special Fleet Incentive of $150. (b) Early Order Incentives will apply for all fleet orders received on or before 12/31/01, minimum of 10 orders. (c) Early Delivery Incentives will apply for all fleet deliveries taken on or before 12/31/01, minimum of 10 orders.

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SUBARU ANNOUNCES PRICING ON 2002 OUTBACK AND LEGACY MODELS

Subaru of America, Inc. recently announced the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) of the 2002 model year Subaru Outback and Legacy line. Despite the addition of new standard equipment, Subaru has held 2001 pricing on most 2002 Legacy and Outback models. Subaru also expands its reputation for value with the addition of two new 6-cylinder Outback H6-3.0 Sedan models. Highlighting the list of improvements to the 2002 Outback and Legacy lineup are an off-delay dome light feature and an internal child safety trunk release with self illuminating handle on all sedan models. All Outback and Legacy models (excluding L) receive a new illuminated ignition switch ring and standard woodgrain patterned door switch trim. All models benefit from a revised center console featuring two cupholders. For more information about the 2002 Outback H6-3.0 VDC Sedan models, please visit the "Fleet Library" at http://www.arifleet.com. The models are featured in Purchasing News issue # 114 dated July 9, 2001. Legacy Sedans 2002 MY MSRP* Legacy L (2.5L) AWD - Manual $19,295 Legacy L (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $20,095 Legacy GT (2.5L) AWD - Manual $22,895 Legacy GT (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $23,695 Legacy GT Limited (2.5L) AWD - Manual $24,695 Legacy GT Limited (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $25,495 Legacy Wagons 2002 MY MSRP* Legacy (2.5L) AWD - Manual $19,995 Legacy L (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $20,795 Legacy GT (2.5L) AWD - Manual $23,795 Legacy GT (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $24,595 Outback Sedans 2002 MY MSRP* Outback Limited Sedan (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $25,995 Outback H6-3.0 Sedan (3.0L) AWD - Automatic $27,995 Outback H6-3.0 VDC Sedan (3.0L) AWD - Automatic $30,395 Outback Wagons 2002 MY MSRP* Outback (2.5L) AWD - Manual $22,895 Outback (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $23,695 Outback w/All-Weather Pkg. (2.5L) AWD - Manual $23,395 Outback w/All-Weather Pkg. (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $24,195 Outback Limited (2.5L) AWD - Manual $26,295 Outback Limited (2.5L) AWD - Automatic $27,095 Outback H6-3.0 L.L.Bean Edition (3.0L) AWD - Automatic $29,495 Outback H6-3.0 VDC (3.0L) AWD - Automatic $31,895 *The destination and delivery fee is $525 on all models (may vary by state) except in Alaska ($685). Prices shown do not include destination and delivery, licenses and state or local taxes.

 

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THE FIRST ALL-NEW 2002 DODGE RAM TRUCK ROLLS OFF THE PRODUCTION LINE

The first all-new 2002 Dodge Ram Truck rolled off the assembly line on July 24, 2001 at the Chrysler Group's St. Louis North Assembly Plant (SLNAP), which is the beginning of a three-plant production ramp-up that will create the capacity to build more than 400,000 Dodge Ram trucks annually. The flexibility of SLNAP enabled the company to reach quality targets much earlier in the pre-launch phase by building early prototype vehicles on the production line to validate processes and train employees. SLNAP will continue to share best practices and lessons learned with Saltillo (Mexico) and Warren Truck Assembly Plants (Detroit) as they begin ramping up Dodge Ram production in August and September. With next year's closing of the Lago Alberto Assembly Plant (Mexico), the company will consolidate its truck production from four to three truck plants. The company invested $480 million in SLNAP to launch the new Dodge Ram, including the addition of an all-new 360,000-sq. ft. body shop. The flexibility of the plant enabled the company to build more than 700 pre-production trucks prior to launch in order to validate quality levels. SLNAP has the capacity to produce 150,000 trucks annually or 592 per day and the flexibility to produce Regular and Quad Cab; S+, SLT, SLT+ and Sport; 4x4 and 4x2; 3.7-liter V-6, 4.7-liter V-8 and 5.9-liter V-8 versions of the all-new 2002 Dodge Ram. By using a combination of statistical process controls and performance feedback systems, the company is error proofing its production processes to ensure top quality. The system is designed to halt production if quality build criteria are not met. For example, if a bolt isn't tightened to the degree specified, the specific operation will shut down until it has been corrected. The Company also inspects vehicles throughout body, paint and assembly processes, in addition to a series of tests that are performed after the vehicle rolls off the final assembly line. Once complete, the vehicles are tested on an evaluation course at the facility.

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TIRE PRESSURE MONOTORING SYSTEMS MAY BECOME LAW

Congress recently ordered the Transportation Department to write a rule that would require all vehicles made after November 2003 to have a standard tire pressure monitor to warn drivers about low tire pressure. NHTSA has proposed two possible rules that would govern the monitors. One would require that the driver be notified when the tire pressure falls to 20 percent below the manufacturer's recommended cold inflation pressure by using a warning light indicator. The other would set the standard at 25 percent. The rule would apply to all passenger cars, light trucks and buses under 10,000 pounds. The NHTSA will accept public comment until September 6, 2001 before drafting the rule.

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TOYOTA ANNOUNCES PRICES FOR SELECT 2002 MODELS

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., recently announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) on four selected 2002 models - Camry Solara coupe and convertible, 4Runner mid-size SUV, Sequoia full-size SUV and Tundra full-size pickup. They are expected in dealer showrooms at the beginning of August. The Camry Solara coupe and convertible both undergo a minor change for the new model year. Solara has an all-new, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine with VVT-i that delivers 157 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. Exterior styling enhancements feature a new front and rear fascia. The new look includes an aggressive grille design, fog lamps, four-bulb headlamps, parking lamps, and jeweled tail lamps. For a sportier look, the 15-inch standard wheel covers for the SE model are redesigned and standard 16-inch alloy wheels for the SLE model feature redesigned center caps. Inside, Camry Solara offers a new fabric pattern and brighter wood-grain-style trim. A new appearance package for the Solara SE coupe is available, and includes a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and perforated shift knob, new interior black trim and black pearl badges. MSRP for the Solara coupe ranges from $19,365 for the SE 4-cylinder with manual transmission to $24,675 for the SLE V6 model. Five extra value packages for the Solara SE coupe offer additional savings ranging from $900 to $1,200. Base MSRP for the Camry Solara convertible ranges from $25,495 for the SE four-cylinder to $30,525 for the SLE V6. The 4Runner enters 2002 with more equipment, improved option packages and greater value with no change in MSRP from 2001. All 4Runner SR5 models now have standard 15-inch aluminum alloy wheels with P225/70R15 tires, while the SR5 and Limited models have a new chrome license plate garnish. The SR5 model also offers two new upgrade packages at savings of $365 each from 2001 prices. The Sport Edition has been reduced by $115 and enhanced with perforated aluminum front skid plate, new interior sport fabric, Sport Edition badges and embroidered floor mats. A new Chrome Package is available on the SR5 model to provide a more upscale appearance. The package includes chrome front grille, side mirrors, door handles, wheel arch moldings, tail lamp garnish, rear license plate garnish, exhaust tip and available 16-inch high gloss alloy wheels. 4Runner's MSRP ranges from $26,335 for the SR5 2WD model to $36,105 for the Limited 4WD model. Tundra maintains the same MSRP from 2001 on its SR5 model, and adds an SR5 value package, which includes power windows, door locks and mirrors, dual sun visors with vanity mirror, lighting package, rear sliding window with privacy glass and remote keyless entry system. Tundra Limited models receive standard ABS with daytime running lights, 3-in-1 audio system with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and remote keyless entry and security system. In addition, a limited-slip differential is now an available option for Tundras with the 4.7-liter V8 engine. MSRP for Tundra ranges from $15,605 for the V6 five-speed manual transmission 4x2 Regular Cab to $26,305 for the V8 automatic 4x4 SR5 Access Cab. Prices for Tundra Limited range from $26,720 for the V8 4x2 to $30,060 for the V8 4x4. Sequoia, Toyota's mainstream full-size SUV, remains unchanged for 2002. Fog lamps and remote keyless entry are now available as stand-alone options on SR5 models. Sequoia SR5 base prices range from $31,265 for the 2WD to $34,795 for the 4WD. Limited model prices range from $39,405 for the 2WD model to $42,725 for the 4WD. Compared to 2001 models, Sequoia prices increase by only $150, or 0.4% on a comparably equipped basis.

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NHTSA OPENS PRELIMINARY EVALUATION OF GENERAL
"AMERI 550 AS" TIRE

The NHTSA recently ordered an investigation of General Ameri 550 AS tires to determine if the tires meet standard safety and performance requirements. The tire in question was on Ford's list of acceptable replacement tires for the 13 million recalled Firestone brand tires. Below is Ford's statement, as released on their media website on July 24, 2001: We will work closely with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as it analyzes this tire, one of more than 60 tires we have been using to replace the suspect 13 million Firestone Wilderness AT tires. The tire in question represents a small percentage – less than one-tenth of a percent – of the replacement tires we planned to use. In fact, only about 4,300 of these tires have been used so far, and we have replaced a total of about 3 million Firestone Wilderness AT tires. Our testing indicates that the Ameri 550 AS P235/70R16 meets our performance and durability requirements. Nevertheless, to alleviate any customer confusion, we have removed this tire from our approved tire replacement list until NHTSA completes its investigation. The manufacturer of the tire has made substantial changes to this particular tire since it went into production. Since the introduction of these changes, the claims rate on the tires has been extremely low. This tire continues to be utilized as one of several original equipment tires on the Ford F-Series pickup, and is performing well despite the fact that these trucks are often used in commercial, heavy duty and off-road applications. -- Sue Cischke, Vice President, Environmental and Safety Engineering

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AN ARTIFICIAL PASSENGER
THAT TALKS BACK

In London, IBM Scientists are developing an electronic, artificial passenger that will reside in the dashboard and is intended to keep drivers alert while at the wheel. Dubbed the Artificial Passenger, the system uses an on-board computer, which contains a detailed profile of the driver. The software application is targeted primarily at drowsy drivers and uses both audio and video interaction to monitor the driver's alertness. For example, it might initiate conversation and monitor responses to questions for signs of slurred or slow speech. If the system detects a suspicious change in the speech pattern, the driver may get a squirt of cold water in the face. Other sneaky tricks include sounding a buzzer, automatically opening a window or changing the radio station to see if the driver is paying attention. It may also crack a joke and listen for laughter. The team developing this application is indicating that it could be available within three to five years.

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DELPHI SUSPENSION SYSTEM
HELPS 2002 CADILLAC ESCALADE PROVIDE A HIGHER LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE AND COMFORT

Delphi Automotive Systems is supplying General Motors with its Bi-State Real-Time Damping Monotube System, also known as Road Sensing Suspension System (RSS) by GM, for the new 2002 Escalade. Coupled with StabiliTrak, RSS is a semi-active, two-position damping control system that responds in real-time to road and driving conditions, based on body and wheel motions by using position sensors. The fully automatic system significantly improves body stability, ride comfort, handling, trailering performance and wheel control under all loading conditions. Along with improved handling, the system offers instant suspension response to wheel speed, body position, vehicle speed, steering angle and braking. The RSS system is made up of four monotube shocks with internal two-position solenoid valves and rear air-lift capability, four position sensors, a controller, a steering position sensor, and input from the powertrain "tow haul" mode switch. Delphi and GM engineers designed the monotube damper specifically for the Escalade, to provide high damping force capability, good heat dissipation and superior gas/oil separation. For more information about the Cadillac Escalade, please visit http://www.cadillac.com.

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DAIMLERCHRYSLER 2002 MODEL YEAR PURCHASE ALLOWANCES

FORD, MAZDA & VOLVO 2002 MODEL YEAR NATIONAL FLEET INCENTIVES

GENERAL MOTORS & SAAB 2002 MODEL YEAR NATIONAL FLEET PURCHASE PROGRAM

AMERICAN ISUZU MOTORS 2002 FLEET INCENTIVE PROGRAM

MITSUBISHI 2002 MODEL YEAR FLEET PROGRAM

NISSAN 2002 MODEL YEAR FLEET PROGRAMS

SUBARU 2002 MODEL YEAR FLEET INCENTIVE PROGRAM

TOYOTA 2002 MODEL YEAR COMMERCIAL FLEET INCENTIVE INVOICE CREDIT PROGRAM