Dongfeng Nissan rolls out X-Trail this month

Oct. 2, 2008 (China Knowledge) - Dongfeng Nissan, a joint venture between Dongfeng Motor Corp and Japan-based Nissan Motor Co., announced that it has started producing the second generation X-Trail SUVs, which is expected to be available in the Chinese market this month.

The latest SUV model of Nissan is equipped with either 2.0 liter or 2.5 liter engine, and will be priced at around RMB 240,000, slightly lower than the import price of RMB 290,000 to RMB 330,000.

The rolling out of the X-Trail, which is also the 1 millionth passenger car of the joint venture, indicates the company has stepped into its second golden age, said Ren Yong, vice general manager with Dongfeng Nissan, adding that the company aims to become the top passenger vehicle maker in the Chinese market.

According to Dongfeng Nissan's five-year plan from 2008 to 2012, the automaker plans to achieve annual sales of more than 500,000 units and more than seven new vehicle models are expected to be introduced to China.

Currently, nine auto makers have achieved an output of 1 million units in China, namely, Shanghai Volkswagen, FAW-Volkswagen, FAW Toyota Motor, Tianjin FAW Xiali, Shanghai GM, Guangzhou Honda, Chery Automobile, Beijing Hyundai Motor and Dongfeng Nissan.