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Nissan Announces Name Change on Full-Size SUV [Jan. 30, 04]

GARDENA, Calif. (Jan. 30, 2004) - Nissan North America, Inc. announced today that it is accelerating the transition of the name of its new 2004 Pathfinder Armada full-size SUV to Armada (dropping the Pathfinder reference). The change will begin to appear in marketing and consumer materials beginning in February, though vehicle badging will not be changed until the 2005 model year.

“Our strategy during the launch of our first full-size SUV was to capitalize on our popular mid-size Pathfinder’s rich off-road heritage by associating the Pathfinder name with both vehicles. For example, our launch broadcast advertising showed both vehicles driving in adventure settings together,” said Fred Suckow, director, marketing, Nissan Division. “Now, however, we’re finding strong consumer acceptance of Armada on its own merits, which also allows us to focus the Pathfinder message on building awareness of our mid-size SUV as we get closer to the launch of the next generation Pathfinder as a 2005 model.”

A preview of the next generation Nissan Pathfinder, which goes on sale in winter 2004, was shown at the recent North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It will feature three-row seating and a more powerful 4.0-liter engine.

“We think the mid-year adjustment is a smart decision and hope that buyers will have a clearer understanding that our two newest SUVs come in two sizes – but now with two distinct names,” said Suckow.

The new 8-passenger Armada, which went on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in October 2003, features a rugged, fully boxed high-strength steel frame, an independent rear suspension, an all-new 5.6-liter DOHC 32-valve Nissan Endurance V8 and a standard 5-speed automatic transmission. It also offers distinctive exterior styling, class-leading (Ward’s full-size, light duty SUV class) 2nd row roominess, fold-flat 2nd and 3rd row seating and a long list of standard and available equipment.