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Next Nissan Sentra spied, test driver salutes

Nissan isn't keeping a secret that the Sentra is getting a significant refresh for the 2016 model year, but apparently one of the test drivers isn't so happy about a spy photographer getting an early peek. As you can see in several pictures in the above gallery, the guy flies the finger directly at the camera as it captures this camouflaged compact sedan testing around Metro Detroit. While the 2016 Sentra is supposed to be heavily restyled compared to the current model, Nissan is still remaining tight-lipped about exactly what that means. These shots provide some clear indications, though. Up front, the brand's V-shaped grille is fairly obvious even through the camo in several photos, and the headlights get an angular resculpting to match that style. With its honeycomb grille, the lower air dam looks a slightly sportier, too. The sides are left unaltered in these shots, but the rear gets another big dose of obfuscation. The update back there seems to draw from the newly refreshed Altima, especially with the more pointy taillights. While harder to tell for sure, the trunk and lower bumper also appear to have a more complex design. Overall, the latest model reportedly takes inspiration from the Pulsar in Europe. This revision comes even as Sentra sales remain strong. For the year so far through August, the model is up 8.9 percent with 140,074 units moved. However, the 2016 model has to stand up against the challenge of the all-new 2016 Honda Civic that's entering the market at around the same time, meaning the Sentra has its work cut out for it.

Tesla, BMW and Nissan meeting in secret to discuss charging tech

It's interesting what's happening in the electric vehicle field. It used to be that BMW and Tesla were competitors. Then – and of course they're still competing, especially in the public mind – they were working together on ... something. Maybe. And now, the Financial Times reports that the two luxury automakers are meeting with Nissan. Again, maybe. The scuttlebutt is that the three companies are interested in working together on something to do with charging electric vehicles, potentially a global recharging standard. Currently, when it comes to fast charging, BMW uses the SAE Combo standard, Nissan uses CHAdeMO and Tesla uses its own Superchargers. The meeting was prompted by Tesla opening of all of its patents the other day, FT says. Speaking during the recent annual shareholder meeting, Musk said he was "more than happy to have other manufacturers" use Tesla's Superchargers but that, "there is no other electric car that can accept anything close to 135 kilowatts." Let's assume the technical hurdle can be overcome. With any potential patent/licensing problems out of the way, these discussions with BMW and Nissan might be revolving around this other angle that Musk mentioned: "They (other automakers) just have to contribute to the capital cost, so figure out what percentage of the time are their cars using the Supercharger network and then they can make a contribution proportionate to their customer usage of the Supercharger network." That certainly sounds like something that could take some time to figure out. News Source: Financial TimesImage Credit: Elbilforeningen / Flickr Green BMW Nissan Tesla Electric supercharger chademo sae combo

Nissan reveals Patrol Nismo in Dubai

Nissan's performance division has worked its magic on a variety of vehicles. But not all of them have been based on sports cars, and not all of them have been made available here in the United States. Its latest model is neither. In launching the Nismo sub-brand in the Dubai, Nissan has started with a decidedly different model in the Patrol Nismo. It's based on the SUV we'd know better as the Infiniti QX80, but instead of taking an off-road or luxury approach, the Patrol Nismo (as you might have guessed) goes for on-road performance. To that end, the performance division has given it a thorough workover. The 5.6-liter V8 engine, for starters, has been tuned by Nissan's Takumi craftsmen up from 400 horsepower to 428. The suspension has been firmed up with Bilstein shocks and mounted with 22-inch forged alloys from Rays. The power steering system has tuned by Nismo for sportier handling. The bodywork has been upgraded for an aggressive look and zero aerodynamic lift. And the interior has been refitted to make it a more suitable environment from which to command the added performance capabilities. The result may have potential as a junior version of SUVs like the Mercedes GL63 AMG or Range Rover Sport SVR, not to mention prospective upcoming performance versions of the Cadillac Escalade. But it's being launched exclusively in the United Arab Emirates for the time being, and given that we don't get the Patrol as such in North America, it looks highly unlikely the Patrol Nismo will ever reach these shores. Those looking for a high-riding Nismo model, then, will just have to content themselves with the Juke. Related Video: Nissan proves its passion for performance with launch of 'NISMO' brand in the Middle East Nissan debuts world premiere of Patrol NISMO showcasing ultimate essence of its 'Innovation that Excites' promise - Thrilling performance marque launches in Middle East - Stunning Patrol NISMO announced as world premiere model - GT-R NISMO and 370Z NISMO showcased to the media DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - October 7, 2015: Nissan's world famous motorsport and road car performance brand, NISMO, made its Middle East debut at a spectacular launch event in Dubai, heralding the next step in 'Innovation that Excites' for driving enthusiasts across the region. In addition to launching the performance marque, Nissan also confirmed the world premiere launch of the Patrol NISMO.