Parts Train's Dynamic Nissan Body Parts Complements 2005 Nissan Xterra's Off Road CapabilityWritten by Jenny Mc Lane
Building on its predecessor's rugged looks, 2005 Nissan Xterra has more roominess and more features, including enhanced off-road performance systems. Bulkier, silver colored materials and more angular structure to grill and bumper give Xterra a more aggressive stance. "The changes in new Xterra are evolutionary, though with a capital E," said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "For 2005, we've made key improvements in areas customers want most - power, drivability, smoother on-road dynamics, more interior space and cargo versatility and, of course, greater off-road performance."The most significant changes to new Xterra are use of a version of new "F-Alpha" platform, which was created for use on new Nissan Titan full-size pickup and Nissan Armada full-size SUV, and utilization of a new 4.0-liter version of Nissan's VQ-series V6 engine. Various improvements to powertrain include increased displacement as well as micro finished engine internals, Continuous Valve Timing Control (C-VTC), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS) and a high capacity muffler. Electronic Throttle Control makes better responsiveness. Available transmissions are a 5-speed automatic and, even more impressive, a 6-speed manual. A 4WD option is available to replace base 2WD configuration. Four wheel disc brakes assisted by anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist (BA) keep Xterra in check. The 2005 Xterra was designed utilizing a truck-based body-on-frame chassis. A double wishbone front suspension and rigid leaf suspension in rear gives these trucks durability and ride that one expects from a truck-based SUV. High performance shocks are available on Xterra Off-Road model.
| | 2005 Toyota Avalon: Larger, More Luxurious and More Powerful – Maintain its Quality with Partstrain Toyota Auto Body PartsWritten by Jenny Mc Lane
The new Avalon is third generation of Toyota's large sedan, derived from same midsize Toyota Camry and Lexus ES330 entry-level luxury sedan. Toyota put considerable effort into giving new Avalon a more distinct identity. It's now larger and more luxurious than Camry. It's also more powerful and roomier inside than Lexus ES330. "The all-new Avalon is distinctive, stylish and most American vehicle of any Toyota product to date," said Don Esmond, senior vice president and general manager of Toyota Division in United States.The Avalon comes equipped with a new 3.5L V6 280-hp engine paired to a five-speed sequential shift automatic transmission. With this new engine, Avalon can go from 0 to 60 MPH in 6.6 seconds. An estimated fuel economy of 22 city and 31 highway miles per gallon is another amenity of new redesign. New exterior enhancements include a dual rear exhaust, front chrome grille, and a four-inch longer wheelbase. The extended wheelbase adds to interior space and comfort of passengers. Also new are rear reclining seats, which recline up to 10 degrees. Comfort is key word when it comes to Avalon. The new Avalon is 5 inches longer than its predecessor is, and by rerouting exhaust pipes, Toyota engineers created a flat floor in back and 40.9 inches of legroom, versus 35.6 inches in Lexus ES330. For added comfort, Avalon's rear seats recline by 10 degrees. Five long-legged adults can sit in car comfortably. For driver and front-seat occupant, there are no legs knocking against center console. Rear passengers, including one in middle, can rest their feet on a flat floor. Headroom is good. All models in range feature front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, in addition to a driver's knee airbag. A brake-assist system determines whether a driver has used full potential of brakes in an emergency; if system senses that more braking is required, ABS will activate until pedal is released.
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