According to latest reports, Nissan is working hard on its new hybrid vehicle which is scheduled to be launched within two years. The new 2013 Nissan Altima has been showcased at the New York International Auto Show last week and the vehicle received good comments from both the public and press. The new vehicle is 1.3 inches wider than the outgoing car and also bears the same 109.3 inch wheelbase. It weighs about 79 pounds less than the existing model with firm body and enhanced balancing.

The 2013 Nissan Altima is powered by a 2.5-liter QR25 4-cylinder engine which generates 182-hp and a peak torque of 180 lb-ft. There is also another option for the consumers as they can opt for a 3.5-liter V6 VQ35DE producing 270-hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Besides amended engine specifications, more styling tweaks have been introduced in the new vehicle including a modified interior alongside new infotainment system, navigation, Bluetooth, iPod/USB connectivity, integration of Google Places and Google Send-to-Car feature. Safety wise, the new hybrid offers blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, moving-object detection and more.

As most of the big players in automobile industry are all set to introduce spanking new models by the end of 2012, Nissan have to be in the game developing its hybrid version. It is not an easy thing as Nissan confronts Toyota, Honda, Kia and Ford- all mid-sized hybrid sedans. The previous version of Nissan’s hybrid variant didn’t make any effect in the markets and the sales were sluggish. Also Nissan executives were unhappy as the hybrid system in previous model was provided by its major competitor- Toyota. Wait two more years for the new hybrid to arrive…

via Egmcartech