Nissan to create luxury brand image before full launch in India
NISSAN MOTOR CO. (TSE:7201) will import and market its Murano sport utility vehicle in India, adding a third model to its lineup in that country, according to Carlos Tavares, a vice president at the automaker. Mr Tavares said that the move is part of a strategy to boost the brand image of Nissan in India before making a full-fledged entry into the market in early 2010.
* Nissan will begin local production of a subcompact in that year and determined that it was important to create a luxury brand image beforehand, Mr Tavares explained.
* Although no timing for the 2009 Nissan Murano’s introduction was given, Mr Tavares said that Nissan plans to have eight models on sale in India by 2012, including a commercial vehicle made by its joint venture with ASHOK LEYLAND LTD