Nissan launches "Carwings" Bluetooth-based telematics systems for cars

Nissan recently launched a Bluetooth-based telematics system for some of their cars, offering enhanced GPS and entertainment features and 24 hour telephone operator assistance.  Nothing really special there, but the Bluetooth connectivity means you'll be able to wirelessly sync up your Bluetooth-enabled cellphone with the unit, transferring downloaded applications and personal information, and even using the phone's handsfree capability to control the unit.  The system, dubbed "Carwings", is currently available in Nissan's Fuga luxury sedan, the Lafesta minivan, the Tiida Latio compact sedan and the Tiida and Note compact hatchbacks.  No word yet on how much of a premium it'll add on to the sticker price.

[nemi @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

sounds cool, I wonder if they will offer it as a retro fit to their exisiting range of cars, I'd love that on my 350Z.

"Fuga" - they can't be serious.... :-)

[Alcaron @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

I wouldn't mind having that in my 350Z either!

I somehow doubt it is going to happen though. :(

[hesh @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

I think some Lexus and/or Acura vehicles are already BT-enabled. A friend of mine recently got an Acura SUV and it's got BT and his phone connects to it automagically. Voice dial is built into car so he can just say something like "phone dial " or something like that. There's a mic somewhere to talk into, and the other person comes out through the car speakers. The audio turns down automatically when calls are placed or received.

[flipmyx @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

FYI: Nissan Fuga is the Jap. version of the Infiniti M35/M45 sedan (Infiniti obviously is the North American luxury presence of Nissan). And Carwings has been around for months, and is similar in concept to Toyota JP's G-Book system.

[Alcaron @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

The Acura TL has this, if I recall correctly you have to have Satnav for it though, so it isn't cheap (not that this nissan version will be either).

[Dustin Earnhardt @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

The navigation system on my 2004 G35 Coupe was $2000, so I'd expect the M35/45 system to be at least that, but probably closer to the $2500 range. It sounds steep, but if you're financing the vehicle anyway, its entirely worth it. I can't tell you how incredibly useful a navigation system is.

[fishbites4me @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

The 2005 Acura RL has this and realtime traffic. Uses BT DUN to relay telematics info....called AcuraLink. This technology is still not quite baked though.

[Erik Cohen @ Dec 19th 2005 2:14AM]

#6:

On the M:

Infiniti Navigation System with DVD-database and Birdview� $2,000.00

Why would you think they would charge more for it in the M vs G...its the same system either way.