NASHVILLE -- Nissan North America is joining rival Toyota in providing 0 percent loans to revive U.S. auto sales.

Nissan Division will offer 0 percent factory financing on five models -- the Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Versa and Murano -- through Jan. 5, Vice President Al Castignetti said in an interview.

In addition, while some automakers' finance arms have abandoned leasing, Nissan is launching factory-subsidized $199-a-month leases on the Altima sedan and Rogue crossover while extending a $339-a-month lease offer on the newly redesigned Maxima sedan.

As a third measure, on Nov. 18 the brand will introduce a lower-priced version of its Versa small sedan with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $9,990 -- about $3,000 less than existing versions. The price excludes a $695 shipping charge.

"We are making a bold statement to our customers and to our dealers that we're here for them," Castignetti said. "If you need financing, we have it. If you want to lease a vehicle, we have it. If you need to buy an inexpensive car, we'll have it for you."

Nissan's moves come as traditional sources for auto financing are squeezed by the nation's banking crisis.

Sales of Nissan-brand vehicles plunged 38 percent in September, while demand industrywide fell 27 percent. For the year, Nissan sales are down 3.3 percent and the industry, 13 percent.

"We're hearing those horror stories from dealers, and we're taking steps to reassure everyone concerned," Castignetti said.

He declined to estimate the cost of the marketing initiative, which is being called "Nissan Delivers."

Christian Meunier, vice president of Nissan marketing, said an advertising campaign will begin Tuesday and include prime-time TV ads and spots during college football games.

Meunier said Nissan has redirected its entire November and December advertising budget to support the program and that additional funds won't be required.

Toyota began offering no-interest loans on 11 cars and trucks at the beginning of the month.

PRESS RELEASE: Nissan Announces New Consumer Value Opportunities

- Comprehensive Program is Designed to Reassure Budget-Conscious Shoppers; Includes 0% Financing on Key Models and Competitive Leasing Programs -

FRANKLIN, Tenn., Oct. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced a new Consumer Value Program designed to let consumers know that Nissan offers a variety of options in today's marketplace. The program includes:

-- Zero-percent financing on five Nissan models*

-- Competitive leases, including a $199/month lease on the Altima and Rogue**

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080506/NISSANWORDMARKLOGO )

A national advertising campaign supporting the program, which utilizes the theme "Nissan Delivers," will launch nationally on Nov. 4th.

"We know that many consumers have done their research, have made the decision to buy a new vehicle, but are concerned about financing and finding the best value," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "We want to let them know that if they need a dependable, high-quality, high-value new car, Nissan can help them out right now - with great leases and great financing options."

The zero-percent financing program includes the popular Nissan Murano, Sentra, Altima, Versa and Rogue.

"The 'Nissan Delivers' program makes good sense for consumers who now can take advantage of zero-percent financing or attractive leases on a number of great Nissan vehicles," said Carolin.

The Nissan Delivers program will feature a $199/month, limited-time lease offer on the 2009 Nissan Altima Sedan and Nissan Rogue crossover SUV.

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and http://www.infiniti.com/.

*0% APR for 36 months. For well-qualified buyers.

**Rogue: $2,754 initial payment required at consummation (includes $2,555 down payment and $199 first month payment). 2009 Rogue S AWD w/ Splash and Mats subject to availability to well qualified lessees through Nissan-Infiniti LT. Leases are subject to credit approval. MSRP of $22,505 includes a destination charge of $695 and excludes tax, title, and license. See your local Nissan dealer for more details.

**Altima: $2,759 initial payment required at consummation (includes $2,560 down payment and $199 first month payment). 2009 Altima 2.5 S with Xtronic CVT, splash guards, and floor mats is subject to availability to well qualified lessees through Nissan-Infiniti LT. Leases are subject to credit approval. MSRP of $22,545 includes a destination charge of $695 and excludes tax, title, and license. See your local Nissan dealer for more details.