Central Houston Nissan wraps up massive expansion

NASA has the Johnson Space Center. Nissan has Central Houston Nissan.

The longtime dealership along the South Loop will celebrate its sweeping new complex starting at 6 p.m., June 12, with hors d’oeuvres, refreshments and the giveaway of a new Nissan Altima. It’s a big deal, literally and figuratively, because the 16-acre development is the latest and largest Nissan store in the nation — for now.

Expected to be on hand for Wednesday’s ribbon-cutting are Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner; José L. Valls, Nissan North America’s new president and chairman; and host Ricardo M. Weitz, head of Central Automotive Group. KPRC news anchor Dominique Sachse will emcee.

“Houston is such an important and diverse market for Nissan, and the significant investment and commitment the ownership at Central Houston Nissan has made in our brand in this location means a great deal to Nissan North America,” said Valls.

Although Central Houston’s new digs represent Nissan’s latest global design standard, customers are more likely to notice the indoor showroom that can accommodate about 50 pre-owned cars, three lounges, two coffee bars, a children’s playroom and an enclosed, air-conditioned service drive.

With Houston being so hot and humid much of the year, Somoza said, the climate controlled drive is “one place that you’re at ease and comfortable when you come out of your car. You’re also protected from the wind and rain. Customers really, really like it.”

Less obvious — and in some cases, invisible— are the measures taken to conserve energy, reduce the site’s ecological footprint and prevent flooding. The air conditioning, for example, is programmed to raise or lower temperatures according to electrical load,...