Nissan is latest carmaker to salute U.S. military members with special discounts

Nissan is now among automakers offering discount pricing for U.S. military members, the company confirmed last week.

The Nissan Vehicle Purchase Program extends to all active and reserve members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, National Guard and Coast Guard. Eligible shoppers can buy or lease a Nissan or Infiniti vehicle at or below the dealer invoice price.

Buyers need a Military Identification Card, statement or some other proof of military status. Retired personnel are not eligible. Go to www.insidenissan.com for more information.

Among other brands offering discounts for military buyers, Chevrolet expanded its incentive program during May to cover military retirees and family members in honor of Memorial Day. Eligible buyers can find discounts for many 2010 and 2011 GM passenger cars, SUVs, crossovers and light-duty trucks at www.gmmilitarydiscount.com.

Ford and Chrysler are both in the ring as well, each slashing $500 from sticker prices for military members. The discount covers buying or leasing participating Ford cars, trucks and SUVs through the F-550--excluding the Mustang Shelby GT, the Shelby GT 500, the Harley-Davidson and hybrid vehicles.

Chrysler's cash allowance for enlisted members and veterans covers all new Dodge, Ram, Chrysler and Jeep vehicles, excluding the Viper. Details are available at www.encs.com/ford/ and at http://www.chrysler.com/en/incentives/programs/military/.

Hyundai, Suzuki and Toyota also offer varying discounts, and Scion offers a $1,000 rebate toward the purchase or lease of a new Scion tC, xB or xD.

Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo, BMW and Mini offer discounts for U.S. personnel who are stationed overseas.

By Michelle Koueiter