The future direction of Nissan crossovers: Resonance concept

Crossover concept debuts have been plentiful at the NAIAS in Detroit. Nissan has also posted a new press release announcing the global debut of their new "Nissan Resonance" concept which took place at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. They describe the all-new fuel-efficient hybrid concept as having a "dynamic and edgy design that once again leads the trend for the crossover category with boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling".

Resonance was created by Nissan Design America, San Diego, CA, under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. The designers worked to express an aerodynamic feel that was lightweight yet also protective. The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the bonnet and resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights. The body is strengthened by powerful surfaces and provocative lines and is accented by the flow through the car to the kick-up shape at the rear. Nissan say these distinct details give the crossover a very advanced yet spacious impression.

To add to the exterior impression of warm energy, the body colour is named Flare Orange. Other exterior features include a tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents and 22-inch aluminium-alloy wheels. The interior will resemble, as the designers imagined what the future of first-class space travel might be: welcoming yet exclusive and high-tech yet premium. The resulting "VIP lounge," with its light, buttery leather and premium-stitched seats, exudes genuine sophistication.

The all-wheel drive Resonance includes Nissan's proprietary "one-motor, two-clutch" system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion petrol engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system. Resonance also features Nissan's next-generation Xtronic CVT^® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

"Resonance is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging - even polarizing,” said Francois Bancon. “Its edgy yet sophisticated design, combined with an environmentally sensitive powertrain and intelligent utility provides a clear, exciting view into the future of crossover innovation.

"This design is not meant to appeal to traditional two-box SUV shoppers, but rather to those whose fashion and design choices make a statement. For Nissan, this concept makes our statement about the future of this segment."

I'm still not sure why recent concept vehicles feature so heavily in 'futuristic' themes, making them look like they could easily take you from earth straight to the moon. If this is what "new edgy innovation" looks like, I think I'll be sticking with my conventional unfashionable earth bound vehicle, Thank you very much. For more details about this Four-wheel drive Hybrid Electric Vehicle, you can read the full Nissan Resonance press release by clicking here.