Is This the Future of Nissan SUV Design?

Unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 15, 2018, was the inspiration for a future Nissan compact SUV. It's called the Nissan Xmotion Concept. The Xmotion's three-row/six-passenger layout is highlighted by two types of traditional Japanese wood joinery: kanawa tsugi seen on the centre console and kigumi across the instrument panel.

The Xmotion is a concept, a "design exploration," according to Nissan, so it's not surprising to see a very futuristic and minimalist interior. A vast screen spans the width of the cabin, ambient lighting is pervasive, and the steering wheel isn't a wheel at all.

But the outside of the Xmotion is the first aspect of the Detroit concept that stuns viewers. Rear-hinged rear doors add to the drama created by the blunt front end, the concave bodysides, slim taillights, and architectural elements on the roof that bring to mind the Xterra's uniquely-shaped roof. The Xmotion's rooftop box is actually retractable.

"We envision the Xmotion Concept to be a highly functional SUV that can be driven every day," Nissan's senior VP for global design, Alfonso Albaisa says, "yet can take the owners and friends to a national park or recreation area on a whim.

We'd love to offer Nissan's growing SUV audience have even more SUVs to choose from. But while we wait and see what becomes of the Xmotion Concept, we can already say that Nissan's utility vehicle lineup is expanding. Added to the Armada, Pathfinder, Murano, and Rogue lineup for the 2017 model year was the Nissan Qashqai, and for 2018, there will also be the new Nissan Kicks.