Dynamic, innovative and terribly stylish: Nissan is moving away from the utilitarian nature of some of its past models and is readying to embrace a future which revolves around performance and eco-consciousness.
This is the verdict coming from the 2012 Paris Motorshow, where the Japanese brand has showcased a series of future models whose quality benefits from Nissan’s recent splendid sales figures across international markets. Boasting a 5 per cent year-on-year increase in sales for the month of July, Nissan showed up at the French capital’s auto show with an impressive range of eight new models that show were future roads will take it.
One model in particular captured everybody’s attention: Nissan TeRRa is for the time being just a concept car, but it speaks volumes about Nissan’s green credentials and ambitions. Surely more eco-friendly than any other vehicle currently on the market, this aggressively looking model is a zero emissions SUV based around a hydrogen fuel cell. While a few more years will pass before a similar car will eventually be on the market, TeRRa should be interpreted as a symbol of Nissan’s own vision of the future. As part of the same vision, PIVO 3 is another zero-emission concept for a city car which was presented in Paris: with incorporated Automated Valet Parking and Robotic Agent Interface, it aims to provide the most automated and relaxing driving experience.
Back to the models that will surely go on sale, Juke Nismo was another star at the Parisian show. This performance car, which will be available early next year, is powered by a 197bhp 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, which brings it from 0 to 62mph in 7.8 seconds. With an innovative aerodynamic line, Nismo will easily become Nissan’s favourite model for speed lovers.
Meanwhile, things are changing for Qashqai: 360, the latest trim for this successful crossover will replace the previous N-tec model and will come with an Around View Monitor to help the parking process with its overhead view.
Not forgetting Nissan’s most performing vehicles, starring at the Paris Motor Show also were a revised 370Z Coupe and Roadster, with updated design and new colours, new front bumper and LED daytime running lights.
Finally, time for glamour with Juke Ministry of Sound and Micra Elle, both personalised versions of previous models, inspired by the coolest London nightclub and the world’s most-famous fashion magazine, respectively.