2012 Nissan Extrem

 

                     2012 Nissan Extrem

 

Nissan’s most important revelation at the recently concluded Sao Paulo Motor Show was the Extrem SUV concept. This mini SUV is aimed at the youth with stress on design and affordability and though the manufacturer hasn’t yet given a date on when the production version of the Extrem will be launched, this vehicle has been a result of the work between North and South American offices of Nissan. The Extreme, like many other cars on display at Sao Paulo has been engineered specifically keeping in mind the Brazilian market and if at all it does make it into production, launch in India isn’t ruled out. The concept is targeted at other mini SUV’s like the Ford Ecosport, the Hyundai ix20 and the Volkswagen Taigun which was also on display at Sao Paulo. Commenting on the Extrem, Shiro Nakamura, Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Nissan automobile said, “EXTREM, with a dynamic, high-character design, is far from conservative. It was created to appeal to the country’s growing band of city-based young professionals who are passionate about design and want to make a personal statement. The lightweight two-door 2+2, has a dynamic stance, fresh surfacing, and a clear rugged ability to tackle the urban jungle every day.”

Design and Interiors

The Extrem crossover was designed in San Diego in the US and the 2 door concept version seats four. The front and rear has a wraparound glass and the floating roof gives is a dynamic look. The headlights are stylish and have daytime running lights and in the ‘Solar Cortex’ colour the Extreme is a serious head turner. The roof has a matte finish and the 19-inch alloy wheels are unique too. The overall look is sporty with roof rails and an aluminium skid plate. The designers claim the car to have a look of an “urban rally car” and the styling fits a car which can be used both in the city and for the outdoors as well. The ground clearance is high and the designers claim that the SUV depicts the ‘vibrancy’ of Brazil. There is a bit of the GT-R and the 370Z in its styling
The cabin has an airy feel to it and the mini SUV is 3850mm long with a wheelbase of 2450mm.

Engine and Performance

The production variant of the Extrem is expected to share its drivetrain with the Juke. The 1.6-litre petrol develops 115PS while the 1.5-litre diesel produces 110PS.

Ride

The Extrem will use Nissan’s V-platform like and will come in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive variants. This is the same platform which is used also on the Juke and on theMicra hatch.