Nissan Resonance Concept gives glimpse of next Murano

Tue, 15 Jan 2013

The Nissan Resonance Concept has bowed at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, giving the world a glimpse at the company's future design direction for crossovers. Specifically, the concept heralds what the next-generation Murano may look like once it touches down. Nissan has already confirmed the successor to the big crossover's throne will be produced in Mississippi for the first time. With a "floating" roof and dynamic head lamp arrays, the Resonance boasts a far more athletic appearance than the snub-nosed current generation. Inside, designers worked up a cockpit aimed at conveying what "the future of first-class space travel might be."

Nissan isn't saying what the upcoming Murano will have under the hood, but the Resonance boasts an all-wheel-drive hybrid powertrain with a small-displacement internal combustion engine and an electric motor. A lithium-ion battery delivers power while a CVT takes care of putting power to the wheels. Take a look at the full press release below for more information.

INNOVATIVE NISSAN RESONANCE CONCEPT CROSSOVER FEATURES BOLD, DIFFERENTIATING STYLE

• Signals the future direction of Nissan crossovers with smart, edgy design
• Inspired by a new "innovation era" and optimism for a bright, energetic future
• Elevates the crossover experience with engaging aerodynamic exterior, spacious and sophisticated interior and advanced HEV powertrain
• Global concept aims to present an intelligent, fresh alternative for U.S. consumers

DETROIT (January 15, 2013) – With its boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling and fuel-efficient hybrid-electric powertrain, the Nissan Resonance concept proposes an all-new dynamic and edgy design that once again leads the trend for the crossover category. The global concept makes its world debut today at the 2013 North American International Auto Show.

Said Francois Bancon, Nissan Motor Co. division general manager, Product Strategy and Planning: "When the designers were first working on conceptualizing the Nissan Resonance, they were inspired by amazing scientific advancements in technology and material innovations. They also were inspired by the aspirations of those people who unabashedly embrace innovation and are optimistic about the future. It was about serving those people a concept vehicle that is forward-looking and fuses style with an athletic ride."

While seen as a concept of global relevance, 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.

An Energetic, Premium Exterior Design that Resonates
Light on its feet, the exterior design signals that Nissan Resonance is pushing the crossover segment forward.

The energetic surfaces show a counterpoint of dynamic fluidity and pure edginess. Nissan's designers worked to express an aerodynamic feel that was lightweight yet also protective, and drew inspiration from the futuristic allure of hypersonic travel.

The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the hood 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 around D-Pillar. These distinct details give the crossover a very advanced yet spacious impression.

The roof's unique "floating" design is created through the use of the thin, steeply raked A-pillars, large full-length glass panel and flowing D-pillar design. The effect created gives the impression of a flowing structure carried by the large windows and overall spaciousness of the cabin.

The body color, named Flare Orange, adds even more energy and warmth to the overall exterior design. Other exterior features include a tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents and 22-inch, full dynamic flow aluminum-alloy wheels.

Inside, a Futuristic VIP Lounge
With the interior, 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.

Thoughtfully considered details, including sequential welcome lighting, add warmth and drama upon entering the vehicle. The dramatic interior illumination highlights the natural wood pattern in the modern cabin.

An advanced instrument panel floats on a generous console, creating a forum where the driver can access all infotainment and communication features. Technology is graphically layered to give a holographic experience and visual depth is used to separate information in order of importance.

The open glass roof gives passengers a unique panoramic view of the world and floating elements like the roof lining add to the sense of space and airy lightness. The spacious interior atmosphere is enhanced by the sculpted door panels and elegant, deep shape of the center console.

Said Bancon: "The Resonance interior reflects the enlightened modernity of today's crossover buyer, who values an amazing experience over traditional indulgence. The architecture of the cabin is open and structured. Like the exterior, it redefines and pushes the segment beyond convention."

Sustainably Dynamic Performance
Though Resonance is presented strictly as a design concept, its efficient hybrid electric drivetrain signals the desire by crossover drivers to be respectful of the environment without sacrificing driving pleasure. The all-wheel drive Resonance includes Nissan's proprietary "one-motor, two-clutch" system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion gasoline engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system. Resonance also features Nissan's next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

An Other-Worldly Concept for Real-World Customers
The bold Resonance follows Nissan's longstanding leadership in crossover design, demonstrated by such cutting-edge vehicles as Murano, Qashqai and Juke, while pushing the boundaries of design into another dimension.

Concluded Bancon: "Resonance is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging – even polarizing. 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."

By Zach Bowman