The Nissan global design team responsible for the X-Motion Concept wanted to bring something fresh to the segment by infusing Nissan’s Japanese heritage and aesthetics – while also preparing for a new automotive world, driven by autonomous technologies. The goal was to allow contrasting ideas and attributes to coexist. The result is a vehicle that’s quiet, yet dynamic, calm yet emotional, and sophisticated yet tough.

“The Xmotion Concept’s exterior is very dynamic, very wedged. The strong fenders are fluid and emotional, yet somehow very graceful,” explained Albaisa. “That’s a difference between this design and conventional SUVs with Western influence. The Xmotion Concept embodies quiet dynamism and a purity that gives it a very unique presence.”

When viewing the new Xmotion Concept for the first time, there’s an immediate recognition of Nissan signature design elements, starting with the powerful front V-motion grille, fascia and “boomerang” headlamps.

In the rear, the unique taillight design was inspired by the detail and warmth of Kumiko, Japanese woodwork and puzzles. The structure of the lights is, in fact, an optical illusion created by hologram technology.

The interior was created with the imagery of a Japanese landscape. The floor represents a river – with the centre console acting as a bridge that connects the front and rear passenger areas.

With its long wheelbase, with wheels and tires pushed out to the extremes of the corners, the Xmotion Concept allows for the creation of a fresh, “4+2” passenger layout. Featuring three rows of side-by-side individual seats, it’s designed to provide a perfect space for a young couple, another couple and two children or pets in the third row.

The Human Machine Interface (HMI) of the Xmotion Concept, like the vehicle design, is very simple. For example, the switch from ProPILOT drive mode to manual drive mode, and vice versa can be done by using the PD Commander, located on the centre console and steering switch.

The Xmotion Concept also includes a total of seven digital screen portions. Three main displays and left and right end displays span the width of the instrument panel. There is also a “digital room mirror” in the ceiling and a centre console display. Intuitive controls and a voice command system allow drivers to focus on driving, helping them access various information in a smart, easy and safe manner.

Fingerprint authentication is used to start the operation of the Xmotion Concept. When the driver touches the fingerprint authentication area on the top of the console, the opening sequence starts, awakening the virtual personal assistant – which takes the shape of a Japanese koi fish.

The koi jumps into the main screen. After linking with the driver’s smartphone, the navigation system automatically recognizes the destination, and other user information – such as weather, music and vehicle system info – will be activated. The navigation system recognizes the surrounding “information” while travelling.

Stay tuned to these pages for more information on the innovations showcased in the X-Motion Concept and those that become standard features of future Nissan vehicles.