Concept car for the young...and young at heart

WHERE else but Brazil would be a better place to launch this concept car aimed at the young - and the young at heart?

Nissan has taken the wraps off the EXTREM, which has been designed built in Brazil for its  world debut at the São Paulo International Motor Show (October 24 - November 4).

"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," said Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer.

"The lightweight two-door 2+2, has a dynamic stance, fresh surfacing, and a clear rugged ability to tackle the urban jungle every day."

It was designed by Nissan Design America (NDA) in San Diego, California, in collaboration with Brazilian designers and produced in Brazil.

"We call it Baby Beast," said Robert Bauer, senior design manager for the project at NDA.

"We see it as an urban rally car, a tough little street fighter that can handle the urban jungle with agility and confidence."

Both the headlamps and tail lamps feature Nissan's signature graphics and LED technology. Bracketing the glass hatch, the rear lights have high-tech layered fins, showcasing an airy, lightweight structure. A prominent aluminium skid plate, embossed to add strength, houses the centrally mounted exhaust.

Among the external highlights are flush mounted door handles, integrated side marker lamps, lightweight fender-mounted mirrors and the flush A- and B-pillars.

The compact four-seater has a two-tier luggage space in the rear.

The exclusive Solar Cortex body colour, a deep metallic orange with radiant highlights, pays homage to Brazilian nature.

Brightly coloured accents provide "pops" of energy and can also be found on the gas cap, tow hook and the wheels, adding to the urban rally car theme.

The roof pattern, a mix of gloss and matte textures, is inspired by iconic Brazilian graphics.
Six-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels are double layered with a dark inner and brushed metal outer and provide enhanced cooling to the brakes.

EXTREM's power would be provided by Nissan's advanced direct injection and turbocharged (DIG-T) 1.6-litre petrol engine. EXTREM could also be offered with a choice of front or four-wheel drive.