Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept

Nissan has decided that the Geneva motor show is the perfect place to unleash the quirky Qazana concept car. And even though its looks are pretty far out, the Qazana will spawn a production vehicle which will be built at Nissan�s plant in Sunderland from next year.

Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept
Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept

This all wheel drive concept sized (4060mm in length, 1570mm tall, 1780 wide and a wheelbase of 2530mm), and will be built on the Micra replacement platform when it makes production.The four-headlamp front end, with wing-mounted daytime running lights, has hints of rally night-driving lamps, and the one-piece acrylic-moulded grille looks tough: it is closed off, with air intakes in the lower bumper instead. SUV-style details include the high ground clearance, rubber-edged wheel arches, grey cladding and rear skid plate, and the Qazana rides high on 20-inch black-chrome alloy wheels.

Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept
Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept

Inside, details such as the carbonfibre seat structure, metal frame of the centre console and parts of the door frame are left exposed, contrasting with the upholstered sections and grooved rubber-mat floor. This 'reflects motorcycle design and construction', says interior designer Paul Ray, who notes that the shape of the centre console and armrest have been inspired by the fuel tank and seat of a sports bike.

Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept
Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept

Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept
Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept

There are more luxuries in the Qazana, however, including a sat nav system and display screen with touch-screen controls for functions including air conditioning and other vehicle settings. The screen also shows data on the four-wheel-drive system, Nissan's next-generation All-Mode technology.

Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept
Geneva Auto Show 2009:Nissan Qazana Concept's Interior