The Nissan Gripz Concept has finally made its debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. If warnings bells are going off in your head at the name of the concept crossover, we’re here to confirm the “bad” news for you, unfortunately. In an earlier report, the replacement model for the 370Z was said to adopt the form of a crossover instead of a compact coupe previewed by the Nissan iDX concept twins.
True enough, the Nissan Gripz Concept has been billed as a “sporty compact crossover for a new, younger generation.” Inspired by the “classic desert rally cars and racing bicycles,” the crossover features a pretty radical design theme with the front of the car dominated by a bold V-motion grille. Said grille gets flanked by boomerang-shaped headlights.
In profile, Nissan’s “emotionalgeometry” design language is further emphasised by the adoption of a floating roof and three-spoke 22-inch wheels wrapped in specially-designed Bridgestone rubber. At the rear, “a dramatic truncated matt-black Kamm tail” is said to provide a ‘codatronca’ effect while twin trapezoidal exhaust outlets help complete the edgy, aggressive styling of the Nissan Gripz Concept.
As for exact tech specs, Nissan has chosen to remain mum on the figures. What we do know is that the concept is equipped with the marque’s Pure Drive e-Power hybrid system. Said system is comprised of a petrol engine that is employed to power the exact same electric motor found in the Nissan Leaf. The system is said to deliver “smooth, swift and linear acceleration in near-silence, with supreme efficiency.”
The design of the centre console and moulded bucket seats are said to be inspired by the Tour de France event as it features exposed tubes and “layered features” that mimic “the cladding effect found on the exterior.” Like the Nissan Sway Concept, the Gripz Concept features the ‘Gliding Wing’ instrument panel.
