Fresh on the heels of the all-new Toyota Siena and Honda Odyssey is the 2011 Nissan Quest. Now I know minivans aren't particularly exciting, unless you have a couple of kids that play soccer, so we'll keep this to a minimum.
According to Agent 001, who was on the scene, he said that the Quest doesn't look too bad but he noticed that it has this bloated characteristic to it. Essentially it just seems really beefy and really big. Whether that's good or bad is really up to you. Sidebar: its interior does look quite good.
Far more interesting, however, was the Ellure design study. Although Nissan says that its not an indication of any production model, we're sure they want to gauge the public's reaction to certain elements that may be put to use in the near term.
So, let 'em have it. What do you think of the Ellure, Spies?
Excerpts from Nissan's press release follow:
[On the 2011 Nissan QUEST]
The three show debut vehicles represent three unique visions of innovation. The all-new 2011 Nissan Quest represents a celebration of family life – and a forum for innovative ideas designed to make the toughest job in the world, parenting, a little easier. The boldly styled Quest features one-touch side doors, quick release fold-flat 2nd and 3rd row seats, a permanent rear storage well, Dual Panel Sliding Moonroof and Advanced Climate Control System, to name just a few items.
“With this new design, Quest makes a strong statement in terms of style, user friendliness, family functionality and utility,” said Tavares. “A true ‘parents’ car’ that both Mom and Dad will enjoy, it's innovation that makes the impossible possible..."
The Nissan Ellure Concept, the “sedan re-imagined,” was presented at the press conference by Nissan Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura, who explained Nissan’s challenge in bringing a sense of passion and excitement to the segment while retaining the sedan’s core strengths. “We approached this challenge by creating a new emotional form, embracing a refined contrast between broad planes and sharp shoulders – and by creating a simple but passionate interior space that can change its mood to match that of the driver, and where night comes alive with lounge-like lighting and ambiance.”
[On the 2011 Nissan Ellure]
As an expression of Nissan’s long-term vision for the next generation of sedans, Ellure introduces a new sedan design language – one that honors the sedan’s unmatched daytime functionality, yet has a more emotive, almost hidden ambience that comes to life after dark. “It’s an ideal fit for the needs of its projected owners, women in their ‘30s and ‘40s with a sense of sophistication and rebellion,” Nakamura added.
The Ellure Concept’s exterior is highlighted by a deeply skirted front fascia, large 90-degree opening doors with rear-hinged rear doors for full panoramic interior access, a full-length tinted glass roof, and special “Geode” White tri-coat mica paint. Inside, the dramatic lounge-inspired interior utilizes eco-materials, touch screen displays, hidden electronics, a “floating” sculptural center console and red recessed lighting.
“While not intended as a preview of any upcoming production model, Ellure confirms Nissan’s intention to be a strong player in the sedan segment for many years to come,” said Nakamura.
Lexus is a proud sponsor of the AutoSpies 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show photo gallery.
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