2014 Nissan Murano Previewed in Resonance Concept

The future is today at Nissan’s Auto Show display in Detroit. Just minutes ago the Japanese carmaker rolled out a swoopy-looking crossover concept called the Resonance.

This five-passenger vehicle is powered by an advanced hybrid drivetrain. The heart of the system is a 2.5-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine. It’s backed up by a high-performance electric motor and the company’s latest Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). A compact lithium-ion battery juices the system. For inclement weather the vehicle is also equipped with all-wheel drive.

Nissan says this car is presented only as a design concept but it wouldn’t be a surprise if the hybrid system made it into a production Nissan.

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When it comes to design, the Resonance features an energetic body that was supposedly inspired by “the futuristic allure of hypersonic travel,” no lie. Two stand-out styling elements are the headlamps, which are curiously boomerang-shaped and the D-pillars. They kick up in a very unique way.

The Resonance concept rides on 22-inch wheels.

Following one of the industry’s biggest trends, the vehicle’s roof is made of glass and gives passengers a panoramic view of the sky above, be it bright and sunny or depressingly overcast.

Moving inside, the Resonance’s airy cabin was inspired by what designers imagined first-space travel would be like if there were such a thing. The company also describes it as a “VIP lounge” because of its openness.

All told, this concept is designed to appeal to customers that aren’t satisfied with traditional crossover design. Nissan wants to “resonate” with fashion-forward shoppers.