What's the news?

Nissan has created what it's calling a 'new genre of urban compact sports car' in the form of the EXTREM. The concept had its debut at the São Paulo Motor Show this month and has been designed specifically for the Brazilian market - a region in which Nissan has enjoyed strong sales growth in recent years.

Exterior

The EXTREM is exactly that from the outside. The concept has a large front grille, a heavily tapered roofline and features LED lights front and rear. Sharp styling creases can be found on the doors, and a large aluminium skid-plate is round the back containing the centrally mounted exhaust.

The body has been painted in Solar Cortex metallic orange, while the roof is a combination of gloss and matte finishes. The unique 19-inch alloy wheels have been designed specifically to help cool the brakes.

Interior

Whilst details of interior goodies and a picture were omitted from Nissan's press release, we can tell you that the EXTREM features a 2+2 layout with a two-tier storage system behind the rear seats. Up front, see-through A-pillars provide better visibility while the wraparound glass and detached C-pillars are said to provide an airy feel to the cabin.

Mechanicals

Although Nissan says the EXTREM is highly unlikely to make production, the company also stated that the latest 1.6-litre DIG-T petrol engine would power it if it did. It would also be offered in both front- and four-wheel-drive variants apparently.

Anything else?

Nissan's sales success in Brazil has prompted the company to build a new production facility in Rio de Janeiro, which will make up to 200,000 units annually.

The São Paulo Motor Show runs until 4th November.

James Giddings - 25 Oct 2012