The Nissan IDx Is Dead
Do you remember the pair of concept-cars that Nissan showed in 2013? When they were launched, the manufacturer assured us that if demand was strong enough, a production version would be created. The stylish coupe featured a RWD drivetrain and a style that harkened back to the Datsun 510. Two versions were on display: the IDx Freeflow was simpler, with a narrow beige body and a white top, while the IDx Nismo was a modern interpretation of the racecars that won numerous events in Trans-Am. When the IDx was greenlit, we were ecstatic.
However, it’s time to snap back to reality. According to Nissan, the costs for building an all-new RWD platform would be prohibitive, and they can’t use the Z’s. A small sports car simply wouldn’t make sense, financially-speaking.
However, all hope is not lost: Nissan says that while we won’t see a RWD IDx go up against the Scion FR-S and Mazda MX-5, it’s possible that a FWD sport coupe could bear some resemblance to the concept vehicles; the looks of the IDx were striking enough that people might buy a car that looks like it regardless of which wheels are powered.