Students Build Z-Inspired Crossover, Will Nissan Listen?

Nissan revived and reinvented the Z for 2023, using a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine that generates 400 horsepower and design cues from iconic Z models of the past to create something enthusiasts would be really excited about.

But since SUVs and crossovers are immensely popular these days, and Nissan doesn’t have a truly sporty or high-performance model, why not make one that draws inspiration from the Z?

• Also: 2023 Nissan Z: Secrets From the Road and the Track
• Also: 2023 Nissan Z : Like Reconnecting With An Old Friend

That’s exactly what students at the Nissan Automotive Technical College in Japan have done. Their Fairlady X concept will be on display next month at Tokyo Auto Salon (not to be confused with the Tokyo Motor Show that takes place in the fall every two years).

The vehicle is actually based on a second-generation Murano (2009-2014) and the entire body has been modified to emulate the new 2023 Nissan Z, which is known as Fairlady Z in its domestic market. The two models have roughly the same width, but adapting the Z’s low-slung looks to the high-riding Murano was a big challenge.

As you can see on the pictures, the result isn’t so bad, particularly for students who specialize in engineering more than automotive design. Could it possibly sway enough buyers to envision series production? Hum, probably not. Then again, Nissan once launched a Murano Crosscabriolet.

To be clear, the automaker has no plans to give the green light to a project like this one. As for the Murano, we’re still waiting for the next-generation model to show up, because the current one is getting seriously old and lacks excitement.