Nissan’s European arm explains the Sway was designed to preview what the next generation of the tiny Ford Fiesta-fighting Micra could look like. The hatchback’s front end falls in line with the Japanese automaker’s latest design language thanks to styling cues like sharp LED headlights, a bold ‘V-motion’ radiator grille and V-shaped quarter bumpers.
Pronounced wheel arches and oversized alloys increase the Sway’s road presence. Overall, the concept looks considerably more muscular than any Micra built over the course of the nameplate’s 33-year history.
Designers have simplified the interior and removed the B-pillar to make the space seem larger than expected. Lightweight seats extend the architectural theme with an exposed aluminum structure, covered in a pearlescent suede-like fabric.
Drivers face just two gauges in front of the steering wheel, placing the rest of the virtual controls and infotainment features on a large trapezoidal tablet in the center of the “gliding wing” dashboard.
Nissan has not revealed what the Sway is powered by. In Europe, the current Micra is powered by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline-burning engine that sends 80 horsepower to the front wheels via either a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. Buyers after more grunt can order a supercharged version of the triple that makes 98 horsepower.
“With this new concept car for Geneva, we are experimenting to see how Nissan might be able to bring fresh ideas to the compact hatchback segment,” said Nissan design chief Shiro Nakamura.
Live images by Ronan Glon.
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