2003 Nissan Evalia Concept - Maximizing Fun and Function
How does a car company build a brand image? Despite what marketers try to tell you, it's through products. Just for fun, think about your favorite brand and why it's your number one choice. Have you built up a loyalty through years of ownership or have you never owned, but always lusted after a specific marque?
Nissan, with new models such as its 350Z, Maxima, Altima and new Murano SUV, is becoming a car company that not only satisfies consumer needs but also satiates individual desires. How do they do it? Styling is key, as most people are attracted by sight first and personality second. Then after the initial "how do you do" the Japanese automaker follows up with cars that perform above and beyond the call of duty, both athletically and reliably, making sure the romance lingers on well after the honeymoon is past.
So how does the Evalia concept fit into Nissan's brand image? Being that it's impossible to speculate on reliability in a concept car, all that's left to discuss is performance, features and styling. Starting with the last, the new prototype, introduced this month in Geneva, pulls strong cues from the next-generation Maxima sedan and Quest minivan, while melding headlamp and taillight features from the current 350Z and Murano. Its twin bands of neon DI lights that jut into a set of trapezoid nostril-like grille openings offer a very distinct, and particularly attractive alternative look. That difference comes from London's Nissan Design in Europe, where the Evalia was penned, but they've still managed to stay true to the brand's current identity, at least stylistically.