Controversial Kuraza Concept is Infiniti's New Take on Luxury

The Kuraza features extremely large window areas with wrap-around glass at the rear corners and three glass panels overhead in

The Kuraza features extremely large window areas with wrap-around glass at the rear corners and three glass panels overhead in the roof. (Photo: Infiniti Canada)

the roof, a variation of a design detail that has become popular in recent Nissan/Infiniti production vehicles. The superb visibility and feeling of spaciousness offered is the same for all passengers, fulfilling the vehicles equality for all mission statement. Complementing the windows, soft overhead console lighting "provides a sense of openness and relaxation", or so says Infiniti.

Additional soft violet-colored LED illumination can be found elsewhere throughout the cabin, including the automatically retracting outside steps, grip handles and armrests, both inviting and useful.

The retractable steps lead to a unique wood and aluminum-strip floor, tinted to match the deep violet paint of the exterior. The

The Kuraza seats six in what looks to be total comfort, with ample room between passengers. (Photo: Infiniti Canada)

wood is cut in the traditional "Chijimi" method, said to highlight the beauty of its natural grain.

"Another problem with most existing luxury SUVs is the number of passengers they try to accommodate," said Nagano. "As a result, space becomes limited, in even the largest vehicles."

While most 7- or 8-passenger vans, sport utility vehicles or crossovers tout comfort for all, rear seat headroom, legroom and shoulder room is often compromised. Unlike such space optimizers, the Kuraza seats six in what looks to be total comfort, with ample room between passengers, the seats ahead and the vehicle's outer shell.