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Nissan’s Wacky Z-Wagon Hybrid: A Family-Friendly Sports Car?
Imagine a car that combines the sporty styling of a Nissan Z with the practicality of a family wagon. Sounds like a weird idea, right? But that’s exactly what a group of students from the Nissan Automobile Technical College in Japan came up with. They designed a unique hybrid vehicle that blends the best of both worlds, and the result is a car that’s equal parts intriguing and confusing.
Meet the Z Lealia
The Z Lealia is a modified M35 Stagea wagon from the early 2000s, with a body kit that’s been transformed to resemble a Nissan Z. The front end is largely faithful to the original Z design, but things get weird at the rear, where the students grafted parts of a Leaf EV’s fenders and roof onto the shell. The result is a car that’s equal parts futuristic and retro.
A Family-Friendly Sports Car?
According to Nissan, the Z Lealia was designed with families in mind. The idea is that this car would allow sports car enthusiasts to enjoy the thrill of driving a Z while still being able to transport their loved ones in comfort. It’s a noble goal, but we’re not convinced that this car is the best way to achieve it.
The Design
The Z Lealia’s design is certainly eye-catching, with its swooping lines and aggressive stance. The Leaf-inspired rear end is a bit of a departure from the traditional Z design, but it adds a futuristic touch to the car. The interior is surprisingly modern, with a sleek dashboard and comfortable seating for five.
The Verdict
While the Z Lealia is an intriguing concept, we’re not convinced that it’s the best use of the Nissan Z’s iconic design. The car’s awkward proportions and weird styling make it more of a curiosity than a practical family car. Still, it’s an impressive achievement for the students who designed it, and we can’t help but admire their creativity.
Specifications
- Body style: Wagon
- Engine: Modified M35 Stagea wagon
- Power: Unknown
- Transmission: Unknown
- Seating capacity: 5
- Interior space: 100 cubic feet
- Fuel economy: Unknown
What do you think of the Z Lealia? Let us know in the comments!