The Nissan CEO Desires A New Sports Vehicle

Twelve years ago, Nissan excited enthusiasts with the IDx Freeflow and IDx Nismo concepts, hinting at an affordable rear-wheel-drive coupe that never materialized.

A few years later, the company explained why the car never made it to production, citing concerns that it would overlap with the 370Z and would not see enough demand to justify the investment. Another problem was the lack of a suitable factory for its production.

However, Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa is still thinking about the IDx. In a new interview with Japanese magazine Kuruma News, he said a car with a similar spirit could do wonders for the brand.

“I think a car like the IDx will serve many purposes. It would be a car that helps express the Nissan brand. Second, it has the potential to attract a younger demographic, because it’s very important for the automaker to continue to attract younger buyers to its brand,” he said.

He added that it is not just a matter of price, although it is certainly an important factor, but there must be something convincing that will encourage young customers to follow the brand.

When asked about the chances of a new Silvia, Espinosa said he would “like to bring her back” but questioned the feasibility of the project. He noted that the car should be light and at the same time meet modern crash safety regulations. However, if Mazda can do it with the Miata, why can’t Nissan…

There were rumors that the IDx concepts were based on the last-gen S15 Silvia, but Nissan has never confirmed this. Espinosa claims that the revival of the Silvia is currently just “an idea in the head.” While he hopes it will develop into something real, the company’s financial struggles make it unlikely to be a priority right now.

Espinosa, a true car enthusiast who drives a Nissan Z to work, is facing significant challenges at Nissan. Despite being called a “real car guy” by his predecessor, Makoto Uchida, he must navigate the company’s tough situation, which includes 20,000 layoffs, the closure of seven factories, and two design studio shutdowns. These issues go beyond just the commitment to developing an entry-level sports car.

On the other hand, a product that could provide the same boost that the TT once gave Audi’s offering would be a welcome addition, provided it was backed by a solid range of mainstream models.

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