Nissan has unveiled the latest Roox wagon-type kei (ultra-compact) car in Japan. The fourth-generation Roox features a more spacious and upmarket cabin, a suite of innovative driver assistance technologies, and quieter and more efficient drive. It is set to go on sale in Japan later this year.
The Roox seeks to redefine the conventional notion of kei cars by pairing features typically reserved for larger segments with strong value.
The vehicle offers an available intelligent around-view monitor with moving object detection, 3D view, front wide view and invisible hood view. NissanConnect and Google Built-in enhance connectivity. The class-leading 2.315m interior length accommodates four adults.
Playful yet practical
The latest Roox is based on the Roomy×Max design concept, which inspired its name. A rounded square motif is used throughout the design, in the headlights, rear lamps, door handles, headrests, speedometer and wheels, representing both spaciousness and a playful aesthetic, according to Nissan.
The interior is designed around the Breeze concept, intended to create a relaxing space with pleasant airflow and natural light, similar to a living room. The dashboard includes an integrated 12.3-inch infotainment display – a first for kei cars.
Spacious interior
The interior length has been extended by 115mm from the previous generation, allowing addition knee room for rear-seat passengers. The 675mm cargo space can hold four 48-liter suitcases.
Comfort and convenience
The rear sliding door, standard for super-height wagons, offers a best-in-class opening width of 650mm. Large grab handles, like those on the Serena minivan, support easy entry and exit, particularly for children. The rear seats slide up to 320mm, enabling the driver to reach children in the rear passenger seat. A one-action lever on the rear seat shoulder enables the seat to slide for convenient access to the cargo area.
Interior storage has been improved with features such as large cupholders, a drawer, an instrument panel center slide box for smartphones and wallets and a covered box behind the meter display for small items.
Enhanced drive and quieter cabin
Engine improvements enhance fuel efficiency and reduce noise, lowering running costs and improving in-cabin comfort. Soundproofing measures, such as noise-insulating sheets and high-performance sound-absorbing materials around the doors and tires, contribute to a quieter interior. Seats are trimmed in soft, stretchy melange fabric, similar to that used on sofas, supporting a comfortable, living room-like atmosphere. The redesigned rear seats distribute body pressure more evenly and use high-density urethane to absorb vibrations, enhancing overall ride comfort.
Advanced safety and driver assistance
The latest Roox features enhanced advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that improve driver awareness and support easier parking, as well as navigation on narrow roads and at intersections. For the first time in a kei car, the intelligent around-view monitor includes invisible hood view, offering a virtual view through the engine bay to help detect hidden obstacles. Additional features include 3D view for a more intuitive understanding of surroundings and front wide view for improved visibility at intersections.
In addition to the popular ProPilot, updated features include intelligent emergency braking, which detects pedestrians and oncoming vehicles at intersections to assist collision avoidance; intelligent blind spot intervention (BSI), which helps avoid contact with vehicles positioned diagonally to the rear during lane changes; intelligent blind spot warning (BSW), which detects vehicles approaching from behind; and rear cross traffic alert (RCTA), which provides an audible warning to the driver if vehicles are crossing behind the car while it’s reversing.
NissanConnect infotainment system
For the first time in the Roox, Nissan has introduced the NissanConnect in-vehicle technology suite as a manufacturer option, combining navigation, security and entertainment alongside traditional dealer-installed navigation choices. Equipped with Google Built-in, the system supports Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play for seamless access to information and entertainment. When paired with an optional drive recorder, it also enables the new Remote Photo Shot service, allowing remote vehicle monitoring via the owner’s smartphone.
In related news, Honda recently refreshed the Civic e:HEV hybrid with updated interior styling and exterior design
