One thing that can be guaranteed at any Japanese auto show is the rollout of concept cars and left-of-field designs and the Tokyo Auto Salon looks to be no different with Nissan (even considering its current problems and merger discussions) putting in a good showing with some properly offbeat ideas.

Wagon-inspired sports cars are a quirky niche that often captivate automotive enthusiasts and a Nissan Z wagon concept is no exception. But this isn’t a simple case of a shooting-brake-style makeover. Instead, it’s a fascinating mashup of parts from different Nissan models, showcasing the creativity of students at Nissan Kyoto Automobile College. Alongside this intriguing build are two other student-led projects—one paying homage to a classic Skyline and another reviving an underappreciated 1980s sedan. 

The Nissan Z Lealia: A Bold Wagon Hybrid

Nissan Z Lealia concept car front

If Z is on your radar, we can help - just click here

The Nissan Z Lealia combines familiar elements in unexpected ways. The front half of the vehicle unmistakably belongs to the latest Nissan Z, with its clean integration into the second-generation Nissan Stagea’s platform. Essentially a reimagined Infiniti G37 wagon, the Stagea’s FM architecture ties the two cars together structurally.

However, the rear half of the Z Lealia is where things get truly unconventional. The beltline rises sharply at the rear quarter panel, and elliptical quarter windows hint at the use of a hatchback assembly sourced from a Nissan Leaf. Although the Z taillights are integrated, the transition between the elements appears experimental. Perhaps the bluff tail of the original Stagea would have provided a more cohesive design. Still, the Lealia offers an intriguing glimpse of how the Z could evolve into a family of body styles.

Nissan Z Lealia rear three quarter viewTake a look at our great selection of Classic Cars - click here

The NEO SKYLINE: A Retro-Modern Fusion

The second creation, dubbed the NEO SKYLINE, is a reimagining of the Kenmeri-generation Nissan Skyline, originally launched in 1972. While it draws inspiration from the classic C110, this concept goes far beyond mere restomodding. The base vehicle appears to be a V35 Skyline coupe, judging by its interior, but the exterior evokes a bold retro-futuristic aesthetic.

Nissan Neo Skyline concept front view

If you need finance for your new purchase we have the solution - click here

The front end channels the sharp-edged designs of Gandini-era sports cars, with the rear fender openings adding a wedge-like dynamism. However, the rear design, featuring a flat panel and C110-style taillights, feels less resolved. With refinement, such as a more detailed fascia and ducktail spoiler reminiscent of the original GT-R, this concept could evolve into a striking neo-retro EV in line with Hyundai’s nostalgic design trends. 

Reviving the Bluebird Maxima: A Hidden Gem

The final project hails from Nissan’s Aichi branch and resurrects the PU11 Bluebird Maxima—a lesser-known mid-1980s sedan that was the first front-wheel-drive model to bear the Maxima name. Equipped with a VG-series V6 engine, the Maxima was a sophisticated competitor to the rear-drive Toyota Cressida.

The students gave the Maxima a bold makeover, adding boxy flared wheel arches, relocated rear door handles, and retro-inspired modifications that blend seamlessly with JDM styling traditions. The deep “Aurora Flare Blue Pearl” paint enhances the car’s luxurious and sporting character, making it an unexpectedly striking platform for customisation.

Nissan Bluebird Maxima concept from front

For the best deal in car insurance click here

These student creations will debut alongside Nissan’s own in-house projects at the Tokyo Auto Salon, starting January 10. By transforming iconic and obscure Nissan models alike, these projects highlight the boundless creativity of the next generation of automotive talent—and may inspire a fresh wave of customisation trends.

Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with

proudly ALL THINGS MOTORING