Nissan’s unlikely new performance hero revealed
The Japanese brand has taken the wraps of its latest Nismo and it’s not what you expect.
All-wheel drive, unique suspension and a more aggressive design, the latest model from Nissan’s Nismo performance division has some important elements covered. It will also fit the kids and your weekly shop, unlike a Z Nismo.
That’s because instead of a performance car, Nismo’s latest is based on the X-Trail mid-size SUV. The X-Trail Nismo has been revealed and Nissan claims it is a “Grand Touring SUV that delivers a passionate experience” thanks to an array of enhancements.
Looking the part with a specific Nismo body kit and finished in trademark grey with black and red highlights, the X-Trail Nismo also gets new 20-inch alloy wheels shod in Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres.
Inside there are more Nismo-specific touches, including Recaro seats.
While Nissan was conspicuously silent on any powertrain changes, which suggests power and torque remain unchanged, this isn’t just a styling makeover. The X-Trail Nismo has redesigned suspension and made tweaks to its all-wheel drive system for better handling.
This includes the introduction of Kayaba Swing Valve shock absorbers, which is a first for the brand. According to the company these new dampers are able to minimise body roll while maintaining ride comfort.
The e-4orce all-wheel drive system has also been tuned for unique handling characteristics compared to the rest of the range. This means more rear-wheel drive power distribution, while also controlling the front tyres for “directional turning” and reduced torque steer.
Unfortunately for Australian fans a Nissan spokesperson has confirmed the X-Trail Nismo is only for the Japanese domestic market and won’t be available here.
