Nissan has unveiled the Nismo variant of the new Leaf in Japan, positioning it as the performance flagship of the electric crossover range.
The Leaf Nismo gains a more aggressive bodykit, sportier cabin touches, sharper chassis tuning, and reworked electronics, but it does not receive any extra horsepower.
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Surprisingly, it also misses out on the 3D holographic taillights found on the top-tier trims.
Exterior and Interior Upgrades
The Nismo trim sets itself apart with a pronounced front splitter featuring a “twin blade” design and Arteria Magma red inserts.
These red accents extend to the mirror caps and plastic cladding along the sides.
The crossover rides on new lightweight 19-inch Enkei alloy wheels.
At the rear, it borrows the smaller taillights from the entry-level Leaf instead of the cooler LEDs from the Platinum+ and Autech trims, which is an odd choice given its flagship status.
A unique ducktail spoiler and a redesigned bumper with a red pinstripe help claw back visual interest.
The color palette includes four shades and two bi-tone finishes with a black roof.
Inside, the cabin gains Nismo badges, contrasting stitching, custom digital cockpit graphics, matte suede fabric, and synthetic leather upholstery.
Optional power-adjustable Recaro bucket seats are also available.
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Powertrain and Chassis
Despite the aggressive styling, the powertrain carries over unchanged from the standard Leaf.
The entry-level B5 Nismo uses a 53 kWh battery with a 174 hp (130 kW) electric motor, while the range-topping B7 Nismo gets a 75 kWh battery and a 214 hp (160 kW) motor.
