Nissan X-Trail NISMO: Motorsport DNA in a Family SUV

Nissan has taken its popular X-Trail and injected it with a dose of motorsport DNA. The new X-Trail NISMO gets a more aggressive design, chassis tweaks and a recalibrated e-POWER hybrid system, all to make the everyday SUV feel sportier. The performance-focused model goes on sale in Japan on September 24, global availability still to be announced.

Aggressive Styling and Aerodynamic Body Kit

At first glance the NISMO body kit makes the SUV look way more aggressive. There’s a new front splitter with red accents, sharper side skirts and a reworked rear diffuser. But beyond looks Nissan says these bits cut aerodynamic lift by 29% without increasing drag.

The package comes with 20-inch Enkei alloy wheels and wider Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres. Apart from more grip the tyres also keep the brakes cooler during spirited driving.

Sporty Cabin

Inside the X-Trail NISMO ditches the standard SUV’s family friendly vibe for a more driver focused theme. The darker interior is accented with red stitching and a NISMO starter button, while optional Recaro sports seats provide extra lateral support. The X-Trail NISMO is offered exclusively as a five-seater, focusing on a more driver-centric experience.

e-POWER Hybrid with a NISMO Twist

Under the skin, the X-Trail NISMO uses the same innovative e-POWER hybrid system. While the 1.5-liter petrol engine acts solely as a generator, the dual electric motors produce a combined output of 211 hp and 525 Nm of torque, which remains unchanged from the standard model. While output remains the same the e-4ORCE AWD system has been tweaked to send more torque to the rear wheels. There’s also a new Sport mode that sharpens throttle response and makes the X-Trail feel more agile when cornering.

Handling and Ride: The Real Upgrade

Where the X-Trail NISMO really shines is in its handling. It’s the first Nissan model to get Kayaba Swing Valve shock absorbers, designed to balance ride comfort and body roll. Add in recalibrated steering and wider tyres and you get an SUV that feels more planted and responsive than the standard version.

Price and Positioning

Price will be above the standard model, targeting those who want practicality and performance. Against sporty rivals like the Toyota RAV4 GR Sport this is Nissan’s way of saying everyday SUVs can be fun.

Conclusion

The Nissan X-Trail NISMO is not about horsepower but about making the drive feel sharper and more connected. For those who like the X-Trail but want a sportier version this might be the sweet spot in the performance SUV space.

FAQs

Does the Nissan X-Trail NISMO offer more power than the standard model?
No, it keeps the same 211 hp hybrid setup but gains chassis and handling upgrades.

When will the Nissan X-Trail NISMO be available?
The Nissan X-Trail NISMO is scheduled to go on sale in Japan on September 24. While it’s confirmed for the Japanese market, Nissan has not yet announced a global release date.