by Nissan has unveiled in Japan a new version of the Leaf Nismo, which will become the flagship in the lineup of this electric vehicle. It is a fully electric crossover that has received a more aggressive body kit, sportier interior elements, improved chassis, and updated electronics. However, despite all these changes, the engine power remains unchanged, and, oddly enough, the car has lost the 3D holographic rear lights that are a hallmark of top-tier versions.
Exterior and aerodynamics
The Leaf Nismo stands out with a functional aerodynamic body kit. At the front, there is a pronounced splitter with a “double blade” design and red Arteria Magma inserts. These red accents also appear on the mirror caps and plastic side moldings. The car is equipped with new lightweight 19-inch Enkei alloy wheels.
At the rear, the Leaf Nismo gets the smaller tail lights from the base Leaf version, rather than the more striking LED lights from the Platinum+ and Autech trims, which feature graphics inspired by the Z model. This is a strange decision, given the car’s positioning in the lineup and its price, as the flagship version gets the cheapest lights in the family. The rear end at least features a unique “ducktail” spoiler and a slightly modified bumper with a red stripe to add visual interest.
Interior and colors
The color palette includes four shades and two two-tone options with a black roof. The interior features a predominantly black-and-red theme. The cabin gets Nismo badges, contrast stitching, special graphics on the digital instrument cluster, suede-like material, and synthetic leather. Optional electrically adjustable Recaro seats are also available.
Powertrain and chassis
Despite the aggressive styling, there is no increase in power. Nissan has left the powertrain unchanged. The base B5 Nismo version uses a 53 kWh battery and an electric motor producing 174 hp (130 kW / 177 PS). The top-tier B7 Nismo version gets a 75 kWh battery and a motor producing 214 hp (160 kW / 217 PS).
Like the standard model, the Leaf Nismo is available exclusively with front-wheel drive, leaving the 4ORCE AWD all-wheel-drive system for the more expensive Ariya Nismo. Nissan engineers have added a special Nismo driving mode for sharper throttle response, as well as calibrated paddles for stronger energy recuperation. Thus, the changes are not just cosmetic, even if the power figures remain unchanged.
Chassis and handling
Most importantly, the crossover has received a special Nismo chassis setup, which justifies the presence of this badge. Modifications include new springs, anti-roll bars, valve-equipped shock absorbers, reinforced subframe bushings, and retuned steering. To improve handling, new Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires in size 235/45 R19 have been installed.
Prices and market
The Nissan Leaf Nismo is now available for order in Japan. The price for the B5 starts at ¥6,601,100 ($40,500) and reaches ¥7,227,000 ($44,400) for the top-tier B7 version with the Recaro seat package. It is currently unknown whether the model will appear in other markets, such as Europe and North America, although this seems likely given the company’s plans to expand the global Nismo lineup.
Interestingly, Nissan has chosen to focus on visual and handling changes rather than a power increase. This may indicate that the company sees its target audience not as chasing performance, but as wanting a more expressive and better-handling car. The decision to forgo the signature rear lights in favor of the base ones seems like a strange compromise that could reduce the model’s appeal for some buyers, especially given its flagship status and price. At the same time, the chassis tuning and use of quality tires suggest that engineers genuinely worked on improving handling, which is key for any Nismo version. The question remains whether this approach will meet the expectations of enthusiasts who are accustomed to the Nismo badge meaning not just style, but also a significant increase in power.
