by Nissan Aura Nismo RS Concept: A More Powerful Hybrid Hatchback
Nissan aims to expand the Nismo family to ten models by 2028, and the new concept is a step in that direction. The Aura Nismo RS concept was unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon, developing the idea of the existing Aura Nismo through a radical body restyling and a more powerful hybrid powertrain.
This concept is not just a showpiece, but a technical experiment. Nissan, together with its Nissan Motorsport and Customizing (NMC) division, is evaluating the possibility of series production and is using this development as a testbed for future racing applications.
Aggressive Design with an Aerodynamic Kit
The car’s exterior is radically different from the base Note Aura. The most noticeable changes are the widened fenders, which increase the body width by 145 mm. Deeper front and rear bumpers add another 142 mm to the overall length.
In the Nismo spirit, the splitter, side skirts, and diffuser feature red accents, and additional air intakes are reminiscent of GT-R styling. A Formula 1-style stop light and a large rear wing above the standard roof spoiler are installed at the rear. The complex of aerodynamic elements is designed to increase downforce and reduce air resistance.
The look is completed by black alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and a matte gray paint called Dark Matte Nismo Stealth Gray with RS graphics.
Hybrid Powertrain from an SUV
The heart of the concept is a hybrid system borrowed from the recently unveiled X-Trail Nismo. It combines a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with two electric motors. The front electric motor develops 201 hp, and the rear one – 134 hp. The gasoline engine does not transmit power to the wheels directly but works exclusively as a generator, with an output of 142 hp.
The total Nismo e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system distributes power to all four wheels. The Aura Nismo RS is expected to be more dynamic than the standard Aura and the heavier X-Trail.
The total system output is likely around 211 hp and 525 Nm of torque, making it significantly more powerful than conventional versions.
Chassis Refinement and Production Prospects
The concept received a ground clearance lowered by 20 mm compared to the standard car. Upgraded brakes and tires for increased loads have also been installed to compensate for the additional 100 kg of weight compared to the Aura Nismo.
The concept is based on the Nissan Note Aura – the premium version of the Note hatchback, which received a facelift in 2024 and is expected to remain on the assembly line until 2028. This timeframe gives Nissan the opportunity to launch the Nismo RS into series production for the Japanese market.
This model is not positioned as a direct competitor to “hot” hatchbacks like the Toyota GR Yaris, but it could become an interesting addition to Nissan’s growing portfolio of sports models, offering a unique combination of hybrid efficiency and aggressive Nismo design.
The appearance of such a concept clearly demonstrates the brand’s trend towards electrification even of its sports lines. Using technology from a larger SUV in a compact hatchback opens up new possibilities for creating powerful yet more environmentally friendly cars. The success of this idea in the market could determine the further development path not only for Nismo but also for affordable sports models in general under stringent environmental regulations.
