Nissan X-Trail Nismo Unveiled: Aggressive Makeover and Chassis Upgrade Turn Family SUV into Performance Beast

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Nissan X-Trail Nismo

Nissan X-Trail Nismo Unveiled: Nissan has pulled the covers off the X-Trail Nismo in Japan, giving its popular family SUV a bold new identity. The sporty makeover comes with a more aggressive design, a chassis overhaul, and a tuned hybrid powertrain – transforming the practical X-Trail into something far more exciting.

Chassis Upgrades for Sharper Handling

At the heart of the Nismo transformation is a new set of swing-valve dampers developed with KYB. Nissan claims these dampers deliver superior bump absorption at low speeds while maintaining tight body control at higher speeds – striking the ideal balance between comfort and agility.

The SUV now rolls on 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, which are 20mm wider than those on standard X-Trail trims. Meanwhile, the electric power steering system has been recalibrated to complement the new suspension setup.

Nissan X-Trail Nismo Powertrain – Familiar but Tuned

The X-Trail Nismo uses the same e-Power hybrid system as the standard model: a 1.5-litre petrol engine acts as a generator for twin electric motors. Together, they produce 201bhp and 243lb ft of torque.

What sets the Nismo apart is its four-wheel-drive tuning, which directs more power to the rear wheels. Nissan says this allows drivers to adjust the SUV’s line through bends using just the throttle – a rare trait in a family SUV.

Aerodynamics and Styling – Aggression with Purpose

Visually, the Nismo treatment is impossible to miss. The SUV gets:

  • Red-accented bodykit with signature Nismo styling
  • Chunkier front splitter and rear diffuser
  • Aerodynamic tweaks that reduce lift by 29% compared with a standard X-Trail
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Inside, buyers can also spec Recaro bucket seats for a more performance-oriented feel.

Price and Market Position

In Japan, the X-Trail Nismo starts from ¥5,416,400 (£27,300), compared with ¥3,843,400 (£19,400) for entry-level trims.

While UK availability is unconfirmed, the arrival of the Ariya Nismo on British shores suggests the X-Trail Nismo could follow. If it does, expect pricing to exceed the current range-topping Tekna (£46,135) and potentially nudge £50,000.

Also read: I’ve Owned Five McLaren F1s – Here’s How to Buy One

Final Word – From School Runs to Spirited Drives

The Nissan X-Trail Nismo promises to be more than just a sporty trim level. With its chassis upgrades, wider tyres, and rear-biased power delivery, it’s shaping up to be one of the most driver-focused family SUVs on the market.

If Nissan brings it to the UK, it could offer buyers something truly rare: a practical seven-seater with genuine Nismo DNA.

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