Nissan launches X-Trail Nismo in Japan

NISSAN has launched its first-ever X-Trail Nismo in the Japanese market, the domestic-only offering said to be a “Grand Touring SUV that delivers a passionate experience” blending sporty aesthetics with improved aerodynamics and a more athletic interior.

Taking its styling cues from various Nismo racing teams, the X-Trail Nismo is said to feature exclusively tuned chassis dynamics aimed at delivering “excellent cornering abilities”, while the petrol-electric e-4orce driveline provides “enjoyable acceleration and a refined ride”.

The suspension features Kayaba Swing Valve shock absorbers — a first for the brand – providing the X-Trail with technology that is said to balance the competing needs of minimising body motion while maximising ride comfort.

The Nismo-tuned chassis is further fettled by shifting the distribution of drive further rearward, allowing, Nissan says, better turn-in capabilities and enhanced line-tracing while accelerating through corners.

In addition, acceleration characteristics and front-to-rear drive distribution are tuned for each drive mode, providing “an enjoyable driving experience in a wide variety of driving conditions”.

That experience is enhanced via Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres over 20-inch aluminium wheels, specifically widened to improve steering response. Nissan engineers have also tweaked the steering system to complement the suspension and tyres, while at the same time adjusting Auto and Sport driving modes to “prioritise responsiveness” and improve “mid- to high-range acceleration”.

And while there isn’t any extra horsepower to remark upon, there are a stack of design differences aimed at helping the Nissan X-Trail Nismo to stand out from the crowd.

Dark chrome accents feature across the grille, integrating seamlessly with the headlights to emphasise a “bold, wide stance”. The front spoiler is adorned with the NISMO logo, while the side spoilers are accented in red. At the rear we find a diffuser-shaped lower edge and racing-inspired rear fog light said to evoke a motorsport aesthetic.

The 20-inch aluminium wheels have a wide central opening to improve brake cooling and a flat outer rim to streamline airflow. Made by renowned Japanese wheel manufacturer Enkei, the wheels are said to achieve both lightness and high rigidity.

Combined with the other aerodynamic elements listed, the X-Trail Nismo is said to generate greater downforce without increasing air resistance, reducing lift by 29 per cent when compared with the donor model.

Of course, no Nismo-enhanced model would be complete without a sporty interior. Inside, we find a blackened cabin with red accenting throughout, and optional Recaro sport seats to better “supress body movement during cornering”.

While we’re not certain just how hard a hybridised X-Trail can corner, it’s reassuring to note the sports seats offer power adjustment and heating functionality, just like a regular SUV.

The Nissan X-Trail Nismo goes on sale in Japan from 24 September with pricing to be announced at a later date. The variant is not earmarked for Australian showrooms.