Nissan Leaf Nismo revealed: more aggressive, but not more powerful
A “heated” version of the Nissan electric crossover has appeared in Japan. The new Leaf trim features a more aggressive design, along with upgraded suspension. However, the powertrain remains the same as the standard model.
The fresh Nissan Leaf electric car, which in its third generation transformed from a hatchback into a coupe-like crossover, debuted in Japan last autumn, but the five-door only hit the domestic market at the beginning of 2026. Today, it was announced that the lineup is expanding – the “heated” Nissan Leaf Nismo is now available for purchase. Incidentally, a similar sporty version also existed for the previous local electric hatchback.
Alas, the technical specs remain unchanged. Like the standard crossover, the Nissan Leaf Nismo is available in Japan in two front-wheel-drive variants: with an electric motor producing 177 or 218 hp. The electric crossover with the base motor has a battery capacity of 55 kWh, while the top-tier version gets 78 kWh.
However, the Leaf in Nismo trim does feature retuned suspension. New springs and shock absorbers have been added, although the ground clearance remains the same (135 mm). The Standard and Eco driving modes have also received new calibrations, while Sport has been renamed Nismo – now the most “driver-focused” mode. Additionally, the Nissan Leaf Nismo crossover features “paddle shifters for regenerative braking control with a special setting.”
As for the design, the “heated” crossover, as usual, stands out with a more aggressive body kit. The Nissan Leaf Nismo also gets exclusive 19-inch wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 5 sport tires, along with an enlarged ducktail spoiler. Interestingly, the sporty version comes with standard taillights, whereas the top-tier “regular” Leaf features a 3D-pattern design. Due to the new body kit, the length has increased from 4360 to 4415 mm.
Inside the Leaf Nismo, the cabin features black upholstery with red accents. The most expensive crossover comes with Recaro sport seats.
The Nissan Leaf Nismo crossover is priced at 6,601,100 – 7,227,000 yen, equivalent to approximately 3.2 million – 3.5 million rubles at the current exchange rate. It is not yet known whether the sporty version will be available outside of Japan.
