Nissan Leaf Nismo revealed: more aggressive, but not more powerful

A ‘hot’ version of Nissan’s electric crossover has appeared in Japan. The new Leaf Nismo features a more aggressive design, along with upgraded suspension. However, the powertrain remains the same as the standard model.

The latest Nissan Leaf, which in its third generation transformed from a hatchback into a coupe-like SUV, debuted in Japan in autumn last year, but the five-door only went on sale in its home market at the start of 2026. Today, the company has announced an expansion of the range – the ‘hot’ Nissan Leaf Nismo is now available to purchase. Incidentally, a similar sporty version also existed for the previous electric hatchback in Japan.

Unfortunately, the mechanicals remain unchanged. Like the standard SUV, the Nissan Leaf Nismo is available in Japan in two front-wheel-drive variants: with an electric motor producing either 177 or 218 bhp. The electric crossover with the base motor has a 55 kWh battery, while the top-spec version gets a 78 kWh battery.

That said, the Leaf Nismo does feature a retuned suspension. New springs and dampers have been fitted, although the ground clearance remains the same (135 mm). The Standard and Eco driving modes have also been recalibrated, while Sport has been renamed Nismo – now the most ‘driver-focused’ mode. Additionally, the Nissan Leaf Nismo crossover comes with ‘paddle shifters for controlling regenerative braking with a special setting’.

As for the design, the ‘hot’ crossover, as expected, stands out with a more aggressive body kit. The Nissan Leaf Nismo also gets exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 5 performance tyres, along with an enlarged ducktail spoiler. Interestingly, the sporty version features standard rear lights, whereas the top-spec ‘standard’ Leaf has a 3D-pattern design. Due to the new body kit, the length has increased from 4,360 mm to 4,415 mm.

Inside, the Leaf Nismo features black upholstery with red accents. The most expensive version comes with Recaro sports seats.

The Nissan Leaf Nismo SUV is priced between 6,601,100 and 7,227,000 yen, which is equivalent to roughly 3.2 million to 3.5 million roubles at the current exchange rate. It is not yet known whether the sporty version will be available outside Japan.