Nissan Expands Rogue Lineup with Introduction of Nismo Variant in Japanese Market

Nissan Unveils X-Trail Nismo: A Sporty Compact SUV for European Markets

Nissan has announced the introduction of a sporty version of its X-Trail compact SUV, named X-Trail Nismo, in Japan. This new model is designed to offer a dynamic driving experience, with several upgrades that set it apart from the standard X-Trail.

The X-Trail Nismo is powered by a 213 hp engine and delivers a torque of 243 lb-ft, thanks to the e4orce electric all-wheel drive system. This system, which is already available in the European X-Trail, has been retuned to send more power to the rear wheels under acceleration and provide a torque vectoring effect while cornering for enhanced handling.

The X-Trail Nismo also benefits from Nissan's first use of Kayaba Swing Valve shock absorbers. This technology minimizes body motions while maintaining a high level of comfort, ensuring a smooth ride even during high-speed cornering.

The exterior of the X-Trail Nismo is visually distinct, with red accents, a unique front splitter, rear diffuser, side skirts, and exclusive 20-inch wheels. Inside, the X-Trail Nismo can be equipped with more supportive Recaro front seats trimmed in black suede with red leather bolsters. The dashboard and steering wheel also feature red accents that match the seats.

In terms of performance, the revised lower bodywork of the X-Trail Nismo increases downforce by 29% compared to the base model X-Trail, improving handling at high speeds.

Meanwhile, Nissan's plans for the Rogue in the U.S. are slightly different. The company plans to launch the third-generation e-Power hybrid in the U.S. with the next-gen Rogue. However, the details about a possible Nismo version for the Rogue are yet to be released, and it is unclear whether the Rogue will receive the Nismo treatment once the ePower system becomes available.

It's also worth noting that the Ariya Nismo, available in Asia and Europe, has yet to make it over to North America.

The Rogue's e-Power hybrid system is based around a variable-compression turbo 1,5L three-cylinder engine, and the system exclusively uses electric motors to power the wheels. In Europe, the X-Trail ePower is available with two electric motors for e4orce electric AWD. It is expected that only the e4orce electric AWD version of the X-Trail ePower will be available in North America, as the Rogue currently offers standard all-wheel drive.

The electric power steering in the X-Trail Nismo has been firmed up to provide better control when cornering at high speeds, further enhancing its performance capabilities.

In summary, the X-Trail Nismo offers a dynamic driving experience with its powerful engine, revised all-wheel drive system, and upgraded suspension. Meanwhile, the future of the Rogue in terms of a Nismo version and the introduction of the e-Power hybrid system in the U.S. remains to be seen.

Nissan Expands Rogue Lineup with Introduction of Nismo Variant in Japanese Market