Move over Subaru Forester and Mazda CX-5, there’s now a king of performance compact SUVs and it’s coming from an unlikely brand: Nissan. Just launched is the first-ever X-Trail Nismo—a “grand touring SUV that delivers passionate experience.”
Nismo worked their magic to enhance the X-Trail’s handling. First up, it receives Kayaba Swing Valve shock absorbers—a first for Nissan. By using a valve component within the shock absorber, it regulates the flow of hydraulic fluid providing for precise and responsive damping force adjustment. All in all, this contributes to better road feel and stability.
From there, the X-Trail’s e-4orce electric drive all-wheel control technology has been specifically tuned for the Nismo variant. Here, engineers increased rear-wheel drive distribution to improve the directional turn-in. 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.
Enhancing its on-road grip, the X-Trail Nismo rides on Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires. These 20-inchers (255/45R20s) are mounted on wider 20-inch Enkei rims built using the wheel maker’s MAT process. All in all, this improves steering response. The electric power steering has been optimized to complement the suspension and tires too.
There are also new drive modes—Sport which prioritizes responsiveness and Auto which emphasizes mid- to high-end acceleration.
Powering the X-Trail Nismo is the same dual electric motor system. By itself, the front BM46 makes 204 horsepower and 330 Nm of torque, while the rear MM48 provides an additional 136 horsepower and 195 Nm of torque. Peak horsepower is somewhere around 213 horsepower. Providing electrical energy to the e-Power system is a variable compression 1.5-liter turbo (KR15DDT) that puts out 144 horsepower and 250 Nm.
Style-wise, the X-Trail Nismo receives dark chrome accents that sweep horizontally above the grille. The front under spoiler, now adorned with the Nismo logo, generates actual downforce. Vibrant red-accented side under spoilers amplify this effect by broadening the negative pressure zone beneath the vehicle. At the rear, a diffuser-shaped lower edge and racing-inspired rear fog lamps evoke motorsport aesthetics.
All combined, these functional design elements enhance performance by generating downforce without increasing air resistance (reducing lift by 29 percent compared to the base model).
Inside, the X-Trail Nismo features striking red accents. And for those seeking greater sportiness, Nismo-branded Recaro sport seats are available as an option. They provide high levels of support to suppress body movement during cornering, helping the driver feel at one with the vehicle. Equipped with a power reclining mechanism and heating, they also offer superior comfort.
The X-Trail Nismo remains a Japan exclusive model for now, where it will go on sale starting this September. While the Philippines has yet to receive the all-new version of the compact SUV, read our first impressions.
Q: Why cant Toyota nor Nonda design a good looking car like this, while Nissan cant design a reliable one?
ReplyDeleteLmao. What do you mean “nIssAN cAn’T dEsIgN A rELiABLe oNe”. Come on maaan… from old to current GTRs, Altimas, Patrols, are tough as nails! Even Navaras, Xtrails too.
DeleteYeah, why pick on nissan? Their CVTs are very tough and reliable, very much like their corporate management. A very stable, flawless company..... woke!
DeleteBEV XTrail
ReplyDelete