Nissan’s Leaf Nismo Looks Fast but Refuses to Go Faster

Nissan just dropped the Nismo version of the new Leaf in Japan, and it’s a bit of a tease. This fully electric crossover gets a meaner bodykit, a sharper suspension, and sporty cabin upgrades, but under the hood, it’s the same old story. There’s no extra horsepower, and oddly enough, the top trim skips the fancy 3D holographic taillights found on lesser models.

Prices start at $40,500 and go up to $44,400 for the loaded B7.

The exterior is where the Nismo tries to make its case. Up front, there’s a twin-blade front splitter with red Arteria Magma inserts that carry over to the mirror caps and side cladding. It rides on lightweight 19-inch Enkei alloy wheels. But at the back, you get the basic taillights from the entry-level Leaf instead of the cooler Z-inspired LEDs from the Platinum+ and Autech trims.

That’s a strange choice for a flagship. At least there’s a ducktail spoiler and a red pinstripe on the bumper to keep things interesting. Inside, the cabin gets Nismo badges, red stitching, matte suede, synthetic leather, and optional Recaro bucket seats.

The real letdown? No power bump. The B5 Nismo keeps the 53 kWh battery and 174 hp motor, while the B7 sticks with a 75 kWh battery and 214 hp. Both are front-wheel drive only, the 4ORCE AWD system stays reserved for the pricier Ariya Nismo. Nissan did add a bespoke Nismo drive mode for sharper throttle response and stronger regenerative braking paddles.

The chassis gets new springs, anti-roll bars, swing-valve shocks, reinforced subframe bushes, and retuned steering, plus Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires. It handles better, but the engine bay writes a check the drivetrain can’t cash.