Nissan has launched a sporty NISMO version of the X-Trail SUV, describing it as a “Grand Touring SUV that delivers a passionate experience.”
Remind me again what NISMO is…
NISMO is a portmanteau of Nissan Motorsport, and it's the company's high-performance and racing sub-brand. It's been behind the company's Le Mans racing efforts (go find that famous Mark Blundell pole lap on YouTube once you've read this) and legendary road cars such as the GT-R and the Sunny GTI-R.
OK, got it. Now what about this X-Trail
Well, first off, Nissan and NISMO have been doing some clever things with the X-Trail's suspension, using what it calls Kayaba Swing Valve dampers, which are, supposedly, able to balance the competing needs of keeping the X-Trail's tall body under control in corners, but also providing a comfortable ride quality.
Anything else?
The X-Trail's steering has been tweaked for more sporty responses, and the e-Force all-wheel drive electric motor setup — with its ePower petrol engine on board to act as a generator — has been set up for a more rear-wheel drive bias.
More power?
It doesn't look like it. Nissan has made no mention of any extra performance, so this seems to be more focused on chassis and steering responses, which is a good thing if you ask us.
There's also some NISMO styling tweaks, of course, including dark chrome trim, spoilers with NISMO logos, and red pinstripes. There are also new 20-inch alloy wheels, which have a wide centre opening to improve brake cooling and a flat outer rim to improve aero flow down the sides of the car. Nissan says the X-Trail NISMO's aero tweaks mean it generates 29 per cent less lift at speed.
What about the interior?
There's lots of black, red, and man-made suede going on, and you can optionally have special NISMO bucket seats, made by Recaro. Nissan reckons that the NISMO add-ons haven't compromised the inherent practicality of the X-Trail.
When can I have one?
Good question. Japanese market sales start in September, but there's no confirmation that the X-Trail NISMO will be coming to Ireland as yet. However, we are getting the all-electric Ariya NISMO, so at the very least, there's hope.