Japan’s Nissan Rogue Goes Nismo For The First Time
After leaks and a short teaser, Nissan has finally revealed the very first X-Trail Nismo, the performance version of the Nissan Rogue’s twin sold outside America. Those who live in the Land of the Rising Sun have only been able to get their hands on Nismo parts for the X-Trail, but Nissan’s motorsport arm has never officially made a full-fat Nismo variant sold side-by-side with regular models – until today.
According to Nissan, the new X-Trail Nismo has been developed under the concept of a “Grand Touring SUV that delivers a passionate experience,” which combines “race-bred performance” with everyday drivability. There’s a lot more to officially unpack, including improvements to the compact SUV’s all-wheel drivetrain and aero efficiency, but one thing’s missing: added power.
Nismo-Tuned Chassis And Improved E-4ORCE AWD
It’s easy to spot the X-Trail Nismo with its red accents. The added parts are said to increase lift reduction by 29% versus the standard models, without added drag. They include a front under spoiler for added downforce, side spoilers to broaden low-pressure zones, and a rear diffuser. The latter is decorated with a race car-inspired fog lamp.
The X-Trail Nismo wears a set of lightweight 20-inch Enkei MAT-process aluminum wheels – open at the center for brake cooling and have a flat surface for improved airflow. The set is also wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport EV rubbers to complement the overall handling enhancements.
Beyond the aero improvements, Nismo also employed its magic on the X-Trail to upgrade its chassis. It now uses Kayaba Swing Valve shock absorbers (a first for Nissan), while the e-4ORCE electric-drive AWD control technology – also present in the Ariya Nismo – is biased on delivering power to the rear wheels to improve cornering. The system also changes torque distribution depending on the drive mode.
Arrival in America Is Uncertain For Now
With a specially tuned vehicle control module, the X-Trail Nismo has two drive modes: Sport for a more aggressive pedal response, and Auto for balanced comfort and speed. As mentioned, the X-Trail Nismo uses the same e-Power series hybrid technology as the standard X-Trails. The 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine produces around 141 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, mainly serving as a generator for the battery that powers the 201-hp front electric motor and a 134-hp rear motor.
The lack of additional power might disappoint enthusiasts, but remember that the chassis improvements mean that the X-Trail is more suited for quicker lap times. Plus, the interior is filled with Nismo updates that will remind you of the added premium, including the optional Recaro sports seats with power adjustments and heating.
Nissan will start selling the X-Trail Nismo in Japan on September 24. It’s unclear whether the US will get the same treatment for the Rogue. However, since the e-Power technology is slated to arrive stateside (but has yet to happen for the 2026 model year), there’s a huge chance for a Rogue Nismo to happen. For now, however, all we can do is wait for further announcements.
