This has been a rough year for Japanese automakers but if there’s one company from the Land of the Rising Sun that’s showing a lot of potential, that would be Nissan – be that with its quirky looking Juke crossover, the pure electric Leaf or the tarmac-shredding GT-R sports car.
Perhaps the most important news coming from Nissan at the Tokyo Motor Show is the company’s decision to heavily invest in its performance arm NISMO and expand its offerings to include more focused editions of Nissan’s mainstream models.
And mind you, it’s not all words as the Japanese automaker is showcasing two potential NISMO editions, one based on the Juke crossover that we’ve already shown you and the other on the Leaf EV seen here.
While NISMO left the LEAF’s electric drivetrain untouched, the company designed a full aero kit that includes a new front bumper incorporates LED lighting, rear under protector, a rear diffuser and extended side sills along with a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels with lower profile tires for added grip.
Nissan says that the styling package is not only about looks as it generates extra downforce at speed to improve the LEAF’s handling and grip.
“The Nismo Concept not only proves the hidden potential of Nissan LEAF but also adds even more excitement and energy to LEAF, delivering a guilt-free yet exhilarating driving experience that can be enjoyed by every car enthusiast,” said Hideaki Watanabe, Corporate Vice President, Nissan Motor Company and head of the company’s electric vehicle business unit.
If Nissan gives the green light to a Nismo edition of the Leaf, it would most likely get a power upgrade for the electric motor as well as a sportier suspension.
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