NISSAN has launched its first-ever X-Path Nismo within the Japanese market, the domestic-only providing stated to be a “Grand Touring SUV that delivers a passionate expertise” mixing sporty aesthetics with improved aerodynamics and a extra athletic inside.
Taking its styling cues from varied Nismo racing groups, the X-Path Nismo is claimed to characteristic completely tuned chassis dynamics geared toward delivering “glorious cornering skills”, whereas the petrol-electric e-4orce driveline gives “pleasurable acceleration and a refined journey”.
The suspension options Kayaba Swing Valve shock absorbers — a primary for the model – offering the X-Path with expertise that’s stated to steadiness the competing wants of minimising physique movement whereas maximising journey consolation.
The Nismo-tuned chassis is additional fettled by shifting the distribution of drive additional rearward, permitting, Nissan says, higher turn-in capabilities and enhanced line-tracing whereas accelerating by corners.
As well as, acceleration traits and front-to-rear drive distribution are tuned for every drive mode, offering “an pleasurable driving expertise in all kinds of driving situations”.
That have is enhanced through Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres over 20-inch aluminium wheels, particularly widened to enhance steering response. Nissan engineers have additionally tweaked the steering system to enhance the suspension and tyres, whereas on the similar time adjusting Auto and Sport driving modes to “prioritise responsiveness” and enhance “mid- to high-range acceleration”.
And whereas there isn’t any additional horsepower to comment upon, there are a stack of design variations geared toward serving to the Nissan X-Path Nismo to face out from the group.
Darkish chrome accents characteristic throughout the grille, integrating seamlessly with the headlights to emphasize a “daring, broad stance”. The entrance spoiler is adorned with the NISMO emblem, whereas the facet spoilers are accented in purple. On the rear we discover a diffuser-shaped decrease edge and racing-inspired rear fog mild stated to evoke a motorsport aesthetic.
The 20-inch aluminium wheels have a large central opening to enhance brake cooling and a flat outer rim to streamline airflow. Made by famend Japanese wheel producer Enkei, the wheels are stated to attain each lightness and excessive rigidity.
Mixed with the opposite aerodynamic components listed, the X-Path Nismo is claimed to generate higher downforce with out rising air resistance, decreasing raise by 29 per cent in comparison with the donor mannequin.
After all, no Nismo-enhanced mannequin can be full with no sporty inside. Inside, we discover a blackened cabin with purple accenting all through, and elective Recaro sport seats to higher “supress physique motion throughout cornering”.
Whereas we’re not sure simply how exhausting a hybridised X-Path can nook, it’s reassuring to notice the sports activities seats supply energy adjustment and heating performance, identical to a daily SUV.
The Nissan X-Path Nismo goes on sale in Japan from 24 September with pricing to be introduced at a later date. The variant is just not earmarked for Australian showrooms.
