By Otsile Kadiege

The NISMO brand is often associated with high-performance cars like the sought-after GT-R and the mighty Patrol as well as some other nameplates from the Japanese automaker. That said, in recent times electrification is the new buzz word in the motoring industry. So, just like BMW M and Mercedes-AMG, Nissan is following suit with its all-electric Ariya which recently received NISMO treatment.

Performance

The Ariya NISMO builds on the performance of the 87kWh Ariya e-4ORCE with a NISMO-tuned powertrain: power increases to 320 kW – up almost 96kW – while torque remains at 600 Nm. Combined, it’s enough to propel the Ariya NISMO from 0-100kmph in a claimed five seconds.

Ariya NISMO isn’t just about straight-line speed. Thanks to enhancements to the car’s e-4ORCE four-wheel-drive system and other upgrades, the emphasis is on agility and dynamic response. Ariya NISMO’s specially tuned e-4ORCE system can maximise mechanical grip by adjusting the power sent to each wheel 10,000 times per second. With a new 60:40 rear-bias, the system delivers a more sporting feel compared to the regular Ariya e-4ORCE, delivering a 12% improvement in line-tracing performance.

The suspension has also been comprehensively reworked, with revised stabilisers, spring rates and shock absorber settings, to achieve enhanced balance and body control, and greater agility at higher speeds. In addition, retuned steering adds increased tactility and a more direct feel as speeds rise.

The addition of ‘i-Booster’ increases braking performance with revised regeneration tuning and new tires. To further enhance the car’s versatility, it also features a new ‘NISMO’ driving mode to enhance how it responds to driver inputs, making it even more thrilling and enjoyable to drive.

Exterior and interior styling

Outside, the Ariya gets fitting NISMO styling. Highlights include new spoilers and air curtains help reduce drag, a new front splitter with canard vortices generators, extended lower bumpers, twin diffuser, a duck-tail rear spoiler, and unique 20-inch ‘NISMO’-embossed ENKEI wheels combine with special Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres.

Inside, the Ariya NISMO sets itself apart with redesigned seats with suede-like material and featuring stitched NISMO logos, signature NISMO-red accents throughout including its steering wheel with a red 12 o’clock centre marker, and model-specific NISMO gauges.