A NISMO Leaf? Yes, and It's Coming to the USNissanRight now, Nissan offers performance-minded NISMO versions of the Z and Armada in the US. It has said it plans to expand that lineup, and now we know what the first one will be.The Leaf.Who would have seen that coming? The Sentra, sure, even the Altima. And a Versa hot hatch would be welcome by budget-minded enthusiasts. But the tree-hugging, highly efficient, low-rolling-resistant Nissan Leaf as a NISMO product? Didn't see that on the horizon.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Leaf NISMO went on sale in Japan yesterday, and will be sold globally. No date was announced for US sales, but it's coming.The car will get a tightened suspension with its own set of swing-valve shocks, as well as unique springs, stabilizers and bushings to reduce roll and improve steering response. Michelin Pilot Sport 5s on 19-inch aluminum wheels further help with cornering grip.The single electric motor driving the front wheels won't get any more power beyond the current 214-hp peak, but the software will be tuned to provide what Nissan says will be 20-percent sportier acceleration.NissanOutside, the car will get a new spoiler ostensibly meant to improve downforce for better traction and handling. Red accents of what Nissan calls Arterial Magma will run through the cabin, while the exterior gets an exclusive Stealth Gray body color option.AdvertisementAdvertisementThere were no US prices released, but pricing in Japan starts at $40,600, roughly $5,850 above a comparable standard Leaf, according to Automotive News. A Recaro edition, with motorsports seats, jettisons the Bose sound system and power liftgate to shed weight and tops the range at $44,510.
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