Nissan Is Giving Japan a Nismo LeafNissanThe current Nissan Leaf stands out with a combination of affordability, range, and surprising value. Performance, you may note, is not on that list. Fortunately for the Leaf enthusiasts among us trying to get around a track as fast as possible, that basic fact has not deterred Nissan from finding a way to build a Nismo variant of its most reasonable car.Unfortunately for Nismo fans hoping for a tri-motor Leaf pumping out horsepower more in line with a GT-R, the new EV is no more powerful than its standard relative. That does not mean it is just a body kit, though. Nissan says the Leaf gets Nismo-exclusive springs and stabilizers, plus what it calls "selected" member bushes. Nineteen-inch wheels are shod in Pilot Sport Michelin 5s, dropping the usual efficiency-minded tires for a serious increase in grip.NissanWhile output numbers may not be changing, an updated sport drive mode, re-designated as Nismo mode, is said to deliver "powerful, linear acceleration unique to an electric motor vehicle," which should provide a distinct character from the standard Leaf. Unlike some other performance EVs that alter power delivery, this does not seem to be explicitly emulating an internal combustion engine, and it does not seem to include simulated gear shifts or anything resembling engine noises.AdvertisementAdvertisementAmerican buyers hoping for a go-fast Leaf may be disappointed to learn that Nissan has only announced the Nismo model for Japan. Buyers in that market will have the choice of 215- or 174-hp models. The less powerful B5 model can be had for the equivalent of $40,471, while a Recaro seat-equipped top model comes in at what would be $44,307 in U.S. dollars.NissanYou Might Also LikeIf You Can Only Own One Car, Make It One of TheseThese Are the Most Popular Cars by State