Nissan reveals Formula E-inspired 2022 Note Aura NISMO
Nissan Note Aura gets the NISMO treatment
Remember when Nissan teased an all-new NISMO that we initially thought would be based on the Ariya crossover? As it turns out, the new NISMO model we’re waiting for isn’t actually based on the crossover. Instead, the new NISMO model is based on the recently launched Note Aura hatchback in Japan.
Meet the 2022 Note Aura NISMO.
From a posh hybrid, NISMO worked its magic to turn the Note Aura into a sporty-looking hatchback. According to Nissan, the new NISMO model was conceptualized as a “swift electrified city racer”, and it borrows design cues from the brand’s Formula-E challenger. More importantly, the automaker says the Note Aura NISMO plays an important part in the company’s electrification strategy.
The changes to the Note Aura NISMO’s exterior are significant. For starters, the front bumper is replaced with a more aggressive unit featuring a large intake. There’s also black cladding that extends upwards on the corners. It’s paired new hood with a black centerpiece and a new grille. Along the side, new skirts were fitted.
Perhaps the most obvious change would be the rear. Black trim dominates most of the new bumper, giving the Note Aura NISMO a very aggressive design. Rounding up the exterior changes are the new 17-inch wheels. This being a NISMO model, red accents all around come standard. Interestingly, Nissan says the new kit is functional and provides optimal downforce when driving at speed.
Inside, the cabin of the Note Aura has been given the NISMO makeover. Gone are the posh seats, and in their place are NISMO Recaro bucket seats. In front of the driver sits a new steering wheel with a center stripe and a NISMO-exclusive instrument cluster. Nissan also replaced dashboard trim with now carbon fiber and features the NISMO logo.
Nissan didn’t make any changes to the powertrain. As a result, the Note Aura NISMO still comes with the same e-Power hybrid electrified powertrain as standard. Power is rated at 100 kW (135 PS) and 300 Nm of torque with 2WD as standard. However, there is a new NISMO driving mode that improves response and acceleration. Though it wasn’t disclosed, NISMO also tuned the suspension to improve handling.
The new Note Aura NISMO is now available in Japan and starts at JPY 2,869,900 or PHP 1,328,000. There’s no word on whether it will be a Japan-exclusive model. However, as with most NISMO models, it likely will be.
