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Nissan Readies Leaf Hot Hatch for Japan

Nissan Motor Co. says it will launch a Nismo performance variant of its Leaf electric car later this year in Japan.

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Nissan Motor Co. says it will launch a Nismo performance variant of its Leaf electric car later this year in Japan.

The Leaf Nismo “hot hatch” gets performance and handling improvements along with more aggressive exterior styling and a sportier interior.
 
Nissan says it has tweaked the car’s powertrain software to deliver more responsive acceleration. The base Leaf’s 40-kWh battery and electric motor deliver 147 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque to propel the car from zero to 62 mph in 7.9 seconds.

The Nismo edition also features revised programming for the power steering, braking and vehicle dynamics control systems. Engineers have reworked the suspension and added 18-inch wheels with grippier tires to improve handling.
 

Exterior changes include a sportier front end with contrasting colors. A rear diffuser has been added to enhance downforce. Inside, there's a sport steering wheel, Alcantara trim, carbon-like dash accents and a host of Nismo badging.

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