Nissan X-trail Adds Nismo Performance Package In Japan

It was earlier this month when we last talked about the Nissan X-Trail (Rogue in the United States), as it received a facelift for the European market. The SUV gained a prettier face, some self-driving technologies, and a few interior improvements. Now, it's getting sportier with a new Nismo Performance Package.

Don't get your hopes up too high, however, as this is only a visual pack without mechanical improvements, and it's only for Japan, at least so far. As a typical Nismo product, the body is finished in white with contrasting black and red details like the front and rear diffusers, and the side skirts.

Up front, the radiator grille is now surrounded by gloss black panels and a sportier bumper. At the back, there's a new lower bumper spoiler with integrated parking sensors and dual chrome exhaust pipes. A set of special two-tone wheels and chrome door handles complete the more aggressive look.

Step inside the cabin and you'll discover literally no notable changes – the flat-bottom steering wheel is part of the latest upgrade for the X-Trail and no sports seats or pedals are included in the package. In fact, the range-topping trims for the standard variant look better with its leather seats.

Speaking of the regular X-Trail, in Europe the SUV is offered with three different engines – a 1.6-liter diesel with 130 horsepower (97 kilowatts), a 2.0-liter diesel with 177 hp (132 kW), and a 1.6-liter turbo gasoline motor with 163 hp (123 kW). A six-speed manual and a CVT are available, as well as front-wheel drive or an AWD system.

While this Nismo Performance Package brings only visual improvements, the Japan brand's performance division has plans to offer an even greater range of vehicles, including more than just performance cars. Simply said, this is just the beginning.