Electric Cars

Experience Electrified Performance: The 2026 Nissan Leaf NISMO

NISMO's Touch on the Electric Powertrain

The 2026 Nissan Leaf NISMO comes with two front-wheel-drive powertrain options: a 174-horsepower B5 version and a 214-horsepower B7 variant. While these figures mirror the standard Leaf's output, NISMO engineers have meticulously refined the electric motors to offer heightened responsiveness. This tuning is designed to impart a sensation of increased agility, making the car feel notably lighter on its feet, even though its curb weight remains substantial at 4367 pounds, as observed in the Platinum+ model.

Chassis Upgrades for Enhanced Dynamics

To complement the powertrain refinements, the Leaf NISMO boasts significant chassis enhancements. These include exclusive, specially calibrated dampers and more robust suspension components, which contribute to a firmer and more controlled ride. The steering system has also undergone a revision, aiming to provide a more precise and engaging feel. The vehicle's stance is further improved by unique 19-inch Enkei wheels, shod with high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires, ensuring better grip and stability for a more enjoyable driving experience on winding roads.

Aerodynamic Styling and Distinctive Exterior

The NISMO treatment extends to the Leaf's exterior, giving it a wider and lower profile. Subtle yet effective aerodynamic modifications are integrated into the bodywork, such as re-shaped front bumper corners that optimize airflow along the sides. The rear features a distinctive boat-hull-shaped diffuser and an enlarged ducktail spoiler, both contributing to improved aerodynamic efficiency. Exclusively for NISMO models, two variations of NISMO Stealth Gray are available, alongside the standard Leaf color palette. A striking thin red line accents the car's lower edge, with additional NISMO styling elements gracing the bumpers, hood, and mirror caps.

Interior Design Reflecting Performance Heritage

Inside the cabin, the performance theme continues with a thin red line mirroring the exterior accent, extending across the dashboard. Special NISMO branding is prominently displayed on the power button and instrument cluster. The steering wheel receives an upgrade, featuring a faux leather wrap with eye-catching red stitching and a red center marker, signaling its sporty aspirations. Standard seating options include headrests embossed with the NISMO logo and red perforations, while optional Recaro seats further amplify the performance aesthetic with signature red trim along their edges.

Pricing and Market Availability

Currently, three configurations of the Leaf NISMO are available in Japan. The B5-equipped model starts at an approximate equivalent of $40,458. For those seeking more power, the B7 variant begins at around $42,608, with the option to add Recaro seats pushing the price to approximately $44,294. As of now, these higher-performance Leaf models are exclusively offered in the Japanese market, and there are no immediate plans for their introduction to the United States.

The 2027 Audi Q7 and SQ7 lineups have undergone a complete overhaul, introducing fresh styling, enhanced features, and more powerful engines. However, these improvements come with a notable increase in pricing, reflecting Audi's decision to discontinue the less powerful engine options and provide a more premium driving experience across the board. The base Q7 model now commands a starting price of $72,195, a significant leap of $8900 compared to its predecessor. This surge is primarily attributed to the elimination of the previous 261-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. All new Q7 models will now be equipped with a more potent 429-horsepower turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6. This new engine also represents an upgrade over the outgoing 355-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6. Similarly, the performance-oriented SQ7 has received substantial upgrades, now featuring a more powerful twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine that delivers 591 horsepower, a considerable increase from the previous 500 horsepower. The 2027 SQ7 now starts at $99,995, offered in a single trim level that bridges the gap between last year's Premium Plus and Prestige variants.

Customers interested in the new Q7 and SQ7 models can further explore individual options and configurations through Audi's online configurator. This tool allows potential buyers to customize their vehicles and view detailed information on various features and upgrades, including paint options where Carrara White remains the only no-cost choice, with other colors incurring a $595 premium. The comprehensive redesign and engine enhancements underscore Audi's commitment to delivering a luxurious and high-performance SUV experience, albeit at a higher price point.

Elevated Performance and Redesign Drive Up Audi Q7 Pricing

Audi's latest iteration of its luxurious mid-size three-row SUV, the 2027 Q7, has been completely revamped, leading to a substantial increase in its entry-level price. The base Q7 Premium model now starts at $72,195, marking an $8900 jump from the 2026 model. This significant price adjustment is a direct result of Audi discontinuing the less powerful 261-hp 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. Instead, every Q7 trim will now feature a new, more robust 429-hp turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 engine. This new engine not only replaces the previous base option but also offers a performance upgrade over the outgoing 355-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6, which was available in higher trims. An eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's signature all-wheel-drive system continue to be standard across the range, ensuring a consistent driving experience. For those seeking additional luxury and features, the Premium Plus and Prestige trims are available, starting at $76,595 and $86,195 respectively. These price points reflect the enhanced features and performance offered in the new models, positioning the 2027 Q7 as a more premium offering in its segment.

The strategic decision to eliminate the less powerful engine option and standardize a more potent V-6 across all Q7 trims highlights Audi's focus on delivering a more dynamic and consistent driving experience. This move, while increasing the entry price, ensures that even the base model of the 2027 Q7 provides a higher level of performance than its predecessor. The Premium Plus and Prestige trims offer even more advanced features and refinements, justifying their higher price tags. Comparing these new prices to the 2026 models reveals a clear shift towards a more upscale market position. For instance, last year's four-cylinder Premium Plus began at $67,095, and the V-6 version at $74,495. The outgoing Prestige, which was exclusively V-6, had a starting price of $78,195. The new pricing structure for the 2027 Q7 reflects not just inflationary pressures but also a deliberate enhancement of the vehicle's core attributes, emphasizing performance, luxury, and advanced technology. This positions the new Q7 as a stronger competitor in the premium SUV market, offering a compelling package for discerning buyers.

SQ7 Receives Power Boost and Streamlined Trims

The 2027 Audi SQ7 also benefits from a comprehensive update, introducing a more powerful engine and a simplified trim structure. This sporty variant now boasts a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine, significantly boosting its output to 591 horsepower, a notable increase from the previous 500 horsepower. The enhanced engine promises an even more exhilarating driving experience, aligning with the SQ7's performance-oriented nature. For 2027, the SQ7 is offered in a single, unnamed trim level, starting at $99,995. This new trim effectively combines elements from last year's Premium Plus ($95,095) and Prestige ($101,095) models, offering a balanced and comprehensive package. This consolidation simplifies the buying process while ensuring that buyers receive a well-equipped vehicle that encapsulates the best of both previous trims. The updated SQ7 underscores Audi's commitment to delivering high-performance luxury SUVs, catering to enthusiasts who demand both power and sophistication.

The redesigned SQ7's move to a single, well-appointed trim level at $99,995 is a strategic decision by Audi to streamline its offering and emphasize the vehicle's premium status and robust performance capabilities. This new approach provides a clear value proposition, integrating popular features and advanced technology that were previously spread across multiple trims. The substantial increase in horsepower from 500 to 591 further solidifies the SQ7's position as a top-tier performance SUV, capable of delivering thrilling acceleration and dynamic handling. Buyers can now access a highly capable and luxurious vehicle without navigating complex trim options. This refined SQ7, with its potent V-8 engine and consolidated feature set, is designed to appeal to those seeking an uncompromising blend of power, elegance, and driving excitement. The changes reflect Audi's ongoing efforts to enhance its product portfolio, ensuring that its luxury SUVs remain at the forefront of innovation and desirability in a competitive market.