Showing posts with label nissan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nissan. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Nissan Kicks P16

Now in its second generation, the all-new Nissan Kicks showcases a robust new design, an upgraded interior, advanced technology, and enhanced e-POWER, now available for the first time in a 4WD configuration. Let's get to know more about the second-generation Nissan Kicks.

2027 Nissan Kicks
2027 Nissan Kicks

Starting at under three million yen, not including additional costs, the made-in-Japan Nissan Kicks P16 represents a full model change for Nissan's compact crossover, which aims to compete with the Honda Vezel. It is offered in four trim levels, available in both front-wheel drive and 4WD for the first time ever: the entry-level X Simple Package, X, X+, and the top-of-the-range G.

2027 Nissan Kicks
2027 Nissan Kicks

Comparing the exterior of the all-new P16 model, it is more squarish than its sharper-looking predecessor from six years ago. The design takes inspiration from an American football helmet, giving it a robust appearance. Don't be fooled, though. Despite its strong muscular design, it feels friendly to live with, especially when we talk about its new interior.

2027 Nissan Kicks
2027 Nissan Kicks interior

The P16 Kicks offers improved front shoulder room and a slight enhancement in rear seat spacing compared to its predecessor. In terms of cargo capacity, it provides a best-in-class total of up to 30 cubic feet with the seats raised and 60 cubic feet with the seats lowered. This amount of storage is comparable to what you would find in crossovers from a larger segment.

On the driver's side, the P16 Kicks features a 12.3-inch color touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. It even comes with a BOSE Personal Plus 10-speaker audio system with headrest speakers.

2027 Nissan Kicks
2027 Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks P16 is the first model in the Japanese market to utilize the company's third-generation e-POWER hybrid powertrain. To summarize, e-POWER technology means that the electric motor drives the wheels, while the petrol engine functions solely as a generator, producing electricity to power the motor or recharge the batteries. 

This third-generation e-POWER hybrid system, where the 95PS HR14DDE 1.4L petrol engine gives life to the 143PS YM52 front electric motor, offers significantly improved fuel economy, a refined driving experience with the e-Pedal Step feature, and class-exclusive road surface detection control. This technology identifies noisy road surfaces and charges the battery while minimizing engine noise for a quieter ride. The improved e-Power gives the all-new Kicks a 25.7km/L fuel economy based on the WLTC Mode cycle.

All Kicks variants come with an optional e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system, which features an additional 68PS electric motor for the rear wheels. The Kicks e-4ORCE models include a "Snow" driving mode that modifies the all-wheel-drive logic and vehicle dynamic control systems, specifically designed for slippery surfaces. Yaw control is enhanced through targeted brake application, helping to ensure that the Kicks follows the driver's intended path when cornering on snow or ice.

Having satisfied the improvements on the way the all-new Kicks behaves, especially the first-ever Kicks e-4ORCE variants, it comes with an extensive array of ADAS. Nissan Safety Shield 360 is standard across all grades and includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist. The more expensive variants get the Intelligent Around View Monitor with Front Wide View, 3D View, and Invisible Hood View.

While it is similarly priced to its main competitors, the Honda Vezel and the Toyota Corolla Cross, the Kicks stands out with its robust exterior styling, a redesigned interior, enhanced technology, an improved e-POWER hybrid powertrain, and the addition of e-4ORCE. These features demonstrate that the Nissan Kicks has undergone significant changes. It's a strong formation for Nissan's consistently popular compact crossover.

Available Colors: Pure White Pearl/Super Black 2-tone, Resonance Blue/Super Black 2-tone, Garnet Red/Super Black 2-tone, Dark Metal Gray/Super Black 2-tone, Pure White Pearl, Aurora Flare Blue Pearl, Crystal Brown, and Super Black.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Sunday, June 7, 2026

My FH6 Log: Hard-To-Get Cars: The R33 Skyline GT-R

The Nissan Skyline GT-R (R33) is a rare prize car that you can win and drive in Forza Horizon 6. Some players believe it is a rotating playlist prize car that will reappear in a future seasonal update. If you missed the opportunity to get one, just be patient; it should return soon.


Launched in 1995, Nissan transformed the R32 into the R33 Skyline GT-R, adopting the slogan "Minus 21 second roman" because of the Nurburgring lap time of 7:59:000, 21 seconds faster than the R32's lap time of 8:20:000. With the same RB26DETT engine, the R33 got an improved ATTESSA E-TS that was called ATTESA E-TS Pro All Wheel Drive system, which contains LSD. The R33 GT-R was designed by Kozo Watanabe.


With the quick briefing done, it's time for the R33 Skyline GT-R to test its might. Roll the tape.


Remember: The Nissan Skyline GT-R (R33) is a rare prize car that you can win and drive in Forza Horizon 6.

Wednesday, June 3, 2026

Nissan Murano Z53

After more than a decade, the Nissan Murano has returned as a fully imported model straight from the USA. It appears that Nissan is aligning with Toyota in selling American-made Japanese cars, aiming to maintain healthy trade relations between Japan and the United States.

2026 Nissan Murano
2026 Nissan Murano

Starting at 7,964,000 Japanese Yen, not including additional costs, the Nissan Murano Z53 is positioned as a more expensive option compared to the Lexus RX350 Version L. This model marks the return of Nissan's controversial midsize coupe-style SUV to the Japanese market after a decade-long absence. Its comeback highlights what Japan has missed during its time away.

2026 Nissan Murano
2026 Nissan Murano

2026 Nissan Murano
2026 Nissan Murano interior

The Murano Z53 retains coupe-style proportions while featuring ultra-thin "Crystal Cube" LED headlights and a sleek gloss-black trim strip. Its V-motion graphic includes LED daytime running lights cleverly integrated into the grille for a modern look. The liftgate boasts a clean design with a hidden rear wiper, concealed exhaust tips, and a lower bumper license plate holder. A striking LED tail light element spans the rear, creating a unique nighttime signature.

The Murano Z53 comes equipped with a range of impressive features. Inside, you'll find ventilated, massaging front seats, dual 12.3-inch displays powered by Google, and smartphone connectivity. The interior also boasts 64-color ambient lighting and a color heads-up display (HUD). Unlike its predecessors, the Murano Z53 is offered only in left-hand-drive configuration, just like today's Toyota Tundra.

In terms of cargo space, the Murano offers 32.9 cubic feet of storage with the second-row seats raised, and 63.5 cubic feet when the seats are lowered. A standard power liftgate is included.

2026 Nissan Murano
2026 Nissan Murano

The Murano Z53 is the first Nissan vehicle sold in Japan to feature the KR20DET 2.0L VC-Turbo engine. This engine generates 245 PS of power and 352 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission that includes paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience. Additionally, idle stop-start technology comes as standard.

Underneath, the Murano Z53 is nearly as sophisticated as a German luxury crossover thanks to its standard 4WD system, rack and pinion steering, front struts, rear multilink suspension, and ventilated disc brakes.

For safety, the Murano Z53 includes a wide variety of safety features, such as ProPILOT Assist, which combines Intelligent Cruise Control with Steering Assist for more convenient highway driving, a 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor, and an Invisible Hood View, among others.

A decade of comebacks warrants a comprehensive explanation from Nissan. The Murano Z53 aims to uphold luxury in the Nissan style. However, with its high price, which exceeds that of the Lexus RX, along with questionable styling, a left-hand drive-only configuration, and performance concerns, it’s challenging to convey the value of this new model to Japanese motorists who previously owned a Murano. Only time will tell how this model will be received.

Available Colors: Turquoise Blue, Prism White, and Super Black.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Saturday, November 1, 2025

Nissan Roox (BB5/6) and Mitsubishi eK Space/Delica Mini (BA1~6)

The tall kei minivans from the NMKV joint venture, the Mitsubishi eK Space, the Mitsubishi Delica Mini, and the Nissan Roox, have gained their full model changes. Let's find out how much these kei minivans have changed.

2026 Mitsubishi eK Space
2026 Mitsubishi eK Space

2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini
2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini

2026 Nissan Roox
2026 Nissan Roox

The all-new Mitsubishi eK Space starts at 1,749,000 Yen, while the Delica Mini starts at 1,964,000 Yen, and the all-new Nissan Roox starts at 1,672,000 Yen, excluding additional costs. These new-generation NMKV kei minivans have been redesigned with new and exciting ways to please their drivers while maintaining their boxy characteristics that made them special.

2026 Mitsubshi eK Wagon
2026 Mitsubshi eK Wagon

2026 Nissan Roox
2026 Nissan Roox

2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini
2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini

For starters, the exterior design retains its boxy attributes from the previous models, but how their designs differentiate between them holds a different story. In the eK Space and the base Roox variant, it's like a mashup between the Serena's back and the front of a certain Chinese EV city car I can't mention due to search query reasons. The Roox Highway Star, meanwhile, is like a mini-me Elgrand. As for the Delica Mini, the derpiest of the three, the iconic Delica Mini design from its predecessor remains. Even with the all-new look, it's still the Delica Mini that every Japanese family loved.

2026 Nissan Roox
2026 Nissan Roox interior

2026 Mitsubishi eK Space interior
2026 Mitsubishi eK Space interior

2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini interior
2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini interior

The interior of these new models is spacious, maintaining the roomy feel typical of kei minivans. The driver's view highlights a modern layout featuring a Google-powered panoramic widescreen, which has become a standard in today's vehicles. However, there are no physical buttons or knobs for adjusting the volume or changing the radio station, which may be disappointing for some. The air conditioning controls are touch panels, but the gear lever is still present. Notably, the Delica Mini includes a unique dial for selecting driving modes, allowing drivers to switch between tarmac, gravel, and snow settings.

2026 Nissan Roox
2026 Nissan Roox

2026 Mitsubishi eK Space
2026 Mitsubishi eK Space

2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini
2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini

These kei minivans are powered by the same 660cc BR06 three-cylinder DOHC 12-valve engine mated to a CVT gearbox. Thanks to some slight improvements, the fuel economy is up to 21kmpl for 2WD variants and up to 18.8kmpl for 4WD variants based on WLTC Mode standards. Turbocharging is reserved for the Roox Highway Star and the Delica Mini. 

Most variants have Rack & Pinion Power Steering, front MacPherson struts, front ventilated disc brakes, and rear reading/trailing drum brakes. FF variants have rear torsion beam suspension, while 4WD variants have torque arm three-link suspension.

The eK Space, Delica Mini, and the Roox come with a wide variety of safety features from the 3D Multi-Around Monitor, e-Assist, and MI-PILOT, granting them a "Safety Support Car S Wide" credential.

With these new forms, the all-new Mitsubishi eK Space, Delica Mini, and the Nissan Roox are ready to tackle the new normal with their familiar shapes, new interiors, improved fuel efficiency, and tech. Kei car fanatics, rejoice.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Nissan Leaf ZE2

Launched 15 years ago, the Nissan Leaf played a pivotal role in the revival of electric vehicles. Thanks to the Nissan Leaf, the entire automotive industry embraced electrification during the transition to a new normal. Fast forward to 2025, and the Nissan Leaf of the Reiwa era has arrived, but it is not the Leaf you remember.

2026 Nissan Leaf
2026 Nissan Leaf

This is no longer the Nissan Leaf your everyday Uber driver knows because the ZE2 model has officially ditched the hatchback bodystyle from its predecessors in favor of a coupe-style SUV look. It starts from 5,188,700 Yen plus additional costs.

2026 Nissan Leaf
2026 Nissan Leaf AUTECH

You may be curious about the trend towards the coupe-crossover design. The story is quite interesting. For inspiration, Nissan has drawn from the Chill-Out Concept for its silhouette. They found the Chill-Out Concept's shape appealing and combined it with the front design of the Ariya and the rear of the RZ34 Fairlady Z. The result is the third-generation Nissan Leaf. Surprised? You should be! With its coupe-like silhouette, the Ariya front, and the Z's rear view, Nissan has made a dramatic transformation to the Leaf's design. Even in the showy Autech variant with a blackened front face, silver linings, and fancy wheels, there's no hiding the fact that the Leaf's turned.

2026 Nissan Leaf
2026 Nissan Leaf interior

The auto pop-up door handle is one of the most intriguing features of the ZE2 Leaf, but the interior is where things become even more exciting. On the driver's side, you'll find two 14.3-inch screens equipped with Google technology, as well as a BOSE Personal Plus Sound System. The interior also includes multicolor ambient lighting and haptic touch panels for the air conditioning, gear buttons, and other controls. While passenger comfort remains similar to that of previous models, the transition to a coupe-crossover design results in a storage capacity of up to 420 liters, an increase of 20 liters compared to the previous model. Another surprising aspect!

2026 Nissan Leaf
2026 Nissan Leaf

As a new model, the electric powertrain is also new for the ZE2 model. It features a new YM52 front electric motor connected to a 78kWh lithium battery. It produces 218PS of power and 355NM of torque. As for driving range, the entry-level B7 X has a range of 702km, while the range-topping B7 G has 685km. It even has V2L functionality, making it capable of becoming a backup generator in case of a power outage or in case you're in the middle of a touring gig.

The Leaf ZE2 shares a similar platform with its larger counterpart, the Ariya. It is equipped with Rack & Pinion Power Steering, front strut suspension, rear multilink suspension, and ventilated disc brakes, which contribute to a decent driving experience. Additionally, it includes the e-Pedal feature, enabling the car to accelerate and brake using just one pedal.

For safety, the Leaf ZE2 is packed with ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link, a 3D 8-point Around View Monitor, Invisible Hood View, Front Wide View, and other safety features such as Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Driver Monitor System.

The abrupt shift to a coupe-crossover may seem like a sacrilege to the Leaf's heritage. However, with significant advancements in its EV powertrain and technology, this third-generation Nissan Leaf, manufactured in Tochigi, Japan, has quietly rewritten the EV rulebook. It's ready to tackle the "new normal" in this unstable world we live in.

Available Colors: Prism White, Prism White Black Roof, Dark Metal Grey, Midnight Black, Deep Crimson Black Roof, Shell Blond, Luminous Turquoise Black Roof, and Deep Ocean Blue.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

My GT7 Log: The R35 GT-R's Final Stage

The third and final facelift of the Nissan GT-R R35 marks the final evolution of Japan's longest-running supercar, which has been tearing down the world's roads and tracks since its 2007 Tokyo Motor Show world premiere. Although it's sad to witness the end of the R35's reign, it's time to have one last drive with the R35's final form on Gran Turismo 7.

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

What is the third and final minor change to the Nissan GT-R?

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

Released in 2023, this final evolution of the Nissan R35 GT-R features a redesigned front view that replaces the previous facelift's V-Motion grille with a smaller grille, along with a boxy air intake that enhances its aggressive appearance. The vehicle also includes new fog lamps shaped like the Arena logo.

The engine specifications remain unchanged. In the standard GT-R, the VR38DETT 3.8L Twin Turbo V6 engine delivers 570 PS of power and 637 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The fuel economy remains at 7.8 km/L.

The vehicle's dynamics have been slightly improved, offering better downforce, enhanced cooling, and reduced drag.


R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

What better way to say goodbye to Japan's longest-running supercar in history than by taking it for one last drive around the Nürburgring? Instead of just a lap around the iconic Nordschleife like most people do, I chose to tackle the entire 24-hour layout, which combines the GP Track with the Nordschleife. Now that's a fitting farewell to Godzilla himself. Let's roll the tape.


I must admit, it's not my best attempt, but I gave the R35 GT-R the ultimate farewell it deserves. Like a true soldier, it saw it through to the end.

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24

This marks the end of an era for what I consider the best Japanese sports car of the Heisei period: the Nissan GT-R R35. Since its world premiere at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, it has dominated the world's best roads and tracks. The GT-R has made appearances in films such as Fast and Furious 6, Elysium, and the live-action Gran Turismo movie. It even surpassed the Bullet Train and challenged Jeremy Clarkson to an exhilarating experience at Fuji Speedway. This encapsulates everything about the R35 GT-R, from its inception to its farewell.

Though its reign may have ended, Nissan has assured fans that the GT-R will return in the future. Ivan Espinosa, the current CEO of Nissan, stated, "To the many fans of the GT-R worldwide, I want to say that this isn't a goodbye to the GT-R forever. Our goal is for the GT-R nameplate to one day make a comeback."

R35 GT-R T-Spec '24


Arigato, R35 GT-R.

Friday, August 22, 2025

A Quick 25-year History of the Nissan X-TRAIL

The year 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the Nissan X-TRAIL SUV. Hot on the heels of the recent launch of the Nissan X-TRAIL T33 minor change that saw the addition of the Rock Creek edition and the first-ever X-TRAIL NISMO, it's time for a quick history lesson on 25 years of the Nissan X-TRAIL.

2026 Nissan X-Trail
2026 Nissan X-Trail

First Generation (T30, 2000-2007) - Launched on November 13th, 2000, the first-generation X-TRAIL was launched as a "rugged off-roader" featuring a boxy, utilitarian design. It was built to be a capable and affordable SUV. The interior was simple and functional, with a unique center-mounted speedometer and gauges. It was equipped with Nissan's "All-Mode" 4x4 system, which provided various driving modes including front-wheel drive, automatic, and 4WD lock. Engine options included a 2.0-liter and a 2.5-liter gasoline engine, as well as a 2.2-liter diesel option.

Second Generation (T31, 2007-2013) - The X-TRAIL T31 maintained a boxy, "4x4-like" appearance while refining the original concept. It was slightly larger and prioritized improved on-road comfort without sacrificing its off-road capabilities. The dashboard featured a more conventional layout, with the gauges positioned directly in front of the driver. It included an enhanced "All-Mode" 4x4 system with added features such as Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. Additionally, there was a broader range of engine options, including a powerful 2.0-liter turbo-diesel. Buyers could choose between a manual transmission or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Third Generation (T32, 2013-2022) - The T32 model marked a significant shift for Nissan, as the brand transitioned from a rugged design to a sleeker, more urban crossover aesthetic. The vehicle offered an optional third row of seats. In North America, it was marketed as the Nissan Rogue.

The design adopted a more modern, aerodynamic look and introduced advanced technology and safety features, including Nissan's Intelligent Mobility suite, which comprises features like Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and the Around View Monitor. A hybrid variant, featuring a 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with an electric motor, was also introduced. Additionally, there was an emphasis on comfort with "Zero Gravity" inspired seats and a more refined interior.

Fourth Generation (T33, 2022-present) - The T33 model enhances the urban crossover concept with a bolder and more athletic exterior design, emphasizing electrification and advanced technology. It features Nissan's e-POWER hybrid system, in which a gasoline engine acts as a generator to charge a battery while the wheels are driven solely by an electric motor. The model is also introduced with a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine.

Inside, the X-TRAIL T33 boasts a fully digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment touchscreen, and a Head-Up Display available in higher trim levels. It also includes improved safety and driver-assistance systems, such as ProPILOT Assist, which aids in freeway driving by keeping the car centered in its lane and maintaining a preset speed. The T33 is available in both five-seat and seven-seat configurations.


So, there you have it. Twenty-five years of the Nissan X-TRAIL, evolving from the rugged T30 to the stylish T33, spanning four generations and continuing to make an impact. It's a world-proven crossover that became the new standard for Nissan.

Happy 25th anniversary to the Nissan X-TRAIL.

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Nissan X-TRAIL T33 - 2026 Minor Change

Launched three years ago, the fourth-generation Nissan X-TRAIL became the new standard for Nissan because of its e-POWER VC-TURBO combination, the muscular looks, the refined interior, and Nissan Intelligent Mobility. It's high time for the Nissan X-Trail T33 to receive its long-overdue minor change to keep it fresh in times of challenging situations. Ready for some introductions?

2026 Nissan X-Trail
2026 Nissan X-Trail

Starting at 3,843,400 yen, plus additional costs, the Nissan X-TRAIL T33 Minor Change is redefining the midsize crossover SUV segment. It features a bold exterior refresh and significant technology upgrades that enhance convenience and connectivity for every journey, as highlighted by Nissan.

2026 Nissan X-Trail
2026 Nissan X-Trail Rock Creek

2026 Nissan X-Trail
2026 Nissan X-Trail NISMO

2026 Nissan X-Trail
2026 Nissan X-Trail AUTECH



Beginning with the revised exterior design, the X-TRAIL T33 Minor Change features a revised front and rear fascias, a new version of Nissan's V-motion grille, and new inner taillights. While the flashy AUTECH version features a significantly larger grille than its pre-facelifted counterpart, this minor change introduces two new additions to the lineup: the off-road-oriented Rock Creek and the sports-oriented X-Trail Nismo.

The X-TRAIL Rock Creek variant replaces the previous XTREMER-X variant from the pre-facelift model. It boasts a unique gloss-black front grille with silver accents, a redesigned front fascia featuring Lava Red accents, gloss-black side mirrors, and black roof rails. Additionally, it is available in an exclusive Canyon Beige/Super Black two-tone exterior color.

On the other hand, the first-ever X-TRAIL NISMO showcases a distinctive NISMO-tuned exterior design and dynamics while maintaining its e-4ORCE powertrain. This model offers two exclusive exterior color combinations: NISMO Stealth Grey/Super Black two-tone and Cardinal Red/Super Black two-tone.

2026 Nissan X-Trail
2026 Nissan X-Trail Rock Creek interior


The interior remains largely unchanged, except for the addition of USB-C ports and the introduction of Google-built-in NissanConnect, which is a first for Nissan vehicles. Additionally, first-time buyers can enjoy free in-car Wi-Fi until January 15, 2026, regardless of whether they subscribe to the NissanConnect service.

Most variants, including the NISMO variant, offer standard five-seater capability. The variants eligible for the seven-seater configuration are the X e-4ORCE, AUTECH e-4ORCE, and the Rock Creek edition. Regardless of the variant you choose, you can enjoy a maximum boot space of 1,424 liters when the passenger seats are folded down. With five seats in use, the boot space is approximately 585 liters, while with seven seats in use, it reduces to about 177 liters.

2026 Nissan X-Trail NISMO
2026 Nissan X-Trail NISMO

As expected, the e-POWER VC-TURBO combination remains in this update. The electric motor takes the lead, while the 1.5L VC-Turbo engine functions as a generator to support the electric motor and charge the lithium-ion batteries. The front-wheel-drive (FF) variants with a single electric motor produce 204 PS and offer a fuel economy of 19.4 km/L. In contrast, the e-4ORCE variants equipped with two electric motors deliver 213 PS of power and have a fuel economy of 18.1 km/L. All are mated with the CVT gearbox.

The Nissan X-TRAIL is equipped with the standard 360 Safety Assist, which includes features such as Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist, and Rear Automatic Braking. The top-of-the-line variants also come with ProPILOT, which combines Intelligent Cruise Control with Steering Assist for a more confident driving experience on the highway. This system utilizes a forward-facing camera, forward-facing radar, and other sensors to help keep the vehicle centered within its lane. In stop-and-go traffic, ProPILOT can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and hold it in place until traffic begins to move again.

With the Nissan X-TRAIL T33 receiving its long-overdue minor change with the addition of the off-road-oriented Rock Creek edition and the sports-oriented NISMO edition, there are many ways to live with this update. Like it or not, this update means business for the X-TRAIL.

Photo: Nissan Motor Company

Friday, July 25, 2025

My GT7 Log: NISSAN e-POWER Ride Along

Back in 2016, Nissan reinvented the hybrid powertrain with e-POWER, a completely unique powertrain that allows drivers to experience EV drivability without the need for plugging in. Here in Gran Turismo 7, I get to experience how Nissan's e-Power works.

What is e-Power? It is an innovative hybrid technology that combines the efficiency of the electric motor with the convenience of the gasoline engine. Unlike regular hybrids, the electric motor powers the wheels while the petrol engine serves as the generator, creating the electricity to power the motor or recharge the batteries.

Nissan Qashqai Tekna e-Power '22

The Nissan e-Power vehicle featured in Gran Turismo 7 is the third-generation Nissan Qashqai. I know, it’s just another crossover SUV on the roster, which can be disappointing. To make matters worse, this Nissan SUV isn’t even available in Japan.

Nissan Qashqai Tekna e-Power '22

The third-generation Nissan Qashqai, manufactured in the United Kingdom for global markets except for Japan, is available with two engine options: a 1.3L DIG-T engine featuring mild hybrid technology and a 1.5L VC-TURBO with ePower. The version highlighted in the game is the latter. The 1.5L VC-Turbo engine, combined with an electric motor that powers the front wheels, delivers 190 PS of power and 330 Nm of torque. It is paired with a CVT and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 170 km/h. As said, the 1.5L VC-TURBO engine serves as a generator powering the electric motor as well as recharging the batteries.

Nissan Qashqai Tekna e-Power '22

To demonstrate the capabilities of Nissan's e-Power, I went to Australia's Bathurst. It's a fair choice because Australia is one of the world markets where today's Qashqai is sold. It was one of the dullest drives of my time, but in the interest of science, I went with it. Roll the tape.


As I mentioned, it feels rather dull. It’s no surprise that Nissan USA doesn’t offer any cars with e-Power, as the sluggish performance and driving experience are not suitable for U.S. driving conditions. However, I did have the opportunity to explore how Nissan's e-Power system works.

Nissan Qashqai Tekna e-Power '22

The third-generation Nissan Qashqai, a Nissan crossover SUV not available in Japan, joins the growing list of crossovers in the Gran Turismo 7 car roster. Some are not happy with it, but because it features Nissan's game-changing e-Power hybrid powertrain, we got the chance to experience what it's like to drive one and how it works.

Nissan Qashqai Tekna e-Power '22

Nissan e-Power. The efficiency of the electric motor with the convenience of the gasoline engine. Just wait till you drive it.