Nissan unveils Aura NISMO RS Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon 2026
11-01-2026 12:48 -
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Nissan Motorsports & Customizing Co., Ltd. (NMC) today unveiled the Aura NISMO RS Concept at Tokyo Auto Salon 2026.
The Aura NISMO RS Concept is a high-performance hot hatch that started its life as an Aura NISMO, then merges form and function with aggressive styling and aero with a healthy increase in output to the wheels from the X‑Trail NISMO’s e‑POWER system. Designed as a technical validation exercise, the concept leverages vehicle technologies refined through mass production and expertise gained from motorsports development. Looking ahead, Nissan is exploring the potential of bringing this concept to market as a production car.
Purpose-built design
The exterior design evolves the Aura NISMO’s “Agile Electric City Racer” concept, opting for a more muscular, performance-driven styling with sharp surfaces. Wider fenders — expanded by 145 mm — combined with a 20 mm drop in ride height deliver a low center of gravity and an aggressive silhouette.
Aerodynamic enhancements include a front spoiler, side skirts, a rear diffuser with NISMO’s signature red accents, airflow-optimized front fenders, side air splitters and a dedicated rear spoiler. All are designed to improve downforce and reducing drag. The exclusive Dark Matte NISMO Stealth Gray finish ensures a consistent surface look despite sunlight intensity.
Performance development
The concept takes advantage of years of motorsports engineering to elevate every aspect of performance including acceleration, handling and braking. It begins by pairing the Aura NISMO’s lightweight form factor with the X‑Trail NISMO’s high-output e‑POWER powertrain, Nissan’s series hybrid technology, delivering a significant boost in power at the pedal and transforming driving dynamics.
The wide body extends the vehicle’s stance and handling ability on straight and twisting roads. High-grip tires and NISMO tuned e‑4ORCE all-wheel control technology provide impressive traction and cornering performance. Braking performance is enhanced by large opposed-piston calipers — four-pot front and two-pot rear — ensuring confident stopping power despite a roughly 100 kg weight increase over the Aura NISMO.
Nissan and NMC plan to further refine and optimize the concept for potential racing applications in addition to potential future commercialization.
