2024 Nissan Ariya Nismo electric SUV unveiled

The Nissan Ariya electric SUV is the latest vehicle to be tuned by the Japanese car giant's Nissan Motorsport (Nismo) high-performance division, unveiled today at the Tokyo Auto Salon car show.

It brings more power from its dual electric motors, sportier styling, and changes under the skin – including stiffer and lower suspension, retuned electronics and lighter wheels – with the promise of a sharper driving experience.

Australian arrival plans are yet to be confirmed – given a local launch date for the regular Nissan Ariya is yet to be announced – and it may never come here, as not all Nismo models are sold in all Nissan markets.

Two versions are available, both with dual-motor all-wheel drive: the B6 with 270kW/560Nm and a 66kWh battery, and the B9 with 320kW/600Nm and a 91kWh battery.

The outputs are up from 205kW/560Nm and 290kW/600Nm in standard models, with unchanged battery packs. Kerb weights for the Nismo versions are 2080kg, and 2210-2220kg respectively.

Mechanical changes include lighter 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 255/45 R20 Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, stiffer springs and dampers, and retuned stability control calibration.

The Nismo includes a unique synthetic driving sound "evocative of Formula E racing" as well as a Nismo drive mode that "maximises response".

Differentiating the Nismo from the standard model on the road is a new front and rear bumpers, a large front splitter, new side skirts, a second rear spoiler on the tailgate (in addition to the roof spoiler), and red pinstripes.

Inside, changes include Nismo sports seats with leather and suede upholstery, red stitching and 12 o'clock marker on the steering wheel, red accents on the dashboard, black trim replacing the standard Ariya's open-pore wood inserts, and a red power button.

There is an exclusive grey exterior colour, with the option of black racing stripes.

The 2024 Nissan Ariya Nismo is due in Japanese showrooms in the northern spring of 2024 (our autumn).