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Nissan’s Most Expensive Leaf Yet Misses Out On A Key Feature

  • Japan gets its own version of the new Nissan Leaf with a range-topping Autech trim.
  • It features a sportier bodykit, unique 19-inch wheels, and a more premium interior.
  • Autech variant doesn’t bring any performance or chassis upgrades over the standard EV.

The latest generation of the Nissan Leaf has arrived in Japan, marking its official launch in the brand’s home market after making its first appearance in North America earlier this year.

The all-electric fastback crossover retains much of its global character but introduces a few domestic-market distinctions, including an Autech edition that leans more toward a sportier, higher-end feel, within the practical and monetary constraints of the category.

At 4,360 mm (171.7 inches) long, the Japanese Leaf is 44 mm (1.7 inches) shorter than the version sold in the United States. Like its European counterpart, it omits amber indicators, while the rest of the design remains the same. Only the range-topping model gets the distinctive Z-inspired LED taillights, which lend a sharper look to the rear end

More: Nissan Says An AWD Leaf Could Happen, But Isn’t Sure It Should

Inside, the Japanese Leaf comes equipped with twin 12.3-inch displays, though it skips the larger 14.3-inch setup offered elsewhere. What it lacks in screen size, it makes up for in equipment, featuring an optional dimming panoramic glass roof, a 10-speaker Bose Plus Sound System, and V2H (Vehicle to Home) capability.

Autech Adds Visual Drama

Nissan’s in-house Autech division has given the Leaf a sportier presence. The bespoke bodykit introduces a prominent splitter with aluminum accents that continue across the side inserts, mirror caps, and rear skirt. A black grille, blue daytime running lights, unique bumper detailing, and Autech badging round out the looks.

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The Leaf Autech also sits on exclusive 19-inch aluminum wheels and can be specified in Deep Ocean Blue paired with a Super Black roof. Buyers can also choose from Prism White with Super Black or a full Midnight Black finish.

More: Nissan Will Build A Leaf NISMO If Enough Of You Shout Loud Enough

As with most Autech models, the dark-themed interior is more premium than the standard Leaf. It stands out thanks to the black upholstery with blue stitching and piping. It also comes with a unique pattern and Autech embroidery on the seats, special seatbelts, and branded floor mats.

Even without the larger dual-screen cockpit seen in other markets, equipment levels remain generous, including cold-weather amenities such as heated rear seats.

Specifications And Range

At launch, the Japanese Leaf is available exclusively in B7 form, offered in two trims, X and G. Power comes from a single electric motor producing 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 355 Nm (261.8 lb-ft) of torque, sent to the front wheels. The Autech variant shares this setup, meaning there are no added performance or chassis tweaks beyond its sharper styling.

The 78 kWh battery promises an impressive 702 km (436 miles) of range under the WLTC cycle, which tends to be more optimistic than Europe’s WLTP (604 km / 375 miles) and America’s EPA estimate (488 km / 303 miles).

An entry-level B5 model, with a smaller battery and less power, will join the range later, along with a corresponding Autech version for those wanting the look without the higher spec.

Pricing

Pricing for the Japanese-market Leaf starts at ¥5,188,700 (around $34,000) for the B7 X trim, rising to ¥5,999,400 ($39,300) for the top-spec B7 G. The Autech commands a higher entry price at ¥6,513,100 ($42,700), with optional extras pushing it higher still. Deliveries across Japan are expected to begin in early 2026.

In the United States, pricing remains more accessible, with the entry-level S starting at $25,360 and the Platinum+ topping out at $38,990.

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The Only Space These Cybertruck 24-Inch Wheels Need Is In Your Bank Account

  • Unplugged Performance has launched new wheels for the Tesla Cybertruck.
  • The new rims have nine spokes and a mid-spoke reinforcement ring.
  • They are available in three color variations, with an MSRP of $7,195.

The rumored Tesla CyberSUV might be the talk of the town, but tuners haven’t forgotten the Cybertruck. California-based company Unplugged Performance introduced a new set of alloy wheels for the polarizing truck, aiming to improve its visual appeal.

Dubbed UP Forged Cybrnova, the wheels measure 24 inches across, placing them above Tesla’s standard 20-inch setup but a notch below the oversized 26-inch options some aftermarket shops have showcased. Buyers can pick from three satin finishes, including Bronze, Black, or Titanium.

More: Mexican Tuner Shows Off Widebody Tesla Cybertruck On 26-Inch Wheels

The wheels have nine aerodynamic spokes with an additional reinforcement ring contributing to the rugged looks and the load-bearing capabilities. According to the company, this design was inspired by the blast wave of a supernova and the “straight-edged” styling language of the Cybertruck.

The forged wheels are made of 6061-T6 aluminum and feature pocket-milled relief points behind the spokes for lower weight. The unsprung mass can be further reduced with the optional titanium lug nuts from Unplugged Performance.

Built For Heavy Duty

 The Only Space These Cybertruck 24-Inch Wheels Need Is In Your Bank Account

Each wheel has a load rating of 3,195 lb (1,450 kg), making them suitable for heavy-duty applications. As for the tire fitment, the tuner recommends the 295/45R24 Nitto Recon Grappler for those interested in retaining an adequate EV range, or a wider 315/45R24 set for an even more aggressive stance.

More: Oh Boy, Mansory Tuned The Cybertruck And Named It The Elongation

The 24-inch wheels do not require spacers, as they have been designed to clear the standard brakes and suspension components of the Cybetruck. They are compatible with all trims of the model, including the flagship Cyberbeast.

Premium Price Tag

If you fancy the UP Forged Cybrnova wheels for your Tesla, prepare to dig deep into your pockets. Pricing starts at $7,195 for a set of four, regardless of finish. Add a matching spare, and the bill climbs by another $1,798.75.

The wheels are already available to order through Unplugged Performance’s website, with first deliveries expected in the coming weeks. Buyers can also pair them with the tuner’s body kits and other accessories to create a fully customized Cybertruck.

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Unplugged Performance

Mini Unleashed Two Ridiculous JCWs That Break All The Right Rules

  • Mini and Deus Ex Machina have launched two one-offs based on JCW models.
  • The ICE-powered model is called Machina, joined by the fully electric Skeg.
  • They stand out with custom bodykits, unique liveries, and stripped-out cabins.

Mini has decided to have some fun with its John Cooper Works lineup, creating two one-off hatchbacks in collaboration with lifestyle label Deus Ex Machina. The pair, named Machina and Skeg, pay tribute to Mini’s racing DNA with oversized bodywork, bespoke cabins, and standout graphics. One runs on petrol, the other on electricity, but both are equally dramatic.

More: This Is One MINI We Can Get Into

The duo is based on the latest JCW and JCW Electric, each reworked with custom styling cues and handcrafted interiors. Machina takes its cues from the racetrack, while Skeg leans into a surf-inspired, laid-back aesthetic. What ties them together are the oversized roof graphics, Deus branding, and deliberately asymmetric wraps that make them hard to miss.

Track-Ready Machina

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Starting with the Machina, the hatchback rocks a red, white, and black livery. Exterior upgrades include wide fender extensions, retro-flavored lights on the hood, a custom grille, a Can-Am-style rear wing, and a larger diffuser. Furthermore, the headlights have LED bars instead of the regular graphics, making room for additional air intakes.

Also: Future Corvette Design Could Be Hiding In These New Concepts

The stripped-out interior boasts racing buckets with five-point harnesses, a three spoke steering wheel, aluminum floor plates, and an exposed roll cage. The modified JCW also gains a hydraulic handbrake and a bunch of toggle switches on the center console which are easier to operate compared to the menus of the circular touchscreen.

Surf-Inspired Skeg

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The electric Skeg takes a very different approach, swapping track grit for coastal flair. Its silver, black, and yellow graphics mix with raw fiberglass panels that nod to surfboard construction. The closed grille glows with illumination and seven round cutouts along the bottom, giving it a playful edge.

Its bodywork is even more extreme than the Machina’s, with oversized translucent fiberglass fender extensions that reduce weight by 15 percent. Racing wheels, a bright yellow diffuser, and an enormous “Flex Tip Surf Spoiler” on the roof complete the look.

Inside, the Skeg has more semi-transparent fiberglass panels, a pair of racing buckets with neoprene upholstery, straps instead of door handles, and a rear surfboard on the fiberglass roof. The latter is being held into place by two yellow tension straps which are also visible from the exterior. Mini designers also threw in fiberglass trays for wetsuits.

No Extra Power, Just Extra Personality

Despite their aggressive appearances, both hatchbacks use standard JCW running gear. The Machina relies on a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 228 hp (170 kW/231 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, while the all-electric Skeg delivers 255 hp (190 kW/258 PS) and 350 Nm. Each sits on the familiar John Cooper Works chassis without further tuning, proving the wild styling isn’t matched by performance tweaks.

More: Future Mini EVs Could Go RWD Thanks To BMW

These one-off hot hatches won’t see showrooms, but they will be joined by a Mini x Deus Ex Machina apparel line launching September 8 at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich. Unlike the cars, the clothing will actually be available to buy through the Deus Ex Machina network

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