Nissan Micra Nismo EV hot hatch tipped as Nismo range doubles

Nissan has confirmed plans to expand its Nismo lineup, aiming to double the number of performance models from five to ten. One of the early candidates is said to be the Nissan Micra Nismo, a compact hot hatch that could return to the range.

There’s no official announcement yet, but the case for a Micra Nismo looks strong thanks to its shared platform with the Alpine A290. That electric model is built on the Renault 5, which also underpins the new Micra. Nissan has also indicated it is open to working with external partners on future Nismo projects — a pragmatic move that makes the idea feel more than plausible.

The standard Micra uses an electric motor rated at up to 148 hp, while the Alpine A290 in GTS specification delivers up to 217 hp and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in under six seconds. Beyond the extra power, the A290 features a wider track, larger wheels, uprated brakes, and a reworked suspension — a clear benchmark for what a hotter Micra could target.

If Nissan taps into Alpine’s development work, the Micra Nismo could gain a sportier chassis and a noticeable increase in output. The company notes the model has had hot versions before, including the Micra Super Turbo. The potential newcomer could join the brand’s performance offerings in 2026, though the debut timeline remains under wraps — and with the Micra’s heritage, a well-executed return would likely strike a chord with enthusiasts.