Nissan's New E-Power Hybrid Finally Arrives!

Nissan is set to introduce its advanced E-Power series hybrid system to North America later this year, debuting in the Nissan Rogue. This unique powertrain features a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine designed for optimal efficiency, coupled with an electric motor. The engine's power is exclusively channeled through an inverter to either the electric motor or a 2.1 kWh battery pack, ensuring a smooth, EV-like driving experience without direct mechanical connection to the wheels.

Initial testing in Michigan revealed that the E-Power system can achieve impressive fuel economy, with a reported 47.7 mpg during mixed driving conditions. Nissan engineers anticipate even higher efficiency in warmer weather. While the Rogue E-Power will be slightly larger and heavier than the tested Qashqai, the potential for exceeding 50 mpg remains strong, offering a compelling alternative for hybrid buyers.

Despite the powertrain's efficiency and smooth acceleration, some areas for improvement were noted. The calibration of regenerative and friction braking requires refinement to avoid a jerky sensation. Additionally, a slight delay in responsiveness when accelerating from a standstill was observed, suggesting an opportunity to enhance the system's immediate electric motor feel to better showcase electrification's potential.