Nissan is poised to significantly broaden its Nismo performance division, with plans to expand its model range from the current five to ten vehicles in the upcoming years. This strategic initiative underscores a renewed focus on high-performance vehicles, aiming to elevate Nismo's annual sales figures from 100,000 to an ambitious 150,000 units by the close of 2028. This growth trajectory may even involve collaborations with external automotive partners to introduce new Nismo-branded models.
The announcement arrives as the Nissan GT-R R35 concludes its production run in 2025, leaving enthusiasts with the promise of an exciting future for Nissan's performance offerings. While the exact timeline for the next-generation GT-R remains undisclosed, the expansion of the Nismo portfolio offers a compelling vision for the brand's commitment to dynamic driving experiences. The current Nismo lineup is spearheaded by the Z model, complemented by regional variants such as the recently launched Patrol Nismo in the Middle East and the Armada Nismo in North America. Other notable Nismo additions include an electric Ariya Nismo, a Nismo version of the X-Trail (known as Rogue in some markets), and the Note Aura Nismo hot hatchback available in Japan.
This aggressive push for Nismo is a key component of Nissan's overarching "Re:Nissan" strategy, which not only involves stringent cost-cutting measures but also a substantial product launch offensive. Recent introductions under this plan include refreshed models like the Leaf, Sentra, and Elgrand. Interestingly, some new models, such as the Rogue Plug-In Hybrid (a rebadged Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV) and the 2026 Micra (a re-engineered Renault 5), highlight Nissan's strategy of leveraging existing platforms and partnerships. Similarly, the new Navara mid-size pickup truck shares its underpinnings with the Mitsubishi Triton, and two new sedans, the N6 and Teana, have just been unveiled for the Chinese market.
The identities of the five forthcoming Nismo models are currently under wraps. However, industry speculation suggests the Sentra could be an ideal candidate for a performance makeover. A strong contender for a Nismo variant is also the new Skyline sports sedan, which is anticipated to debut in 2027 with a rear-wheel-drive configuration and a manual transmission. The previous-generation Skyline in Japan already received a limited-edition Nismo treatment, making a performance version of the new model a logical progression.
Nissan's global design director, Alfonso Albaisa, indicated that the four-door Skyline will occupy a market position between the Z and the GT-R. Furthermore, Nissan has reaffirmed its intention to revive the Xterra, though a Nismo iteration remains speculative. The return of the iconic GT-R is also a clear goal, with CEO Ivan Espinosa stating the company's dedication to "reimagining the future generation of GT-R." Enthusiasts are hopeful that the next-generation R36 GT-R will be among the ten expanded Nismo offerings.
Looking ahead, Nissan plans to introduce Nismo-branded race car prototypes starting in fiscal year 2026, which commences next April. The insights and advancements garnered from these competitive vehicles will be instrumental in the development of future street-legal Nismo models, further reinforcing the brand's commitment to performance and innovation.
