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Nissan has been experiencing challenging periods marked by falling sales and reduced output; however, the company asserts that it is firmly engaged in executing its recovery strategy.
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The third-generation
Nissan Leaf
It will take the lead as a 2026 model and will be transformed into a compact SUV.
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Upcoming changes are headed toward Nissan’s key models like the Sentra and the Rogue, along with some exciting new offerings from Infiniti.
Nissan has devised a straightforward strategy: an uncomplicated approach focused mainly on delivering suitable models to appropriate market segments. This struggling automaker has experienced declining sales both in China and the U.S. In 2018 alone, they manufactured over five million vehicles; however, this figure dropped significantly to roughly three and a half million, prompting considerable concern and vows to cut down operational expenses to halt further losses.
Nissan provided insight into the upcoming products they have planned and the vehicles aimed at revitalizing their brand. Despite how straightforward this strategy might seem, developing, designing, and manufacturing top-notch cars that appeal to consumers isn’t an effortless task. In the coming years, parts of their current range will undergo refreshes, redesigns, or additions through entirely new models.
A Nissan Leaf That’s an SUV
First up is the third-gen Nissan Leaf.
Nissan provided a preview of the 2026 Leaf. Although we could examine both the exterior and interior, few specifics were disclosed prior to its scheduled unveiling later this year, leaving questions about its range, battery capacity, and driving dynamics unanswered. The key point confirmed is that the third-generation Leaf has transitioned from being a subcompact hatchback to a compact SUV similar in size to an
Kicks
Americans’ desire for SUVs has driven this change, prompting Nissan to “adjust its production” to cater to the SUV preferences of the U.S. market.
Developed using the company’s CMF-EV platform which also supports
the Ariya
The Leaf now features a redesigned exterior that Nissan thinks American consumers will embrace. It’s slightly smaller compared to the Ariya model yet still incorporates several styling elements inspired by it. Inside, an expansive display takes pride of place on the dashboard, with the absence of a central console contributing to a roomier cabin feel due to the nearly flat flooring. At the rear, distinctive tail lights stand out thanks to their almost three-dimensional look. According to Nissan, this new iteration boasts a remarkably low drag coefficient close to 0.25; however, being SUV-styled means it likely presents greater aerodynamic resistance overall when contrasted against previous models. While specific figures weren’t disclosed, Nissan asserts significant advancements in driving range relative to earlier versions, which suggests an upgrade beyond the present 62.0 kWh capacity might be expected. For U.S.-based owners, compatibility with charging networks like those operated by Tesla comes via inclusion of a NACS connector.
A New Rogue with a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Option
Following the Leaf, the subsequent model in Nissan’s American comeback strategy involves hybridizing their top-selling vehicle.
Nissan Rogue
A car model that previously did not offer a hybrid variant is set for an update. The redesigned Rogue launching in 2026 will feature several enhancements including a fresh front grille and updated cabin aesthetics. More notably, this leading sales performer within the brand lineup will introduce a plug-in hybrid configuration. This powertrain technology is anticipated to mirror what’s used in the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, leveraging components like the battery and electric motor sourced from Mitsubishi. Notably, the Outlander PHEV can travel up to 38 miles solely using electricity provided by its 16.8-kWh battery pack.
For 2027, a new Rogue hybrid variant will become available as part of the all-new, fourth-generation Rogue redesign. This additional hybrid iteration will feature Nissan’s proprietary ePower series-hybrid technology, where the internal combustion engine functions solely as a generator rather than directly powering the wheels. Since debuting in Japan back in 2017, this particular setup employs a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter turboprop-like engine which does not turn the wheels; instead, it serves exclusively to charge the batteries.
In tandem with offering this ePower configuration, the updated Rogue lineup will include both a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) edition along with a conventional non-electrified trim level.
A Lavish Sentra… and Perhaps an Electric Altima Alternative?
Next year will additionally bring a
new Sentra
and we have already witnessed
spy photos
Of this particular item. It’s bigger than
the current Sentra
, and Nissan is also elevating the styling both inside and outside of its lone sedan, making it appear more upscale and premium. The growth in dimensions aims to assist the Sentra in bridging some of the void left behind.
the Altima
, which will be phased out after 2025.
The Sentra will feature a three-cylinder turbo paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) designed to closely emulate a traditional gearbox while still offering impressive fuel efficiency. While specific prices have not been disclosed, based on its increased dimensions and enhanced cabin space, we anticipate that the cost will stay within the present Sentra’s under-$30,000 range. Though specifics weren’t provided regarding an immediate successor for the Altima, it seems probable that this role may soon be filled by a fully electric vehicle.
Infiniti QX65 Launching, Smaller QX Models Exiting
Infinity dealers will be thrilled about receiving a two-row fastback variant of the QX60 known as the
QX65
It’s anticipated that it will offer the same powertrain options as
the current QX60
However, they will gain advantages from the mid-cycle update that will provide both the QX60 and QX65 models with a front end similar to that of their larger counterparts.
QX80
Interior upgrades are anticipated too.
The more compact QX50 and QX55
will be discontinued
after 2025.
Infiniti will receive a variant of an impending electric SUV that Nissan plans to start producing towards the end of 2027. While not much information was disclosed, they showcased some prototype designs with a pronounced ruggedness suitable for off-roading and potentially appealing to Xterra enthusiasts. The Infiniti iteration of this electric SUV boasts a streamlined, almond-like shape reminiscent of the Infiniti Vision QXe concept exhibited toward the close of 2023. Specifics regarding its battery life or technical specs haven’t been released yet since sales aren’t scheduled until 2028.
A Pledge to Performance Vehicles
When it comes to performance cars such as the
GT-R
and
the Z
According to Nissan’s upcoming CEO Ivan Espinosa, sports cars continue to hold significant importance for the brand. He mentioned that plans include maintaining the Z series’ presence in their offerings. Although he didn’t provide updates on a potential successor to the GT-R, Espinosa emphasized that vehicles such as these serve as icons and must be included in the company’s portfolio.
While he didn’t disclose any specifics regarding the timing or details of the upcoming GT-R, it’s encouraging to see that as Nissan concentrates on expanding into broader markets, they haven’t forgotten their core audience of car enthusiasts and their dedication to high-performance vehicles.
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