Nissan is signaling a renewed focus on performance as it works to reshape its global lineup and revive an image built on affordable, engaging cars. The automaker has confirmed plans to introduce 10 new performance-oriented models in the coming years, marking a significant expansion of its NISMO brand.
The announcement comes as Nissan moves through a broader corporate reset. After spending nearly three decades in a strategic alliance with Renault that also included Mitsubishi, the company has recently undergone a restructuring that leaves the partners operating as more clearly separated entities. While the alliance produced several successful vehicles, it also coincided with years of uneven product planning and declining brand momentum, particularly over the past decade.
Nissan now appears focused on rebuilding from within. Central to that effort is a renewed emphasis on performance and heritage. The company previously launched its Nissan Heritage division to support classic models through factory-backed parts production and services, reinforcing its connection to enthusiast culture and long-term ownership.
The performance push is being guided by a newly announced internal philosophy that centers on technology and excitement flowing between motorsports and road cars. While Nissan has not outlined specific models tied to the new initiative, recent product activity offers clues about what may follow.
The introduction of the Armada NISMO, a high-performance take on the full-size SUV now sold in North America, demonstrated a willingness to apply the NISMO badge beyond traditional sports cars. At the same time, Nissan’s luxury division, Infiniti, has outlined plans to rework its lineup with a stronger focus on enthusiast appeal.
Adding to the momentum, reports surfaced last week pointing to a new rear-wheel-drive sports sedan under development, potentially offering an optional six-speed manual transmission. Although Nissan has not confirmed markets for future NISMO models, the presence of unconventional performance vehicles already on U.S. roads suggests North America could play a role in the expansion.
By broadening its performance offerings, Nissan aims to reignite interest in its products, strengthen brand identity, and ultimately improve sales and financial performance as it enters its next chapter.