Nissan Unveils New Models: Patrol, Armada, Murano and an SUV We Don't Yet Know

Nissan has presented a series of new models during the release of its financial results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024. Among these launches we can see four new vehicles that aim to position themselves in the competitive SUV and crossover market and carve out a place in the electrified segment.

During the presentation, one slide particularly caught attention by showing the silhouettes of four models not yet revealed. These silhouettes refer to the highly anticipated Nissan Patrol and Armada, which are near-twin versions developed specifically for different markets (the Middle East and the United States, respectively), as well as the redesigned Nissan Murano and a mysterious smaller SUV.

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Nissan Patrol and Armada: These two models, known for their robustness and off-road capability, promise to continue the tradition of their predecessors but with significant updates in design and technology. The visible proportions suggest continuity in their imposing presence, although improvements in efficiency and comfort are expected.

Nissan Murano: Positioned as a mid-size SUV, the Murano has been redesigned to offer a sportier and more elegant look. Recent spy photos have shown a model with split headlights and a flowing roofline, hinting at a vehicle that combines style with functionality.

Mysterious subcompact SUV: The fourth model remains in the realm of speculation. Its compact dimensions suggest it could be an urban crossover, possibly an electric successor to the Nissan Juke, expected to debut between 2025 and 2027. This model could be key for the European market, where demand for electric vehicles is booming.

Financial context

The announcement of these new models comes at a critical moment for Nissan. The company reported a 99.2% drop in operating profit, falling to 995 million yen ($6.4 million), and a 72.9% decline in net profit, which fell to 28,562 million yen ($184.6 million). These results have forced Nissan to revise its annual targets, adjusting its sales goal to 3.65 million units from the 3.7 million originally forecast, and reducing its operating profit target to 500,000 million yen ($3.2 billion) from 600,000 million yen ($3.9 billion).

Strategies and future plans

Nissan’s CEO, Makoto Uchida, stressed during the presentation the importance of these new launches in revitalising the brand across different markets. In the United States, the new Armada and Murano are fundamental to attracting consumers, while in the Middle East the Patrol remains an icon of durability and performance.

For Europe, the electrified versions of the SUVs Juke, Qashqai and X-Trail are crucial, highlighting Nissan’s commitment to electrification. These e-Power models offer a transition towards electric mobility without sacrificing range and versatility.

In Japan, however, Nissan will stay its course and focus its efforts on the Note hatchback, the Serena MPV and the “kei cars” Sakura and Dayz, compact vehicles that are popular for their efficiency and practicality in urban environments.