… and one from Mitsubishi
Automotive alliances help manufacturers cut costs and accelerate development. With Nissan in need of fresh models to regain momentum after several challenging years, the company is leveraging its partnership with Renault. Following last month’s announcement that the Micra supermini will return as a rebadged Renault 5, Nissan has now confirmed plans for its own version of the even smaller, retro-inspired Twingo.
Nissan’s version of the Twingo hasn’t been named yet, but it will be developed and built by Ampere, Renault Group’s electric vehicle and software subsidiary. While no teaser images have been released, Nissan emphasizes that the A-segment EV will feature in-house design, suggesting more than just a simple badge swap.
The Micra already incorporates some Nissan-specific design elements while maintaining its Renault connection, and the same approach is expected for the tiny EV. Priced around €20,000, the Twingo will not only receive a Nissan equivalent but also a Dacia variant, expected to start at an even lower €18,000.
Nissan Pulls Out of Ampere Investment
Ironically, Nissan has decided to withdraw its financial backing from Ampere, the very company responsible for developing its smallest electric car (excluding Japan’s Sakura kei car). While the initial agreement in July 2023 outlined Nissan’s investment in Ampere, the automaker is now opting out of the deal by the end of next month.
Meanwhile, the Renault-Nissan alliance continues to evolve. The companies are reducing their cross-shareholdings from 15% to 10%, giving both the option to lower their stakes further if desired. Additionally, Renault is acquiring Nissan’s 51% stake in its Indian operations.
Nissan Eyes Mitsubishi for a Rebadged SUV
Beyond Renault, Nissan is also turning to Mitsubishi for another model. A shadowy teaser suggests a familiar SUV, likely based on the Outlander PHEV. Nissan has already confirmed that a plug-in hybrid Rogue is coming to the U.S. later this year, and it’s expected to be a badge-engineered Outlander.
This move makes sense since the two SUVs share the CMF-CD platform. While additional variety would be ideal, rebadging an existing model is the fastest way to expand the lineup. However, this strategy will be short-lived, as Nissan plans to launch a fully redesigned, fourth-generation Rogue in the U.S. in 2026, featuring its E-Power hybrid system.
Nissan’s Future: SUVs First, Sports Cars Later
For those unfamiliar with E-Power, it uses a 1.5-liter gasoline engine solely as a generator to charge a battery that powers electric motors. Since the engine isn’t mechanically connected to the wheels, Nissan claims the system delivers an EV-like driving experience. The next-gen Rogue will also offer a traditional plug-in hybrid, signaling that the rebadged Outlander PHEV will only be a temporary addition.
If Nissan’s strategy proves successful, it could pave the way for the return of enthusiast favorites. New CEO Ivan Espinosa has expressed interest in reviving the Silvia, though Nissan’s priority remains ensuring the success of mainstream models like SUVs and the new Sentra. Meanwhile, the second-generation Leaf is shifting to a crossover format, reflecting the company’s broader push toward electrification.
