Nissan Accelerates Global NISMO Ambitions

Motorsports innovation, product expansion and heritage define NISMO’s next chapter.

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. and Nissan Motorsports & Customization Co. Ltd. (NMC) have unveiled a series of new initiatives designed to elevate the NISMO brand and strengthen Nissan’s global identity through motorsports, product innovation, and heritage-led programs. Announced in Jeddah on 7 January 2026, the strategy reinforces NISMO’s central role within Nissan’s Re:Nissan product roadmap, where emotionally driven “heartbeat models” are positioned to define brand DNA and ignite customer passion.


Track technology shaping future road cars


At the core of this strategy is Nissan’s long-standing motorsports philosophy of “road to track, track to road.” The company continues to harness insights from elite racing platforms such as Super GT, Formula E, and Super Taikyu, transferring advanced technologies and performance knowledge directly into its NISMO road car lineup. From fiscal year 2026, Nissan will further accelerate this exchange by introducing prototype vehicles dedicated to motorsports development, supporting advancements in both hardware and software while laying the foundation for future NISMO models.


New NISMO concept debuts in Tokyo


This motorsports-led approach underpins Nissan’s ambition to significantly expand its NISMO portfolio. The automaker plans to double the number of NISMO models available globally from five to ten, while increasing annual shipment volumes from approximately 100,000 units to 150,000 units by 2028. Overseas sales are also expected to rise, growing from 40 percent to 60 percent of total NISMO volume, reflecting the brand’s expanding international appeal. Strategic collaborations with external partners are also under consideration to further enhance performance, customization, and customer value.

The next public expression of this evolution will be revealed at Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, taking place from 9 to 11 January at Makuhari Messe. Nissan and NMC will debut a new NISMO concept model, offering a tangible glimpse into the brand’s future performance direction and design language. The exhibit will also showcase key vehicles that embody Nissan’s racing heritage, including the Fairlady Z NISMO MT, which introduces a manual transmission option for driving purists.

Motorsports heritage will take center stage with the display of the MOTUL AUTECH GT-R from the 2016 Super GT season, paying tribute to legendary driver Tsugio Matsuda following his retirement at the end of the 2025 season.


Heritage restoration targets iconic GT-R models


Alongside future-focused innovation, NMC is expanding its heritage and restoration programs, targeting the rapidly growing global auto restoration market. Initial efforts will focus on restoration, restomod, and parts sales for the iconic Skyline GT-R R32, R33, and R34 models, with broader regional and vehicle offerings planned.

Yutaka Sanada, President and CEO of NMC, commented: “NISMO continues to elevate the excitement and innovation of Nissan vehicles. Moving forward, we aim to infuse our passion and driven excitement into Nissan’s other product lines.”


Through motorsports excellence, expanded NISMO offerings, and renewed investment in heritage, Nissan and NMC are positioning the NISMO brand for a bold and performance-driven future.

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