
Nissan Halts Electric Vehicle Production to Revive One of Its Most Iconic SUVs | Carscoops
Nissan has confirmed that the upcoming Xterra will feature a hybrid V6 engine, marking the return of the off-road vehicle as the automaker halts its new electric vehicle initiatives, thereby altering its strategic focus for 2028.
Recent updates have surfaced regarding the revival of Nissan's Xterra SUV, just weeks after the manufacturer announced the development of a new generation. The reintroduction of this robust off-roader is expected to please its loyal fan base, although its return seems to overshadow the introduction of a new electric model intended for production in the U.S.
Following CEO Ivan Espinosa's confirmation of the Xterra's comeback during a national dealer conference, Nissan Americas chairman Christian Meunier reiterated the goal of launching the SUV in 2028. The vehicle will be equipped with a V6 hybrid powertrain and will be produced at the company’s facility in Canton, Mississippi.
It has been over ten years since the original Xterra was discontinued. Although information about the new version remains limited, it is anticipated to utilize a body-on-frame design, similar to that of the redesigned Frontier and updated versions of the Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60.
In discussions with Bloomberg, Meunier suggested that a more upscale, Infiniti-branded version of the Xterra might also be developed. He noted that dealers are very enthusiastic about the return of the Xterra, but admitted that changing market conditions have prompted Nissan to reevaluate its electric vehicle strategy. Reduced demand for EVs has led the company to put a new project on hold that was slated for the same Mississippi plant.
The canceled electric vehicle was set to utilize batteries from SK On, which operates a nearby facility, and was expected to debut in 2028. Meunier commented that pausing the model's plans is "the right thing to do," and added that Nissan continues to assess the feasibility of manufacturing EVs in the United States. However, he indicated that such efforts may only be viable if Nissan can achieve substantial savings in manufacturing costs, which includes finding a partner automaker for EV production.



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Nissan Halts Electric Vehicle Production to Revive One of Its Most Iconic SUVs | Carscoops
The Xterra off-roader makes a comeback as Nissan pauses new EV initiatives, altering the brand's trajectory for 2028.