Nissan Set to Double Its Performance Range While Teasing Secret Sports Car | Carscoops

      The performance brand aims for global expansion by introducing more Nismo models, developing a race-inspired sports car, and increasing restoration and customization initiatives.

      Nissan plans to expand its Nismo lineup to 10 models by 2028.

      The global sales goal is set at 150,000 Nismo units each year.

      The racer will transform into the forthcoming Nismo production model.

      Despite facing ongoing challenges, Nissan remains determined. The company is forging ahead with a renewed commitment to the performance sector, unveiling a strategy to expand its Nismo division by doubling its current range of global models.

      This strategy leverages motorsport as both a testing ground and a promotional tool, while also exploring customization and vehicle restoration options.

      The expansion plan aims to grow the Nismo lineup from five to ten models. Nissan’s sales target is to boost annual sales from about 100,000 units to 150,000 by 2028.

      A larger percentage of this sales increase is expected to come from international markets, which are projected to account for 60 percent of sales, up from the existing 40 percent. Potential partnerships are also being considered to enhance the brand’s personalization capabilities and product development.

      Motorsport is fundamental to the brand’s identity, with Nismo reaffirming its dedication to Super GT and Formula E championships, while actively participating in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series. Moreover, the company plans to explore new racing categories, using these competitions as testing grounds for future sports models.

      One notable announcement is a Nismo prototype set to compete in racing events starting in the 2026 fiscal year. Although specific details are not yet available, the intention is to develop the prototype through motorsport before transitioning it into a production model, possibly indicating the next generation of the GT-R or something entirely new.

      Nismo’s product lineup will certainly expand beyond current selections. With the discontinuation of the R35 GT-R, North American customers currently have access only to the Z sports car and the Armada SUV.

      Japanese customers can choose from Nismo variants of the X-Trail (Rogue), Aura, Note Aura, Ariya, and Skyline. Future additions may include a sportier version of the Leaf crossover and a fully electric hot hatch based on the Micra, aimed at the European market.

      Reports suggest that at least one upcoming Nismo model might carry the Infiniti name. This likely pertains to a production version of the QX80 Track Spec concept, initially revealed in August 2025.

      This concept SUV featured a tuned twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 650 hp (485 kW / 659 PS), alongside a more aggressive body kit and a lowered stance. Similar enhancements could be seen on future Nismo iterations of the Q50S sedan and QX65 crossover.

      Nismo is also looking back, focusing on the past while tapping into the global restoration market, which is valued at approximately ¥500 billion (around $3.3 billion) and is projected to exceed ¥1.2 trillion ($8 billion) by 2032.

      Nissan aims to capture a larger share of this market by broadening its restoration, restomod, and genuine parts offerings. Currently, these initiatives are centered on the R32, R33, and R34 generations of the GT-R, with plans to include more models in the future.