Key facts
- Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa is prioritizing a U.S. market revival strategy.
- The strategy involves reducing sales to rental car companies and focusing on vehicle quality.
- New models, including a hybrid Rogue and rugged SUVs like the Xterra, are planned.
- Nissan aims to cut its global manufacturing footprint and workforce by 15% as part of cost control measures.
- Dealers are optimistic about Espinosa's plan if new products are successful.
Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa is spearheading a revival strategy for the automaker's U.S. operations, aiming to shed an image problem caused by aggressive sales tactics and discounts. Espinosa, who took the helm in April 2025, acknowledged that Nissan's U.S. market share has declined to just over 6% from approximately 9% a decade ago.
In an interview, Espinosa stated that the company's previous focus on sheer volume, often achieved through steep discounts and sales to rental car companies, harmed resale values and cheapened the brand. He expressed a desire to move away from the rental market to foster healthier sales growth.
Nissan is now emphasizing its vehicle quality, highlighted by a recent strong performance in a JD Power survey. The company plans to introduce new models, including a hybrid version of its top-selling Rogue compact SUV and new rugged SUVs like the reintroduced Xterra, to attract customers.
This U.S. strategy is part of a broader global revival plan that includes a 15% reduction in Nissan's worldwide manufacturing footprint and workforce to control costs. The automaker is also seeking partnerships for vehicle technology development.
Dealers, such as Harry Criswell, who owns a Nissan dealership in the Washington D.C. area, are reportedly optimistic about Espinosa's leadership, provided the company can deliver compelling new products.