Cars.co.za report offers interesting insights
Cars.co.za recently launched Industry Report 2026 at its DealerCon summit, offers insight into the forces shaping South Africa’s vehicle market.
- Dealer News
- 22 September 2026
Nissan has taken another step in its electrification drive by debuting two all-new vehicles at the Philippine International Motor Show, using the event to underline China’s growing importance in the company’s global plans.
The new models, the Navara Pro Plug-in Hybrid and the Primera EV, are the first Nissan vehicles to be exported from China under a broader international strategy.
The unveiling signals the start of what Nissan describes as its ‘From China’ export approach, with the company positioning China not only as a major domestic market but also as a centre for product innovation and global competitiveness. By introducing the new models in the Philippines, Nissan is demonstrating how Chinese-developed vehicles will support its expansion in carefully selected overseas markets.
Among the two launches, the Navara Pro Plug-in Hybrid stands out as an attempt to bring electrification into a segment long associated with durability and practicality. Nissan says the pickup has been designed to suit both demanding work environments and lifestyle use, combining the brand’s established four-wheel-drive credentials with a more modern electrified powertrain.
The Primera EV, meanwhile, offers a more polished and technology-led proposition. The all-electric sedan has been presented as a refined model with a sleek exterior, a comfort-focused interior and a strong emphasis on digital connectivity. It reflects Nissan’s aim to strengthen its appeal among buyers seeking a more premium and contemporary electric vehicle experience.
While performance figures and detailed specifications are still to come, the significance of the announcement lies in the direction it reveals. Nissan is clearly seeking to refresh its line-up and improve its ability to respond more quickly to changing demand across international markets.
The company also used the motor show to preview a wider range of electrified products for the Philippine market. Alongside the newly revealed pickup and sedan, Nissan showcased the latest Kicks e-POWER and X-Trail e-POWER, both of which use the firm’s hybrid system designed to deliver electric-style smoothness with strong fuel efficiency.
Taken together, the presentations suggest Nissan is working to strengthen its global position through a more agile export strategy and a broader electrified offering. The Philippines may be the first destination for these Chinese-developed models, but it is unlikely to be the last as the company looks to build momentum in other markets.
Cars.co.za recently launched Industry Report 2026 at its DealerCon summit, offers insight into the forces shaping South Africa’s vehicle market.
Nissan has introduced the Tekton, a new compact SUV for the South African market. The model is built on the Renault‑Nissan alliance’s CMF‑B platform and is closely related to the Renault Duster, sharing engines and mechanical components.
At the recent DealerCon 2026, hosted by Cars.co.za automotive excellence was celebrated by honouring top executives in the automotive retails industry.
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Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
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