Nissan has once again captured the spotlight on Japan’s automotive scene, as its compact Roox has been crowned Car of the Year for 2026.
The award, presented by the Automotive Researchers and Journalists Conference of Japan (RJC), recognises the Roox for its clever mix of practicality, efficiency and driving sophistication.
The Roox belongs to Japan’s Kei car category, a class defined by strict size regulations, not longer than 3.4 metres and not wider than 1.48 metres. These diminutive cars are a staple of Japanese urban life, offering lower taxes, reduced parking costs and effortless manoeuvrability in crowded streets. Yet Nissan has managed to turn these limitations into an opportunity for innovation.
Inside, the Roox feels far larger than its exterior suggests. With an interior length of 2.35 metres, it comfortably seats four adults and even accommodates four 48-litre suitcases. Nissan’s designers embraced a concept they call “breeze”, using light and airflow to create a cabin that feels open and relaxing, almost like a lounge on wheels.
The latest Roox combines a playful exterior with thoughtful details that make daily life easier. Rear sliding doors open wide to 650mm, aided by sturdy grab handles for smooth entry and exit. The rear seats slide up to 320mm, allowing parents to reach children with ease, while a simple lever makes adjusting the boot space quick and intuitive.
Safety and convenience are central to the Roox’s appeal. It introduces features never before seen in a Kei car, including the Intelligent Around View Monitor with Invisible Hood View, which gives drivers a virtual look through the engine bay to spot hidden obstacles. A 3D View and Front Wide View further enhance visibility at junctions, while Nissan’s ProPILOT system adds intelligent braking, blind spot alerts and cross-traffic warnings for peace of mind.
For the first time, the Roox offers NissanConnect as an option, bringing Google Maps, Assistant and Play directly into the cabin. Paired with an optional drive recorder, the system even supports remote photo capture via smartphone, a clever touch for tech-savvy drivers.
Currently available only in Japan, the Roox is more than a city car; it’s a showcase of what small vehicles can achieve when design and technology work hand in hand. With its blend of practicality, innovation and charm, Nissan’s latest creation is set to have an effect on future models worldwide and redefine expectations of what a compact car can be.
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You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do.
Henry Ford
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