Nissan Roox 2026 is the first kei car with a large 12.3-inch

2026 Nissan Roox first kei car screen

On August 22, 2025, Nissan announced the 2026 Roox as the first kei car with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Kei cars are small vehicles designed for Japanese roads and are familiar in crowded cities.

Nissan began making the Roox in 2009 as a version of the Suzuki Palette, which ended production in 2013. The 2026 Roox is the fourth generation with design, interior, and performance updates. The car keeps the same small-displacement engine with minor improvements to make it quieter and more efficient.

Rounded square motif updates exterior

The exterior of the 2026 Roox uses a rounded square motif in its headlights. Nissan also updated rear lamps, door handles, and wheels. These changes give the car a distinct look compared to earlier versions.

Four new body colors were added, bringing the total to 17. One new color, Karahafu, is inspired by traditional Japanese roof designs. There are six two-tone and seven solid colors available for the new model.

Interior layout and seating space

Inside, the rounded square motif is repeated on headrests and the speedometer. The seats are trimmed in Melange fabric, a soft and stretchy material used in sofas.

Nissan cites a class-leading interior length of 2,315 mm (+115 mm vs prior model); rear knee room is described as segment-best in outlet summaries.

Cargo capacity and storage features

Nissan says the Roox’s cargo bay (about 675 mm long in prior documentation) can stow up to four 48-liter suitcases; the new model retains a similarly practical layout.

These features are designed to maximize space while keeping the vehicle compact. The layout allows comfortable seating for four adults and organized storage for personal belongings and daily items.

Infotainment system and view monitor

The Roox uses a 12.3-inch infotainment display compatible with NissanConnect and Google built-in. Nissan added the Intelligent Around View Monitor with Invisible Hood View, letting drivers see obstacles under the engine bay.

The system also offers a 3D view of the surroundings and a Front Wide View. The ProPILOT suite includes Intelligent Emergency Braking for pedestrians and vehicles. Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention helps avoid collisions during lane changes.

NissanConnect and remote monitoring

The 2026 Roox includes NissanConnect, which bundles navigation, security, and entertainment. Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play are integrated. Remote Photo Shot allows owners to monitor their cars using smartphones.

Nissan said the Roox will be available only in Japan by the end of 2025. The starting price is about 1.6 million yen, or $10,700 at current exchange rates. The car combines affordability with advanced technology for a kei vehicle.

Nissan X-Trail NISMO launched Japan

Nissan launched the X-Trail NISMO for Japan on Aug 21, 2025, with sales starting Sep 24, 2025. Hardware highlights include KYB (Kayaba) Swing Valve dampers, 20-inch wheels on Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires, and e-4ORCE tuning.

Aero revisions (under spoiler, side under spoilers, diffuser, motorsport-style rear fog lamp) reduce lift by 29% versus the base model. Optional Recaro sports seats add power recline and heating.

Tires, wheels, and handling features

The X-Trail NISMO uses Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires with 20-inch aluminum wheels. Wider rims improve steering response and airflow. The power steering is tuned to match the suspension and wheels.

The vehicle control module offers SPORT mode for responsive driving and AUTO mode for mid to high-range acceleration. These settings allow the SUV to handle daily driving while giving precise control in dynamic situations.

Exterior design for performance

The front features dark chrome accents above the grille and signature lamps. The front under spoiler has an NISMO logo and generates downforce. The red side under the spoilers extends the negative pressure area under the vehicle.

At the rear, a diffuser-shaped edge and racing-style fog lamps reflect motorsport design. Wheel design improves brake cooling and airflow. Overall, lift is reduced by 29% compared to the base X-Trail, increasing stability without adding drag.

Interior design and seat options

Inside, the X-Trail NISMO has a black interior with red accents. Optional NISMO Recaro sports seats provide support during cornering. They include power reclining and heating features.

The cabin keeps X-Trail’s practicality while adding sport-oriented seating. Red accents highlight design features. Recaro seats allow the driver and front passenger to maintain stability during dynamic driving and improve comfort during long trips.

X-Trail NISMO sales schedule

Nissan scheduled sales of the X-Trail NISMO to start on September 24, 2025, in Japan. The SUV targets drivers seeking a balance of sporty performance and everyday usability.

The launch shows Nissan’s strategy of integrating race-based technology into market-ready vehicles. The NISMO variant is a high-performance option for X-Trail buyers who want improved handling and driving dynamics.

Re:Nissan recovery plan launched

Nissan announced Re:Nissan to improve company performance and create a leaner business. The plan aims for positive operating profit and free cash flow by fiscal year 2026. Cost savings of 500 billion yen are targeted versus FY24, along with a reduction of 20,000 employees by FY2027.

Plant consolidation reduces the number of manufacturing facilities from 17 to 10. The company also prioritizes efficient development, cost governance, and supply chain restructuring to adapt to market conditions. The goal is sustainable operations and profitability by FY26.

Cost reductions and development changes

Re:Nissan targets 250 billion yen in variable cost savings by improving engineering efficiency. About 3,000 employees focus on these efforts. Advanced and post-FY26 projects were paused temporarily.

Fixed costs are reduced by another 250 billion yen by FY26. Nissan simplifies R&D, reduces platform numbers from 13 to 7 by 2035, and cuts parts complexity by 70%. Development lead times are shortened to 37 months for new vehicles and 30 months for family vehicles.

Global market strategy and products

Nissan focuses on key markets: the U.S., Japan, China, Europe, the Middle East, and Mexico. The company tailors product strategy to local needs, emphasizing hybrids in the U.S. and NEVs in China.

Alliances with Renault, Mitsubishi, and Honda continue. The company focuses on signature Nissan models for growth. Local partnerships support electrification and intelligence technology. Market-specific planning ensures competitive offerings in each region.

NEV concept vehicles in China

At Auto China 2024 in Beijing, Nissan unveiled four NEV concepts: two EVs and two plug-in hybrids. These vehicles aim to meet China’s electrification and mobility needs.

The models include Nissan Epoch EV sedan, Nissan Epic EV SUV, Nissan Era plug-in hybrid SUV, and Nissan Evo plug-in hybrid sedan. Each concept features AI systems, autonomous driving, and energy management designed for urban and recreational use.

A fresh twist in China’s electric vehicle market has sparked questions as new data raises concerns about reported growth figures. Read more in Another curveball from China raises eyebrows over EV numbers.

China strategy and electrification focus

Nissan promotes “In China, for China” with its campaign “Excitement by Ni.” The focus is on intelligent, electric-driven vehicles to meet mobility demand. Partnerships in AI and electrification continue to advance future mobility.

The Formula E Gen3 race car was also displayed, showing Nissan’s electric racing technology. By FY2026, Nissan plans to launch five NEVs in China, supporting sustainable growth and innovation in mobility.

China’s government is slowing down rapid EV expansion, signaling a more cautious approach to the booming industry. The whole story is that China’s government is tapping the brakes on EV expansion.

What do you think about the Roox’s huge screen? Drop your comments.

Read More From This Brand:

1. Nissan plans $4 billion bond offering to refinance existing debt
2. China competition and US tariffs drag down Mercedes earnings
3. Some Mercedes EVs just dropped $15,000 in price

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.