Nissan Motor Co. has reported a return to profitability in the first quarter of FY2026, marking a significant turnaround after recording a net loss of 533.1 billion yen (US$3.38 billion) during the previous financial year. The improved performance reflects the early success of the company’s Re:Nissan recovery strategy, which focuses on cost reductions, operational efficiency and strengthening global competitiveness.
The automaker reported an increase in net revenue of approximately US$1.6 billion year-on-year, while operating profit improved by 157 billion yen, returning to positive territory after losses in FY2025. Nissan attributed the stronger financial results to disciplined cost management, manufacturing improvements, lower vehicle production costs, favourable foreign exchange rates and stronger vehicle sales.
During the first quarter, Nissan achieved approximately US$328 million in fixed and variable cost savings and reached its engineering cost reduction targets ahead of schedule. The company remains on track to deliver approximately US$3.1 billion in total cost savings by the end of the current financial year through its ongoing transformation programme.
Global vehicle sales exceeded 700,000 units during the quarter, with the United States remaining Nissan’s strongest market. U.S. sales increased by 9.6% year-on-year, driven by robust demand for the Pathfinder, Rogue and Frontier models. Pathfinder sales surged 32%, marking the best quarterly performance in the SUV’s four-decade history, while Rogue sales climbed nearly 39% and Frontier deliveries increased 35%.
Looking ahead, Nissan plans to strengthen its North American product lineup with the launch of a hybrid Rogue e-Power later this year while continuing to prioritise locally manufactured, tariff-free vehicles.
Despite the positive momentum, Nissan acknowledged ongoing challenges, including rising raw material costs, higher logistics expenses, geopolitical uncertainty and increasing competition in China. Vehicle sales in China declined 15% during the quarter, prompting the company to revise its full-year global sales forecast from 3.3 million to 3.15 million vehicles.
Nevertheless, Nissan has reaffirmed its full-year financial guidance and remains focused on improving profitability, strengthening cash flow and building a more resilient business through the continued execution of its Re:Nissan strategy.
