Nissan will replace every model in its SUV range in Europe within the next 18 months as the automaker seeks to rebound from a sales slump.
Nissan relies on SUVs such the compact Qashqai, small Juke and midsize X-trail for most of its volume in Europe but the aging range has contributed to falling demand for the brand.
Nissan sales in the EU and EFTA markets fell 24 percent to 334,505 vehicles in the first 10 months, according data from to industry association ACEA.
Between now and mid 2021, Nissan will replace the Qashqai, X-trail and launch a new electric SUV previewed by the Ariya concept, the automaker's European chief, Gianluca de Ficchy told Automotive News Europe in an interview.
Nissan started the European rollout of its latest generation Juke last month. The SUV replaces the model first unveiled in 2010. It is underpinned by the same CMF-B platform used by alliance partner Renault for the Clio small car and Captur small SUV. Nissan is dropping the Juke's diesel engine due to falling demand for the powertrain.
De Ficchy gave no further details of subsequent model-launch timings, but a source close to the company said the next model to be replaced will be the X-trail within the next six months.
Nissan had planned to build its largest SUV in its Sunderland, UK, plant but changed its plans and will continue to build it in Japan for European markets.
European sales of the X-trail fell 59 percent to 18,368 over the first 10 months, according to JATO Dynamics market researchers. The new X-trail's exterior was styled in Nissan's design studio in the U.S., where it is badged as the Rogue.