Nissan is navigating a challenging period marked by financial strain and uncertainty about its global strategy. However, despite these difficulties, the company has seen some positive momentum in the U.S. market. Sales in the United States rose by 6.3 percent during the first quarter of 2025, with much of this growth driven by affordable, small-car models such as the Versa and Sentra. These compact vehicles remain attractive options for budget-conscious consumers amid rising prices across the automotive industry.
A recent report from Automotive News, which cites an anonymous supplier, suggests that Nissan is considering a significant strategic shift—relocating Sentra production to the United States. The move would allow Nissan to sidestep the 25-percent tariff imposed by President Donald Trump on vehicles imported from Mexico and Canada. Since the Sentra is a cornerstone model for the brand, avoiding this additional cost could be a critical factor in maintaining its competitive pricing and market share.
The Sentra’s performance in early 2025 highlights its importance. Sales jumped 36.1 percent between January and March, making it Nissan’s second-best-selling vehicle in the U.S., just behind the Rogue. The difference between the two models was roughly 7,600 units. With a starting price of $22,730, including destination charges, the Sentra stands out as an appealing option for consumers looking for value without sacrificing quality.
Currently, the Sentra, Versa, and Kicks are manufactured in Mexico. While both the Versa and Kicks also posted remarkable first-quarter growth—156 percent and 84.8 percent, respectively—there are no known plans at this time to relocate their production to the U.S. The Sentra, however, may be moved to Nissan’s plant in Mississippi, although the company has not officially confirmed any changes to its manufacturing strategy.
Nissan’s new CEO is facing a daunting challenge as he seeks to guide the company through this turbulent phase. He has already implemented decisive actions, such as closing facilities, laying off employees, and putting several projects on hold. These difficult decisions are intended to streamline operations and focus on delivering a revitalized product lineup, which includes a next-generation Sentra.
Looking ahead, Nissan’s future offerings also feature a new electric Leaf and a plug-in hybrid version of the Rogue, both of which will be built in the company’s Tennessee facility. These developments signal a broader shift toward electrification and a renewed focus on the U.S. market as a key area of growth.