Nissan market dynamics in Latin America

In late July 2026, Chile’s automotive sector recorded a 5.6% year‑on‑year increase, driven largely by a surge in used‑car transactions. Nissan re‑entered the Chilean market through a new importer, Astara Group, launching the third‑generation Nissan Versa on 1 June. The model’s refreshed design and features were positioned to capitalize on the strong demand for compact sedans and to improve the brand’s historic sales record in the country.

A week later, Nissan’s performance in Mexico showed a contrasting picture. July 2026 sales slipped 0.7% year‑on‑year to 23,454 units, even as the overall Mexican market grew 3.39%. The decline coincided with the cancellation of large government vehicle‑procurement contracts—up to 36,000 units—by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad and the Secretaría de Hacienda y Crédito Público, raising concerns about future demand and industry competitiveness.

Together, the snapshots illustrate Nissan’s mixed fortunes across Latin America: expansion and a new model launch in Chile, alongside a modest sales dip and broader market uncertainty in Mexico.