Marking decades of innovation and trust with Filipino motorists
As the country celebrates History Month in August, Nissan Philippines reflects on its decades-long journey with Filipino motorists. From early presence under the Datsun name to today’s innovative models, Nissan has been integral to the evolving Filipino driving experience.
Beginnings in the 1960s
Nissan entered the Philippines in the 1960s, with vehicles officially sold under the Datsun brand. Models like the Datsun 180B and Cedric 200C carved space in the passenger car market, while pickups like the Datsun 1600 became well-regarded for blending rugged utility with car-like features.
Growth and Local Manufacturing
By the 1980s, Nissan began assembling vehicles locally, meeting rising demand while supporting automotive industry development. The brand introduced staples like the Patrol and Frontier, trusted for work and leisure. The Nissan Sentra became a go-to sedan, known for comfort and reliability.
A New Millennium for Nissan
The early 2000s brought growth and resurgence, highlighted by the 2003 launch of the X-Trail, Nissan’s first compact crossover SUV in the Philippines. Within the first week, over 100 units were sold, and by 2004-2005, the X-Trail comprised over half of Nissan’s local sales.
Establishment of Nissan Philippines, Inc.
In 2013, Nissan Philippines, Inc. (NPI) marked a new era of growth. The brand expanded its lineup to include the Terra and notably, the Navara, which became one of Nissan’s most significant milestones with its tough yet smart philosophy combining rugged durability with advanced technology.
The Journey Continues
Recent years saw Nissan break new ground, introducing electrified mobility with the LEAF in 2021 and Kicks e-POWER in 2022, plus the All-New Patrol.
“From our earliest nameplates to today’s tech-driven lineup, our history in the Philippines has been one of constant evolution,” says Nissan Philippines President Masao Tsutsumi. “As we celebrate Philippine History Month, we also celebrate the many roads we have traveled together, and the many more still to come.”
For more information, visit nissan.ph.
