Honda and Nissan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a strategic partnership focused on intelligence and electrification in late 2024. The merger is planned to be completed in August 2026. While there are multiple questions related to the merger and the future offerings from both carmakers, Honda executives at the media roundtable at CES revealed some insights and information about the collaboration.
Noriya Kaihara, Director and Executive Vice President of Honda Motor Company, said that “We are still discussing with Nissan how we will proceed”. “In the short term, especially in the U.S. market, Nissan has a larger class… vehicles that we don’t have. So, if maybe we can exchange some of the vehicles, that would also be a benefit for us in the short term.”
This suggests Honda might consider rebadging Nissan products (such as the Nissan Armada or Patrol SUV) to challenge full-size SUVs like GMC Yukon, Jeep Wagoneer, Chevrolet Taheo, Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia.
New Honda 7/8-Seater SUV:
In its global product lineup, Honda’ largest crossover SUV is the Pilot, which measures 5,077mm in length and offers seating for up to 8 passengers. The Nissan Patrol or Armada is relatively bigger measuring 5,324mm in length and featuring a capable 425bhp/699Nm, 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine. The Patrol has Nissan’s signature bold and a massive front grille with chrome finish, C-shaped LED DRLs, 22-inch alloy wheels, large roof rails, side steps and sporty bumpers. Honda’s Patrol based 7/8 seater SUV is expected to have a slightly different appearance, with the brand’s signature design elements.
Also See: Honda’s BIG Plan: 5 New Cars For India
The Nissan Patrol is one of the most capable SUVs available in the global markets. It comes with the lock rear differential, hydraulic body motion control, hill descent and hill start assist and all mode 4X4 system with four terrain modes – Sand, Rock, Snow and On-Road. The SUV has an approach angle of 34.4° and a departure angle of 26.3°. It water wading capacity is 700mm.
Is It Coming To India?
The new Honda 7/8-seater SUV, based on the Nissan Patrol or Armada, will be developed for the North American and other global markets. It’s unlikely to arrive in India. Here, the Japanese automaker will introduce a three-row SUV based on the brand’s all-new PF2 platform in 2027-28.
