Nissan Boosted U.S. Manufacturing Strategy

The automaker plans to shift production of the Rogue to the U.S. while phasing out the Altima sedan.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Car Types

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring a geometric automotive assembly frame and industrial robotic arm, representing a shift in domestic manufacturing strategy. — Nissan will discontinue the Altima sedan and shift production of its Rogue SUV to U.S. facilities as part of a strategic manufacturing expansion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Nissan has announced a strategic shift to increase domestic manufacturing, aiming to have 80% of its U.S.-market vehicles built in the country by the end of the decade. As part of this transition, the company will discontinue the Altima sedan and move production of the high-volume Rogue SUV from Japan to its American facilities.

Why it matters

Rising tariffs have incentivized the company to expand its domestic footprint to mitigate costs and streamline logistics for the U.S. market. This shift reflects a broader push to align production closer to the end consumer while updating the brand's vehicle lineup.

Currently, 65% of Nissan vehicles sold in the U.S. are built domestically. Last year, the brand saw over 200,000 units sold for the Rogue and 90,000 units sold for the Altima.

The players

Nissan

This is a global Japanese automaker known for its extensive lineup of passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs.

The details

Nissan intends to leverage its existing manufacturing network in Smyrna, Tennessee, and Canton, Mississippi, along with its engine plant in Decherd, Tennessee, to support the production shift. Future plans include the introduction of new body-on-frame vehicles, including a new Xterra, based on a shared platform.

2028: Expected start date for U.S. production of the Rogue.
2030: Anticipated arrival of new body-on-frame models including the Xterra.
End of the decade: Target date for reaching 80% domestic production share.

Roadmap

This move signals a broader transition within the auto industry to reduce reliance on long-haul supply chains that are sensitive to shifting trade policies. By localizing production of high-volume models, Nissan aims to improve its agility against competitors in the American market.

Shoppers can expect a shift in inventory as the Altima is phased out in favor of an expanded domestic SUV and truck lineup. Buyers should anticipate that future models of popular vehicles like the Rogue will increasingly carry 'Made in the USA' manufacturing credentials.

The takeaway

Nissan's commitment to domestic manufacturing highlights a pivot toward SUVs and specialized truck platforms to capture shifting consumer demand. Consumers should monitor upcoming model releases to see how these assembly changes impact regional pricing and availability.