Nissan’s China joint venture, Dongfeng Nissan, has unveiled the new NX8 electric SUV, a technologically advanced mid-to-large model that signals how far the brand’s China strategy has moved beyond its global lineup.
Nissan’s joint venture in China, Dongfeng Nissan, has officially revealed the new NX8, a mid-to-large SUV scheduled to launch in the first half of 2026. With its size, powertrain flexibility, and cutting-edge technology, the NX8 positions itself not just as a new model, but as a statement of intent for Nissan in the world’s most competitive EV market.
Bigger than Nissan’s global SUVs
Dimensionally, the NX8 sits above familiar Nissan models. Measuring 4,870 mm long, 1,920 mm wide, and 1,680 mm tall with a 2,917 mm wheelbase, it is larger than both the Rogue and the Ariya. That places it firmly in the mid-to-large SUV segment, where it will compete with models such as the BYD Tang, Li Auto L7/L8, and Tesla Model Y (on price and tech, if not pure size).
This scale suggests the NX8 is designed primarily for family use and long-distance comfort—key priorities for Chinese buyers in this class.
A step-change in technology
More significant than its size is what sits underneath. The NX8 is Nissan’s first SUV—and second EV overall—based on Dongfeng’s advanced EV platforms, integrating electric drive systems, vehicle control units, and intelligent in-vehicle software developed specifically for China.
According to CarNewsChina, the NX8 is the first foreign-brand electric SUV in China to use an 800V architecture paired with 5C ultra-fast charging. This places it on par with leading domestic EVs and well ahead of most Nissan-branded vehicles sold globally today.
EV and EREV options for broader appeal
The NX8 will be offered with two powertrain choices:
Fully electric (EV):
Powered by a CATL lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, delivering a CLTC range of up to 650 km (404 miles).
Extended-range EV (EREV):
Using a smaller LFP battery, a 241 hp electric motor, and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine acting as a generator, offering up to 185 km (115 miles) of electric-only driving.
This dual approach mirrors strategies used by Chinese brands like Li Auto and Deepal, broadening the NX8’s appeal to buyers who want EV driving without full dependence on charging infrastructure.
Interior and assisted driving
Inside, the NX8 adopts a minimalist, tech-forward layout with a dual-screen infotainment setup, a dedicated digital driver cluster, and a head-up display. A roof-mounted LiDAR enables advanced driver assistance, including Navigation on Autopilot (NOA) for both city and highway use, plus full-scenario intelligent parking—features increasingly expected in this segment in China.
Pricing and market positioning
While official pricing has not been announced, expectations are that the NX8 will start around 140,000 yuan (roughly $20,000), slightly above the Dongfeng Nissan N7, which launched at 119,900 yuan. If accurate, that would make the NX8 extremely competitive against similarly sized domestic rivals.
Following the pattern set by the N7, Nissan is also expected to export the NX8 to markets such as Thailand, Australia, and parts of Southeast Asia, though it is unlikely to reach Europe or North America in its current form.
Perspective
The NX8 highlights a widening gap between Nissan’s China-specific products and its global lineup. In China, Nissan is embracing 800V charging, LiDAR-based assisted driving, and aggressive pricing—areas where its global EV offerings lag behind. Whether this China-led innovation eventually reshapes Nissan’s strategy elsewhere remains an open question, but the NX8 makes one thing clear: in China, Nissan is playing to win, not to follow.
