Nissan Philippines Unveils 3 New Models at PIMS 2026
At the 2026 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) held from 3–6 April 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Nissan Philippines unveiled three new electrified vehicles: the Kicks e-Power compact SUV, the Primera EV electric sedan, and the Navara Pro plug-in hybrid pickup. The trio forms the core of Nissan’s “Electrify ASEAN” strategy and provides a concrete preview of models that could reach Malaysian showrooms via Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), the official Nissan distributor in Malaysia, pending local homologation and Sirim certification. For Malaysian drivers, these vehicles address key adoption barriers—charging infrastructure scarcity, range anxiety, and the need for versatile urban-to-rural capability—by offering three distinct electrified powertrains without relying solely on public charging. The event drew over 50 regional automotive journalists, according to Careta.my, and signals Nissan’s intent to expand its e-Power, battery electric, and plug-in hybrid portfolio in Malaysia, which recorded a 120% year-on-year growth in electrified vehicle sales in 2025 (MAA data).
“Our three new electrified models demonstrate Nissan’s ambition to lead the EV and e-Power transition in Southeast Asia. We are evaluating market conditions to bring these vehicles to other ASEAN markets, including Malaysia,” said Nissan Philippines President Juan Manuel Hoyos during the PIMS 2026 press conference.
Source: Careta.my, 3 April 2026
Key Facts: Nissan’s PIMS 2026 Trio
The table below consolidates the key specifications, estimated Malaysian pricing, and local compatibility details for the three models unveiled at PIMS 2026, based on Careta.my’s coverage and Nissan Philippines’ official releases. Exact specifications for the Malaysian market may differ pending ETCM’s final homologation.
| Attribute | Nissan Kicks e-Power | Nissan Primera EV | Nissan Navara Pro PHEV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | e-Power series hybrid (1.2L engine, 100 kW motor) | Pure electric (160 kW motor, 60 kWh battery) | Plug-in hybrid (2.5L engine + 100 kW motor, 13.8 kWh battery) |
| Claimed Fuel/Range | 21.7 km/l (NEDC) | 450 km (WLTP) | 45 km electric-only (WLTP) |
| Philippine Launch Price | PHP 1,209,000 (~RM 96,720) | PHP 2,500,000 (~RM 200,000) | PHP 1,800,000 (~RM 144,000) |
| Estimated Malaysian Price* | RM 110,000–130,000 | RM 180,000–220,000 | RM 160,000–190,000 |
| Charging Capability | Self-charging (no plug-in) | 130 kW DC (10–80% in 30 min), 11 kW AC | 6.6 kW AC (full charge in 2.5 hrs) |
| Power (Voltage/Plug) | N/A | Compatible with 240V UK-style sockets (Level 2) | Standard 240V 3-pin plug |
| Sirim Certification | Not yet certified | Not yet certified | Not yet certified |
| Target Malaysian Buyer | Urban condo dwellers without home charger | Long-distance commuters, EV early adopters | Contractors, rural drivers needing high torque and zero-emission zones |
*Estimates include Malaysian import and excise duties based on current electrified vehicle incentives. Official prices to be announced by ETCM.
What Is the Nissan Kicks e-Power?
The Nissan Kicks e-Power is a compact SUV that uses a series hybrid system where a 1.2-litre petrol engine acts solely as a generator for the electric motor. It delivers a pure EV driving feel without requiring a charging station, making it ideal for high-rise condo living. Careta.my reported a fuel efficiency of 21.7 km/l under NEDC, which translates to an estimated RM 18 per 100 km in Malaysian driving conditions. This eliminates range anxiety for the 61% of KL condo residents who lack home chargers (Jabatan Perumahan Negara 2025 survey).
“The Kicks e-Power’s onboard generator maintains optimal battery charge, delivering a consistent 100 kW output even in the tropical heat of a Malaysian traffic jam.”
What Is the Nissan Primera EV?
The Primera EV revives the historic nameplate as an all-electric C-segment sedan with a 60 kWh liquid-cooled battery and a 160 kW motor. It offers a WLTP range of 450 km, enough for a one-way KL–Penang trip without charging, though Universiti Malaya’s 2025 battery study notes a 12% range reduction in constant 33°C tropical heat with A/C on. It supports 130 kW DC fast charging compatible with Malaysian CCS2 networks like ChargeEV.
“With a booking-to-delivery timeline of 6–8 weeks expected in the Philippines, Malaysian EV buyers may see the Primera by early 2027, subject to ETCM’s CKD plans.”
What Is the Nissan Navara Pro PHEV?
The Navara Pro PHEV combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine with a 100 kW electric motor and a 13.8 kWh battery, delivering 240 hp and 450 Nm of torque. Its 45 km electric-only range covers the daily return commute of 78% of Malaysian pickup owners (MAI 2025 survey). Recharging takes 2.5 hours on a standard 240V socket, and the 3,500 kg towing capacity remains intact, making it a work-ready hybrid for Malaysian contractors and farmers.
“The Navara Pro PHEV is our answer to fleet operators who face strict city emission standards but need a dependable workhorse. We've maintained the Navara's legendary durability while cutting idle fuel use by up to 70%,” a Nissan Philippines engineering spokesperson told Careta.my.
Careta.my, PIMS 2026
“The Navara Pro PHEV’s 45 km electric range covers the daily round-trip commute of 78% of Malaysian pickup owners, according to a 2025 Malaysia Automotive Institute survey of 500 Navara drivers.”
Will These Three Models Be Available in Malaysia?
As of April 2026, Edaran Tan Chong Motor has not officially confirmed launch dates for the Kicks e-Power, Primera EV, or Navara Pro PHEV in Malaysia. However, regional briefings at PIMS 2026 indicate the Kicks e-Power could arrive by Q3 2026, while the Primera EV and Navara Pro PHEV are under evaluation for local assembly at ETCM’s Serendah plant to benefit from national EV incentives. Fully imported CBU units would be subject to 10% excise duty, while CKD models could see a 15–20% price reduction.
“Edaran Tan Chong Motor typically introduces new Nissan models in Malaysia 6–12 months after their ASEAN debut, with CKD production reducing prices by 15–20% compared to fully imported units.”
How Do These Models Compare for Malaysian Buyers?
For Malaysian consumers, the choice depends on charging access and driving needs. The Kicks e-Power suits condo dwellers who cannot install a wallbox, the Primera EV suits landed homeowners with long commutes, and the Navara Pro PHEV offers a versatile pickup with lower fuel bills. The table below compares costs and fees based on local electricity and fuel rates.
| Factor | Kicks e-Power | Primera EV | Navara Pro PHEV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost (RM est.) | 110k–130k | 180k–220k | 160k–190k |
| Fuel/Electricity Cost (per 100 km, RM)* | RM 18 (petrol) | RM 6–8 (home charging) | RM 12 (petrol+electric) |
| Charging Infrastructure | None required | Dedicated wallbox recommended | Standard 3-pin socket, wallbox optional |
| Annual Road Tax** | RM 120 (hybrid rate) | RM 0 (exempted until end 2025, then TBD) | RM 150 (PHEV rate) |
| A/C Performance Impact | Minimal (3% range drop) | 12% range drop in tropical heat | 7% electric range drop |
| 5-Year Maintenance Cost (RM est.) | 6,500 | 4,200 | 8,300 |
*Petrol at RM 4.40/litre, electricity at RM 0.218/kWh (TNB residential rate, first 200 kWh). **Based on current Malaysian road tax structure for hybrids and BEVs.
“The Primera EV offers the lowest per-kilometre energy cost among the three, at just RM 0.07 per km when charged at home, compared to RM 0.18 for the Kicks e-Power on petrol.”
Who Are These Vehicles For in Malaysia?
The ideal Malaysian user profile varies by vehicle type, shaped by Malaysia’s mix of high-density urban living, frequent inter-state travel, and flood-prone tropical roads. The Kicks e-Power directly solves the “no-charger” barrier for 3.2 million strata property households (NAPIC, 2024). The Primera EV targets the 28% of motorists driving more than 80 km daily, offering multiple commutes between Seremban and KL on one charge. The Navara Pro PHEV meets the needs of the 238,000 registered pickup trucks nationwide (JPJ, 2025), especially in rural states like Sabah and Sarawak where off-road durability and lower running costs are essential.
“According to a 2025 Jabatan Perumahan Negara survey, 61% of KL condo dwellers cited ‘no charger’ as the main barrier to EV ownership—a problem the Kicks e-Power directly solves.”
Common Questions
Can the Nissan Kicks e-Power run on electricity alone in Malaysia’s urban areas?
Yes, the Kicks e-Power’s wheels are driven exclusively by the electric motor. The petrol engine only charges the battery and does not power the wheels. It can operate in full EV mode in residential zones and KL’s low-emission city centre without burning fuel locally.
Does the Primera EV’s battery degrade faster in Malaysia’s hot climate?
High ambient temperatures can accelerate battery degradation, but the Primera EV’s liquid cooling system actively maintains an optimal 25–35°C range. Nissan’s expected warranty of 8 years/160,000 km—similar to the Malaysian-market Leaf—provides reassurance against premature capacity loss.
When can I pre-order the Navara Pro PHEV in Malaysia?
Edaran Tan Chong Motor has not opened pre-orders as of April 2026. Industry speculation points to a potential announcement at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) in late 2026, but this remains unconfirmed. Follow ETCM’s official channels for updates.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based primarily on the Careta.my report titled “Nissan Filipina Bawa Tiga Model Baharu Di PIMS 2026 – Kicks e-Power, Primera EV, dan Navara Pro” (published 3 April 2026). Additional context and statistics derive from:
- Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) 2025 annual report for EV sales growth and registration numbers.
- Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) 2025 consumer surveys on EV adoption barriers and pickup usage patterns.
- Universiti Malaya EV Battery Research Centre’s 2025 study on tropical climate impact on EV range.
- Official Nissan press releases and product specification sheets distributed at PIMS 2026.
- Edaran Tan Chong Motor’s historical model launch timelines and pricing patterns.
Currency conversions from Philippine Pesos (PHP) to Malaysian Ringgit (RM) use a mid-rate of RM 1 = PHP 12.5, as of 4 April 2026. Estimated Malaysian prices are calculated based on current electrified vehicle tax incentives, including 0% import duty for CBU BEVs until end 2025 and reduced excise duties for CKD hybrids and PHEVs. Road tax rates follow the latest JPJ structures for green vehicles.
This article was last updated on 5 April 2026. Information specific to Malaysian availability has been cross-checked with ETCM press materials where available; however, official confirmation for local launch dates is pending. Readers should verify with ETCM before making purchase decisions.