Nissan to Export U.S.-Built Murano to Japan

Nissan Motor Co. has announced plans to export the U.S.-produced Murano SUV to Japan, starting in early 2027. This decision follows a recent trade agreement that eased vehicle import regulations in Japan, allowing U.S.-made vehicles to enter the market without undergoing additional local safety tests, provided they meet American standards. The Murano will be manufactured at Nissan's Smyrna plant in Tennessee, marking the first time since the 1990s that an American-made Nissan will be sold in Japan.

CNBCNissan to Sell U.S.-Built SUV in JapanNissan to sell US-built Murano in Japan from 2027The Nissan Murano Now Has This In Common With Toyota Tundra And Honda Passport

The changes in Japan's vehicle import rules were part of a broader trade deal negotiated by the Trump administration, aimed at reducing Japan's trade surplus with the United States. This agreement has prompted other Japanese automakers, including Toyota and Honda, to also export U.S.-made vehicles back to Japan. Toyota plans to send models such as the Tundra and Highlander, while Honda will export the Passport and Acura Integra Type S.

The Nissan Murano Now Has This In Common With Toyota Tundra And Honda Passport

Nissan's CEO, Ivan Espinosa, expressed enthusiasm about the Murano's return to Japan, highlighting its design and comfort, which have garnered positive reviews in the U.S. market. The Murano was previously sold in Japan from 2004 to 2015, and the new export initiative aims to strengthen Nissan's product lineup in its home market. The decision to export the Murano is also driven by excess production capacity at the Smyrna plant, which has seen increased output following a redesign that boosted U.S. sales to 42,747 units in 2025.

Nissan to sell US-built Murano in Japan from 2027The Nissan Murano Now Has This In Common With Toyota Tundra And Honda PassportNissan to Sell U.S.-Built SUV in Japan

To facilitate this export, Nissan will utilize a new certification process introduced by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. This process simplifies the importation of U.S.-made vehicles, allowing them to be sold in Japan without the need for extensive modifications to meet local regulations. The Murano will be shipped with the steering wheel on the left side, which is standard for U.S. vehicles, despite Japan's preference for right-hand drive.

The Nissan Murano Now Has This In Common With Toyota Tundra And Honda Passport

While the export of the Murano is seen as a positive development for Nissan, there are concerns regarding the acceptance of left-hand drive vehicles in Japan, where such models are less popular. Additionally, the overall market dynamics for U.S. automakers in Japan remain complex, as consumer preferences and regulatory environments continue to evolve.

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• “The Murano has earned high praise from customers in the US market for its elegant design and exceptional comfort.” — Ivan Espinosa, CEO of Nissan

Nissan to sell US-built Murano in Japan from 2027

• “The Murano has earned high praise from customers in the U.S. market for its elegant design and exceptional comfort. It was named the Most Dependable Midsize SUV in the JD Power 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study for the second year in a row. With the introduction of this model, Nissan aims to further strengthen its product lineup in Japan and meet the diverse needs of Japanese customers.” — Ivan Espinosa, CEO of Nissan

The Nissan Murano Now Has This In Common With Toyota Tundra And Honda Passport

Nissan's decision to export the Murano to Japan represents a significant shift in the company's strategy, leveraging new trade agreements to enhance its market presence. As the automotive landscape continues to change, the success of this initiative will depend on consumer acceptance and the ability to navigate the complexities of international trade and local market preferences.

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