Story perspectives

Nissan to build second-gen Kicks in Sunderland

By Drooid · Sep 21, 2026, 2:21 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Nissan will build the second-generation Kicks at Sunderland, United Kingdom.
Sunderland will also produce the Qashqai, Juke and Leaf on the same line.
European Kicks will feature e-Power hybrid with a 1.4-L engine and two motors delivering 141–208 hp.
U.S. Kicks uses a 2.0-L engine producing 139 hp, less power than the hybrid.
Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds said the decision shows confidence in the UK automotive future.

History

Historical Context

In 1986, Nissan opened its Sunderland plant, marking the first major Japanese automotive investment in the United Kingdom’s north region. The £450 million facility, championed by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, initially targeted 200,000 vehicles annually and created 3,000 jobs by 1990. Today, Nissan’s decision to produce the second-generation Kicks and hybrid Qashqai at Sunderland mirrors that original commitment to UK manufacturing and export growth. The precedent shows early foreign-direct investment guides Britain’s automotive strategy, prompting backing from the Department for Business and Trade and alignment with EU emissions targets.

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Story summary

Nissan will build the second-generation Kicks at Sunderland, United Kingdom.
Sunderland will also produce the Qashqai, Juke and Leaf on the same line.
European Kicks will feature e-Power hybrid with a 1.4-L engine and two motors delivering 141–208 hp.
U.S. Kicks uses a 2.0-L engine producing 139 hp, less power than the hybrid.
Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds said the decision shows confidence in the UK automotive future.

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