The full model change of the Nissan Roox, scheduled for September 19, 2025, is likely to have a major impact on the minicar market. Although the release has been postponed from its original July date, expectations are high for a more refined new generation model. If you’re considering buying the current Roox, should you wait for the new model?
The reason behind the postponement of the new Roox release
Nissan had originally planned to release the new Roox in July 2025, but has announced that it will be postponed to September 19, 2025. This postponement is expected to result in the release of a more refined new generation minicar.
New Roox exterior
Important Dates
- Pre-orders begin : August 22, 2025
- Official Announcement : September 19, 2025
- Release date : October 29, 2025
- Pre-order bonus ends : October 28, 2025
Production of the current model is scheduled to end at the end of September 2025, so the transition to the new model will be smooth.
The new Roox is being jointly developed with Mitsubishi Motors, and is scheduled to undergo a full model change at the same time as Mitsubishi’s new Delica Mini . Production will continue at the Mizushima Plant, and technological collaboration is expected to bring benefits.
Main changes in the full model change
The new Roox will feature significant improvements including:
Renewal of the design
- Distinctive headlights with a combination of squares
- The wide V-motion grille gives the front mask a more striking presence
- 17 color variations with two-tone colors extending to the hood
Introducing advanced technology
- Large 12.3-inch infotainment system
- Equipped with Google Maps and Google Assistant
- Newly adopted 7-inch digital meter
- The first blind spot monitor for a minicar
Rethinking the powertrain
- Mild hybrid abolished
- Improved fuel efficiency through vehicle weight reduction
- Continued use of the newly developed BR06 engine
Exterior design: Evolved into a cube-like rectangular design
Major overhaul of the front mask
The most notable change to the new Roox is the revamped front design .
- Vertical square pattern design
- Two square patterns inside the headlamp
- Black-based grille gives a sporty impression
- Some have pointed out that the design is similar to the N-BOX Custom
Design innovation: Adoption of the “rounded square” motif
The most distinctive feature of the new Roox is its unique design motif, “rounded corners and squares.” This motif is used in the following areas:
- headlights
- Rear combination lamp
- Door handle
- wheel
- headrest
- Speedometer
This “rounded square” expresses the warmth and playfulness of the new Roox by rounding the corners of the square, which symbolizes spaciousness and size.
The evolution of Highway Star
The top-grade Highway Star model features more powerful aero parts and a wider grille. The new “ROOX” logo on the rear creates a premium feel.
Color variations
The body color is a new two-tone color inspired by the traditional Japanese architectural style “Karahafu.” The color is painted from below the belt line, including the hood, creating a unique color coordination that is a first for Nissan.
The new model will be available in a total of 17 body colors. Of particular note are:
- New two-tone color scheme of white pearl and seto blue
- Unique colors such as bubblegum pink
- Grade-specific color settings continued
New colors added:
This brings the total number of variations to 17, including six two-tone and seven monotone colors in the Highway Star series and seven monotone colors in the Standard series.
- Celadon Green
- Cinnamon Latte
- Seto Blue
Interior: 12.3-inch large display and Google system
New Roox interior
Interior: A comfortable space like a living room
The interior design concept is “Breeze,” and keywords such as “veranda” and “hammock” are used to create a feeling of openness that is greater than the actual space.
One notable feature is the large 12.3-inch integrated interface display, a first for a minicar, which gives the car a sophisticated and high-quality feel that exceeds its class.
Zero gravity seat
Zero gravity seats are adopted for both the front and rear seats, and the following improvements have been made:
- Melange fabric for a soft feel
- Body pressure distribution sheet shape
- Rear seat surface extended by 23mm
- High-density urethane for improved vibration absorption
Significant evolution of infotainment systems
The most notable feature of the new Roox’s interior is the adoption of a large 12.3-inch display :
- Comes standard with Google Maps and Google Assistant
- Various apps can be used
- Optimized information display in conjunction with digital meters
Full range of comfortable equipment
- Touch panel air conditioner for improved operability
- Rear circulator ensures comfort for rear seats
- Zero gravity seat available (high grade)
- Continued use of waterproof sheets
Significantly expanded interior space
The new Roox pursues maximum space efficiency within the light vehicle standard:
- Interior length: 2315mm (115mm longer than the previous model, best in its class)
- Rear seat knee room: 795mm (best in its class)
- Maximum luggage compartment length: 675mm (best in its class)
- Eyepoint: 1370mm (best in its class)
Optimizing interior space
Maximizing interior space within minicar standards :
- Maintaining an interior height of 139cm
- Continuation of flat floors
- Improving the convenience of sliding doors
Extremely practical storage and convenient equipment
The rear sliding door continues from the previous model, boasting a class-leading opening width of 650mm. It is equipped with a large handrail for easy entry and exit, making it easy to get in and out of the car.
The rear seats can slide up to 320mm, allowing you to care for children in the back seat while remaining in the driver’s seat.
New storage features include:
- Instrument center slide box
- Driver’s seat upper box (with lid)
- Square paper carton compatible cup holder
- Tissue box storage drawer
Achieving improved fuel economy despite abolishing mild hybrid
Background to the abolition of mild hybrids
Surprisingly, the new Roox will no longer have a mild hybrid system . The reasons behind this decision are as follows:
- Improved fuel efficiency due to lighter vehicle weight
- Ensuring price competitiveness through cost reduction
- Improved reliability through system simplification
Improved fuel efficiency
Despite the removal of the mild hybrid system, fuel economy is expected to improve:
Estimated fuel consumption (WLTC mode)
- Naturally aspirated engine FF : 22.0km/L (currently 20.9km/L)
- Naturally aspirated engine 4WD : 20.0km/L (currently 19.0km/L)
- Turbo engine FF : 20.5km/L (currently 19.2km/L)
- Turbo engine 4WD : 18.5km/L (currently 17.5km/L)
Optimizing engine performance
Continued use of the newly developed BR06 engine :
- Increased maximum output
- Long stroke type for improved torque characteristics
- Optimizing CVT control
Evolution of ProPilot and the first blind spot function for a kei car
New features for the Intelligent Around View Monitor
The new Roox is equipped with three innovative new display functions:
- Invisible hood view (first for a minicar)
- Generates images of the area under the vehicle, making blind spots visible
- 3D view (first for Nissan minicars)
- The situation around the vehicle can be intuitively confirmed using 3D images.
- Front wide view
- Supports blind spots on the left and right sides of the front at intersections, etc.
Comprehensive driving assistance system
- ProPilot (continued)
- Intelligent Emergency Braking (intersection function added)
- Intelligent BSI (rear side collision prevention system) [first for a minicar]
- BSW (Rear Side Vehicle Detection Warning) [First for a mini super height wagon]
- RCTA (reverse vehicle detection alarm)
ProPilot performance improvements
The new Roox will see significant improvements to ProPilot’s detection capabilities :
- Long-distance detection using millimeter-wave radar
- Improved overtaking assistance function
- Evolution of wiper interlocking function
- Settings are retained after the engine is turned off
The first safety equipment for a minicar
The new Roox will be equipped with advanced safety features for the first time in a minicar :
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Door unlock when approaching/Auto door lock
Around View Monitor 3D support
Evolution of the conventional Around View Monitor :
- Improved visibility with 3D display
- Bonnet transparency function
- Improved accuracy of moving object detection
Improved comfort and driving performance
Improvements aimed at reducing car motion sickness
- Uses Kayaba high-response shock absorbers
- Rear suspension rubber bushing hardness reduced by 20% in both the front and rear directions
- Optimized engine and transmission control
Significant improvement in quietness
- Sound-insulating glass used in the front window
- Soundproofing sheets installed on doors
- High-performance sound-absorbing material used around the tires
These features result in top-level sound insulation performance for a minicar.
AUTECH LINE
ROOX AUTECH LINE
The new Roox also features the “AUTECH LINE” with a “cool and aggressive” concept. The following exclusive equipment is included:
- Specially designed fog lamp finisher
- 15-inch dedicated aluminum wheels
- Silver door mirrors
- Black-toned interior
- Waterproof synthetic leather sheet
Life Care Vehicle (welfare vehicle)
A “slide-up passenger seat” is also available, which allows the passenger seat to rotate and rise outside the vehicle electrically to assist with getting in and out of the vehicle.
Latest price and release information
Release Schedule
- Announcement : Scheduled for the end of July 2025
- Release date: October 2025
- Japan Mobility Show : Scheduled to be exhibited in autumn 2025
Grade structure
The basic grade structure follows the current model:
- S grade : Entry model
- X grade : Full standard equipment
- Highway Star Series : Premium specifications
- ProPilot Edition : Top-of-the-line specification
price
There will be a slight price increase over the current model:
| Model | engine | Drive system | price |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | Inline 3-cylinder DOHC 0.66 liters | 2WD | 1,672,000 yen |
| X | 1,739,100 yen | ||
| Highway Star X | 1,919,500 yen | ||
| Highway Star X ProPilot Edition | 2,105,400 yen | ||
| Highway Star G Turbo | Inline 3-cylinder DOHC 0.66 liter turbo | 2,159,300 yen | |
| Highway Star G Turbo ProPilot Edition | 2,249,500 yen | ||
| S | Inline 3-cylinder DOHC 0.66 liters | 4WD | 1,822,700 yen |
| X | 1,889,800 yen | ||
| Highway Star X | 2,033,900 yen | ||
| Highway Star X ProPilot Edition | 2,219,800 yen | ||
| Highway Star G Turbo | Inline 3-cylinder DOHC 0.66 liter turbo | 2,273,700 yen | |
| Highway Star G Turbo ProPilot Edition | 2,363,900 yen |
Should I wait for the new model or buy the current one?
People who should wait for the new model
We recommend waiting for the new model if :
Those who value the latest technology
- Large 12.3-inch display
- Use of Google systems
- The first blind spot function for a kei car
Those who care about design
- New generation exterior design
- Rich two-tone colors
- A more masculine front mask
Those who prioritize fuel efficiency
- Improved fuel economy
- Lightweight for improved driving performance
Who should buy the current model?
The current model is worth considering if you :
If you need a car immediately
- Waiting period of about 4 months until new model is released
- Uncertainty about delivery dates
Those who care about cost
- Increased discounts on current models
- New model price increase forecast
Those who prefer proven technology
- Adoption of mild hybrid
- Matured technology
Summary: Key points for making a purchase decision
The new Roox is an attractive model that has undergone significant improvements . In particular:
Reasons to be proactive in waiting
- 12.3-inch display + Google features
- The first blind spot function for a minicar
- High product appeal with new design
- Improved fuel efficiency
Reasons why you can be satisfied with the current model
- Basic performance is at a high level
- ProPilot equipped
- Proven reliability
- Opportunity to buy at great prices
Ultimately, the decision will depend on your individual needs, but if you’re drawn to the latest technology and new design, it may be worth waiting for a new model. On the other hand, if you need a car right away or prefer proven, current technology, you’ll likely be happy with the current model.
The arrival of the new Roox in October 2025 is expected to set a new standard in the minicar market. It is likely to be a car that will attract attention as the culmination of Nissan’s minicar strategy.
