Nissan Claims 3.7% European Market Share in February 2018
Despite a 7.5% drop in European sales to 58,070 units, Nissan secured a 3.7% market share in February 2018, led by strong Qashqai demand.
Nissan reached a 3.7% share of the European car market in February 2018, marking its highest ever market share for that month. This performance was based on 58,070 vehicle sales across the region. The figure, published by the company, came despite a 7.5% drop in volume compared to February 2017. The result followed a strong run for the Qashqai, which remained Nissan’s best-selling model in Europe that month.
Nissan Records Highest February Market Share in Europe
| Total Nissan sales in Europe | 58,070 |
|---|---|
| Market share (Europe) | 3.7% |
| Year-on-year change | -7.5% |
| Best-selling model | Qashqai |
Qashqai Leads Nissan’s European Sales
The Qashqai accounted for 22,916 units sold in February, far ahead of other Nissan models. The Micra followed with 7,813 units, while the Juke and X-Trail each contributed over 6,000 sales. The all-electric Leaf added 3,766 units, reflecting continued demand for Nissan’s EV offering, though the bulk of sales remained with crossovers and hatchbacks.
| Model | Units Sold |
|---|---|
| Qashqai | 22,916 |
| Micra | 7,813 |
| Juke | 6,123 |
| X-Trail | 6,055 |
| Leaf | 3,766 |
Market Share Context and Regional Performance
Nissan’s 3.7% market share in February 2018 was down from 4.3% in the same month the year before. The overall European car market grew by 4.2% in February, with 1.16 million registrations, according to sector data. Nissan’s decline in share came as rivals such as Volkswagen and PSA Group consolidated their positions at the top of the market. Despite the drop, Nissan’s February share was its highest ever for that month, reflecting the brand’s ongoing relevance in a competitive market.
Among major European markets, Italy was Nissan’s strongest performer with 7,470 units, ahead of Spain (6,798), France (6,403) and the UK (6,016). The Qashqai’s popularity continued to underpin Nissan’s results, especially as SUVs and crossovers made up an increasing share of new car registrations across Europe. This trend played to Nissan’s strengths, given its established presence in the crossover segment.
| Country | Units Sold |
|---|---|
| Italy | 7,470 |
| Spain | 6,798 |
| France | 6,403 |
| United Kingdom | 6,016 |
SUVs and Alternative Fuels Shape the Market
SUVs accounted for a third of all new car registrations in Europe that February, reflecting a wider trend that benefited Nissan’s crossover-heavy line-up. The Qashqai, Juke, and X-Trail all contributed to this performance, showing the brand’s alignment with market preferences. Meanwhile, diesel sales continued to fall across the region, with petrol and alternative-fuel vehicles gaining ground.
The Leaf’s sales growth showed Nissan’s position in the EV segment. With 3,766 units sold, the Leaf contributed to Nissan’s reputation as a leading mass-market electric vehicle manufacturer in Europe. While electric vehicles still represented a smaller proportion of total sales compared to crossovers, the Leaf’s performance underlined the brand’s investment in alternative powertrains. This came at a time when more European consumers were considering EVs due to changing regulations and growing environmental awareness.
Factors Behind Nissan’s February Market Share
Several factors contributed to Nissan’s market share performance in February 2018. The ongoing popularity of the Qashqai, supported by the continued demand for SUVs and crossovers, played a central role. Nissan’s model range, which includes the Micra and Juke, also helped the brand maintain a broad appeal across different segments. The growth in alternative-fuel vehicle sales, especially the Leaf, demonstrated Nissan’s ability to adapt to shifting consumer preferences.
However, the decline in overall sales volume and market share compared to the previous year highlighted the increasing competition in the European market. Established rivals continued to strengthen their positions, making it more challenging for Nissan to grow its share despite strong performances in certain segments.
Implications for Nissan and the European Market
Nissan’s highest ever February market share in Europe reflected both the strengths and challenges facing the brand. Its ability to capitalise on the SUV boom, alongside a growing presence in electric vehicles, positioned Nissan well in key segments. The figures also pointed to the importance of adapting to rapidly changing market conditions, as consumer preferences and regulatory requirements evolve.
Looking ahead, Nissan’s performance in February 2018 offers insight into broader trends in the European automotive sector. The shift towards SUVs and alternative-fuel vehicles is expected to continue, suggesting that brands with a strong line-up in these areas may be better placed to maintain or grow their market share. For Nissan, sustaining its momentum will likely depend on continued innovation, investment in new technologies, and responsiveness to local market dynamics.
