The potential merger could form the world's third-largest auto group with an annual production of 7.4 million vehicles.

Despite an initial MoU involving Mitsubishi in talks of "participation, involvement, and synergy sharing" in the Honda-Nissan merger, it now appears the company wants to go solo. The report indicates Mitsubishi had considered joining the new holding company with Honda and Nissan but has now opted out.

The problem is there is no likely outcome that would leave both companies and their employees better off than they are today.

Honda executives recently shared insights into their rationale for the proposed merger with Nissan.During a media roundtable at CES 2025 in Las Vegas Honda stressed the urgency to address mounting competition from Chinese automakers,

The mooted Honda Nissan merger and the fallout from leadership change at Stellantis suggests the auto industry must brace for turmoil, where size is a survival necessity.

Mitsubishi Motors, a junior partner of Nissan Motor, is considering not joining a planned business merger between Nissan and Honda Motor, the Yomiuri online said on Friday. The report came after Nissan and Honda last year said they would begin formal talks on the merger that could potentially create the world's third-largest auto group.

Mitsubishi Motors Corp. won’t be a part of Honda Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Co.’s plans to combine their companies under a holding company, the Yomiuri reported.

Honda and Nissan announced merger plans in December 2024, and the process has been progressing as per schedule. The merger will also include Mitsubishi, and both companies aim to reach a definitive agreement by June 2025.

As Honda and Nissan negotiate the terms of a possible merger, we take a speculative look at what new vehicles could spawn from the unprecedented collaboration.