Global research indicates three-box passenger cars are quite popular with younger buyers and enthusiasts, though the local division is soldiering on with its SUV-intensive line-up.

Nissan says it's "doubling down on sedans" after new research shows eight in 10 millennials prefer the three-box body style.

According to the study, which surveyed car owners and non-owners "around the world" aged between 18 and 65, 75 per cent of respondents who don't currently own a sedan would consider one in the future, while 80 per cent of millennials would consider one now or in the future.

Beyond that, 68 per cent of 'Generation Z' would consider a three-box passenger car, while 71 per cent of current sedan owners are passionate about travel and culture – suggesting the body style's appeal is skewed more to enthusiasts or 'passionate explorers', as Nissan says.

The company says it's launching "a series of new sedan models globally that cater to these potential customers", including the all-new Sylphy revealed for the Chinese market at this year's Shanghai motor show, the updated Skyline for the Japanese market later this year (sold here as the Infiniti Q50), along with the existing Altima and Maxima nameplates that have seen significant upgrades recently.