Renault executives travelled to Japan this week to meet counterparts at Nissan in an effort to maximise the value of the French automaker's stake in the Japanese firm ahead of its merger with Honda, a source close to the matter told Reuters.

As talks between the automakers continue, analysts say a combination makes sense but may face hurdles, including short-term financial hardship.

Renault SA wants a premium for its stake in Nissan Motor Co. if Honda Motor Co. takes over control of the rival Japanese automaker, according to people familiar with the matter.

As Honda and Nissan push forward with merger plans, Mitsubishi Motors may bow out, citing doubts about its influence in the new partnership.

Nissan was deep in the trenches, with its existence at stake, but Honda's timely entry gave it a positive direction. Here's how everything went down.

Mitsubishi is thought to be concerned about its management freedom, as the future of Nissan’s management restructuring is not clear.