Overview & Reviews

Nissan was born in Japan, and like other marques from its homeland, the brand is known for crafting vehicles that place an emphasis on quality and reliability. The company's roster of products is broad, and includes sporty coupes, family sedans, minivans, trucks and SUVs.

The automaker got its start in 1933 as the Jidosha Seico Co., Ltd. The following year, this outfit merged with another Japanese manufacturer, and the new company was christened Nissan Motor Company, Ltd. Nissan initially marketed its vehicles under the Datsun brand, with the first Datsuns being built in 1934. Postwar, the brand made its presence felt worldwide, building a partnership with the U.K.-based Austin Motor Co. and establishing a presence in the United States. The first Datsuns hit American shores in 1958. Vehicles like the Datsun 1000 were based on Austin platforms.

The '60s witnessed Nissan's merger with Prince Motor Company, a union that helped the Asian manufacturer create more luxury-focused vehicles. In the U.S. it began offering its first vehicle styled for the U.S. market, the Datsun 510 sedan. By the end of the decade, Datsun had exported more than 1 million vehicles. Datsun rose to prominence in the 1970s on the popularity of its 240Z sports car. Powered by an inline six-cylinder engine, the car was coveted for its blend of style, performance and affordability. By the time the '70s drew to a close, the automaker's cumulative vehicle exports had surpassed the 10 million mark.

In 1981, Nissan shelved the Datsun name and began selling vehicles worldwide under the Nissan moniker. The '80s also saw Nissan's launch of a tuning division called Nismo for the development of performance-oriented vehicles and accessories. Nissan also brought its production to American shores, with the construction of a Georgia-based plant.

The early '90s saw Nissan's fortunes rise in the U.S. thanks to fun-to-drive cars like the 300ZX, Maxima and Sentra. But this trend didn't last long and by the late '90s Nissan's offerings consisted of anonymous vehicles. The company's future was uncertain.

After the turn of the new century Nissan bounced back, helped by a 1999 alliance with Renault that boosted the company's finances. Its redesigned Sentra and Altima boosted sales and consumer interest, as did new models like the 350Z sports car, Armada SUV and Titan pickup. Today the manufacturer is known for offering a wide range of well-regarded vehicles, including the popular Murano SUV, the incredible GT-R supercar and the all-electric Leaf.

User Reviews:

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  Frontier Better than expected - 2010 Nissan Frontier
  By YellowRubi - April 1 - 8:40 am

  Purchased for utility and tow vehicle, this LE model performed better than expecting during the first 4000 miles and vacation. Towing it had great power. Space was very good for kids and pets. The handling is very good and responsive. The features are the best. Auto sunroof with self closure keeps you from forgetting. Auto windows full down is a plus. Electric adjust seats make for a great ride on trips. Bed tie downs are a big plus. Mileage on the road with this 4x4 was much better than anticipated. Better than 20 MPG consistently. Very good choice for trips, towing, and general utility.

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  In love - 2012 Nissan Xterra
  By prosha28 - March 31 - 8:46 pm

  I have had my xterra for about 2 weeks (1000 miles now) and so far it has been a great vehicle. I sold my 2012 camaro because I wanted something simple and less extravagant. Plus, the camaro was giving me a headache of problems and I wanted to make the switch back to import. The gas mileage of the xterra is just ok, being able to take it on recreational trips will make up for this in the long run. Also, it feels solid and very secure to the road which I like, while being able to sit up high and in a comfortable position. I love how it rides like a truck, but does not knock you around too much.

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  Amazing SUV for what you pay! - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By slakshman - March 31 - 6:09 pm

  I bought this car after two months of analysis and ground work and test drives. I will not say this is the best SUV you will get. But this is the best SUV if you like the options it is giving and ready to forego a few if you dont need them. I am not sure about the mileage still since it needs to drive more than 2000 miles for the engine to get into appropriate mileage. Other than that, this is absolutely best. We love it in our family. Overall, if you dont want more space or more cargo area, then Rogue is for you at a "cannot beat me" price with nice technology package. Hope this helps!!!

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  Outstanding value!!!! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By WillieJ - March 31 - 10:00 am

  My previous cars were a Volvo Turbo, and an Acura Coupe. All pale in comparison to the Maxima SE.

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  2004 Nissan Sentra - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By George White - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Getting between 33-34 mpg. Responsive steering and engine power and it rides smooth even at 90 mph.

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  Love it!!! - 2004 Nissan Quest
  By Rosa Cutcher - March 31 - 10:00 am

  This is by far our best vehicle purchase to date. The convience and the comfort along with all the saftey features are perfect for our little family. PLus there is room to grow! For families starting out or been in the game awile this van is definitly worth checking out.

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  Looked @ All The Trucks - 2004 Nissan Frontier
  By MyNewFrontier - March 31 - 10:00 am

  I looked @ & studied all the reviews, resell value, and of course price of every truck on the market. I spent 3 monthes before I made this purchase. This truck handles so good, plenty of power & not bad mpg. Most of my driving is city (17 mpg.) If you are looking @ these trucks, spend the xtra money for the automatic. 75 mph w/the auto is about 2600 rpms (3300 in the standard) In my opinion it is the best truck on the market.

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  Best Truck & All Around Package - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By Titan Lover - March 31 - 10:00 am

  There is no such thing as the perfect vehicle, but the Nissan Titan sure does come really close. Look out Ford, Chevy, Dodge & Toyota the Nissan Titan is about to eat your lunch. Take a page from their book, and update your products with their Features, power, comfort,room and research of real truck owners to produce a really fine Truck that all really serious truck owners will love and appreciate. Go check it out for yourself if yo dont believe me.

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  Whew! V8 power to go - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By Cableguy - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Never thought I would own a Nissan full size truck. The engine and exhaust really talk to you when you lay into the throttle. Handling and ride are excellent. The brakes are a little soft, but no really problem. Cannot wait to get all the break in miles.

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  Complete package in a 1/2 ton! - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By titanlover - March 31 - 10:00 am

  I have owned them all Chevy, GMC, Ford, Dodge, and Toyota. My Titan out does them all. The only thing close in quality would have to be the Tundra, but it is too small for any one near 6 feet. I have not a gripe one after owning this truck for just over five months. I could never have said the same for any of my past Trucks. After purchasing the Titan I realized it does not come with road side assistance like its domestic competition. I was a bit concerned, but after further thought I realized that the quality of this truck makes the assistance uneccessary. I am sure that you pay for the service in the sticker of the competition anyway.