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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  Worth the Money! - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Keith - July 18 - 8:43 pm

  I traded in my 04 Maxima SL for an premium SV with Tech. The only two things I hated about my 04 was the turning radius and heated seats. The 09 has been greatly improved. I compared this vehicle to a VW CC and Acura TL. The features, looks, and price blew the other two away. Fantastic interior and a quiet ride. The voice activation works great. I never have to repeat myself. Took a while to figure out that I cant hop on the gas and expect to get great gas mileage. Average 22 around the city. Havent taken it on a long trip yet, but hopeful it will meet the 26 mpg it boasts for highway mileage. I had no problems with my 04 after 115000 miles and I am hoping for the same with this

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  Frontier - 2008 Nissan Frontier
  By GW in NL - July 18 - 2:40 am

  I recently traded my car and stepped up to becoming a truck owner. I had planned on getting a Toyota Tacoma forever, and came very close, but before purchasing I decided to shop around alittle, and I am glad that I did. Once I took the Frontier off the parking lot for a test drive, I knew it was a done deal. The smoothness of the ride and powertrain blew the Tacoma away, not to mention a larger truck for less money (especially the dump)and more POWER. The dealership was very friendly and threw in a few extra accessories (unlike Toyota). It was a no brainer. Its a truck that handles like a car or SUV, I love it.

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  CVT Transmission is JUNK ! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By catt66 - July 17 - 11:23 am

  I am driving a 2008 Altima 2.5L SL model. I have to say that it is fuel efficient and comfortable to drive. The problem I am having is that I currently have 128,000km on the vehicle and am going on my 2nd replacement transmission. My first was replaced at 60,000km after I noticed a whining noice when the engine was placed under load above 3000 rpm. I just turned 128,000 km recently and noticed the same noice again, they have ordered another to be replaced. I am very disappointed in the reliability here, Nissan sent a letter saying my transmission was covered under warranty up to 200,000km and at the rate mine are dropping off that wont get me through the lease, may be my last Nissan!

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  fun to drive - 2005 Nissan Xterra
  By gary - July 16 - 2:16 pm

  only had the X for 5 months but it is just a ball to drive. i have never been happier with a vehicle

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  Cant Complain - 2008 Nissan Sentra
  By Sabs - July 16 - 7:53 am

  I have owned 6 new cars in the past 4 years, with the Nissan Sentra being my 6th car. I got a more basic model. Granted this is no Toyota Camry or Infiniti G35x, it serves its purpose - a commuter car where I didnt have to dish out an extra $10K for a Prius and averaged 30.5 mpg (mixed city/hwy). For anyone who complains about the quality, the way I see it, you get what you pay for. You didnt buy a luxury car. Personally, I think this is a fun car to drive. Its the smallest car Ive driven so far, but it has some good power and acceleration. If you are looking for a reliable car to get you from point A to B, then keep the Sentra in mind.

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  Very impressed. A real luxury suv. - 2016 Nissan Murano
  By JLR - July 16 - 6:54 am

  Just leased about 2 weeks ago, but I have to say that I am real happy with my decision. I got the SL with the technology package and Im impressed with all the upgrades included in the suv that are included for less than $40k. Youll feel like you are driving a luxury car when riding this one. Im coming from a lease of the Ford Edge and I felt that it was a big upgrade, thinking mostly of all the features that are included in the Murano. The ride is just as smooth as the Edge, even though not as fast acceleration and a bit less cargo room, but nevertheless, the trade off is worthwhile. If you are looking for cross overs without the need for a 3rd row, Id recommend to at least take a look at the Murano.

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  funto drive - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By mrmugs - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Owned since June-love the performance,but already see that the factory Bridgestone Potenzas HAVE to GO!With the power this car has,lousy wet traction and easy hydroplaning.Looking into winter tires,but a very hard size to find.

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  Nissan Pathfinder - Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Alumaks - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Great ease and comfort in driving for the size of this SUV. Family of 6 welcomed the vehicle with great excited and where not prove wrong in the drive in. Excellent pricing. Cool and soft interiors. I will buy another if I have to replace. Smooth drive and powerful engine,gaining speed without any noticeable drag or delay. Great Stabiliy.

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  My Odyssey Has Become A Quest - 2004 Nissan Quest
  By FormerOdysseyOwner - July 16 - 2:00 am

  As a former 2001 Odyssey owner, I had high standards when I shopped for a new minivan in September. Of course, another Odyssey was considered -- until I stepped into a 2004 Nissan Quest and discovered what Ive been missing! I thoroughly admire the central control panel and display -- this IS the 21st century, isnt it? Shouldnt digital displays, tactile/touch-controls, self- monitoring tire gauges all be standard by now? This vehicle draws the curious whereever I go and its sure to turn heads for years to come. My Odyssey has ended. But my Quest has just begun.

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  why does my car creak? - 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid
  By lynn - July 15 - 8:53 pm

  I bought this car brand new - got a great price and almost 0 percent financing. I love the way it looks - dark blue is the classiest color. Everyone loves driving and being a passenger in my car. I frequently carpool four large teenagers and no one ever complains bout room in the back seat. The problem is in the sounds. After the first few months i noticed a creaking noise. I feel as though it is coming from the glove compartment, the passenger often tells me it is coming from the drivers side. I have had the car in 5 or 6 times and the dealer tells me it is coming from the cup holder (weve tried removing it), they have tightened the bolts on the dashboard. It is an unsolved mystery