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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  Awesome Altima 3.5sl - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By luis90 - January 21 - 5:03 am

  I bought this car about 3 months ago car is amazing. I bought it for my wife and when i drive it i have my share of fun the altima is quick at the 1/8 mile it did 8.9 at 83mph thats quick for a altima even the announcer was surprised! I dont hear any noises, i hardly feel any bumps and that CVT transmission is the best thing nissan can do for their nissans. This car beat a stock lancer evoution 2006 by a whole car there goes to show how well this transsion keeps its power band. you hardly feel the shifting points compared to a toyota camry this nissan rocks the car has 3500 miles on it and no problems yet i and my wife are very satisfied with our new altima 2013 and pearl white color.

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  Wish I had my car back - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By Lucky 1 - January 21 - 2:00 am

  My car was recently totaled in a collision. I miss it already. Its a great car that protected me from serious injury. I would recommend this car to anyone who drives in heavy traffic--gas mileage, responsiveness, reliability and safety are all excellent. In 76K miles, replaced brake pads once, tires once, battery once. What a great car!!! I only wish now I had my car back. I miss it already.

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  2001 Nissan Maxima SE - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By 01maxima - January 21 - 2:00 am

  Very dependable, comfortable, and stylish. Has only needed gas, oil, and filter changes. One unscheduled repair for a faulty oxygen sensor replaced under warranty. A genuinely nice, sporty sedan for the money.

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  Love My Maxima! - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By SidneyS - January 20 - 5:50 pm

  I have been privileged to drive some wonderful vehicles including the 5 series BMW. However, this is, by far, the BEST sedan Ive enjoyed. Its quiet, comfortable, safe and above all, reliable. The owners manual is most helpful in detailing what needs to be done regarding services. Following the manufacturers recommendations, this car will last forever. I highly recommend the Maxima if you want luxury and sensibility combined!

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  loving it - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By jenjen - January 20 - 8:53 am

  Love this suv. I have so much room. Its fast. Its gorgeous too! I added some modifications (rims, tinted windows ect...) and I always get compliments. Gas isnt great but its an suv and the way the world is today you cant win!

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  Great truck - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By Steve K - January 20 - 4:43 am

  I bought this truck new in 2006, and have loved it ever since. Had to replace the front rotors and brakes under warranty, so Ill be watching that, but otherwise, no problems. We drive it every day, but have tried to keep the overall miles low. This vehicle does it all - SUV, car, truck all in one with TONS of power. Gas mileage isnt great, but isnt much worse than many smaller SUVS. Blows the Chevys, Fords, and Toyotas away in every category.

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  I luv my Nissan:-) - 2000 Nissan Altima
  By Dwija - January 19 - 7:30 pm

  Weve had this car for a little over 2 years now and have had no problems at all. Regular maintenence and it runs like a dream. Its not the hottest car on the road, but with 2 toddlers in the back, reliability and safety are the most important things. Were at about 78K miles, and were going to keep driving it until it falls apart, which probably wont be for a looooong time. My first car was an old beater Nissan Sentra, and it never let my down. Right now, our other car is a pick- up...not too practical with kids, so were looking to buy a boring old mini- van, and the 02 Nissan Quest is looking pretty good at the moment!

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  Nice Car - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By dan p. - January 19 - 1:00 pm

  Ive been very impressed so far with this car. The price was great for such a reliable car. It is not only reliable but can be quick and great on gas.

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  Love my Altima - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By gemini - January 19 - 12:20 am

  The Altima is the best car in its class. Totally awesome good looks, sporty and extremely economical. I do a 50/50 split hwy and city. During normal driving mid 30s fuel economy. If I baby it, Ive gotton close to 40 mpg. Gauges are easy to read day or night. Standard halogen lamps, push start, all standard. I love the fact that I never have to pull the keys out of my pocket. The 4cyl Altima easily beats 4 cyl Accord and Camry of the line and passes better as well. All for a car that is in the low 20s.

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  Well built suv ,fun to drive - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By Richard James - January 18 - 11:00 am

  This is the first suv I have ever owned. From the time i drove out of the dealership until today i have never had more fun driving any other vehicle. From its great handling to its clean lines i gould not be happier in my choice to purchase this vehicle.