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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  2004 Nissan Murano - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Sylvia Robinson - September 19 - 7:50 pm

  I drove several vehicles from a variety of dealerships but after I test drove the Murano, I was sold on its exceptional ride and available options. The Pathfinder, 4Runner, Trailblazer, and Explorer are no competition for the Murano. The Murano costs more than those vehiles but its well worth it. The body style is similar to the Lexus but without that price. I love driving my Murano and its so classy that I can go anywhere and get second looks...

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  Better than average vehicle - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By libbstah - September 19 - 1:43 pm

  While this car has had many recalls since first purchased it has been a very reliable vehicle. It was my parents before they gave it to me, and as a student, I find it great to own. Its fun to drive, looks nice, and gets average fuel economy. Other than the recalls, I have only had minor issues with the vehicle. I have no complaints. Love it!

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  Not as good as expected - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By wmhray - September 19 - 1:40 pm

  Driving is acceptable, but the brakes had a problem with the pedal going lower than the gas. Dealer had to go over it several times, but this was a safety hazard. The A/C developed a leak, and the Service Engine light cost $900 to get a leak fixed. The shield under the engine fell down due to a corroded fastener breaking.

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  THE BEST YET" - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By George Allen Eiring - September 19 - 10:26 am

  I have had many cars in my life and the Maxama that I own now a 2005 Is the best car that I have owned yet. The performance is fabulous. The power is unbelievable and the outside design is the most beautiful car that I have owned Yet. A few times that I was in bumper to bumper traffic, I had some people roll down their windows and motion to me and then tell me how beautiful the car is. Nissan hit a home run with the Maxama and I will buy another one in a heart beat. Thank You Nissan. George Allen Eiring

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  Speed Demon - 2003 Nissan 350Z
  By cazz61 - September 19 - 10:00 am

  Awesome car!!!!

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  PROBLEMS? - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By RICHARD H - September 19 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST VEHICLES I HAVE OWNED, BUT THERE ARE STILL SOME ANNOYING PROBLEMS. I HAVE RACED CARS, RESTORED CARS & SHOWED CARS, SO I FEEL NISSAN NEEDS TO GET A LITTLE FEEDBACK FROM OWNERS, NOT JUST COMPLEMENTS.

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  Quest Review - 2004 Nissan Quest
  By Deolal - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I have been very happy with the performance of the Quest, the looks and confort. what a fantastic vehicle. Manuverablilty and stability great. Great adjustibility for the drivers seat for leg comfort, whether you are a big person or small, unlike my sienna.

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  Nissan 350Z Go For It!!!! - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By kangcat - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I liked this hot new roadster so much I traded in my 2001 Corvette Z06. Yes a bit of a drop in horse power from the Vette. But lower payments, cheaper insurance, better gas, cheaper DMV,outstanding six disc CD player, and gret looks!!!

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  porche killer - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By sonyds - September 19 - 10:00 am

  fast, torquey, sharp handeling, chic magnet... all for 30k what more do you want from a sports car. This car does it call. Yes it has some quirks such as flimsy center console door, and window grease stains on window but all in all its still one of the best cars out there. keep up with boxter s while having an extra 25k in your pocket.

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  Fun! - 2005 Nissan 350Z
  By Lankey - September 18 - 8:20 pm

  This is a wonderful convertible. Lots of power and handles like a dream. The one drawback is interior room. If youre a big/tall boy you may feel cramped.