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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  Smooth - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Domingo - October 10 - 11:50 am

  I just drove this car up toward Boise, Id. from Mt. Vernon and wow its got power when I needed it. Especially when you want to get away from those 18 wheel guys. You know what I mean right. Up the curvy hills know problem, passing up the hills, zoom bye Im gone. But look out for Mr. ticket man.

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  Navigation System - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By rtinaglia - October 10 - 6:42 am

  Weve had the 2013 Altima 3.5 SL for about a month. Even after 4 weeks we cant figure out the Bosch Nav system. It is the most UN-intuitive system Ive ever used. Nothing is simple, everything requires at least 1, usually 2 more menues to accomplish a task. Dont waste your money on this. My $200 Garmin will remember the deviation from the calculated route, and provide this re-route everytime. Not the Bosch. And, if your lookin g for a smooth ride, pass the Altima, its stiff and hard over bumps. We made a misteake - dont you.

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  Just got it, still evaluating - 2003 Nissan Frontier
  By Fitz134 - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I just got the truck, after being a dyed in the wool Ford man. Nissans to me seem to be some of the most durable, and time tested out there. My truck is an absoulute pleasure to drive, and it gives the best mix of practicality, and functionality. My wife even likes it. We have our first child on the way, and needed another four door vehicle.

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  Good Car, Bad Trim - 1996 Nissan Sentra
  By Mamajones - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car used with 39000 miles and have NEVER had a major problem. It now has 109K and shows no signs of slowing. The major gripe we have is the interior is not as well designed as we would like. It seems that every couple of weeks we find a "mystery" piece of plastic or molding that fell off from somewhere. Also has problems with exterior paint chipping and slight rust. Paint is bubbling and peeling in spots. Good gas mileage. Averaged 33 mpg on the last long distance trip. We average about 300 miles per tank for normal driving. Would recommend as a good basic car.

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  2001 Pathfinder LE 3.5L - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Daniel Oscislawski - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Reliable SUV, but boring after a while.

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  Excellent Car - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Elzaida Smith - October 9 - 9:23 pm

  This is my 3rd Nissan and, I have been nothing but satisfied. I was concerned when I purchased my Altima, because I had a maxima, and the power and the way it handled I really loved, and I didnt want to feel like I was taking a step down. But after driving my altima, Im really in Love!! Great vehicle.

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  Have the craving to drive every day - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Peter - October 9 - 7:13 pm

  Having owned this pre-owned Altima for several months now, I can safely say that Im glad I bought this car. More power, room and economy than my previous car. The car looks great inside and out. No mechanical issues except a fuel-starved engine from parking on an incline (hard start afterwards). Luxury touches like auto windows, trip puter and power seat are nice. Overall, no mechanical issues. Some of the coloring/dye in plastic has worn through and leather on steering wheel too. "Wood" trim scratches easily. Nothing deal-breaking: no trim falling off, no significant squeaks or rattles. Fuel econ: 24 city/32 hwy -- 20 gal tank

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  I really loved this car - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Wendell - October 9 - 3:23 pm

  I bought this car in Sept. 08 and it is now June. The car had 192,000 and now has 224,000. In spite of that the only things I did to the car was update the tires and a couple of oil changes and the car runs GREAT. I love the powerful engine and the trany. Im on the road all day for work and this car makes my job more enjoyable. Even though I didnt get it with leather seats, a cd player, sun roof or any other luxuries I am crazy about this car. Who knows... if I were to get a car with all the other luxuries... I might lose my mind :).

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  Im sold - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By green19 - October 9 - 6:20 am

  I had a hard time choosing between the big three. After driving the 150, RAM, and 1500 none compared to this. Even the Tundra couldnt compare. There is no way to get the amount of truck for the price if you buy anything other than the Titan. I have driven Ford for 20 years. I miss my old girls, but not after this purchase.

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  My first new Truck - 2005 Nissan Frontier
  By Don - October 8 - 8:00 pm

  All I can say is WOW. This truck is great. I just got it home two days ago and cant stop staring at it. It just looks great. Like a bulldog with an attitude. Drives great, Very comfortable and has a real solid feel. Very tight. I believe the 05 is the first year for the new body style and it was a much needed upgrade. The 6 CD stereo is excellent. the controls are easy to use and easy to reach. You really feel safe in this truck. I had a used Mazda for about 4 weeks and gave it back for this new one. Very Smart Move. Buy one. Youll love it.