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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  pathfinder - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By gross - April 5 - 10:00 am

  great all around use suv

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  Very Solid, Reliable Automobile - 2000 Nissan Altima
  By M.P. Adams - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Probably one of the best automobiles I have ever owned. It may be a bit bland for some, but if you value reliability and comfort then this is the right car for you. So far, I have had minor problems with the electrical components(passenger power window not working, keyless entry system not working) all covered under warranty, but other than that I have been overly satisfied with my Altima, they really given it a V6 option though.

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  Awsome Car !!!! 2004 the BEST!! - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By FSERRANO - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I just got this car yesterday and so far I love it. I got the 4 Cyl. w/leather equipped. Its really nice and slick. The seating is much more comfortable than the 2003 model and it seems a little wider for some reason. I got it for $23,000 flat price with all the good options, well for the most part, I think its a great buy for the money!

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  First Nissan - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By voltran - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Love the Murano, style, performance is great. Mileage is a little less than I expected, although I have gotten 21 mpg at times. Biggest gripe is that is easy to lock yourself out, especially with the key in the ignition, and, even with the engine running.I find I have to leave the window open or not close the door if I want to step out for a moment. I believe the unlock mechanism above the door handle does not open al the way and is easily partially closed when opening the door from inside.

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  Lemon - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By davidp - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Two months into the second year of ownership, the car started to burn oil. Nissan replaced the engine block. Next, the clutch would not disengage. The car went to the shop and Nissan adjusted the clutch. This helped for about one month. Next, the car stranded my wife on the side of the interstate. Dealership towed the vehicle to their shop. They then replaced the Clutch master cylinder and seals. Now you can feel the bearings grinding through the clutch pedal. Today, the dealership will get the car back for more work. This car has been driven more by Nissan than by me or my wife. I intend on asking Nissan to replace the whole car.

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  What a CAR!!! - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Fast pilot. - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Really, this was a dificult desition for my to buy this car here in Mexico City, since the streets aren´t very "smooth going".. This car handles, delivers power, and accelerate in a very impressive way. Although we have VERY bumpy roads, the shocks and every part of the suspension behaves INCREDIBLE. CONGRATULATIONS NISSAN..

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  All but one.... - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Hartfordguyfaraway - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Very fun car to drive. The vehicle has a strong power source. Seats are a little uncomfortable, and most of all, most importantly,the turning radius is that of a limo. Very poor turning radius..trust me on this, i have driven some long cars. There is a considerable amount of road noise as well, you get used to it!.you can feel every bump and crack in the road, some probably like that feeling. Car has an unwanted shake in front end, dealer cant fix it. 55-65 mph all in all, good for the price, far from luxury though! Dealer very willing to push down price. SE w/500 of options paid $26,000 even! dont let them fool you...its not even 2004 yet.

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  In love w/ my ride!! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By DFran - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I saw it on the internet and knew I had to have it. I love the luxury feel, the cars appearance and ride. I had to have the leather and sun-roof. I am glad that I didnt get the BMW 325.

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  Love It, Love It, Love It! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By MLH - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I have always loved Nissan automobiles, but the Maxima is by far the best I have ever owned.

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  Max Max Baby - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By NiteStormm - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I couldnt ask for a sweeter car in the price range for style, class comfort and reliablty.