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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  My 3rd Sentra! - 2006 Nissan Sentra
  By Shelly H - November 18 - 1:13 am

  I bought this car a few months ago, of which had replaced my 1993 Sentra that floated away from flood waters cause by Hurricane Katrina. Compared to my other two Sentras (a 1989, also) this years model is more stylish then the older models Ive had. The car is fun to drive, as it has always been. And is a perfect car for the new driver, because it is just as easy to drive/park as it is fun. Gas milage is still great (right now Im averaging around 27 miles to a gallon), but I find that this year model drinks a bit more gas then the others Ive owned. Also, the ride is a bit looser and the car does tend to sway during hard turns. The seats are finaly more comfortable, but still no leg room.

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  Love the car, BUT... - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By jpueblo - November 17 - 10:26 am

  Overall a great car, drives and looks great. MPG on the HWY 39+ at 7- MPH. Nice handling and smooth ride. Only problem is a mysterious brake light that keeps coming on while the car is driving. Took it to the dealer once already and its on its way back again. Wish we never had this issue as we really like the car. If it continue will have to label it a Lemon.

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  350Z WOW - 2007 Nissan 350Z
  By LarryG - November 17 - 8:06 am

  The car is an absolute hoot to drive. The biggest problem I have with it is that I should have spent the extra money to go with the second level trim to get the cruise and traction control. Nissan should include those two devices and the extra air bags on every Z they sell even if it means adding a little more to the base price. It would make a big difference, especially given the high performance status of this vehicle. Remember, its not just for looks, this car already has the eye appeal, its a safety issue and that should be at the top of all other considerations. Nissan, wake up and get with the program!

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  New Pathfinder - 2017 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Steve White - November 16 - 10:59 pm

  We have only had out new 2017 Pathfinder for a couple weeks but love it already. the vehicle is roomy and very comfortable and did well after the recent storms. It has every safety feature and we are still learning all the tech features.

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  Best car Ive ever had - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Esch - November 16 - 2:23 pm

  I bought this car new in 2002. At the end of this week I will have put 250,000 miles on it. No major problems until I hit 225,000 miles, at that point it started burning through the oil and I had to replace the radiator. However, I still love to drive it, when clean it still looks brand new inside and out.

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  awesome car - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Subin - November 16 - 8:53 am

  I just got my Nissan Armada. It is fun to drive. The V8 engine helps pull the armada 0 - 60 in less then 7.0 sec. It has so much power that your head jukes back everytime you give it gas. The motor has an amazing roar too it. It takes the snow like nothing. It is flawless.

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  after 1-1/2 years, still nice - 2003 Nissan 350Z
  By myZ - November 16 - 7:30 am

  I like the 10mph to 60mph performance. I have the 5-sp Auto; helps in the stop/go commute. I still love the styling. Wheels are time consuming to keep clean.

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  The best car Ive driven. - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By TITTMAX - November 16 - 2:00 am

  Purchased this car in June of 03 with 95,000 miles on it, it currently has 114,800 and the only thing Ive replaced so far is rear pads(they were factory originals!!) and fog light lens because a rock hit it. Some wood trim is deteriorating. The car has amazingly fast acceleration and speed for only 190HP 205TQ. Leather Heated Power seats are exceptional as well as the Power Heated mirrors. I HIGHLY recommend the Nissan Maxima SE -(L)

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  I like it - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By squish - November 16 - 2:00 am

  It has many conveniences like the auto rear open door, programable seats, sun roof, DVD, and backing sensors. I love how it drives and feel very comfortable in it. The seat configuration is perfect for our family with all three having their own space. The second row side seats tumble forward easily allowing the passenger in the theater seating in the third row easy access. I have ridden there very comfortably myself. Yes, the gas mileage is dismal but Im not sure for the size of vehicle I felt I needed I could do much better. The towing capacity is awesome. We pull a camper so towing was a priority as well as all the rest.

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  VDP - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By victor nunez - November 16 - 2:00 am

  IT WAS COOL AT FRIST BUT WHEN YOU HAVE IT FOR A TIME IT IS LIKE A NORMAL CAR