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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  Best car I have owned - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Blackjet - May 14 - 10:00 am

  Great car, fast, fun to drive, handles well, I am 63 and have plenty of room in the drivers seat and could ride in the back seat comfortably. Compares favorably with the Acura TL but with more room. Many amenities, heated steering wheel, automatic folding mirrors, verital sun roof, nice display of car functions, friends envy it

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  08 Titan - 2008 Nissan Titan
  By AFBLU - May 14 - 9:20 am

  I just upgraded from a 06 Titan SE. I was impressed enough with the SE to look at the 08s. The 08 LE CC is almost to pretty for a truck, but it is a truck and will be used as one like its predecessor. Its ride is improved and is quieter. The brakes, like the engine, are smooth and strong. The utili-track bed system should be in every truck on the road. I drove Ford, Toyota and Chevy and found this truck not only to be the best for the money, but the best truck overall.

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  Power and Style in an Underrated Package - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By ATLCNP - May 14 - 2:00 am

  Ive put 6000 miles on my 03 GLE (traded in my 99 GLE) and have been nearly 100% satisfied. The 355 hp V6 is smooth and powerful. The features and available options (mine has Meridian package but not the nav) cant be beat for the price: I got mine for the low 25s. After test driving the 3.2TL (nice, but more expensive and pricier insurance), Saab 9-3 (did not feel as roomy and somewhat slower), and Audi A4, (not worth the xtra $$) Im thrilled with the value and amenities of the Maxima.

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  The Z of SUVs - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By jes7 - May 14 - 2:00 am

  The Murano handles, accelerates, and brakes like (or better than) a mid-size sedan. Acceleration is outstanding, and interior cabin noise is amazingly low. Style is great- if you dont want a box on wheels, take a look at the Murano.

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  Great Car!!! - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By melb29020 - May 13 - 2:11 pm

  I purchased my Altima in 06 with 130,000 miles on it. It now has 181,000 miles. In May of 2008 my timing chain popped & bent my valves, it wouldve cost more for me to simply replace the belt & valves so I ended up getting a new motor. The timing chain breaking appears to be a common problem after 150,000 miles. If you hear any type of rattling from your motor get it checked!! Besides that, I have not had any problems with my vehicle except normal maintenance (oil changes, brakes, tires). I look forward to having this car for another 50,000 miles!!

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  Great SUV--beware of tire wear - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By passionforskiing - May 13 - 4:16 am

  Terrific SUV and I would definitely purchase another one. I drive 42K/yr. and am very satisfied. If you buy one, be sure to rotate your tires often. I do it every oil change, 5K.

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  great rugged truck - 2005 Nissan Xterra
  By armydad - May 12 - 2:06 pm

  The Nissan xterra has been a great truck, 70,000 miles and no problems, still have the factory breaks, just now had to replace the tires. Truck does great in all weather, im in the army and currently living in Kansas, lots of snow and ice in the winter, truck does better than a lot of 4x4 trucks, I pass them all the time on the roads stuck in the snow, mpg not as good as I would like but is not bad considering the engine size and h. P. All and all great truck!

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  Love it! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By jmagill - May 12 - 12:43 pm

  I researched all the small hatchbacks/wagons. Vibe, Scion, Fit. The Versa gets good gas mileage. I drive mostly highway at around 70 and am averaging 32 MPG. I live in the mountains and have no problem with power or curves. This car is roomy and comfortable/ My 65" husband has no problems with fit. I am more than pleased and would make the purchase again. Loved the price!

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  Great Car - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By wk2design - May 12 - 6:46 am

  Overall - great car. Im very pleased after almost buying an Acura and Saab. The Maxima has it all and more. Best thing - go for the leather - awesome seats and comfort. Performance - just test drive one and youll see. Price is high although worth it when compared to others. BTW - The Audi A4 and Passat are both slugs compared to the Maxima.

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  Best bang for the buck! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By maxman - May 12 - 12:33 am

  This unique vehicle always brings a smile to my face and Nissans service is phenomenal about answering any questions I have. If you are considering a perfomance sedan, this one should be at the top of your list!