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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  Great Car - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By suzie - July 31 - 12:26 pm

  I bought this car 12/20/99. This car has been one of the best cars I have had. I have over 200,000 miles. Took it in today thinking I would have to buy a new car and it only needs the fan replaced and transmission servicing. I have had a problem with the tires wearing out quickly and an issue with keeping tires balanced. Slight vibration in the front. A little small for my husband but perfect for me. Passenger seat could have more seat adjustment capability

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  Awsome car !!!! - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By newaltimaguy - July 31 - 12:00 pm

  I love this car!!! Rides like a dream, fast acceleration, awesome sound system and a lot of really cool gadgets. In my opinion, its a lower priced, not so flashy on the outside Infinity.

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  Good Car - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Ike - July 31 - 5:20 am

  I purchased mine slightly used. This is my first car. I enjoy it and like it a lot. The only problem Ive had so far is the hubcaps. They come off too easy. The fuel economy could be better but I get about 25-26. Which is nowhere near the posted. I have noticed the blind spot in the rear caused by the back window. It may just be mine but there is nearly no tint on my windows which causes a big problem with headlights blinding me at night, esp with bigger trucks.

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  The war pony - 2004 Nissan Xterra
  By Grandma - July 31 - 4:46 am

  I LOVE my Xterra. I call it the War Pony. Because it,ll go anywhere I ask it to, at any time, in any weather. I used to own a full size lifted Bronco. I am now a 52 year old grandmother and needed a smaller 4 door. I did not think any thing could replace my big truck. Then I found the xterra. I strap my grand children into the back and away we go. No more getting out to lock in hubs. The ground clearence is fine the power is perfect. The interior cleans well. The gas mileage is good. Drivers comfort is great. Room in the back seat is good. I can see all around . the sound syatem bumps too. I LOVE my War Pony!!! I would recomend the Xterra to any one who wants a true 4x4with extras buy it!!!

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  Gotta try this car - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By valenciae - July 30 - 11:11 pm

  My 2001 Xterra died with 202,000 miles. I wanted a comfortable car. I considered the Murano and Pathfinder. The Rogue had a slightly less smooth ride, but not $3000 worth. Very slight difference. I find the ride smooth. So smooth I recommend keeping the heat down and the radio loud. I got sleepy a few times. That car lulls you to relaxation, and an active 10 year old boy to sleep! The seats are comfortable and the back is room. There is only a few inches between the Rogue, Murano, and even the Pathfinder. I get just as much stuff in the back as the Murano. Slightly less than my XT BE CAREFUL OF THE KEYLESS IGNITION. TWICE I DID NOT TURN IT ALL THE WAY OFF.

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  Second place aint bad - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By mac - July 30 - 7:13 pm

  Easier to drive than my CRV and just as peppy. My wife wanted this one and I enjoy driving it myself because Im 62" and I fit. It drives well on the road and buzzes around town easily. We tested all the SUVs this size and the CRV was tops, but this one could easily be someone elses top rated.

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  04 Roadster Touring - 2005 Nissan 350Z
  By Rick - July 30 - 3:16 pm

  The exterior of the car is stunning, while the interior could be a bit more refined. I have had the car for about 8 months now and the only problem I have had with it is the NAV door had to be replaced because it was not opening intermitantly. This car is off the scale if you are looking for fun to drive. And youll get more looks than you could imagine while driving it.

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  Altima vs. Texas Trucks - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By catstoy - July 30 - 8:26 am

  After a Saturn and Eclipse in the 90s and SUVs and trucks over the last few years, I was unsure about moving back lower to the ground (still have our Titan, but will use it considerably less) and am delighted with the sporty feel of my new Altima. Feels solid and responsive. Very fun to drive!

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  Much better than expected - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By D.M. - July 29 - 11:13 pm

  Weve had our Maxima for approx. 1 month and wow! We looked at the Accord, TSX, Avalon, and the Infiniti G35. The Maxima is almost exactly like the G35 but for a few thousands less, the Accord was just too boring. The Maxima has exceeded all my expectations. The leather is top notch (black interior), the satellite radio is great, the engine power should be in a vehicle that costs thousands more, etc.

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  SPECV - 2003 Nissan Sentra
  By Naim Nader - July 29 - 10:00 am

  Love this car it is so nice to drive and speeding up in first and second gear is soo much fun. I dont like the 4th to fith change but you get used to it. I love the car