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:

• 

  From a Ford to a Nissan - 2017 Nissan Rogue
  By Rogue17 - June 5 - 3:03 am

  After years of driving Fords I bought my first Nissan back in August when I decied I wanted to go back to an SUV I absolutely loved it!!! I compared the Rogue SL to the Escape Titanium loved them both but the Nissan was about $8,000 less and has all the features that the Escape had. Its more fun to drive and has a sportier styling. Theres not much difference in the gas millage between the too. I just might a Nissan man from now on

• 

  Did I buy a lemon? - 2006 Nissan Frontier
  By Cory - June 4 - 5:10 am

  I love my truck but at only 2,500 miles I have towed it once and am on my way to the delearship again this morning. Be aware that many Frontiers appear to have faulty steering columns as mine did (reason for towing) and there may also be some brake issues--my brake warning light is now on and Im back to the dealer. Overall, I do love my truck but I am afraid that I bought a lemon. I should not be having these kinds of problems before the first oil change!!

• 

  Looked for years - 2007 Nissan Murano
  By kelly - June 3 - 7:46 pm

  Just bought one. Drove the 03 when they came out. Wife fell in love with them. Teased her awhile and finally surprised her. Sturdy, firm ride, great handling, very responsive and roomy. Back from roadtrip, 17 mpg towing trailer and motorcycle highway. Without towing averaged 22.7. Far better than my Suburban. First new vehicle in 23 years, what was I waiting for? Seats a little firm for long rides but worth the money. Warranty could be better.

• 

  Best In Class - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By J-Dog - June 3 - 12:13 pm

  I love this truck. The only complaint I have is of course the fuel economy, but it is par for all other full size trucks with a 8 cylinder motor. It has more than enough power, and the comfort is amazing. The standard motor is a top of the line upgrade for most truck makers. I used to be a diehard Dodge fan, but I couldnt go back to that after driving a Titan.

• 

  Great handling car - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By J Sutterfield - June 2 - 4:33 pm

  Puts the fun back in driving. Beats the heck out of a Sonata. Classy looks, excellent handling and sufficiently powered by the 4 cylinder engine. Interior is sporty with excellent standard music system, gauges, seats. Nice ride!

• 

  College buget - 2004 Nissan Sentra
  By mcrea5 - June 2 - 10:00 am

  For a college student on a tight budget the Nissan Sentra is a great choice. It is very comfortable for my rather long daily commute. The fuel economy is excellent great on my wallet, but the car is still fun to drive on curvy roads.

• 

  Simply amazing! - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Jackie Siebel - June 2 - 10:00 am

  words really cannot describe this vehicle. Its handling and style are wonderful and the cvt transmission makes it a seemless drive- feels like you are always in 1st gear. I would definately recommend this vehicle. I also live in rochester NY and its winters are very harsh. Finally Im looking forward to a winter with no car problems! great car!

• 

  Good Stuff - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Lazza17 - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Although I expected better gas mileage the car itself is just great. Upgrade to the BOSE - Its nice... Back seat legroom is unsurpassed.

• 

  Titan kicks butt - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By FOSTER - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Nissan Thanks for building the ultimate truck. I have owned 5 chevy trucks, 6 ford trucks, 3 dodge trucks. Titan is the best, it is a blast to drive.

• 

  Cross Country - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Blake - June 1 - 6:00 pm

  My Pathfinder has been very reliable in my trip across the United States. The interior comfort makes it easy to ride for long distances. Acceleration is very well for a heavy SUV, and the gas millage is not that bad considering it is a SUV. Thought about getting a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee but who wants those when that is all you see. Stand out from the crowd and enjoy a Pathfinder.