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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  fun and rommie at a resonable cost - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By tuller - May 7 - 2:00 am

  I test drove may cars (accord, acura,passat) and found this was by far the best car for the dollar. I first drove the 4 cyl. version and really liked it, but then I decided to venture out and try the 6 cyl. version and I fell in love, I had to have it. After 1 month I still cannot be Happier about my decision

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  Best Looking SUV on the Road - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By MaryandJim - May 7 - 2:00 am

  We previously owned a Lexus RX300,which we loved, so when looking for a new vehicle,it had to be great. We looked at an Infinti FX35, compared it to the Nissan Murano, and we were sold on the Murano! We have been stopped by people almost every time we drive it! It is by far the best looking SUV on the road.

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  I love my frog - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By Froggy - May 7 - 2:00 am

  Since purchasing my Murano I have enjoyed driving it much more than my Suburban. It is comfortable and I enjoy not having to feel the shifting.

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  WOW!!! - 2004 Nissan Quest
  By Picky SUV Shopper - May 7 - 2:00 am

  Was shopping for SUV from Honda and Toyota when we came across with the new Quest at a local dealership. Looks alone inside and out is already outstanding, but you dont buy cars for looks alone. After test driving it, there was no question about buying it. Comfort, technology, design, entertainment features, and power are all excellent deciding factor.

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  Best SUV I ever driven - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By harris akinnifesi - May 7 - 2:00 am

  This car drives like a luxury car.I have driven Pathfinder, Toyota 4 Runner etc they drive like truck(hard) Drive Murano you wont leave it.

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  Perfect SUV for me - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By mhardy - May 7 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I were in the market for another SUV. We already have an Acura MDX (which we love), so we wanted a smaller SUV. I had looked at the Toyota Highlander before and really liked it. However, once I saw and drove the Murano I knew it was the car for us. Its the perfect combination of size, comfort, flexibility and performance. I was surprised to see the Murano has many features you would expect to find in a Lexus or Acura...even some features our Acura doesnt have.

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  Best yet! - 2004 Nissan 350Z
  By Dave D - May 7 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is one of many high performance vehicles that I have owned. To me it is the most fun of any of them including Corvettes and BMWs. The fun factor is awsome!

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  Its about time... - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Josie Earles - May 7 - 2:00 am

  My husband and I rented the 2004 Nissan Maxima for a trip to Nebraska, and I must say I was a little set back by have to get this particluar car. Once ont the road I noticed right away that is was no ordinary midsize car.

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  Minivan with personality! - 2005 Nissan Quest
  By minivan reborn - May 6 - 7:50 am

  This is a great minivan. I keep looking for excuses to drive it. Its comfortable yet exciting with wonderful engine, crisp 5 speed automatic transmission, tight around corners, distinctive styling, ample interior space (Im 6ft tall and I can easily walk from the driver seat to all the way back to the 3rd row.) This is the only minvan with personality.

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  Love it - 2005 Nissan Frontier
  By Paul T - May 6 - 3:46 am

  Great truck! If you are looking a new midsize you must put this truck on your list. lots of room and explosive power from the V6. Very quiet cab and if you love music you must get the Rockford package. One drive is all it will take to.