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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  Exellent!! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Jan k. - April 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is perfect>

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  New 2007 purchase - 2007 Nissan Armada
  By Rob - April 1 - 3:16 am

  Great truck! Only 2 complaints. Vanity mirror light not adjustable and cheap! 2nd thing is I have no light under the hood.

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  I like it! - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Leona - March 31 - 11:40 pm

  The ride is smooth, the controls are easy, and wireless headphones for DVD is very convenient. I like the fact that you get more for your money when it comes to towing. The third row seat is roomy for children or shot people like me; maybe thats why I like it so much.

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  4 Door Sports Car with 5 Star Safety! - 2011 Nissan Maxima
  By dbishopp - March 31 - 7:12 pm

  I did a lot of research before deciding upon this car. Most important to me was safety, after being in a car accident a year ago it was clear to me that if someone can hit me out of no where, I need to make sure the next vehicle I have stands up to impact. This car has a 5 Star Safety Rating and side impact is well covered! The inside of this car makes you feel like youre wrapped in bubble wrap and foam! It has all the comfort and bells and whistles of a luxury car, with all the speed you need to safely get onto the highway of a sports car! Im very happy with my new 2011 Maxima!

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  Love my 08 want a 2010 - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By RECHELLE - March 31 - 7:10 pm

  I love my 08 armada, went from a 06 Toyota 4-runner to the armada for more room, 3rd row seating, & better ride. Discovered that it drove a lot better by 100%. We had no children at the time of purchase but had 3 dogs. Great family vehicle for evacuations from Louisiana & vacations, dogs love it. Didnt buy extended warranty at time of purchase because wasnt sure if Id be satisfied & keep it past 3 years/36,000 mile warranty. Now after 2 years & 4 months & over 31,000 miles with now 4 dogs & 1st baby on the way any day now Im ready for a 2010 with extended warranty this time. We looked at the Yukon & Tahoe but the seats dont fold down into the floor to make the back completely even.

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  Love My Murano - 2010 Nissan Murano
  By RC - March 31 - 4:43 pm

  I did a tremendous amount of research before buying this vehicle, Edmunds, Car and Driver, Consumer Reports, etc. Even attended an auto show to compare midsize crossovers. If you are looking for a premium,two row crossover the Murano wins hands down. The interior makes you feel that you are in an Infiniti and the seats are very comfortable. Except for a little wind noise from the side mirrors the cabin is very quite. Performance wise the engine-cvt combination provides excellent power in all situations and the handling is very good for crossover. The Murano is responsive with good feedback from the road. The Murano is fun to drive.

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  Found a friend with Nissan - 2005 Nissan Xterra
  By troberts3 - March 31 - 9:20 am

  Owned a Cadillac CTS when I bought "The X" and didnt drive the CTS for three weeks because I loved The X so much. Purchased used 05/2010 at 65K, now has 101K. I have replaced NOTHING! Solid, reliable truck with compartments everywhere for storage. Finally sold my Cadillac because I liked the Nissan better. I will stay with Nissan as long as they keep making vehicles like this one. My ONLY complaint: Back seat leg room. My friends have a lot of trouble getting in and out. One other thing: Tire pressure light comes on after traveling a constant speed for 40-50 miles. Does it every time. I think its the new tires. Not sure...

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  Enjoy The Ride. - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By Erik - March 30 - 9:26 pm

  I bought my 99 Maxima SE Limited to replace my first car that I used through high school and one year of college (a 96 Saturn SL2 Premium). The Maxima was the short list. I purchased mine with 59,858 miles on it in July of 2006 and now currently have 72,562 miles. Ive had no unscheduled maintenance and have only had one major replacement, the exhaust system. My Nissan dealership has serviced the vehicle with great care at each scheduled maintenance. The performance, styling, and build quality is impeccable. Nissan engineers have executed every detail perfectly on this vehicle. The engine is smooth, refined, and aggressive. The Maxima is Nissans flagship for a reason.

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  Nissan Quest hands down best van - 2005 Nissan Quest
  By Rusty - March 29 - 11:03 am

  This was my second Quest, previous was 04, which indeed was a great van, put tons of miles and zero problems. Love the engine, no complaints, perfect for family!

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  Simply the Best - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mississippi - March 29 - 11:00 am

  THE PATHFINDER IS ONE SMOOTH RIDING SUV THAT IS FUN TO DRIVE IN ALL WEATHER RAIN SLEET SNOW OR SHINE !!