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 - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By JSensation - May 1 - 1:23 pm

  We looked at several other competitors, but Nissan was offering the most bang for our buck. The ride is nice and not too loud. There is a blind spot, but its not biggie as long as you check your mirrors. The seats are very comfortable, probably the most comfortable out of all the cars we tried. Lots of leg room for the driver and Im 62". Overall, its a great car in its class. The service engine light did come on because the gas cap was "tightened" but I made sure it was at least two times and drove it a few times so it would turn off, but it didnt. Took it to Nissan and they turned it off for free, obviously. No big deal though, thats what the warranty is for.

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  Husband stole my car! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By sherikay26 - May 1 - 11:43 am

  I bought this car for a run around car since it has great gas mileage. My Husband drives a Truck and has said he would never down size to a car I have had this car for a little over a month and I have only driven it three times because my husband had to take it one day while his truck tire was being fixed and now he takes it every day. He is considering trading his truck in for another Versa. We are very pleased with the power it has.

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  Very Happy Thank You - 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid
  By Jane - May 1 - 11:26 am

  I gave up my 2003 Honda Camry in Jan 08 for the( in my opinion)sexy Altima Hybrid. I dont regret it. I drive 50 miles to and from work 6 days a week. I went from 3 tanks of gas a month to 3tanks of gas every 2 months. I went to San francisco from L A and drove around all week on the same tank of gas . With the camry I had to fill up when I got to San Francisco. I am Very Happy Thank You.

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  Great Truck! - 2007 Nissan Frontier
  By Ashley - May 1 - 7:30 am

  I went from a Land Rover Freelander and to a Nissan Frontier 4WD and feel that I have made an excellent choice. Very surprised by the power for a mid- sized truck, very comfortable and a nice ride.

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  Youll love this baby.... - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Michelle - May 1 - 12:26 am

  I just drove my new Rogue SL off the lot and I must tell you - its fun to drive, sexy and I absolutely love it. My 2006 CRV SE was coming off lease so I was looking for a smooth ride, comfort and curb appeal. This vehicle will not disappoint you. If youve looked at the CR-V, Rav4, Subaru Forester and cant make up your mind... take one of these for a spin. Youll love the room, fold-down seats, rear storage compartments.

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  Awesome - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Shawn - April 30 - 2:46 pm

  I Recently Purchased My Altima SeR and I Absolutley Love it. The Torque Steer is Really Not That Bad As Many People Say it is. My intentions was to get a 6spd but instead all they had was the auto. Overall Im Satisfied

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  Best Purchase Ever - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By mjdevries - April 30 - 12:50 pm

  My wife and I had been looking at the titans ever since their debut in 04. We finally found a great price on an 06 SE KC 4x2. All around fantastic performer. Comfortable ride quality. though the stock drivetrain is excellent, I decided to add an intake, exhaust, headers, throttle body spacer, and programmer and WOW!!! My truck eats HEMIs for breakfast! everyone knows when I am coming down the street. This truck looks as great as it runs. I tow occasionally and it does it with no problems at all. It is like there is nothing behind me. We were so impressed with Nissan for this truck that we decided to purchase an 08 pathfinder as well. Now I dont have to fight my wife to drive my truck

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  First impressions - 2007 Nissan Titan
  By Ron - April 30 - 12:26 pm

  Just took delivery in early January 07. I took 400 mile trip day after delivery and was well pleased with the performance and ride of this vehicle. I got 16 MPH and hope this improves. This truck is far superior to my 2003 GMC. I would advise anyone looking to buy a new pick up to check out the Titan before you buy.

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  4 Dr. GXE Sedan - 1998 Nissan Altima
  By ts - April 30 - 2:00 am

  Great car for the money, must be one of the best buys out there. When shopping, I compared it with similar priced competitors Ford Contour/Mercury Mistique. No comparison!!! That convinced me. Why pay so much for a Honda or Toyota. Ive had no trouble in two years. Its peppy and economical to drive. Friends who ride in it often comment on what a nice car it is.

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  This is the best car ever! - 2000 Nissan Xterra
  By Lindsey - April 30 - 2:00 am

  This car is one of the best cars I have owned in a long time! When this car gets old (which shouldnt be soon), I will just get another Xterra. They are great dependable cars and very reliable for any needs. I would recommend them.