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Nissan

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6.0

Overall Score

Author: Kaitlyn Short

LAST UPDATED: April 9th, 2022

Founded in 1933, Nissan Motor Company is a Big Three Japanese automaker with a reputation for style and performance. 
 
Formerly sold under the Datsun marque in the United States, Nissan reclaimed its own automotive brand in the mid-eighties. In 1989, Nissan spun-off its own luxury brand, Infiniti. Nissan is the largest automobile manufacturer in the United States and the sixth-largest in the world. 
 
The automaker’s cars, trucks, crossovers, and SUVs are sold at more than 1,020 Nissan dealerships in the United States. If you are looking for a dependable car with a luxury interior, explore Nisson’s lineup to find a vehicle that’s within your budget. Nissan’s best value vehicles start at just $13,500 MSRP. 
 
Keep reading our Nissan review to learn more about the pros and cons of purchasing a Nissan or skip to the Nissan reviews.

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The Good

  • Dependability
  • Variety of Vehicles
  • Best Truck Warranty
  • Reliable Safety Features
  • Autonomous Vehicles
  • Green Technology
  • Nissan Concierge
  • Convenient Service Department

Dependability

When it comes to dependability, Nissan ranks above average at 11th out of 31 car brands in the most recent JD Power Vehicle Dependability Study, meaning that Nissan vehicals have fewer issues that require attention or maintenance than many other brands. 

Additionally, the following were ranked among the top three most dependable cars in their segment: 

  • Compact Car — Nissan Leaf
  • Small Car — Nissan Versa
  • Midsize Pickup — Nissan Frontier

Variety of Vehicles

Nissan’s current lineup runs the gamut from subcompact cars, like the Versa, to large trucks, like the Nissan Titan, which is available in Single, King, and Crew Cabs. The company offers a few different sports cars and even the electric Nissan Leaf, which is the world’s best-selling all-electric car with over 300,000 sold. 
 
Nissan has an impressive lineup of six different SUV models. With a variety of models and trim levels, car buyers can find a Nissan SUV that suits their needs. In 2017, the Nissan Rogue was the best selling SUV in the world. The Nissan Rogue continues to be one of Nissan’s most popular car models because of its expansive cargo space, comfortable seating, and reliable safety features.

Best Truck Warranty

While most Nissan vehicles carry a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, the Titan model comes with a 60-month/100,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty. This is the best available truck warranty in the nation.  

Reliable Safety Features

As part of Nissan’s sustainability initiative, Nissan has implemented goals for a zero-fatality society. Steps to reaching this goal include an increased focus on automated driver technology and vehicle safety features. Nissan continues to improve its technology to make the roads safer for everyone. Intelligent Mobility, Nissan’s safety technology program, offers the following features: 

  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Blind Spot Warning
  • Lane Intervention
  • Back-up Intervention
  • Around View Monitor
  • Distance Control

The Nissan lineup also includes the Nissan Safety Shield. By 2021, Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 will come standard on all new U.S. vehicles. Radars positioned around the car build a full view of areas in front, behind, and around the vehicles. The Nissan Safety Shield 360 includes six features: Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Rear Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, and High Beam Assist.

Autonomous Vehicles

Nissan is also helping to engineer Seamless Autonomous Mobility and use human “mobility managers” to teach driverless cars what to do when something unexpected happens. In the early 2020s, the company will start using autonomous vehicles to transport users to their destinations. 
 
Nissan’s first autonomous vehicle will be the Nissan Ariya scheduled to be released in 2021. With Nissan’s Propilot Assist 2.0, drivers can set the car to single-lane driving for a hands-free driving experience. Drivers can also use the Propilot Assist 2.0 for guided lane change instructions.

Green Technology

Nissan is one of the world’s greenest brands and is the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer. By 2017, Nissan had sold over 275,000 electric vehicles. The company’s top-seller is the Leaf, which is the world’s best-selling highway-capable plug-in electric.
 
Since 2010, Nissan’s Green Program has been recognized by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency as an Energy Star Partner of the Year

Nissan Concierge 

Nissan offers a new luxury feature to Titan pick-up owners — Nissan Concierge. Connect with a specialized Nissan assistant who can help you schedule appointments, check sports scores, make travel arrangements, along with other personal requests. This feature comes on the new Nissan Titan 2020 free for six months with an additional charge of $12.99 per month after the service period has ended. Nissan plans to make this feature standard on new vehicle models.

Convenient Service Department

Nissan offers a reliable service experience with extra perks for Nissan drivers. For example, Nissan owners receive a complimentary vehicle inspection every time they bring their car in for servicing. The inspection helps you recognize and anticipate any vehicle problems before you get back on the road. 
 
Nissan also has an express service option at participating dealership locations. You don't need to make an appointment for an express dealer. Just show up during the operating hours and the trained technicians will take care of your Nissan car.

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The Bad

  • Takata Recall
  • Fuel Emission Scandal
  • Innovation Limitations

Takata Recall 

Several different Nissan models were included in the Takata airbag recall, the largest of its kind ever to take place in the industry. If you own one of the following models, check to see if your vehicle is affected: 

  • 2001 to 2003 Nissan Maxima
  • 2002 to 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  • 2002 to 2006 Nissan Sentra
  • 2007 to 2012 Nissan Versa

Fuel Emission Scandal 

In 2018, Nissan’s leadership tampered with its vehicle’s fuel economy and emission statements. Many of Nissan’s green awards had been based on these false recordings. Nissan has admitted to this scandal and rechecked vehicles to make sure they are in compliance with Japanese safety standards. This scandal does not affect vehicles manufactured outside of Japan.

Innovation Limitations

Nissan competes to be on the front line of automotive technology. However, there are limitations to some of its new technology including the autonomous vehicle. For example, the self-driving function may not work properly in certain weather conditions including snow, heavy rain/fog, and ice. Lane markers must be clearly visible for the technology to work. New automotive technology has its advantages and its disadvantages. Consider these shortcomings before purchasing an autonomous car. 

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The Bottom Line

With Nissan, customers will see improved interior styling to match sleek exteriors. Consumers can shop dependable cars and trucks, as well as crossovers and SUVs. While most models come with an industry-standard warranty, the Titan pickup truck has the best truck warranty in the country. 
 
This company is advancing technology when it comes to safety, sustainability, and driver experience. Drivers will benefit from Nissan’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
 
Read through our Nissan reviews below to learn about real customer experiences with the brand. If you are interested in a Nissan model, visit your local Nissan dealership to evaluate and test drive a vehicle. Don’t forget to ask about rebates and incentives. 

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Star Rating

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4.5

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284 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

62%

4 grade

29%

3 grade

6%

2 grade

1%

1 grade

1%

Sentiment Criteria

Value

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Quality

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Shelli Barnes

Nissan has a very good reputation, they dont end up in the shop very often except for routine maintenance. They can go for hundreds of miles. Someone had a truck that had over 500,000 miles on it. They have very good warranties. My Nissan has a lifetime warranty on the drive train which I've never heard of before, plus I have 5yrs. Of free maintenance. What I dont like is having no CD player. They must think everyone was born with a computer in their hand and that everyone can download music. They are catering to the younger generation and dont care about the older generation who have a lot of now useless CDs

7 years ago

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McKinzie Figueroa Provo, UT

I currently drive a Nissan Maxima and love it! It is the best car that I have owned. It is very roomy and comfortable-even to those who are sitting in the back seat. The trunk is large for a car the size that it is. It's great. I love my Maxima!

7 years ago

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Amanda Hodges Little Rock, AR

I own a Nissan Altima and I love it. It is a mid-size car and gets great gas mileage. I have had no issues with my car. I have only had to do regular, minor maintenance on my car. I had to ride in the back seat and was surprised with how much room it had. It is great for travailing and has a huge trunk and I get compliment on the color of my car as well. It is dark blue but looks black. I will drive this car long after it has been paid off.

6 years ago

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Naomi Colorado Springs, CO

We purchased a Nissan Titan from the dealer. We love the truck but the description told us the driver's seat had automatic adjustment and it did not. However, the vehicle runs great and we have enjoyed using it thus far. Also, beware of the salesmen. They promised a rebate and we had to remind them several times about that condition before they actually processed the rebate.

7 years ago

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Tammy Collins Sims

Owned 3 Nissan's, 2 Maximas and now a Pathfinder. Absolutely loved the 2016 Maxima Platinum with all of the bells and whistle. Had to trade in for a Pathfinder to have room for expanding family.

7 years ago

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Mayowan Kenobi Puyallup, WA

I purchased a 2020 Nissan Frontier in November 2020. Thus far, I am very happy with the vehicle. I was looking for a truck that did not have to many gadgets and was just focused on being a reliable truck. The Frontier is easy to drive and fits my family of three very well. The factory installed blown in bed liner is one of the best features.

5 years ago

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Dave_ Layton, UT

We own a Nissan Pathfinder. It has been a good vehicle for the most part. It had some early problems with the differential due to a leaky seal. Don’t go to the dealership as they over charge you for everything. We went to a transmission shop and got it repaired with a warranty twice as long and half the price. The vehicle has been good since.

6 years ago

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AF ,

I drove a Nissan Sentra for many years. It didn't have much power, but got good gas mileage and I liked it. I did have an issue with the passenger seatbelt, but the dealership told me that this was covered by warranty and they fixed it completely for free.

6 years ago

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Scott C. Lehi, UT

I owned a Maxima and really enjoyed it, although it seemed to have a variety of mechanical issues. Overall, though, it was a good purchase, but I am concerned about the current state of quality of Nissan automobiles, which I feel has been negatively affected by Renault's purchase of the company.

6 years ago

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Jen N Jim Brown Salt Lake City, UT

We have had a Nissan Altima for about 3 Years. I enjoy the car but have some concerns about the CVT transmission. Thus far I enjoy the car. It will have episodes where the acceleration does not kick in when trying to start driving.

6 years ago

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FABIO CAVALCANTI Orem, UT

We owned a 2012 Nissan Quest for a couple of years. We loved the space and not so impressed with the reliability of the car. We had some mechanical issues with it that required to take it to a car shop from time to time. Besides that, it was to sell and we could get a good price when we decided to upgrade it

6 years ago

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Missy Mamros Warrendale, PA

Great car but the lease experience was not great. I loved my Nissan rouge but when i went to turn it in at the end of my lease it was a pain and very expensive. I wanted another Nissan but they didn't offer me any type of deal and wanted me to pay a ridiculous amount over what i had been currently paying.

6 years ago

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BeauCarl South Jordan, UT

Purchased a Nissan armada overall impressed with the towing capacity and roomy cabin, cabin chair seating very comfortable and dependable 4 Wheel Drive, there have been some minor quality issues. But overall a good SUV for the price point.

6 years ago

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bailey jo Orem, UT

When my car broke down and needed a few days to be repaired, I was given a Nissan Sentra as a rental and it was a great car. It ran great and I'm now considering buying one for my next car. It got great gas mileage and the rear view camera for going in reverse was awesome.

7 years ago

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Dave Ros Pleasant Grove, UT

I bought a Nissan Versa a few years ago for a cheap commuter car. It has been a very reliable car (and I loved the price!). It will get passed onto my teenage daughter in a year and I've been looking at getting another Nissan for a commuter car.

7 years ago

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Bruce, 98275 Mukilteo, WA

Great, I have had only one bad incident with service, but was corrected. I have used many of there products of vehicles, sports cars to trucks and SUV for many decades.

7 years ago

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Kim Green

Love the car! It looks great and it's practical for the money. The thing that is not perfect is that there is wind nose in the car when the windows are up.

7 years ago

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Cindy Weaver, AL

I like the comfort of the drive & ride of my Nissan. I live the seat & steering wheel heaters. The Bose speakers are great. I am less prone to get carsick riding in a Nissan.

7 years ago

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Rhona Leffler Olney, MD

I own a 2010 Nissan Armada with over 200,000 miles on it. The vehicle is reliable and has had no major mechanical issues. Its a big vehicle, but very comfortable and easy to drive.

5 years ago

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Eban Beltran Arlington, TX

I owned a Nissan Sentra for a number of years. It was an overall good quality sedan though I eventually moved on to trying a different car. Held decent value when I went to go sell it.

5 years ago

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daphjohnson Saratoga Springs, UT

Nissan offers a quality vehicle. I have had 2 cars with them now. They are reliable and will last a long time. I enjoy the feel of the car and know what I am getting quality when I buy with them.

5 years ago

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Nick Hansen Eagle Mountain, UT

I am the proud owner of a Sentra SR. Bought it brand new back in 2017 and have really enjoyed all the helpful features: seat warmers, wireless bluetooth, and convenient phone charging options.

6 years ago

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Mary Haring Sandy, UT

We have a Nissan Altima and I love it except the gear shift doesn’t shift unless you put a pen in the hole next to the gear shift. And it’s over $700 to fix it so we just keep it like that

6 years ago

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Dwhoush ,

I owned a Nissan Frontier for a number of years and the craftsmanship of that vehicle was not as high as other competitors. It was always having engine issues of some sorts. It was turning into a money pit.

6 years ago

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Rommie Bishop III Rexburg, ID

I drove a 1993 Nissan Maxima around for my 4 years in the Marine Corps. It was my first car. Definitely a lemon past 20 years old, but I thought it was great for the time I had it :) Only had some major issue every 6 months!

6 years ago

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Jesse Rice Biloxi, MS

Love there vehicles especially the NV 2500 I have a family of 8 and it comes in very handy. When I had a problem I brought my vehicle in and they took care of it in a very timely maner.

6 years ago

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Taylor Walker Tallahassee, FL

Nissans are a reliable car. They are good on gas mileage for long drives and there is very comfortable seating area. The exterior is also very appealing. I like that it is a decent size car and I feel safe when driving it.

6 years ago

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Windy Payton New Orleans, LA

Makes very nice cars owned one some years back was a very nice ride great motors and dependable would recommend them to my family and friends any time because I had a good experience with them

6 years ago

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Tony Riverton, UT

Owned a Nissan Xterra for a number of years. Bought it new and never had any issues. Drove more like a truck than an SUV, but I've never owned a better car for driving in the snow.

6 years ago

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ave Pleasant Grove, UT

A reliable company that produces cars that are affordable and comfortable. We grew out of our first Nissan but loved driving it because of the gas mileage and the simpleness of the car. We would buy again a Nissan.

7 years ago

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David jones Pleasant Grove, UT

So I owned a Nissan Sentra and I was very happy with the car while I owned it. I had it over a decade and I never had any problems. The only problem is that it had very little power and did not do well in the snow.

7 years ago

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Lori Burdette

Their sales/finance guys were horrible. Lied numbers times and ran my credit through 6 different companies so my credit took a hit. Horrible!

7 years ago

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Christopher Roberts

I have had a good experience with Nissan, my old dealer made it difficult to get recalls repaired in a timely manner though.

7 years ago

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OrvilleBro Herriman, UT

I have owned a Nissan Altima since 2008. The car has been reliable and safe. The internal build quality was nice and the ride was smooth and comfortable.

4 years ago

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Brianna Sutherland Tallahassee, FL

I currently have a Nissan Altima and i have no serious complaints. It is a very reliable car. Most of my family members have either owned or currently own a Nissan as well.

4 years ago

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Tammy West Valley City, UT

For the most part I love Nissans. Their automobiles are comfortable and stylish with lots of features. Just wish they would fix the problems with their transmissions.

5 years ago

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Joanie Jeon Poolesville, MD

It was my first car to purchase Nissan centra since I came in the United States. It’s not expensive to pay and it’s comfortable with 4 people. I love it

6 years ago

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Justin McMurtrey South Jordan, UT

Nissan builds a nice solid vehicle. I have a Nissan Maxima and it is a road warrior. Great gas mileage and have had zero issues with my vehicle that is no over 150,000 miles.

6 years ago

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Julie Martin Pensacola, FL

First brand new car I ever bought was a Nissan Versa. I loved it so much that I gave it to my son and bought another one. It was affordable and reliable.

6 years ago

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Reckholdt Magna, UT

I have driven Nissan Altimas for my rental cars quite a few times. I love it when I get one because they are the perfect combination of good gas mileage and power.

6 years ago

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Treyson Lewis Pleasant Grove, UT

Very long lasting cars that have good mileage. They don't have the best turn radius and the radio shorted out in mine but, other than that it is a really good car.

6 years ago

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Benji Frandsen Pleasant Grove, UT

I rented a car in St. George that was a Nissan after my dad's car broke down. It was a very smooth ride and i would consider buying one of these cars.

6 years ago

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Ad Pleasant Grove, UT

I love the Nissan Versa. It is easy to drive and I like the compact size (and the price). It is tight for fitting 5 people but it is plenty roomy for 4.

7 years ago

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Marissa Redwood Falls, MN

I drove a Nissan Pathfinder for a few years, and while the front seats are nice, the back passenger seats are extremely uncomfortable. I did enjoy that car though.

7 years ago

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William Bailen

I've had 6 Nissans since 1980 and all were good cars. Need to warranted the drive train for 100k mi.

7 years ago

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SKleven Salt Lake City, UT

Nissan builds good affordable cars. I have had no problems with my car running well. I will probably buy another Nissan in the future.

5 years ago

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Mark falkner Riverton, UT

Love my Titan. It has treated me well. The dealer gave me a decent deal. Didn’t feel like I got ripped off....too much. Lol

6 years ago

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Lknls Salt Lake City, UT

We owned a Nissan Rogue for a year or two but had to sell and upgrade to accommodate growth in our family. Overall good experience.

6 years ago

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AmyConder22 Eagle Mountain, UT

We had an ok experience with getting our Nissan Altima. The dealership was ok to work with and the car itself drove great.

6 years ago

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Janice Genes Hurricane, UT

Owner a Nissan Pathfinder twenty three years ago. Had no problem with it. Kept its value. I would own one today but it just isn’t good on gas!

6 years ago