Marque
Nissan — Owner Clubhouses
23 models · 46 generations · 0 live / 46 coming soon
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240SX 2 gens
Radwood Era
SoonNissan 240SX
S13
1989–1994 · S13 · coupe
Sold in the US 1989-1994 as the S13 chassis 240SX. 1989-1990 cars used the KA24E (SOHC, 8-valve, single overhead cam) at around 140 hp. 1991-1994 cars used the KA24DE (DOHC, 16-valve) at around 155 hp. RWD with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Sold as the Silvia and 180SX in Japan with the SR20DET turbo engine, which is the swap of choice on US cars.
Watch out: Rust is the dominant pre-purchase concern after three decades on the road, especially rear strut towers, rear wheel arches, sunroof drains, and the trunk floor. The S-chassis tuner and drift community drives values up and inspection standards down, so many surviving cars have been crashed, stripped, or modified beyond easy reversal. Owner reports of T-top leak issues on coupe variants are well-documented. Verify VIN against title, look for evidence of SR20DET swap (and whether it was done correctly), and budget for suspension bushings on any car you buy.
Radwood Era
SoonNissan 240SX
S14
1995–1998 · S14 · coupe
Sold in the US 1995-1998 as the S14 chassis 240SX. KA24DE 2.4L DOHC I4 only, around 155 hp, with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Coupe body only in the US (no hatchback, no convertible). 1997-1998 received a styling refresh, often called the 'Kouki' face by enthusiasts. Sold globally as the Silvia with the SR20DET turbo engine, which remains the canonical swap on US cars.
Watch out: Same pattern as the S13: nearly every clean S14 has been a drift or tuner project, and rust on rear strut towers, wheel arches, and floor pans is the dominant survivability question. Pre-purchase inspection should focus on chassis straightness and frame-rail damage from off-track contact. Owner reports of subframe bushing wear and worn-out steering racks are common on high-mileage cars. KA24DE itself is durable but timing chain rattle on cold start can signal worn guides.
300ZX 1 gen
350Z 1 gen
370Z 1 gen
Altima 4 gens
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Altima
L31
2002–2006 · L31 · sedan
Third-generation Altima, sold in the US 2002-2006. First Altima built on the Nissan FF-L platform, and the generation that moved the nameplate from compact-adjacent into true midsize. 2.5L QR25DE I4 (around 175 hp) was the volume engine; 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (around 240-265 hp) was the SE-R / 3.5 SE option, available with a 6-speed manual. FWD only. Built in Smyrna, TN.
Watch out: QR25DE oil consumption and precat failure are the dominant durability issues on the I4 cars and are well-documented in NHTSA complaint records, forum threads, and shop notes. The factory upstream catalytic converter can shed material that gets ingested back through the cylinders, accelerating ring and bore wear. Owner reports of resulting low compression and burning oil are common at high mileage. VQ35DE cars are mechanically more durable but timing chain stretch shows up at very high mileage. Pre-purchase: check oil level against the dipstick (low is bad), run a compression test on the I4, and verify the precat has been deleted or replaced.
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Altima
L32
2007–2012 · L32 · sedan
Fourth-generation Altima, sold in the US 2007-2012. 2.5L QR25DE I4 (around 175 hp) and 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (around 270 hp), with Nissan's Xtronic CVT as the volume transmission and 6-speed manual available on some trims. Offered as 4-door sedan and 2-door coupe (the coupe was new for this generation). A hybrid version with Toyota-licensed hybrid hardware was offered in selected states. FWD only.
Watch out: The Xtronic CVT is the most-cited reliability concern on this generation. Nissan extended powertrain coverage to 10 years / 120,000 miles on many of these cars after a class-action settlement covering 2007-2010 models. Symptoms: shuddering, hesitation, whining, high-RPM 'rubber band' feel. Owner reports of CVT failures between 80k-120k miles are common. QR25DE oil consumption persists from the prior L31 generation, though the precat issue is less severe. Pre-purchase: verify warranty status by VIN with Nissan, check CVT fluid service history (Nissan NS-2 spec), and watch for shudder under steady-throttle cruise.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Altima
L33
2013–2018 · L33 · sedan
Fifth-generation Altima. 2.5L QR25DE I4 (~182hp) as the volume engine, 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (~270hp) optional through 2018. Xtronic CVT only, no manual offered. FWD. Built at Nissan's Smyrna, TN and Canton, MS plants. One of the best-selling sedans in the US during its run.
Watch out: Nissan's Xtronic CVT is the long-term ownership question. Nissan extended powertrain coverage to 10 years / 120,000 miles on earlier model years after a class-action settlement. Symptoms to watch: hesitation, shuddering, jerky engagement, and a high-RPM 'rubber band' feel. Check the build date and warranty status on any used L33.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Altima
L34
2019–2026 · L34 · sedan
Sixth-generation Altima. 2.5L QR25DD I4 (188hp) as the volume engine; the 2.0L VC-Turbo variable-compression-ratio I4 (248hp) was offered through 2022 before being dropped. AWD optional on 2.5L (first time on Altima). Xtronic CVT only. The V6 is gone, sedan-shopping V6 buyers were redirected to the (now-discontinued) Maxima.
Watch out: The VC-Turbo engine is novel mechanically, the variable-compression-ratio link mechanism is unproven in long-term ownership data. If you're buying a used VC-Turbo, factor that risk. On 2.5L cars, the CVT remains the main long-term watch-item; otherwise the QR25DD is a straightforward port-and-direct-inject combo with no major scandals.
Armada 2 gens
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Armada
1st Gen (TA60)
2004–2015 · TA60 · suv
First-generation Armada, sold in the US 2004-2015. Body-on-frame full-size SUV built on the Nissan F-Alpha platform shared with the Titan pickup. Powered by the 5.6L VK56DE V8 (2004-2014) and later the VK56VD V8 (2015), paired with a 5-speed automatic. Available in RWD or 4WD. Branded as the 'Pathfinder Armada' for 2004 model year only, then renamed simply 'Armada' from 2005 onward. Eight-passenger seating with third row.
Watch out: Brake rotor warping and premature pad wear are widely reported by owners, especially on early model years carrying heavy loads or towing. The VK56DE itself is generally durable but is sensitive to oil-change discipline. Owner reports of front end clunks (sway bar end links, control arm bushings) on higher-mileage trucks are common. On 4WD models, transfer case actuator failures show up after 100k miles. Pre-purchase: inspect frame for rust if from a salt-belt state, and verify the rear self-leveling air suspension (where equipped) still holds height.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Armada
2nd Gen (Y62)
2017–2024 · Y62 · suv
Second-generation US Armada, sold 2017-2024. Built on the global Nissan Patrol Y62 platform rather than the Titan, which is the bigger change from the prior generation. 5.6L VK56VD V8 with direct injection, around 390 hp on regular fuel, paired to a 7-speed automatic. Body-on-frame, available in RWD or 4WD, 8-passenger with third row. Shares mechanicals with the Infiniti QX80 Z62. Replaced for 2025 by an all-new generation with twin-turbo V6.
Watch out: Fuel economy on the 5.6L is the honest answer most owners give as the daily ownership annoyance. Mechanically the VK56VD is durable but is sensitive to oil-change discipline given the direct-injection design. Owner reports of intake-valve carbon buildup at high mileage are consistent with the broader direct-injection pattern. Brake rotor wear under heavy loads or towing is a recurring complaint, as on the prior generation. Pre-purchase: inspect timing chain noise on cold start and verify the rear air suspension (where equipped) still holds height overnight.
Cube 1 gen
Frontier 3 gens
Radwood Era
SoonNissan Frontier
D22
1998–2004 · D22 · truck
First-generation US Frontier, sold 1998-2004. Replaced the Nissan Hardbody (D21) compact pickup. Built in Smyrna, TN on the D22 platform shared with the Xterra. 2.4L KA24DE I4 (around 143 hp) as the base, 3.3L VG33E V6 (around 170 hp) optional, and a supercharged VG33ER (around 210 hp) added on later S/C trims. 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Regular, King Cab, and Crew Cab body styles. RWD or part-time 4WD with low range. Replaced by the larger D40 Frontier for 2005.
Watch out: VG33E timing belt service is the largest scheduled cost on V6 trucks because it's an interference engine. Frame rust is the dominant long-term survivability issue on cars from salt-belt states, especially around the rear leaf spring perches. Owner reports of supercharger snout bearing wear on S/C-equipped trucks are well-documented at high mileage. KA24DE cars are notably durable but slow. Pre-purchase: inspect frame and rear leaf perches, verify timing belt service with receipts on V6 trucks, listen for supercharger whine on S/C, and check 4WD engagement (hubs and transfer case actuator) under load.
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Frontier
D40
2005–2021 · D40 · pickup
Second-generation Frontier, sold for 17 model years with only minor updates. 4.0L VQ40DE V6 (~261hp) was the volume engine; a 2.5L QR25DE I4 was offered on base trims. 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual, RWD or part-time 4WD with low range. King Cab and Crew Cab body styles. Pro-4X trim got Bilstein dampers, locking rear diff, and skid plates. Quietly outlived Toyota Tacoma generations, Ranger generations, and most of its competitors.
Watch out: Two well-documented issues: (1) the radiator can develop an internal failure that mixes coolant into the transmission cooler line, dumping coolant into the ATF. Nissan extended the warranty for this and it became known as the 'strawberry milkshake' failure. (2) Timing chain tensioner / chain guide wear on higher-mileage VQ40 motors. Check coolant condition and ATF color on any used D40 you're considering.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Frontier
D41
2022–2026 · D41 · pickup
Third-generation Frontier, North-America-specific (not shared with the global Navara). 3.8L VQ38DD V6 (310hp), the same engine that debuted in the final 2020-2021 D40s. 9-speed automatic. RWD or shift-on-the-fly 4WD. King Cab and Crew Cab. Pro-4X and Pro-X trims add Bilstein shocks, electronic locking rear diff, skid plates. The chassis is an evolution of the D40 frame, not a clean sheet, which is why it launched on schedule and at a price the segment could afford.
Watch out: Too new for a fully formed long-term failure pattern, but watch the NHTSA recall history (a 2022-2023 front-axle drive-shaft issue triggered a campaign). The 9-speed automatic shares architecture with the Titan's box; reports of harsh shifts at low speeds in some early builds.
GT-R 1 gen
Juke 1 gen
Leaf 2 gens
Modern Era
SoonNissan Leaf
ZE0
2011–2017 · ZE0 · hatchback
First-generation Leaf, the first mass-produced, mass-market all-electric car. Launched late 2010 in Japan, December 2010 in the US. 24kWh laminated lithium-ion battery at launch (~73 miles EPA range), upgraded to 30kWh in 2016 (~107 miles). Single AC synchronous motor, FWD, single-speed reduction gear. Passive air-cooled battery, no active thermal management. CHAdeMO DC fast-charge port. Outsold every other EV combined for most of its production run.
Watch out: The headline issue is battery degradation, the ZE0 has no active battery cooling, so cars driven in hot climates (Arizona, Texas, the desert Southwest) lose capacity faster than spec. Original 24kWh cars often show only 50-70% of original capacity by 8-10 years old. Check the battery state-of-health (SOH) on the dash bars or via LeafSpy before buying. Out-of-warranty pack replacements are expensive ($5-8k+).
Modern Era
SoonNissan Leaf
ZE1
2018–2026 · ZE1 · hatchback
Second-generation Leaf. 40kWh base battery (~150 miles range, 110kW motor) or 62kWh Leaf Plus battery (~215+ miles, 160kW motor). Still passive-air-cooled. Nissan did not move to a liquid-cooled pack like Tesla/GM. Still uses the CHAdeMO DC fast-charge standard, which has been deprecated in North America in favor of CCS and Tesla NACS. FWD. e-Pedal one-pedal driving mode.
Watch out: Two structural issues. (1) The passive-cooled pack still degrades faster than liquid-cooled competitors in hot climates, and worse for the larger 62kWh pack which generates more heat under DC fast-charging, there's a documented 'Rapidgate' throttling pattern on consecutive DCFC sessions. (2) The CHAdeMO port is being phased out, most new US DC fast-charging stations are CCS/NACS only, leaving Leafs with fewer and fewer places to fast-charge on a road trip. Both are reasons the Leaf trades at a steep discount on the used market.
Maxima 4 gens
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Maxima
A33
2000–2003 · A33 · sedan
Fifth-generation Maxima, sold in the US 2000-2003. Initially the 3.0L VQ30DE-K V6 (around 222 hp) in 2000-2001, then the new 3.5L VQ35DE (around 255-260 hp) for 2002-2003. Available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. FWD. The 2002 facelift brought the larger engine, updated bodywork, and the SE trim that leaned into the 'four-door sports car' marketing line. Built in Oppama, Japan.
Watch out: Catalytic converter failure on 2000-2001 cars and pre-catalyst-related issues are widely reported in NHTSA complaint records, with some owners reporting cat material ingestion damaging upstream components. Owner reports of crankshaft position sensor failures (intermittent no-start) and intake manifold gasket leaks are common on higher-mileage cars. Front suspension bushings and motor mount wear show up as a steering wheel shimmy and accelerator-pedal shudder. Pre-purchase: verify the cats have been replaced or inspected, check for stored P0420 codes, and inspect the front motor mount.
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Maxima
A34
2004–2008 · A34 · sedan
Sixth-generation Maxima, sold in the US 2004-2008. Moved to the larger Nissan FF-L platform shared with the Altima L31 / Quest V42. 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (around 265 hp), with a 6-speed manual available on early years and a 5-speed automatic or CVT (introduced mid-cycle) on others. FWD. Known for the optional 'SkyView' glass roof and the larger, more upright sedan packaging compared to the A33.
Watch out: Power steering line failures (the rubber high-pressure hose can rupture, dumping fluid and leaving the car hard to steer) are widely reported in NHTSA complaints. Owner reports of dashboard cracking, sunroof drain clogs causing carpet stains, and HVAC blend-door actuator failures are common. The VQ35DE itself is generally durable but timing chain stretch and oil consumption show up at very high mileage. CVT-equipped cars carry the same Xtronic durability question as Altima/Quest of the same era. Pre-purchase: inspect the power steering hose, verify CVT fluid service history if equipped, and look for evidence of sunroof leakage in the trunk and rear footwells.
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Maxima
A35
2009–2014 · A35 · sedan
Seventh-generation Maxima, sold in the US 2009-2014. 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (around 290 hp), paired exclusively to Nissan's Xtronic CVT. FWD only. No manual transmission offered (the 6-speed manual was dropped after the A34). The 2009 redesign brought tauter sheet metal and the more aggressive 'four-door sports car' marketing positioning that carried into the A36.
Watch out: The Xtronic CVT is the dominant long-term concern. Some 2009-2010 cars were covered under Nissan's extended powertrain warranty (10 years / 120,000 miles) after a class-action settlement. Symptoms: shudder under steady cruise, hesitation from a stop, whine at speed, and high-RPM 'rubber band' acceleration. Owner reports of CVT failure between 80k-120k miles are common. VQ35DE timing chain stretch shows up at very high mileage. Pre-purchase: verify VIN-specific warranty status with Nissan, check CVT fluid history (Nissan NS-2), and watch for shudder on a sustained 35-45 mph cruise.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Maxima
A36
2016–2023 · A36 · sedan
Eighth and final generation of Maxima, debuted at the 2015 New York Auto Show. 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (300hp), Xtronic CVT (no manual offered), FWD only. Aluminum hood/roof/trunk lid for weight reduction. Aggressive V-Motion grille and floating-roof design. Production ended September 6, 2023 at the Smyrna, TN plant. Nissan cited shifting consumer demand toward crossovers. No successor.
Watch out: The Xtronic CVT is the dominant long-term concern. Nissan extended the warranty on earlier-gen CVTs and the issues didn't fully go away with the A36. Symptoms: shudder under light throttle, whine at highway speed, hesitation from a stop. Check fluid color and listen on a long test drive. Otherwise the VQ35DE is well-understood and durable.
Murano 2 gens
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Murano
Z51
2009–2014 · Z51 · suv
Second-generation Murano. 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (~260hp). Xtronic CVT. FWD or AWD. Five-passenger, two-row crossover. Built on Nissan's D platform. A short-lived Murano CrossCabriolet convertible variant (2011-2014) was widely mocked but sold to a tiny enthusiast base.
Watch out: Xtronic CVT, same family as Altima/Pathfinder of the era, and the dominant long-term failure mode. Nissan extended the warranty on earlier-model-year CVTs after a class-action settlement; check whether the specific build year was covered and whether the CVT has been replaced. Also: transfer case wear on high-mileage AWD examples.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Murano
Z52
2015–2024 · Z52 · suv
Third-generation Murano. 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (~260hp), Xtronic CVT, FWD or AWD. Five-passenger crossover. Distinctive 'floating roof' styling and aggressive V-Motion grille. Carried over the prior gen's powertrain mostly unchanged. Production wound down after the 2024 model year; the next Murano is a clean-sheet redesign.
Watch out: Xtronic CVT, again, same generational concerns as the Z51 and as every Nissan/CVT pairing of the era. Check for shudder, hesitation, or fluid that's gone dark. Beyond the powertrain, no major chassis or build-quality scandals on the Z52.
Pathfinder 4 gens
Radwood Era
SoonNissan Pathfinder
R50
1996–2004 · R50 · suv
Second-generation Pathfinder, sold in the US 1996-2004. Switched to unibody construction (the first-gen WD21 was body-on-frame). 3.3L VG33E SOHC V6 through 2000, then 3.5L VQ35DE DOHC V6 (around 240 hp) for 2001-2004 alongside a heavy mid-cycle refresh. 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual (manual dropped late in the run). Part-time 4WD with low range available.
Watch out: Timing chain guide wear and rattle on cold start is the most-cited concern on VQ35-powered 2001-2004 cars, and the job is heavy because the chain is at the front of a transverse-leaning V6 packaging. On VG33E cars, distributor and intake manifold leaks show up at higher mileage. Owner reports of rear hatch glass struts failing and sunroof drain clogs causing headliner stains are common. Pre-purchase: rust check the frame stiffening members (a known sub-frame corrosion issue exists on these), and verify automatic transmission shift quality at operating temperature.
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Pathfinder
R51
2005–2012 · R51 · suv
Third-generation Pathfinder, sold in the US 2005-2012. Returned to body-on-frame construction on the Nissan F-Alpha platform shared with the Titan, Armada, Frontier, and Xterra. Base engine was the 4.0L VQ40DE V6 (around 266 hp), with an optional 5.6L VK56DE V8 available on later trim levels. 5-speed automatic. RWD or 4WD with low range. Available with a third row for 7 passengers. The last truly truck-based Pathfinder before the 2013 unibody R52.
Watch out: Radiator-to-transmission cooler internal failure is the headline issue on this generation: coolant migrates into the automatic transmission via the integrated cooler, contaminates the ATF, and can destroy the transmission ('SMOD,' or 'strawberry milkshake of death,' is the well-known forum shorthand). Owner reports recommend bypassing the factory cooler with a standalone unit, regardless of mileage. Pre-purchase: pull the transmission dipstick and inspect for pink or milky fluid, and verify whether a cooler bypass has already been installed.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Pathfinder
R52
2013–2020 · R52 · suv
Fourth-generation Pathfinder, the controversial move from body-on-frame to unibody construction (shared D platform with the Murano/QX60). 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (~284hp). Xtronic CVT. FWD or AWD. Three-row, seven-passenger family SUV. The off-road crowd hated the switch; the new-buyer audience didn't notice. A short-lived Pathfinder Hybrid (2014-2015) paired the I4 with a small electric motor, sold poorly and was dropped.
Watch out: Xtronic CVT is the central long-term concern. Nissan extended powertrain warranties on earlier model years after a class-action settlement, and the R52 inherited the same CVT family. Multiple recalls during the run, including for the timing chain tensioner on early VQ35 builds. Pre-purchase: check for shudder/jerkiness on a real road test, and verify recall completion.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Pathfinder
R53
2022–2026 · R53 · suv
Fifth-generation Pathfinder. 3.5L VQ35DD V6 (284hp, direct-injection). 9-speed automatic transmission, the CVT is gone, finally. FWD or Intelligent 4WD. Three-row, seven- or eight-passenger family SUV. Squared-off styling that visually distances it from the round-soft R52. Rock Creek trim adds skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a tow-package upgrade, light off-road posture, not Wrangler territory.
Watch out: Too new for a fully developed long-term failure story. The 9-speed automatic is the ZF-licensed JR913E used elsewhere in Nissan's lineup, early reports include some harsh shifting at low speeds and warranty-replaced valve bodies. Otherwise no major scandals as of 2026.
Quest 2 gens
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Quest
3rd Gen (V42)
2004–2009 · V42 · van
Third-generation Quest, sold in the US 2004-2009. Built in Canton, MS on the Nissan FF-L platform shared with the Altima and Maxima of the same era. 3.5L VQ35DE V6 paired with a 4-speed automatic (2004-2006) or 5-speed automatic (2007-2009). FWD only. Known for the polarizing center-mounted instrument cluster and asymmetric dashboard, and for sliding doors on both sides.
Watch out: Build quality on early model years (2004-2005) is the recurring owner complaint, with NHTSA records showing recalls touching electrical, fuel, and powertrain systems. Owner reports of sliding-door motor failures and dashboard rattles are common across the run. VQ35DE timing chain stretch and oil consumption can show up at high mileage. Pre-purchase: cycle both sliding doors and the power liftgate, verify the IPDM under-hood relay module, and budget for front strut and control-arm work on any car over 100k.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Quest
4th Gen (RE52)
2011–2016 · RE52 · van
Fourth-generation Quest, sold in the US 2011-2016. Built in Japan on the Nissan Elgrand platform rather than alongside the Altima. 3.5L VQ35DE V6 paired with Nissan's Xtronic CVT, FWD only. Boxy upright styling, twin sliding doors, seven-passenger seating. Sales were thin against Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, and Nissan exited the US minivan segment after the 2016 (some sources cite 2017) model year.
Watch out: The Xtronic CVT is the long-term ownership question on this generation, as on Altima and Maxima of the same era. Symptoms to listen for: hesitation, shuddering, whining, and a high-RPM 'rubber band' feel under acceleration. Owner reports of CVT cooler line failures and software-related driveability complaints are common. Sliding-door electrical issues and power-liftgate motor failures show up at higher mileage. Pre-purchase: verify CVT fluid service history (Nissan-spec NS-3 fluid is not optional), cycle all power doors, and scan for stored transmission codes.
Rogue 2 gens
Modern Era
SoonNissan Rogue
T32
2014–2020 · T32 · suv
Second-generation Rogue, shared global C platform with the Nissan X-Trail. 2.5L QR25DE I4 (~170hp). Xtronic CVT. FWD or AWD. Optional small third-row jumpseat in early years (dropped mid-cycle). A short-lived Rogue Hybrid was offered for 2017-2019. One of the best-selling vehicles in the US during its run.
Watch out: Xtronic CVT, full stop. Nissan extended powertrain warranties on a range of T32 model years after class-action complaints, verify whether the build year of any used Rogue is in-scope and whether the CVT has already been replaced. Symptoms: shudder under light throttle, RPM hunting, hesitation from a stop. Beyond the CVT, the QR25DE has had some reports of timing-chain noise at very high mileage.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Rogue
T33
2021–2026 · T33 · suv
Third-generation Rogue, shared global platform with the Nissan X-Trail. Launched with the 2.5L QR25DE I4, then for 2022 onward replaced by the 1.5L KR15DDT VC-Turbo three-cylinder (201hp / 225 lb-ft) using variable-compression-ratio technology. Xtronic CVT. FWD or AWD. Five-passenger, two-row. Cleaner interior than the T32, much more refined ride and cabin.
Watch out: The VC-Turbo three-cylinder is novel and unproven in long-term ownership data, the variable-compression mechanism adds moving parts that don't exist in conventional engines. Early reports include some warranty engine replacements. The CVT remains the second long-term concern. If you're buying used and torn between '21 (QR25 I4) and '22+ (VC-Turbo), the 2021 is the conservative pick.
Sentra 2 gens
Modern Era
SoonNissan Sentra
B17
2013–2019 · B17 · sedan
Seventh-generation Sentra. 1.8L MRA8DE I4 (130hp) as the volume engine. Xtronic CVT standard; 6-speed manual was available on lower trims early in the run. FWD. The short-lived Sentra Nismo (2017-2019) added the 1.6L MR16DDT turbo from the Juke (188hp) but never broke out commercially. Compact sedan that competed on price and fuel economy, not refinement.
Watch out: Same Xtronic CVT concerns as every other Nissan from this era. Nissan extended the warranty after class-action settlement on earlier years. Check service history and budget for a CVT failure on higher-mileage cars. Beyond that, the MRA8DE has had some reports of timing-chain noise on cold start at high mileage.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Sentra
B18
2020–2026 · B18 · sedan
Eighth-generation Sentra. 2.0L PR20DE I4 (149hp / 146 lb-ft), bigger engine than the outgoing B17. Xtronic CVT only, manual transmission discontinued. Independent multi-link rear suspension (a real upgrade from the previous torsion-beam setup). FWD. Visually closer to a small Altima than the old Sentra. Significantly improved chassis dynamics for the segment, though the CVT still defines the driving feel.
Watch out: Xtronic CVT is the long-term variable. Reliability data on the B18 specifically is still developing; the chassis hardware is much better than the B17 but the powertrain story is a continuation. Otherwise no major scandals as of 2026.
Sentra SE-R Spec V 1 gen
Skyline GT-R 3 gens
Radwood Era
SoonNissan Skyline GT-R
R32
1989–1994 · BNR32 · coupe
RB26DETT 2.6L twin-turbo inline-six, factory-rated at 276hp (gentlemen's agreement) but really making more. ATTESA E-TS active-torque-split AWD, Super-HICAS four-wheel steering, 5-speed manual. Won the Japanese Touring Car Championship every year from 1989 to 1993. Earned the 'Godzilla' nickname from Australian magazine Wheels after dominating Bathurst. Never sold new in the US, only legal here under the 25-year import rule from 2014 onward.
Watch out: RB26 oil pump drive collar is the well-documented weak point, the small-diameter drive on the crank can fail under sustained high-RPM, and any RB26 build worth the name includes an upgraded N1 oil pump. Also: rust in the rear quarter panels, and the cost of correctly imported cars (clean R32 GT-Rs are now six figures).
Radwood Era
SoonNissan Skyline GT-R
R33
1995–1998 · BCNR33 · coupe
RB26DETT 2.6L twin-turbo I6 carried over from R32, still factory-rated at 276hp. Stiffer body, longer wheelbase, improved weight distribution, and the upgraded ATTESA E-TS PRO AWD system with an active LSD. 5-speed manual. R33 was the first production car to lap the Nürburgring in under 8 minutes (per Best Motoring). Production ended November 1998. The 'unloved middle child' of the trio, bigger and softer than the R32, less iconic than the R34, which is exactly why it's the value play right now.
Watch out: Same RB26 oil pump drive issue as R32, non-negotiable upgrade on any car kept past stock power. Beyond that, the longer wheelbase makes R33s more comfortable but also a bit floatier than R32/R34; budget for upgraded dampers if you track it.
Radwood Era
SoonNissan Skyline GT-R
R34
1999–2002 · BNR34 · coupe
RB26DETT 2.6L twin-turbo I6, factory-rated 276hp (truly more). 6-speed Getrag manual (first GT-R with a 6-speed), ATTESA E-TS PRO AWD, Super-HICAS rear-wheel steering. Shorter and stiffer than R33. Famous for the multifunction LCD display showing turbo pressure, oil pressure, lateral g-forces, etc. Sold in Japan only (plus limited UK and Australian deliveries). Special editions include V-Spec, V-Spec II Nür, M-Spec Nür. The Nür variants got upgraded N1 turbos and the strengthened N1 block. US-legal under the 25-year rule starting 2024 for early cars.
Watch out: Same RB26 oil pump drive collar issue, replace before any sustained boost. Clean R34s now command $200k+ and are heavily counterfeited (re-shelled R32s, fake V-Spec badges); buy with a JDM-import broker who can document chassis history, not just an eBay seller.
Titan 2 gens
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Titan
A60
2004–2015 · A60 · pickup
First-generation full-size Titan. 5.6L VK56DE V8 (~317hp / 385 lb-ft from 2004; revised later). 5-speed RE5R05A automatic. RWD or shift-on-the-fly 4WD. Body-on-frame, fully boxed F-Alpha platform shared with the Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX56. King Cab or Crew Cab. Built at Nissan's Canton, MS plant. Ran for 12 model years with mid-cycle facelifts but no full redesign. Nissan kept it on sale while the Big Three iterated.
Watch out: The early VK56DE has documented exhaust manifold cracking, listen for a tick on cold start. Also: the rear differential and the front lower-ball-joint area on 4WD trucks both have known wear patterns. Brake rotor warping was a common complaint in the first few model years.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Titan
A61
2016–2024 · A61 · pickup
Second-generation Titan, launched at the 2015 North American International Auto Show. 5.6L VK56VD V8 (Endurance V8), 400hp / 413 lb-ft. 7-speed automatic at launch, later 9-speed. RWD or 4WD. Regular Cab (briefly), King Cab, Crew Cab. The Titan XD launched alongside with a 5.0L Cummins V8 turbo-diesel, a heavy-duty-lite positioning that Nissan walked back when the Cummins was dropped after 2019. Discontinued at the end of the 2024 model year; Nissan exited the full-size truck segment.
Watch out: Cummins XD trucks had a documented EGR cooler / DEF system fragility, common in the diesel-truck world but expensive to fix. On gas trucks, watch for the same VK-family valve-train wear, and the 7-speed transmission has a documented torque-converter shudder pattern (fluid flush is the usual fix).
Versa 2 gens
Modern Era
SoonNissan Versa
C13
2012–2019 · C13 · sedan
Second-generation Versa sedan. 1.6L HR16DE I4 (109hp). Xtronic CVT on most trims; 5-speed manual on the base S. FWD. For most of its production run, the Versa was the lowest-MSRP new car you could buy in the United States. Built on Nissan's V platform shared with the Versa Note hatchback (sold separately).
Watch out: Xtronic CVT, again, and on the cheapest car in the lineup, the cost-to-value calculation on a failed CVT is the worst of any Nissan (a CVT replacement can exceed the resale value of the car). Check service history and budget accordingly. Otherwise the HR16DE is a simple, durable port-injected engine.
Modern Era
SoonNissan Versa
N18
2020–2026 · N18 · sedan
Third-generation Versa sedan. 1.6L HR16DE I4 (~122hp). Xtronic CVT or 5-speed manual (the manual is one of the cheapest new-car options still available in the US). FWD. Significantly improved styling vs the C13, the floating-roof / V-Motion design borrowed from the bigger sedans. Still aimed at the absolute-cheapest new-car shopper, but no longer the embarrassing-to-park car the C13 was.
Watch out: Xtronic CVT remains the long-term variable. The N18 doesn't have a developed failure pattern yet, too new, but the CVT family is unchanged in basic architecture. If you're hunting value, the 5-speed manual sidesteps the CVT entirely.
Xterra 2 gens
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Xterra
1st Gen (WD22)
2000–2004 · WD22 · suv
First-generation Xterra, sold in the US 2000-2004. Built on the same body-on-frame platform as the Frontier D22 pickup. Base engine was the 2.4L KA24DE I4 (around 143 hp), with the 3.3L VG33E V6 (around 170 hp) optional, and a supercharged VG33ER (around 210 hp) on the SE S/C trim from 2002. 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. RWD or part-time 4WD with low range. Marketed at the outdoor / adventure buyer and physically built for it (roof rack with first-aid kit, rear hatch with step bumper).
Watch out: Timing belt service on the VG33E (and supercharged VG33ER) is the major scheduled maintenance item, because it is an interference engine and the published interval is around 105,000 miles. Owner reports of supercharger snout bearing wear on the S/C cars are common at high mileage. Frame rust on northern-state cars can be severe enough to total an otherwise-running truck. KA24DE cars are durable but rare in this body. Pre-purchase: rust-inspect the frame and rear shock mounts, verify timing belt service history with receipts, and on S/C cars listen for supercharger bearing whine at idle.
Y2K Era
SoonNissan Xterra
N50
2005–2015 · N50 · suv
Second-generation Xterra. 4.0L VQ40DE V6 (~261hp). 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual (manual offered through 2012). RWD or part-time 4WD with electronic locking rear diff on the Off-Road trim. Body-on-frame, sharing the F-Alpha platform with the Frontier and Pathfinder of the era. Pro-4X trim added Bilstein shocks, hill descent control, and skid plates. Discontinued after the 2015 model year. Nissan exited the body-on-frame mid-size SUV segment, and used Xterra values have held up well as a result.
Watch out: Same 'strawberry milkshake' radiator failure as the D40 Frontier, internal radiator failure dumps coolant into the transmission cooler line, contaminating ATF. Check ATF color on any used Xterra. Beyond that, the VQ40 has documented timing-chain wear at high mileage but otherwise is one of Nissan's most durable engines.