Used Nissan buying guide
About Nissan
Nissan sells a variety of models, including trucks, SUVs, crossovers, sports cars, and electric vehicles. A few stand-out models in Nissan's SUV and crossover lineup include the Rogue, Pathfinder, and Armada each offering abundant room for passengers or weekend getaway supplies. Looking for an all-electric vehicle? Focus on the ARIYA. For truck lovers, the rock-solid Frontier, Titan, and Titan XD should meet your needs. If you crave performance and style in a smaller package, the Altima and Sentra cars deserve a second look.
What CarMax customers like
Fuel Economy
Ride and Handling
Interior Space
What CarMax customers don’t like
Fuel Economy
Cabin Noise
Technology and Entertainment
Nissan FAQs
It depends. While it's important to look at odometer readings, it's not the only factor to consider when car shopping. A pre-owned car with higher miles may have an excellent maintenance record, a history of being kept in a garage (versus outside exposed to the elements), and a previous owner (or owners) who took good care of it.
Yes! Since 1933, Nissan (formerly Datsun) has continued to improve its automotive technologies. Year after year, it introduces new models and innovative features that keep loyal Nissan buyers coming back for more. There is a wide range of used models to consider, giving you lots of options when shopping.
It's common for vehicle models to retire to make way for new options and technologies. As of March 2025, the Nissan Sentra NISMO, 370Z Roadster, 370Z Coupe, Altima Coupe, Murano Crosscabriolet, and Maxima cars have been discontinued. However, you may still find used models available.
Each year, this number shifts as new models get introduced or retired. As of March 2025, there are four cars (Versa, Sentra, Altima, and LEAF) and two sports cars (Z and GT-R). Nissan also sells crossovers, SUVs, and trucks.
Reliability is based on several factors, including the cost of repairs, the frequency the vehicle needs repairs, and their severity. Nissan ranks ninth out of 32 vehicle brands in RepairPal's Reliability Rating. Specifically, the Nissan Altima ranks above average, at a 4.0 out of 5.0.
1. Nissan Versa
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Good space for a small sedan
Great infotainment system
Ample cargo space
Cons
Slow acceleration
No navigation option
Limited in-cabin storage
2. Nissan Sentra
CarMax owner rating
3. Nissan Rogue
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Fuel-efficient
Ample cargo volume
Many standard features
Cons
Steering lacks road feel
Upper trims can get very pricey
Less second-row legroom than some rivals
4. Nissan Frontier
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Smooth ride
Stable and secure handling
Helpful storage spaces for small items
Cons
Limited rear-seat space
Cluttered infotainment system
Heavy steering
Compare used Nissan models
The 2026 Nissan Rogue is a five-seat SUV with a refined interior and lots of standard tech features. The 2026 Rogue PHEV is the plug-in hybrid version of the gasoline-only Rogue, and it comes in a three-row seat configuration, with room for up to seven. However, the PHEV has less room for cargo because of the battery pack. The PHEV is the more powerful of the pair, with a 2.4L four-cylinder engine and two electric motors that together generate 248 hp. The standard Rogue gets 201 hp from its 1.5L turbo gasoline engine. You get EPA-estimated 38 miles of electric-only driving with the PHEV, which is enough for a typical daily commute.
With this in mind, the Nissan Rogue is the more convenient choice if you need maximum storage room and you are on the open road often. The Rogue PHEV is suitable for short daily commutes or if you need to haul more people on a regular basis.Compare more vehicles using our comparison tool.
Storage capacity, along with engine power and towing capability, sets the Nissan Pathfinder and the Nissan Armada apart. The 2026 Pathfinder is a midsize SUV with seating for five, that's compact and easy to maneuver on city streets and crowded parking lots. It's a convenient daily driver with lots of amenities and comfort features in a refined interior. The Armada's strongest suits include a potent engine and great towing capability. The 2026 model, powered by a base 3.5L V6 engine that puts out 425 hp, can tow an estimated 8,500 lbs when properly equipped.
The strong powertrain makes the Armada a capable off-roader, as well, while the Pathfinder offers more precise handling and is more agile. If you're towing heavy loads and driving on rough terrain, the Armada is the clear choice, with the Pathfinder a more practical solution for families that will mostly use it for their daily needs around town.Compare more trucks and SUVs using our comparison tool.
The 2026 Nissan Kicks is a stylish subcompact SUV that's perfect for urban driving. It's nimble, agile, and easy to maneuver along busy city streets and into tight parking spots. It has a modern, comfortable cabin filled with plenty of amenities and abundant small-item storage options. It's best suited for individuals or small families who need a compact car for their commutes and typical daily errands around town. The 2026 Nissan Rogue is larger and offers more leg- and headroom in both rows, along with more storage space. It has 29 cu-ft of space in the trunk, and a total of 59 cu-ft with the rear seats folded. This makes it suitable for long-distance trips and family vacations, as it can fit a couple of large suitcases or several pieces of sporting or camping equipment in the trunk.
Compare more crossovers and compact SUVs using our comparison tool.
The Nissan Ariya is a strong all-electric SUV with a great range and balanced handling, resulting in an enjoyable driving and riding experience. The 2025 model comes standard with a 63-kWh battery and a 238-hp electric motor, for an EPA-estimated range of 216 miles when fully charged.
Along with the spacious cabin and ample storage room, this makes the Ariya ideal for out-of-town family trips or long commutes. Conversely, if you are looking for a daily driver you will mostly use around town or for short commutes, the Nissan LEAF would be a better fit. The 2025 model comes with a 52-kWh battery and a single electric motor that produces 174 hp, delivering an EPA-estimated 149 miles of range. The interior design is minimalist, with a focus on functionality rather than luxury. It's a compact car that's easy to maneuver, so navigating busy city streets and tight parking spots is a breeze.Compare more electric vehicles using our comparison tool.
The Nissan Z and the Nissan GT-R are both high-performance cars that offer a thrilling driving experience. However, they meet different needs. While the Nissan Z is a classic fast, agile, and powerful sports car that's exciting to drive, it still offers a high degree of versatility and convenience. The refined cabin with wide, comfortable seats, and suspension that delivers a smooth ride makes it suitable for a typical commute or running errands. The GT-R, on the other hand, is a supercar that's designed for optimal track performance. The 2024 Nissan GT-R is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine that puts out 565 hp and 467 lb-ft of torque. It boasts a specialized track-focused suspension and braking system, along with standard all-wheel drive. All this makes for explosive acceleration, precise handling, and extremely responsive braking, which is exactly what you'd want while making sharp turns at about 200 mph.
Compare more performance vehicles using our comparison tool.
Ready to find your used Nissan?
RepairPal reliability ratings
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 3/18/2025. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability.
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Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.