When it comes to Japanese cars, it seems everyone today wants a Toyota or a Honda. But Japan's auto industry has far more to it than those two well-known companies. One company that often gets noticed in the next tier is Nissan, which produces a large line of cars, trucks, and crossover SUVs. Nissan has a good reputation for used cars, with many models providing great value on the secondary market, years after they came off the production line. In this article, we explore some of the most highly rated Nissans and explain why they are considered a reliable and affordable alternative for many drivers, and particularly for those on a budget.Â
6 of the Best Used Nissan Cars
Japanese cars are renowned for their longevity and reliability, running well beyond the 150,000-mile mark, generally with little more than routine maintenance required. Nissans are no different. Depending on the model and year, Nissans have a  history of refusing to quit, providing smart buyers with excellent car technology for less than the price of Toyota and Honda. Here are some of the Nissan models that are considered good buys in the used market.
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Nissan Altima
The Altima may not look flashy, but this mid-sized family sedan provides dependable transportation to and from work and school, around town, and on long-haul drives to the beach or mountains.
The exact specs will depend on the model year and may vary between configurations, but you can expect to find cars with options such as a 2.5 liter, 4 cylinder engine putting out 180 horsepower or a 3.5 liter V6, which produces 50 percent more horsepower. Fuel efficiency ranges from 22 mpg city to 32 mpg highway. Depending on the model year and where you live, you can drive home in a Nissan Altima for $10,000 or less.
Nissan Xterra
You might want to roll up to your kids' soccer game in a Nissan Xterra. But you also might like to have this sport-utility vehicle when you go off-roading, looking for adventure. Commonly compared to the Toyota 4Runner, the Xterra is built on a truck body and offers a 4-wheel drive and axle system that will take you easily over most terrain. The Xterra typically offers a 4.0-liter V6 engine. Depending on the model and year, you will get either an automatic with five speeds or a manual with six speeds. You can find plenty of value in used Xterra vehicles -- frequently for less than $10,000, depending on mileage and model year.
Nissan Maxima
Looking for a bit of sleek sportiness in your Nissan used car? The Nissan Maxima makes many lists of the best Nissan used vehicles. They are not the roomiest vehicles in the line, but they do provide some of the largest engines, with some model years including 3.5-liter and V6 engines. This will give you plenty of horsepower when you need it. The more recent model years come with excellent built-in entertainment packages, include 7-inch display screens, USB ports, and Apple Play compatibility.
Nissan Rogue
For a sportier SUV ride, consider the compact Nissan Rogue, which remains one of the most popular cars across the nation. Depending on the model year, you can purchase a used Nissan Rogue with either all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. The front-wheel-drive will get you slightly higher fuel efficiency, reaching around 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive model is slightly below that at 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg highway. Though a sub-compact, the car offers a roomy interior.
Depending on the model you buy, you might find yourself with a kickin' 7-speaker audio system. Many Rogues go for under $10,000 depending on the model year; check the inventory at New Jersey State Auto Used Cars for updates.Â
Nissan Leaf
It may seem that the era of the electric vehicle is just dawning, but Nissan was actually one of the earliest entrants into the field with the Nissan Leaf, first introduced in the early 2010s. Count on the Leaf to provide what you need for basic transportation across short hauls. The earliest Leaf gave a range of about 70 miles; later models increased the range to above 100 miles.
Given the now more common electric charging stations, you could employ the Leaf as your local go-to-work car, and leave the long journeys for a different Nissan. Ask us about Nissan Leaf vehicles offering quick-charge packages. If they aren't in our inventory right now, they may be soon.
Nissan Sentra
If you are looking for another Nissan sedan alternative to the Altima, one that may pop up in your search is the Nissan Sentra. This is another compact car that provides family-grade reliability. You can expect a fair share of pop when driving the Sentra. It offers a 1.8-liter engine with 4 cylinders, revving up to 130 horsepower.
Depending on the model, you will be driving either a manual Sentra with six speeds or one with a continuously variable transmission. Later year models include a peppier engine and are now coming down to the $10,000 mark. The Sentra provides an affordable, safe drive in a sporty package that won't embarrass the kids.
Explore Your Options at NJ State Auto Used Cars
For more than 25 years, NJ State Auto Used Cars in Jersey City has had just one mission: To provide excellent customer service and the broadest possible selection of used cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. We believe in building customer relationships the old-fashioned way: by exceeding expectations.
We hand select and inspect our vehicles so you can drive home with confidence and peace of mind. Whether you're looking for a used Nissan, or cars from Lexus, Volvo, Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, or other brands, we have the choice for you.  We also provide world-class auto repair from trained service experts and financing options. Ask about valuing your trade-in as well. We are a full-service dealership that provides superb service at every turn. Come see us today.