
Today, we're going to help you explore the Nissan cars that you'll find when looking at used models. We'll get a sense of what each one has to offer, look at some key model years that you should have in mind, and try to point you in the direction of which car might best meet your needs. You'll still have to figure out what you want from a used car, but we can help ensure you find it.
Nissan Versa: Subcompact Style, Great Price
If you're looking for something small and fun to drive or you're shopping on a very tight budget and need to save as much money as possible, the Nissan Versa is the perfect choice. This is a subcompact sedan, so keep that in mind; if you need a vehicle that four adults can be comfortable in, then you might want to pick another option. That said, its small size makes the Versa perfect for city driving and your daily commute since it's incredibly efficient and quite fun to drive.
First released for the 2007 model year, the Versa has been a popular option ever since for drivers who prefer a small and sporty ride-plus, it's available as either a sedan or a hatchback. When you're shopping for a used Versa, you probably don't want to go as far back as the 2007 model year; there's nothing wrong with those first Versas, but they'll have seen a lot of use. Instead, consider a 2012 model at the earliest, which marks the launch of the second-generation Versa and a great vehicle.
This model received a refresh and updates for the 2015 model year while remaining one of the lowest-priced vehicles in the auto industry. If you're interested in some of the latest features and options, including a seven-inch infotainment display, then look for a 2020 Versa, when Nissan kicked off its third generation. This was followed by an update for the 2023 model year, making that a great one to look for if you want an incredibly budget-friendly car with impressive features.
Nissan Sentra: Compact With Fantastic Features
For something a bit larger than the Versa, with impressive performance that helps ensure you have a great time on the road each day, the Nissan Sentra is an amazing choice. Originally released in the early 1980s, the Sentra started as a subcompact car, but it's changed over the years, and numerous redesigns have seen it grow into an impressive compact sedan. Since the Sentra has been around for well over 40 years, you'll find a lot of them out there when looking at used models, though you don't need to go quite that far back to find a great deal.
In fact, the earliest we'd suggest is the 2012 model, which launched the seventh generation of the Sentra. The redesign for this generation includes gorgeous styling, exterior LED lighting, and an impressive engine that's not only fun to drive but remarkably fuel efficient. A facelift and update for the 2016 model make that a great choice as you look for a used Sentra, which includes new looks on the outside and enhanced features in the cabin for a better driving experience.
The current eighth-generation Sentra launched with the 2020 model year, making it a fantastic choice when looking at used models. It has an impressive engine, fantastic gas mileage, and great interior features like an available eight-inch infotainment display. This model just received a facelift and new features for the 2024 model year, which is worth considering if you're interested in a recent used car with the latest tech.
Nissan Altima: A Legend in the Auto Industry
Although not the oldest car in the Nissan lineup, the Altima has been a favorite for many drivers over the years, earning it an incredible reputation that few other cars can match. It first hit the road for the 1993 model year, replacing the Nissan Stanza, as a stylish compact car to go along with the smaller Sentra (which was a subcompact car at that time).
In much the same way that the Sentra has changed and grown over the years, the Altima has been redesigned, becoming a midsize car with its second generation and the 1998 model year. As you're looking for a used Altima, the 2013 model is a great place to start since it kicked off the fifth generation with bold new looks on the outside and both an I-4 and V6 engine available.
The 2016 Altima got a facelift, along with enhanced interior features like comfortable Zero Gravity seating up front and updated tech. With the launch of its 2019 model and the sixth-generation Altima, the V6 engine was dropped in favor of a turbocharged four-cylinder with impressive power and fuel efficiency. Both engines are great, but this turbocharged option is the one to look for if you want a car that's incredibly fun to drive. You'll also find advanced safety features and innovative tech inside these models, enhancing your time on the road.
Nissan Maxima: Spacious and Sophisticated
Finally, if you're looking for a bold car that's incredibly rewarding when you're behind the wheel, then the Nissan Maxima is hard to beat. This is a large, powerful sedan that's perfect if you have a family that you need to drive around or you simply like having extra storage space. First released for the 1981 model year, the Maxima is part of a legacy of Nissan vehicles that goes back even further. As you explore different used models, a 2016 Maxima is a great choice, which launched the eighth generation of this remarkable car.
This is a full-size sedan with gorgeous styling and impressive performance thanks to its standard V6 engine. Look for an SR Midnight Edition if you want a strong, aggressive look for your car. As much as we love the styling and performance of this sedan, it was discontinued by Nissan following the 2023 model year. That being said, you can still find a lot of them on the used market, especially when looking for a Maxima from the first few years of its eighth generation. Other Nissan sedans can be found at a lower price, but the Maxima is the perfect family car that can help you take care of everything you need.
Get a Used Nissan Sedan You'll Love
One look at this selection of vehicles makes it easy to see why so many people turn to the Nissan lineup when looking for a used car. With four terrific models to choose from, it can be tricky to figure out which one is right for you-but we keep things simple.
If you're on a tight budget or prefer a subcompact car, then the Versa is the perfect pick. For something a bit larger, go with the Sentra; meanwhile, the Altima gives you a number of impressive upgrades and more great features inside and out. Finally, the Maxima is the way to go if you're looking for the largest car Nissan offers, with an impressive combination of bold performance and excellent interior features. No matter which model is right for you, we're here at Reineke Nissan to help you find it and make sure you drive away in a used car that you love.