Cars Nissan have remained among the most recognizable on the world's roads for decades - from compact city Micra to powerful SUVs Patrol and iconic sports cars GT-R. However, even experienced car enthusiasts cannot always distinguish Juke from Kicks or remember what you looked like Teana last generation. This article will help you understand the diversity of the brand’s lineup through detailed photos, technical specifications and historical facts.
We have put together a visual guide to all current and discontinued Nissan models, including rare versions for the Japanese market (for example, Cube or Elgrand). Particular attention was paid to flagships - such as an electric car Ariya and a pickup truck Navara, - and also explained how to distinguish similar models based on external features (say, X-Trail And Rogue for the USA). At the end of the article you will find FAQ on choosing a Nissan with answers to frequently asked questions from customers.
How to use this article: brief instructions
To quickly find the model you need:
- 🔍 Use search by page (Ctrl+F) - enter the name of the model (for example, Skyline or Almera).
- 📊 Pay attention to comparison tables - they will help you evaluate the dimensions and technical data.
- 📸 Click on the photo thumbnails - they will open in full size in most browsers.
- ⚡ Explore warning blocks (⚠️) - it contains nuances that are often forgotten when purchasing.
If you are choosing between several models, pay attention to poll in the middle of the article — it will help you understand the preferences of other readers. And for those who are planning a purchase, we have added car inspection checklist before inspection.
- Qashqai
- X-Trail
- GT-R
- Juke
- Patrol
- Ariya
Legendary Nissan models: photos and history
Some cars Nissan have become icons of the auto industry. For example, Skyline GT-R (generation R32-R34) - a car banned in the USA due to the impossibility of certification, but which gained cult status thanks to the film "Fast and Furious". Or Patrol, which in Arab countries is called the “king of the desert” for its reliability in extreme conditions.
Below are photographs of the most famous models with brief historical information:
- 🏁 Nissan GT-R (R35): Debuted in 2007 as the successor to the Skyline GT-R. Engine
VR38DETT(3.8L twin-turbo) produces up to 600 hp in the Nismo version. Pictured is the 2023 model in color Bayside Blue (GT-R signature shade). - 🏜️ Nissan Patrol (Y62): Full-size SUV with body-on-frame construction. In Saudi Arabia it is often modified for dune racing. The picture shows the version with the package Desert Edition.
- ⚡ Nissan Leaf: The brand's first production electric car (2010). In the photo - a restyled version of 2022 with a battery
62 kWhand power reserve 385 km according to the WLTP cycle.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Skyline or GT-R older than 2000, check import history. Many cars were imported into Russia “gray” through the UAE or Japan, which can create problems with registration.
| Model | Years of production | Engine (base) | Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skyline GT-R (R34) | 1999–2002 | RB26DETT (2.6L twin-turbo) |
Last Skyline with brand Nissan (after - Infiniti) |
| 370Z (Z34) | 2009–2020 | VQ37VHR (3.7L V6) |
The last "Z" with an atmospheric engine |
| Terrano (R20) | 1986–2005 | TD27 (2.7L turbodiesel) |
Licensed copy Ford Maverick |
Nissan crossovers: comparison Qashqai, X-Trail And Juke from photo
The brand's three most popular crossovers are often confused due to their similar styling. Let's figure out how to distinguish them:
Nissan Qashqai (since 2006) - a compact crossover that set the trend for SUVs. The photo below shows the restyled version of 2021 (J11 generation) with a signature grille V-Motion and LED headlights Pure Drive. The main visual marker is the “floating” roof (black pillars create a floating effect).
Nissan X-Trail (since 2000) larger Qashqai and offers 7 seats in the cabin. Pictured is the 2023 model (T33) with a hybrid setup e-Power. Distinctive features: massive front bumper, chrome edging of wheel arches and two-tier rear optics.
Nissan Juke (since 2010) - the most eccentric. The photo shows the second generation (F15, 2019) with round headlights and “cat” optics at the rear. In 2023, the Juke received a version Hybrid with engine HR12DDT (1.6L turbo) + electric motor.
Look at the dimensions (X-Trail is 20–30 cm longer)
Check out the rear optics (the Qashqai has one level)
Check availability of 3rd row seats (X-Trail only)
Check the drive type (X-Trail is often all-wheel drive ALL MODE 4x4-i)-->
⚠️ Attention: In Russia X-Trail fourth generation (T33) is not officially sold - it was replaced by Rogue for the American market. Be careful with "gray" imported versions: they may not clear customs.
Rare and exclusive Nissan models in the photo
In addition to mass models, Nissan produced unique cars, many of which were not officially supplied to Russia. For example:
- 🚐 Nissan Elgrand: Premium minivan for the Japanese market. In the photo - version E52 (2010–2020) with engine
VQ35DE(3.5L V6) and all-wheel driveAttesa E-TS. In Russia it is sold only as “gray” imports. - 🏙️ Nissan Cube: Compact van with asymmetrical design (right side is longer than left!). Pictured is the third generation (Z12, 2008–2019) in color Java Metallic.
- 💨 Nissan Silvia (S15): Last rear-wheel drive Silvia (1999–2002). In the photo - version Spec-R with engine
SR20DET(2.0L turbo, 250 hp).
These models often become objects retro import from Japan. For example, Skyline or Silvia bought for tuning, and Elgrand - as a family car with high comfort.
Why wasn't the Nissan Cube sold in Europe?
The main reasons are non-compliance with Euro NCAP safety standards (due to a short crumple zone) and low demand for asymmetrical cars. In addition, engines HR12DE (1.2L) and MR18DE (1.8L) did not meet EURO-5 environmental standards without modifications.
Nissan electric cars and hybrids: Ariya, Leaf And e-Power in detail
Nissan is one of the pioneers of electric mobility. The flagship of the line was Ariya (2020), built on the platform CMF-EV. The photo below shows the version e-4ORCE with two electric motors (total power 394 hp) and battery 90 kWh.
Design Features Ariya:
- “Floating” roof with black pillars (like Qashqai, but with more futuristic lines).
- LED strip on the front (V-Motion in electric version).
- Minimalist interior with two screens 12.3" And 10.8".
For comparison - Nissan Leaf the second generation (2017–2023) looks more conservative in the photo, but remains one of the most affordable electric cars in the world. Its main advantage is the system ProPilot (autonomy level SAE Level 2), which can independently maintain its lane and speed.
| Model | Type | Power reserve (WLTP) | Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ariya e-4ORCE | Full electrician | up to 500 km | Torque vectoring system |
| Leaf e+ | Full electrician | 385 km | Battery 62 kWh liquid cooled |
| Qashqai e-Power | Hybrid (serial) | — | Engine 1.5L works only as a generator |
When you test drive an electric Nissan, pay attention to the level of regenerative braking. B Ariya it can be adjusted using the foot pedal (mode e-Pedal), which simplifies management in the city.
How to find high-quality Nissan photos to compare models
If you are looking for photos of a specific model Nissan To compare or purchase, use these sources:
- 📷 Nissan Global official website (nissan-global.com) - there is a photo in high resolution (up to
5000×3000 px) and 360° views. - 🔍 Japanese auctions (For example, Goo-net or USS) - they publish photos with detailed angles of the body and interior.
- 📱 Communities on Telegram (For example,
@nissan_russiaor@jdm_cars) - they post real photos of the owners there.
When viewing the photo, pay attention to:
- Body angles (especially the joints of panels - traces of an accident are often hidden there).
- Salon (the condition of the plastic, steering wheel, seats - the actual mileage is visible on them).
- Engine (the photo should show the absence of oil leaks and corrosion).
The most honest photos of a car are those taken in daylight without filters. Ask the seller for pictures from different angles, including the bottom of the doors and sills (rust is often hidden there).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan models
🔹 How to distinguish Nissan Terrano from Renault Duster?
Terrano (sold in Russia until 2020) - this is a rebranded Duster first generation with a different bumper, grille and interior. Main differences:
- U Terrano chrome headlight surrounds and a grille with horizontal stripes.
- Rear optics Terrano has L-shaped LEDs.
- Inside there is a different instrument panel and a multimedia system.
NissanConnect.
🔹 Why Nissan GT-R called "Godzilla"?
Nickname "Godzilla"** appeared in 1989 after the victory Skyline GT-R (R32) in the Australian race Bathurst 1000. Journalists compared the car's dominance to the monster Godzilla destroying competitors. Since then, the name has stuck to all generations of the GT-R.
🔹 Which Nissan model is the most reliable for Russian roads?
According to owner surveys and reliability ratings (for example, JD Power), the best options:
- Nissan X-Trail (T31, 2007–2013) - simple design, reliable engine
QR25DE. - Nissan Patrol (Y61, 1997–2016) - frame SUV with diesel
TD42, which “digests” any fuel. - Nissan Almera (G15, 2012–2018) - budget sedan with engine
HR16DE, rarely breaks down with timely maintenance.
Avoid early Juke (2010–2014) with a CVT - they are prone to overheating.
🔹 Is it possible to determine from the photo whether the body is painted?
Signs of painting in the photo:
- Different shades of color on different panels (especially noticeable at the junctions of doors and wings).
- No factory stickers on the pillars or hood (they are often removed when painting).
- Uneven light reflections on the body (speaking of putty).
For an accurate check, use paint thickness gauge or inspection under an ultraviolet lamp.