Nissan cars from the 2000s delivered a rare combination of reliable engineering and firm performance. Many of these vehicles remain popular today due to their exceptional durability over time.
During the 2000s, Nissan ranked among the top 10 most reliable car brands according to J.D. Power dependability studies. But not every model from that era earned the same reputation.
In this article, you’ll learn which 2000s Nissan models offered the best value and which ones had more problems. We’ll also share maintenance tips that help these cars last longer and explain why they’re still sought after by budget-minded drivers and collectors.
What You’ll Learn
Here’s what you’ll learn about 2000s Nissan cars:
Which models combined reliability and performance
Maintenance tips to keep yours running well
Why they’re still a favorite for buyers and collectors, and how to spot a good one
Summary
The 2000s decade represented a pivotal period for Nissan, characterized by a remarkable transformation from financial crisis to market prominence through the successful combination of performance-oriented vehicles and dependable engineering. This era witnessed the Japanese automaker implement the ambitious Nissan Revival Plan under Carlos Ghosn's leadership while simultaneously introducing groundbreaking models that would define the brand's identity for decades to come.
Market Performance and Strategic Transformation
The early 2000s marked a dramatic turnaround for Nissan, which began with the company's recovery from near bankruptcy in 1999. By 2000, Nissan achieved significant growth momentum, with global production increasing 9.8% to 2,605,155 units, the first year-on-year increase in three years. In the crucial North American market, Nissan Division sales totaled 673,737 units in 2000, representing an 11.4% increase from the previous year. This growth was particularly noteworthy given the challenging market conditions, with record-breaking light truck sales led by the newly introduced Xterra and Frontier models.
The strategic NISSAN 180 plan, launched in 2002, set ambitious targets for one million additional unit sales by 2004, with 300,000 units planned for each of the major markets: Japan, the US, Europe, and other regions. This aggressive expansion strategy was supported by a commitment to launch 28 all-new vehicles during the plan period, demonstrating Nissan's renewed focus on product innovation and market penetration.
The VQ Engine Legacy: A Foundation of Excellence
Central to Nissan's success in the 2000s was the development and refinement of the VQ series V6 engines, which became the backbone of the company's reputation for performance and reliability. The VQ engine family, first introduced in 1994, reached its pinnacle during the 2000s with the VQ35DE variant that debuted in 2000. This 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine became synonymous with Nissan's engineering excellence, producing between 228 and 300 horsepower, depending on the application.
The VQ35DE's exceptional performance earned it an unprecedented nine consecutive "Ward's Ten Best Engines" awards from 2000 to 2008, with the VQ series overall claiming 14 total awards, the most of any engine in the competition's history. This recognition stemmed from the engine's unique characteristics: an all-aluminum construction with dual overhead cams, variable valve timing, and a timing chain system that eliminated the maintenance intervals associated with timing belts used by competitors.
The engine's versatility was demonstrated through its application across eight different Nissan and Infiniti vehicles in the 2003 model year alone, including the high-performance 350Z sports car, the rugged Pathfinder SUV, and the luxurious Infiniti G35 sedan. This broad application showcased the VQ35DE's ability to deliver both performance and reliability across diverse vehicle segments.
Iconic Sports Car Renaissance
The 2000s witnessed Nissan's triumphant return to the sports car market with the introduction of the 350Z (Fairlady Z) in 2002. This model represented a significant departure from the previous 300ZX, offering a more accessible price point while maintaining exceptional performance credentials. The 350Z was equipped with the VQ35DE engine, which produced 287 horsepower, allowing for 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 5.3 seconds.
The 350Z's development was directly influenced by the 1999 Z Concept, which signaled Nissan's commitment to returning to its roots in sports car design. The production vehicle embodied the concept's philosophy of creating a "clean, simple gesture" that honored the original 240Z while incorporating modern technology and performance capabilities.
In 2007, Nissan introduced the ultimate expression of its sports car engineering with the GT-R. This supercar featured an all-new 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 480 horsepower, coupled with an advanced all-wheel-drive system and dual-clutch transmission. The GT-R's performance capabilities included 0-60 mph times below 3.5 seconds and lateral acceleration exceeding 0.99g, establishing it as a legitimate supercar competitor.
Mainstream Model Excellence
Sedan Lineup
The Nissan Altima emerged as a cornerstone of the company's mainstream success during the 2000s. The second-generation Altima, introduced for the 2002 model year, gained significant acclaim and was named "North American Car of the Year" for 2002, the first Japanese passenger car to receive this honor. The Altima's success was built on a foundation of reliability, with many owners reporting trouble-free operations well beyond 200,000 miles.
The 2000 Altima, powered by the KA24DE 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 155 horsepower, demonstrated exceptional durability and owner satisfaction. Consumer feedback consistently praised the vehicle's reliability and comfort, with 63% of owners rating it five stars out of five. The Altima's success was further validated by its strong performance in Consumer Reports reliability surveys, where it consistently received favorable ratings.
The Maxima served as Nissan's flagship sedan during the 2000s, featuring the VQ30DE V6 engine producing 222 horsepower in the 2000 model year. The Maxima's combination of performance and luxury positioning made it a compelling alternative to European competitors, offering V6 power and premium amenities at a competitive price point.
The Sentra, redesigned for the 2000 model year, represented Nissan's entry into the compact car segment. The fifth-generation Sentra offered significantly more interior space than its predecessor, with an interior length of over six feet and generous rear-seat accommodations. The 2000-2004 Sentra models are widely regarded as reliable, with the 2000 model year receiving only 240 NHTSA complaints despite seven recalls.
SUV and Crossover Innovation
The 2000s marked Nissan's aggressive entry into the SUV market with several groundbreaking models. The Xterra, introduced in 2000, established a new category of affordable, capable SUVs designed for younger buyers. The first-generation Xterra was equipped with the VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine and was praised for its durability, with many owners reporting successful operations exceeding 200,000 miles.
The Pathfinder received a significant upgrade for the 2000 model year, featuring the VQ35DE engine, which increased power output to 240-250 horsepower, depending on the transmission choice. It represented a 40% increase in power compared to the previous generation, transforming the Pathfinder from an underpowered vehicle into a competitive performer.
The Murano, introduced in 2002, represented Nissan's innovation in the emerging crossover segment. As one of the first vehicles to successfully blend car-like handling with SUV utility, the Murano established a new market category. The early Murano models, particularly those from 2003 to 2004, are considered among the most reliable in the lineup.
Truck Market Entry
Nissan's entry into the full-size truck market was marked by the introduction of the Titan in 2004. It represented a significant strategic move, as the company invested $1.43 billion in a new manufacturing facility in Canton, Mississippi, to produce the Titan alongside the Pathfinder Armada. The Titan featured the new VK56DE 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 305 horsepower and 379 lb-ft of torque, offering class-leading performance in several categories.
The Titan's innovative features included the Utili-track channel tie-down system, Wide-Open rear doors on King Cab models that opened 168 degrees, and best-in-class interior room and towing capacity. These innovations helped establish the Titan as a credible competitor to domestic truck manufacturers.
Reliability and Quality Achievements
The 2000s represented a period of significant quality improvements for Nissan across all model lines. The VQ35DE engine, in particular, demonstrated exceptional reliability characteristics, with a typical life expectancy of around 200,000 miles when properly maintained. The engine's design incorporated several features that contributed to its longevity, including sodium-filled exhaust valves, micro-finished components, and a robust timing chain system.
However, the decade was not without challenges. The introduction of CVT transmissions in some models during the latter part of the 2000s would later prove problematic, though this issue primarily affected post-2010 models. The early 2000s models predominantly used traditional automatic transmissions, contributing to their long-term reliability reputation.
Consumer Reports data from the period showed that Nissan vehicles from the early 2000s generally performed well in reliability surveys, including Infiniti models like the 2000 QX4, which also benefited from Nissan’s engineering improvements. The VQ35DE engine variants consistently received praise for their durability and performance characteristics.
Safety and Innovation
Nissan's commitment to safety during the 2000s was demonstrated through improved crash test ratings and the introduction of advanced safety features. The company implemented comprehensive safety systems across its lineup, including multiple airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control as standard equipment on many models.
The 2000 Pathfinder, for example, received four stars for driver protection and five stars for passenger protection in NHTSA frontal impact tests, along with five stars for both occupants in side-impact tests. This strong safety performance was representative of Nissan's overall commitment to occupant protection during the decade.
Design Philosophy and Innovation
The 2000s saw Nissan develop a distinctive design philosophy that balanced performance, aesthetic appeal, and practical functionality. The company's design centers in California, Europe, and Japan collaborated to create vehicles that appealed to global markets while maintaining Nissan's Japanese engineering heritage.
The Fusion concept, introduced in 2000, exemplified this philosophy by combining "hard and soft, cold and warm, technology and human touch" elements. This approach influenced production vehicles throughout the decade, creating a cohesive brand identity that emphasized both emotional appeal and technical excellence.
Market Impact and Legacy
The 2000s decade established Nissan as a major player in the global automotive market, with the company achieving sustained growth and profitability following the implementation of the Nissan Revival Plan. The strategic focus on performance-oriented vehicles backed by reliable engineering created a compelling value proposition that resonated with consumers across multiple market segments.
The decade's achievements laid the foundation for Nissan's continued success in subsequent years. The VQ engine family continued to serve as the backbone of Nissan's powertrain strategy well into the 2010s. At the same time, models like the 350Z and GT-R established the brand's credibility in the sports car market.
The combination of performance and reliability that characterized Nissan's lineup in the 2000s created a lasting legacy that continues to influence the brand's reputation today. The decade demonstrated that Japanese automakers could successfully compete across all market segments while maintaining the quality and dependability that had made them successful in previous decades.
The 2000s represented a transformative period for Nissan, marked by strategic vision, engineering excellence, and successful product execution. The decade's achievements in combining performance with reliability established Nissan as a formidable competitor in the global automotive market, laying the foundation for continued success in the years that followed.
Why It Helps To Know What These Cars Got Right And Wrong
2000s Nissan cars marked a significant turning point for the brand. After nearly going bankrupt in the late 1990s, Nissan restructured, refocused on quality, and released some of its most memorable vehicles. Not every model from this era reflected that success equally, though.
Knowing which ones delivered on reliability and which fell short can save you time and money. In this section, we’ll set the stage for how Nissan changed in the 2000s and why it still matters when you’re buying, maintaining, or selling one today.
Nissan’s Pivotal Transformation
By the late 1990s, Nissan was struggling financially and losing ground in key markets. In 1999, the company faced near-bankruptcy before implementing the Nissan Revival Plan under Carlos Ghosn’s leadership.
The Revival Plan focused on cutting costs, improving efficiency, and introducing vehicles that people wanted to buy. It worked. In 2000, Nissan’s global production climbed nearly 10 percent, and North American sales rose over 11 percent.
Building on that momentum, Nissan launched the NISSAN 180 Plan in 2002. This strategy set a goal of adding one million unit sales by 2004, split among Japan, the United States, Europe, and other regions. It also promised 28 all-new vehicles during the same period.
These changes laid the groundwork for a decade of stronger, more reliable cars and trucks. Many of the models we still see on the road today came from this period of rapid improvement.
The VQ Engine
One of Nissan’s most significant achievements in the 2000s was the introduction of the VQ series V6 engine. First launched in the 1990s, the VQ reached its peak with the VQ35DE in 2000. The 3.5-liter engine became the backbone of many Nissan cars, SUVs, and even Infiniti luxury models.
The VQ35DE delivered between 228 and 300 horsepower, depending on the vehicle. It featured aluminum construction, variable valve timing, and a timing chain instead of a belt. These choices made it a powerful, smooth, and easier-to-maintain option compared to competitors.
From 2000 to 2008, the VQ series earned a spot on Ward’s Ten Best Engines list nine years in a row. It powered everything from the sporty 350Z to the Pathfinder SUV to the Infiniti G35 sedan. Drivers valued it for combining strong performance with a reputation for lasting well beyond 200,000 miles when maintained.
This engine played a significant role in why Nissan’s reputation for both reliability and fun-to-drive cars grew during the 2000s.
Sports Car Renaissance: 350Z And GT-R
The 2000s saw Nissan re-enter the sports car market with two standout models. Each delivered a unique mix of power, design, and affordability that helped define the decade for performance enthusiasts.
Nissan 350Z
The Nissan 350Z introduced in 2002, carried forward the legacy of the Z-car series, which had started with the legendary 240Z in 1969. After years without a true successor, Nissan developed the 350Z as a sports car that was both accessible and rewarding to drive.
Key specifications of the 350Z:
Engine: 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6
Power: 287 horsepower at 6,200 rpm
Torque: 274 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm
0–60 mph: about 5.3 seconds
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Layout: rear-wheel drive
The 350Z featured a short wheelbase and near-perfect 53:47 weight distribution, which gave it excellent balance through corners. It was also praised for its responsive steering and stiff chassis. Compared to rivals of the time, such as the Ford Mustang or Mazda RX-8, the 350Z stood out for offering genuine sports car performance at a price many could afford.
What made it iconic was its clean, purposeful design that paid homage to the 240Z while feeling thoroughly modern. Car enthusiasts appreciated that it wasn’t overly complicated or expensive to maintain, making it a realistic option for both daily driving and track use.
Nissan GT-R
In 2007, Nissan introduced the GT-R as the spiritual successor to the Skyline GT-R series, which had become a legend in Japan but was never officially sold in the United States. The 2007 GT-R was the first model offered globally and set a new standard for affordable supercar performance.
Key specifications of the GT-R (R35):
Engine: 3.8-liter VR38DETT twin-turbo V6
Power: 480 horsepower at 6,800 rpm
Torque: 430 lb-ft at 3,200–5,200 rpm
0–60 mph: under 3.5 seconds
Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic
Layout: all-wheel drive
The GT-R used advanced technology that rivaled systems found in significantly more expensive supercars. Its ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system and sophisticated electronic controls gave it incredible grip and control in all conditions. On a track, it could keep up with or beat cars costing twice as much, including some from Porsche and Ferrari.
The GT-R earned the nickname “Godzilla” for its brutal speed and presence, and it quickly became a symbol of Nissan’s engineering skill. What set it apart was its accessibility in performance. It delivered world-class lap times while being as reliable and usable as a daily driver.
Mainstream Success: Sedans That Endured
While Nissan’s sports cars grabbed headlines, the company’s sedans quietly became some of the most dependable choices in the 2000s. Three models stood out for combining everyday practicality with solid engineering.
Nissan Altima
The Altima became a cornerstone of Nissan’s lineup during this decade. The second-generation Altima, launched in 2002, was bigger, more powerful, and more refined than its predecessor.
Key specifications (2002 Altima 3.5 SE):
Engine: 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 or 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Power: up to 240 horsepower with the V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual or automatic
Layout: front-wheel drive
The Altima won the North American Car of the Year award in 2002, becoming the first Japanese sedan to receive the honor. Buyers appreciated its roomy interior, good fuel economy, and reliability. Many owners reported their cars lasting well beyond 200,000 miles with proper care.
Nissan Maxima
The Maxima served as Nissan’s flagship sedan. For drivers who wanted more luxury and performance than the Altima offered, the Maxima delivered.
Key specifications (2000 Maxima GLE):
Engine: 3.0-liter VQ30DE V6
Power: 222 horsepower
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Layout: front-wheel drive
The Maxima was praised for being a “four-door sports car” that delivered V6 power and upscale features at a competitive price. It offered buyers an alternative to pricier European sedans while still maintaining a refined feel.
Nissan Sentra
For shoppers who valued simplicity and low ownership costs, the Sentra offered dependable transportation in a compact package.
Key specifications (2000 Sentra SE):
Engine: 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Power: up to 145 horsepower with the SE
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Layout: front-wheel drive
The Sentra’s redesigned interior was more spacious than earlier versions, and its reliability record was strong throughout the decade. Many models from this period are still seen on the road today thanks to their durable drivetrains and low maintenance needs.
These three sedans helped Nissan stay competitive in the mainstream market and proved that reliability didn’t have to come at the expense of comfort or style.
SUV And Crossover Innovation
In the 2000s, Nissan expanded aggressively into the SUV and crossover segments. The company launched several models that appealed to a wide range of buyers looking for durability, utility, and comfort.
Nissan Xterra
The Xterra debuted in 2000 as a rugged, no-nonsense SUV designed for active lifestyles. It offered good off-road capability and was known for being rugged and affordable.
Key specifications (2000 Xterra SE):
Engine: 3.3-liter VG33E V6
Power: 170 horsepower
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Layout: rear-wheel drive or part-time 4WD
The Xterra stood out because it wasn’t trying to be fancy. It featured a raised roofline for increased cargo space, an available roof rack, and easy-to-clean materials. Many owners reported their Xterras lasting beyond 200,000 miles with minimal issues.
Nissan Pathfinder
For buyers who wanted more comfort without sacrificing capability, the Pathfinder got a significant upgrade in 2000. The addition of the VQ35DE engine gave it much-needed power and refinement.
Key specifications (2001 Pathfinder LE):
Engine: 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6
Power: up to 250 horsepower
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Layout: rear-wheel drive or part-time 4WD
The Pathfinder became a solid choice for families who needed off-road ability along with a smoother ride and more features than the Xterra.
Nissan Murano
The Murano, launched in 2002, was one of the first crossovers to blend car-like handling with SUV versatility. It helped create a whole new segment of family vehicles.
Key specifications (2003 Murano SL):
Engine: 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6
Power: 245 horsepower
Transmission: CVT (continuously variable transmission)
Layout: front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
The Murano’s stylish design, spacious cabin, and good driving dynamics made it a hit. It showed that buyers didn’t have to sacrifice comfort and efficiency to get the utility of an SUV.
Truck Market Expansion: The Titan
In 2004, Nissan entered the full-size pickup segment for the first time with the introduction of the Titan. It was built to compete directly with established domestic trucks and brought several innovations to the category.
Nissan Titan
The Titan was developed specifically for the North American market and built at Nissan’s new plant in Canton, Mississippi. It was offered in King Cab and Crew Cab configurations and quickly earned attention for its power and utility.
Key specifications (2004 Titan LE):
Engine: 5.6-liter VK56DE V8
Power: 305 horsepower
Torque: 379 lb-ft
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Towing capacity: up to 9,500 pounds
Layout: rear-wheel drive or part-time 4WD
The Titan stood out for its roomy interior, wide-opening rear doors on the King Cab, and the innovative Utili-Track bed channel system, which made securing cargo easier. At launch, it offered best-in-class interior space and towing capacity for its segment.
Nissan entered one of the most competitive U.S. vehicle segments and delivered a credible alternative to established domestic trucks. The Titan provided buyers with a credible alternative without compromising power, capability, or comfort.
Safety, Design, And Legacy
In the 2000s, Nissan made noticeable strides in safety and design, helping strengthen its reputation as a forward-thinking brand.
Safety improvements
Nissan added key safety features across much of its lineup during this decade. Many models came standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS), front and side airbags, and electronic stability control on higher trims.
Crash test results reflected these efforts. For example:
The 2000 Pathfinder earned four stars for driver protection and five stars for passenger protection in NHTSA frontal tests.
It also earned five stars for side-impact protection for both front and rear passengers.
These strong ratings made Nissan vehicles more competitive in family and commuter markets, where safety was a top concern.
Design Philosophy
Nissan also established a more consistent global design language during the 2000s. Teams from California, Japan, and Europe collaborated to design vehicles that strike a balance between style and practicality. The company’s concept cars of the era, such as the Fusion concept, influenced production models with designs that combined modern lines, functional interiors, and Japanese engineering.
This approach gave Nissan’s lineup a distinct identity that carried through sedans, sports cars, SUVs, and trucks.
Final Thoughts
The 2000s were a turning point for Nissan. The company rebounded from financial trouble to deliver some of its most memorable and dependable vehicles. Models like the 350Z, GT-R, Altima, Xterra, and Titan showed that Nissan could build cars people wanted to drive — and could count on for years..
Not every model from that era was perfect, but many earned strong reputations for durability, value, and performance. Today, these vehicles continue to appeal to drivers seeking reliable used options that don’t feel outdated.
If you’re considering buying, keeping, or selling a 2000s Nissan car, take time to research the specific model and maintain it properly. The right choice can serve you well for many miles to come.
Need Help Shipping Your Car?
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We work with reliable carriers and offer both open and enclosed transport options. Our agents will explain each step, help you prepare your vehicle, and answer any questions you may have along the way.
If you’re ready to ship your Nissan or want guidance before making a decision, contact AmeriFreight Car Shipping today. Our team is here to help you get started with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do 2000s Nissan engines typically last?
With regular maintenance, many last 200,000 miles or more.
Did Nissan offer hybrid models in the 2000s?
No, Nissan did not release a hybrid model until 2011.
Were 2000s Nissans expensive to repair?
Most parts were affordable and widely available, keeping repair costs reasonable.
Did 2000s Nissans have rust problems?
Some models, especially in northern climates, were prone to rust if not protected.
Are 2000s Nissan interiors considered durable?
Materials were average for the time. Seats and plastics held up well if cared for.
Were manual transmissions standard in 2000s Nissans?
Yes, many sedans and sports cars still offer manuals as an option.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always consult a qualified mechanic, appraiser, or auto transport professional before making decisions about buying, maintaining, or shipping a vehicle.
