Cars from Nissan that you might not know existed

Nissan has a rich history of creating luxurious, high-performance, and uniquely Japanese vehicles that often never make it outside Japan. These cars blend comfort, power, and innovative technology, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. In this guide, we explore some of Nissan’s most exclusive JDM models, covering their best years, standout features, and what makes them special.

Nissan Stagea

The Skyline Wagon

The Nissan Stagea is often called the “Skyline Wagon” because it shares its platform with the R33 and R34 Skyline. Built for enthusiasts who wanted performance with practicality, the Stagea became a cult favorite for its RB-series engines and AWD options.

Best Years & Models

✅ WC34 (1996-2001): 2.5L RB25DET turbo and AWD models similar to the Skyline GT-R.
✅ M35 (2001-2007): Updated styling, featuring VQ-series engines, including a turbocharged VQ25DET.

Why It’s Special

• One of the few high-performance wagons from Japan
• RB26DETT-swappable for ultimate tuning potential
• All-wheel drive (ATTESA system) from the GT-R

Nissan Fuga

The Hidden Luxury Beast

The Nissan Fuga is Japan’s answer to the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes E-Class, offering V6 and V8 powertrains with high-end luxury features. It later became the global Infiniti M series.

Best Years & Models

✅ Y50 (2004-2009): Available with VQ35DE V6 and VK45DE V8, featuring advanced tech for its time.
✅ Y51 (2009-present): More modern styling, 3.7L VQ37VHR and hybrid variants available.

Why It’s Special

• Powerful V6 & V8 engine options
• Luxury meets performance, offering a smooth ride and engaging handling
• Advanced driver aids, including adaptive cruise control and lane assist

Nissan President

Japan’s Ultimate Executive Sedan

The Nissan President was Nissan’s flagship luxury sedan, designed to compete with the Toyota Century. It was built for VIPs, government officials, and royalty, featuring V8 engines and hand-crafted interiors.

Best Years & Models

✅ H250 (1989-2002): 5.0L VH50 V8, offering a supremely smooth ride.
✅ PGF50 (2003-2010): More modern design, featuring the VK45DE V8.

Why It’s Special

• Handcrafted interior with premium materials
• Whisper-quiet ride, built for chauffeured comfort
• Rare outside Japan, making it a JDM collector’s dream

Nissan Cima

The Infiniti Before Infiniti

The Nissan Cima was one of the earliest full-size luxury sedans that later evolved into the Infiniti Q45. It was a technological marvel of its time, featuring advanced suspension and powerful V8 engines.

Best Years & Models

✅ Y32 (1991-1996): VH41DE V8, high-end luxury with air suspension.
✅ F50 (2001-2010): More refined design with modern tech and VK45DE V8.

Why It’s Special

• Pioneered Nissan’s luxury division before Infiniti expanded globally
• Advanced air suspension for an ultra-smooth ride
• V8 power with refined luxury

Nissan Avenir

The Underrated JDM Wagon

The Nissan Avenir was a practical-yet-sporty wagon, offering turbocharged powertrains and AWD options for all-weather capability.

Best Years & Models

✅ W10 (1990-1998): 2.0L SR20DET turbo, lightweight and fun to drive.
✅ W11 (1998-2005): More modern updates, available AWD and CVT transmission.

Why It’s Special

• Turbocharged SR20DET engine makes it a sleeper wagon
• All-wheel drive available for better handling in all conditions
• Rare outside Japan, making it a cool import choice

Nissan Elgrand

The Ultimate JDM Luxury Van

The Nissan Elgrand is the Rolls-Royce of Japanese minivans, built with a luxurious interior and powerful V6 engines. It’s popular among families and VIP transport in Japan.

Best Years & Models

✅ E51 (2002-2010): 3.5L VQ35DE engine, premium interior.
✅ E52 (2010-present): Sleeker design, advanced tech, optional AWD.

Why It’s Special

• First-class luxury interior with reclining seats
• V6 power for smooth highway cruising
• A favorite among VIP transport companies

Nissan Serena

The Versatile Family MPV

The Nissan Serena is a compact MPV with a spacious interior, offering both gasoline and hybrid powertrains for efficiency.

Best Years & Models

✅ C24 (1999-2005): More compact, with a 2.0L engine.
✅ C27 (2016-present): Hybrid versions available, modern tech.

Why It’s Special

• Perfect mix of practicality and efficiency
• Hybrid versions for lower fuel consumption
• Sliding doors and modular seating for convenience

Nissan Terrano Regulus

The JDM Luxury Off-Roader

The Terrano Regulus was Nissan’s luxury-focused version of the Terrano (Pathfinder), featuring a comfortable interior with off-road ability.

Best Years & Models

✅ JLR50 (1996-2002): VQ35DE 3.5L V6 or TD27 turbo diesel.

Why It’s Special

• Combines off-road toughness with luxury
• Rare outside Japan, making it a great import option
• More refined than the standard Terrano

Final Thoughts

Nissan’s JDM-exclusive cars offer a unique blend of luxury, performance, and off-road capability. Whether you’re into high-performance wagons, VIP sedans, or rugged off-roaders, Nissan has built something for everyone.