Your Guide to Nissan's Most Popular Models
Answering that question starts by looking at your options. To make things easier, we've compiled a list of the most popular Nissan models in Canada. We'll begin with sedans like the Sentra, make our way to popular EVs like the LEAF, and wrap up our list with some of the most sophisticated SUVs you'll find on the road. Are you ready to be impressed?
Sentra
The Sentra has been a staple in the Nissan fleet since its introduction in the 1980s, proving it only gets better with age. But just how popular is the sleek and sophisticated sedan? Nissan's first-quarter sales totals for 2021 show the automaker sold 2,245 Sentras in Canada between January and March of 2021. For comparison, the next most popular sedan is the Versa, of which Nissan reported only 589 models sold during the same period.
The Nissan Sentra is one of the most affordable sedans in the industry, with the 2022 model starting at $19,598. So what does this mean for you on the used lot? You'll discover your money goes incredibly far when shopping for a used Sentra, specifically an eighth-generation model that debuted in 2020. The newly redesigned 2020 Sentra started at $18,788, which means you can get behind the wheel of the top-tier SR Premium for far less and still enjoy comforts, conveniences, and innovative technology like the Intelligent Around View monitor, leather seats, and a Bose premium sound system.
Versa
Although Nissan introduced the Versa in 2006, it didn't make its way to Canadian soil until 2021. Once here, the Versa's compact size ousted the Sentra from its rank as the smallest sedan in the Nissan lineup. For the Versa, its compact dimensions are an advantage, making it ideal for drivers looking for an efficient sedan that's agile and easy to maneuver in and around town.
The Versa's recent introduction to Nissan's Canadian lineup makes it one of the newest models you'll find on the used lot. While this typically implies a higher price tag, that's not the case with the Versa. The 2022 Versa's starting MSRP of $16,898 proves as much and is one of the most affordable models in the segment. The price is even better on the used lot since Nissan outfits the Versa with an array of standard safety, driver-assist, and connectivity features that add exceptional value and engineer confidence when you're behind the wheel.
LEAF
Are you ready to drive the best-selling electric vehicle in the world? That's what it means to get in the driver's seat of the Nissan LEAF, the world's first mass-market EV. First introduced in 2010, the LEAF proves that adopting an all-electric lifestyle doesn't require sacrificing performance, handling, or affordability.
Nissan made significant improvements to the LEAF in 2018, positioning it lower to the ground to improve its stability at high speeds. The redesign earned the LEAF a J.D. Power Engineering Award, a prestigious honour that further solidifies the LEAF's role as a pioneer in the EV segment. Along with the redesign, Nissan updated the LEAF's lithium-ion battery to improve its range, with the 2018 model averaging 242 kilometres. This range is standard on every Nissan LEAF from 2018 to 2021, which means you have plenty of options based on your budget.
Rogue
It only takes one look at the Rogue to understand why the SUV is Nissan's top seller in Canada. Making its debut in 2007, the Nissan Rogue is now in its third generation and continues to impress with its spacious cabin, outstanding efficiency, and sport-like handling. It's everything you never knew you needed in an SUV until now.
Nissan unveiled the third-generation Rogue to widespread acclaim in 2021, with organizations like the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada naming it the "Best Mid-Size Utility Vehicle" of the year. With the Rogue sitting at the top of its class in terms of design, capability, performance, and technology, the honour was well deserved. For example, the 2021 Rogue offers Nissan's hands-on driver-assist tool, ProPILOT Assist, which drastically improves your time on the highway. Other amenities like Nissan's exclusive Zero Gravity seats, expansive digital displays, and an array of safety and driver-assist tools add to the Rogue's remarkable value whether you're behind the wheel of a 2021 Rogue or an older model.
Kicks
Making its debut in 2018, the Kicks diversified the Nissan fleet as a subcompact crossover SUV. But what makes it so special? Nissan designed it specifically for urban dwellers. While models like the Qashqai, Murano, and Pathfinder are often impractical for city drivers, the Nissan Kicks uses its size to its advantage, effortlessly maneuvering through intense city landscapes where streets are narrow, parking is stressful, and traffic is constant.
Whether you get behind the wheel of a 2018 Kicks or a newer used model like the 2021 Kicks, you'll be surprised at everything the crossover offers. The models embody Nissan's adoption of Intelligent Mobility and come equipped with standard features like automatic emergency braking and a forward collision warning. If you're drawn to newer technology and a bolder design, look for the 2021 Kicks since Nissan revamped the model with larger digital displays, seamless smartphone integration, and new exterior colour options.
Qashqai
The Qashqai and Kicks share similar purposes in the Nissan lineup. They're designed for individuals and couples who don't need or want the expansiveness of larger SUVs like the Murano or Pathfinder. It's no surprise, then, that Nissan markets the Qashqai as its "right-sized" SUV.
The Nissan Qashqai, first introduced in 2017, is shorter than the Rogue. However, this doesn't diminish its cabin size, with the model offering up to 1,730 L of cargo space and unique features like the Divide-N-Hide Cargo System that ensures your cargo is secure and out of sight. In addition, Nissan extended the Qashqai's value by equipping the 2019 model with even more features, including ProPILOT Assist and the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite that includes advanced technology like Intelligent Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection and Rear Intelligent Emergency Braking.
Despite its relative youthfulness in the lineup, Nissan updated the Qashqai again in 2020 with a redesigned exterior, an exclusive V-motion grille, and LED lighting. For drivers looking for the most safety features, you'll want to start your search with the 2020 Qashqai since this is the first year that Nissan made the Safety Shield 360 suite standard on every trim. You'll also find newer tools like Traffic Sign Recognition and Driver Attention Assist, both of which enhance your experience behind the wheel by keeping you informed and alert.
What Will You Drive?
Are you ready to take a test drive? Once you get in the driver's seat, you'll experience everything Nissan's most popular models offer, from exclusive features like Zero Gravity seats to an array of connectivity, safety, and driver-assist technology. What's even better is that shopping for a used Nissan means enjoying these luxuries, features, and conveniences at a fraction of the cost. What do we mean?
Trust us when we say that saving money is even more enticing than that new car smell. You'll discover that your money goes even further on the used lot, especially when shopping for a used Nissan. This keeps more of your hard-earned money in your wallet, giving you more to spend on your next adventure. And, if you ask us, that's an exceptional deal!