For used car shoppers in South Carolina, Nissan is a standout brand.
Known for their longevity, strong safety ratings, and affordable price points, Nissan has a well-deserved reputation for being reliable and budget-friendly.
Whether you're navigating Charleston's historic streets, commuting through Columbia's business districts, or exploring the scenic backroads of the Upstate, Nissan has a diverse lineup of models that are equipped to handle everything life throws at you.
As one of the top used car dealerships near Columbia, SC, we’re here with the five most reliable used Nissan models for South Carolina drivers. From compact sedans to capable SUVs, there’s something for everyone!
Nissan Altima – A Midsize Sedan Built to Last
The Nissan Altima is one of the most dependable midsize sedans on the market, making it a great choice for South Carolina drivers who want reliability, comfort, and value.
You’ll have two powertrain options in the Altima: the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and the available 3.5-liter V6, both of which consistently earn high dependability ratings from automotive analysts. These engines can easily handle the demands of daily driving, whether you're facing stop-and-go traffic in Charleston or cruising at highway speeds. The Altima's track record for reliability means fewer unexpected repair bills.
If you find yourself on South Carolina's major highways frequently, you’ll really appreciate the Altima's fuel efficiency. The four-cylinder model delivers excellent gas mileage, which varies depending on model year, but usually hovers around 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
From a financial perspective, three to five-year-old Altimas represent some of the smartest purchases in the used car market. These model years have already undergone the steepest depreciation curves while still offering modern features and reliability. Visit your used car dealer in Sumter, SC, to browse our selection of used Altimas!
Nissan Rogue – Dependable Performance in a Compact SUV
If you’re looking for a versatile compact SUV at a used car dealership near you, look no further than the Nissan Rogue.
With its smooth, refined ride quality and available all-wheel drive system, the Rogue is up for everything from coastal highways to light off-road trails, providing the versatility that families and adventure-seekers need.
One of the Rogue's greatest strengths is its impressive range of trim options: S, SV, SL, and Sport. Each is designed to meet different lifestyle needs and budgets, so no matter what your needs are, there’s a used Rogue for you! Higher trim levels come loaded with technology features, including Apple CarPlay integration, premium leather seating, and upgraded sound systems.
The Rogue strikes an exceptional balance between fuel economy and cargo capacity, addressing two of the most important considerations for families. Fuel economy depends on trim level and model year, but you can expect to get anywhere from 25-35 mpg from your Rogue. Cargo space is generous, ensuring you can pack everything you and your crew need for family vacations, sports practice, or weekly grocery runs.
Newer models consistently earn high NHTSA safety scores and come equipped with active driver assistance features that provide an extra layer of protection. The combination of efficiency, space, and safety makes the Rogue an excellent choice for anyone who values versatility At our used Nissan dealership near Columbia, we have a great selection of used Rogues waiting for you!
Nissan Frontier – Rugged Reliability for Work or Play
For truck enthusiasts, there’s the Nissan Frontier.
Built on a robust body-on-frame platform and powered by a V6 engine, the Frontier delivers the kind of durability that contractors, small business owners, and rural residents depend on. This truck doesn't prioritize fuel economy or luxury comfort—instead, it focuses on delivering honest capability at a price point that makes sense for working professionals.
What sets the Frontier apart is its impressive combination of four-wheel drive capability and strong towing capacity, making it qualified to do everything from navigate muddy construction sites, pull boats, or tackle South Carolina's more remote areas.
If you’re looking for a capable pickup without the premium price tag, we can’t recommend the Frontier enough.
Nissan Sentra – Efficient and Easy to Maintain
The Nissan Sentra is a long-time popular sedan that delivers exceptional value for South Carolina drivers on tight budgets. If you’re shopping for a first car or need a reliable commuter, the Sentra is just what you need!
In addition to an affordable price tag, the Sentra boasts impressive fuel efficiency, consistently delivering over 30 mpg in combined driving conditions—a huge advantage for students commuting to USC in Columbia or young professionals navigating daily traffic in Charleston's growing business districts.
The Sentra is compact, making it perfect for urban life, where you’ll find yourself navigating tight parking spaces and busy city streets. Still, there’s enough interior space for comfortable driving and up to five passengers.
The low cost of ownership extends beyond the initial purchase price, as the Sentra is known for its durability, affordable maintenance, and lower insurance rates.
Even base model Sentras come well-equipped with modern features you expect, including Bluetooth connectivity, user-friendly infotainment systems, and essential power accessories. This means first-time buyers don't have to sacrifice technology and comfort to stay within their budget, making the Sentra an excellent stepping-stone vehicle that provides reliable transportation while allowing you to build credit and save for the future. Visit a used car dealer near you to browse pre-owned Sentras!
Nissan Murano – Reliable Comfort for Family Adventures
The Nissan Murano is Nissan's comfort-focused SUV, designed specifically for families who prioritize a smooth driving experience over rugged utility.
With its exceptionally cushioned ride quality, ultra-quiet cabin, and premium interior materials, the Murano turns long drives into relaxing journeys.
Safety is front and center in the Murano, with newer models consistently earning impressive 5-star NHTSA safety ratings and featuring advanced protective systems like Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Nissan's comprehensive Safety Shield 360 suite.
The Murano's long-term dependability makes it a great choice if you’re planning on keeping your vehicle long-term, as regular maintenance will keep this SUV running smoothly well into the future. The spacious interior accommodates growing families comfortably, while the generous cargo capacity handles everything from sports equipment to vacation luggage.
For families considering a used Murano purchase, the 2018 and newer model years are the sweet spot, offering updated technology, refined safety systems, and excellent long-term value without the steep initial depreciation of brand-new vehicles. Your local used Nissan dealer has a great selection of pre-owned Muranos waiting for you!
Shop Pre-Owned Nissan Vehicles at Nissan of Orangeburg!
Whether you're a first-time buyer looking for an affordable ride or a growing family who needs a new SUV without breaking the bank, you can’t go wrong with any of these models in the 3-5 year range.
Take the time to test drive the models that match your lifestyle needs, and you'll discover why Nissan continues to be one of the top brands for drivers throughout the Palmetto State who demand both quality and value from their cars.
