3 Nissan cars: Some cars don’t just disappear when production ends—they linger in memory, garage posters, and weekend conversations among enthusiasts. Nissan has more than a few models like that. Back when the brand wasn’t afraid to experiment, it gave us cars with personality, performance, and a bit of weirdness in the best way possible.
So what if Nissan decided to take a few risks again? What if some of its most beloved, unconventional, and iconic models returned to American roads? These are three discontinued Nissan that fan would happily welcome back.
While You Care for Your Car, Care for Your Child’s Future Too 💖
A fun and educational book every parent should gift their kid.
Get Kiddy Store Fortune Now
1. Nissan Silvia (1965–2002)
Few car are as deep rooted in tuner and drift culture as the Nissan Silvia. Known to U.S. buyers mainly as the 240SX this lightweight rear wheel drive coupe became legendary for its perfect balance, sharp handling and massive tuning potential.
The final S15 generation was the ultimate expression of the Silvia formula. Power by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder it delivered close to 250 horsepower and sprinted from 0–60 mph in the mid five second range. More importantly, it became a blank canvas for builders—many pushing far beyond stock power levels into supercar-embarrassing territory.
Think of it as the spiritual ancestor to today’s Toyota GR86 or Subaru BRZ—but with more attitude and deeper roots in motorsport culture. A modern Silvia, done right could instantly become Nissan’s most exciting driver-focused car.
2. Nissan Maxima (1980–2022)
The Nissan Maxima proudly sported the moniker “four-door sports car” for decade and for a very long time, it truly lived up to it. The Maxima featured powerful V6 engine, assured road manners, and just enough edge to keep driving exciting while the majority of family sedans played it safe.
When manufacture came to an end, the Maxima had 300 horsepower and could reach 60 mph in less than six seconds—numbers that are still impressive today. Although its CVT wasn’t everyone’s favorite, the vehicle itself was unique among midsize cars.
A resurrected Maxima possibly as a performance-focused hybrid or electric sedan might provide Nissan with a much-needed flagship with genuine personality now that sedan are becoming scarce.
3. Nissan Cube (1998–2019)
The Nissan was hard to overlook whether you like it or not. It felt like a car that didn’t care about trends because of its boxy shape, asymmetrical back window and whimsical design and that was the idea.
The Cube became a cult favorite as soon as it debuted in the United States. It had astonishing interior space, excellent visibility and a fun factor that many contemporary cars lack, but it wasn’t fast or sporty. Drivers who desired something unique, something that represented uniqueness rather than conformity found it appealing.
The return of a contemporary Cube—possibly as an inexpensive EV—would feel refreshingly daring in the world of almost identical small SUV.
Final Thoughts
The Silvia, Maxima, and Cube represent a time when Nissan balanced performance, creativity, and affordability better than almost anyone. These weren’t just cars—they were statements.
While today’s lineup leans heavily toward safe, sensible crossovers, reviving even one of these nameplate could reignite excitement around the brand. Nissan fans haven’t forgotten what the company is capable of and they’re still waiting for that spark to return.
FAQs
Q: Why did Nissan discontinue these model?
A: Most were phased out due to shifting market demand, stricter emission rule and Nissan growing focus on SUVs and crossover.
Q: Could the Maxima return as an electric car?
A: It’s possible. An electric or hybrid Maxima would fit modern trend while preserving the model’s sporty legacy.
Q: Why was the Nissan Cube discontinue in the U.S.?
A: Sale decline as buyer preference shifted toward crossover, despite the Cube’s strong cult following.
Q: Which discontinue Nissan has the best chance of a comeback?
A: The Silvia arguably has the strong enthusiast support but the Cube could also succeed as a quirky, affordable EV.
Also read: 2026 Kia Telluride Redesign: Boxy Look, Hybrid Power, and High-Tech Cabin