Datsun

Datsun is a car brand that originated in Japan and was used by Nissan Motor Co. for export markets and budget models. The brand first appeared on export vehicles in the 1930s and the marque became well known for affordable, compact cars in the global market. In many markets the Datsun name was eventually phased out in favor of Nissan by the 1980s.

During the 1950s through the 1970s, Datsun gained popularity with models such as the Datsun 240Z, which helped establish demand for sportier compact cars, and the Datsun 510, a practical compact sedan. Datsun served as Nissan’s export brand in North America and other regions, often offering lower-cost alternatives to Nissan badged vehicles.

In 1986 the Datsun name was discontinued in most regions, with Nissan brand cars replacing it in showrooms worldwide. The Datsun marque persisted in a few markets for some years, but production and sales gradually declined.

In 2013 Nissan revived the Datsun brand for emerging markets, positioning it as a budget line with simple, small cars designed to be affordable and easy to maintain. Models such as the Datsun GO and GO+ were launched in India in 2014, with additional offerings later introduced in Russia (Datsun on-DO and mi-DO) and Indonesia.

Today, Datsun remains a niche or regional brand within the Nissan portfolio, with the status and lineup varying by market. It is generally regarded as part of Nissan’s historical export strategy rather than a global mass-market brand.