When it comes to Japanese cars, Nissan is one of the first brands that come to mind. But even experienced car owners sometimes confuse its emblem with the logos of other brands. What does the icon actually look like? Nissan, and why is it so memorable?
At first glance, the logo seems simple: a silver oval with the brand name in the middle. However, behind this brevity lies a deep history, technical nuances and even secret meaning known only to the company's designers. In this article we will analyze not only the appearance of the emblem, but also its evolution, location on different models, as well as little-known facts that you are unlikely to find in official booklets.
The official Nissan logo: what it looks like today
Modern icon Nissan is a stylized chrome oval with the inscription NISSAN in the center. The font is made in a strict corporate style, sans serif, with slightly rounded corners of the letters. The oval has clear boundaries, and its interior is usually filled with a silver or chrome coating that glitters in the sun.
It is important to note that the logo may vary slightly depending on the model and year of manufacture. For example, on premium versions (for example, Nissan GT-R or Nissan Ariya) the emblem is often made in black with a chrome trim, which gives it a more aggressive and modern look. And on commercial vehicles (for example, Nissan NV400) the oval can be simplified, without volumetric effects.
- 🔹 Color: the classic version is silver/chrome, but it can be black (for sports models) or blue (on concept cars).
- 🔹 Shape: oval with an aspect ratio of approximately 1.6:1 (width to height).
- 🔹 Font: branded Nissan Corporate Font, developed specifically for the brand in 2001.
- 🔹 Material: on production cars - plastic with chrome plating, on premium cars - metal.
The logo is always placed in the center of the front grille, but its size may vary. For example, on Nissan Patrol the emblem is more massive than on Nissan Micrato match the dimensions of the vehicle. Also in some markets (for example, Japan) instead of the inscription NISSAN hieroglyph can be used 日産 (pronounced "Nissan").
- Classic silver
- Black with chrome (for GT-R)
- Blue (concept cars)
- With hieroglyphs (for Japan)
The evolution of the Nissan badge: from the 1930s to the present day
The company's first logo appeared in 1933, when it was still called Datsun. It was a simple blue rectangle with white lettering DATSUN - without ovals or frills. However, already in the 1960s, after a merger with the company Prince Motor Company, a brand transformation began that led to the emergence of the modern icon.
Key stages of evolution:
| Year | Logo design | Features | Models where used |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1933–1960 | Rectangle with inscription DATSUN | Blue background, white font, minimalism | Datsun Type 11, Datsun DC-3 |
| 1960–1983 | Red oval with white lettering DATSUN | An oval appeared, but without chrome yet | Datsun 240Z, Datsun 510 |
| 1983–2001 | Silver oval with inscription NISSAN | Switch to chrome, change brand name | Nissan Skyline R32, Nissan Silvia S13 |
| 2001–2020 | 3D oval with gradient | Added volume, new font | Nissan Qashqai J10, Nissan X-Trail T31 |
| 2020–present time | Flat oval with minimalist design | Simplify for digital media | Nissan Ariya, Nissan Z Proto |
Interestingly, in 2020 Nissan returned to a flat logo design, abandoning the volumetric effects. This was done to better adapt to digital screens (for example, on websites and mobile applications), where 3D logos did not look as clear. However, cars still use the "volumetric" version.
Why did Nissan drop the Datsun name?
In the 1980s, the company decided to unify the brand under a single Nissan name for all markets. The Datsun name was retained only in some countries (such as India and Indonesia) until 2014, when it was finally dropped.
Where exactly is the badge located on Nissan cars?
The Nissan emblem is not only placed on the front grille, but also at several other key points on the car. Their location depends on the model and configuration, but there are general rules:
- 🚗 Front:
- Center of the radiator grille (primary location).
- Trunk lid (on sedans and hatchbacks).
- Wheel covers (on some versions, e.g. Nissan Almera).
- 🔑 Rear:
- Left side of the trunk (on crossovers and SUVs).
- Above the license plate (on Nissan Patrol And Nissan Navara).
- 📄 Documents and salon:
- Steering wheel (central button).
- Ignition keys (on key fob).
- Service book and user manual.
On sports models (for example, Nissan GT-R or Nissan 370Z) the emblem can be duplicated on the front fenders or even on the brake calipers. And on electric vehicles (for example, Nissan Leaf) icon is often highlighted in blue to symbolize environmental friendliness.
⚠️ Attention: On used Nissan cars imported from Japan, the emblem on the trunk can be replaced with a local one (for example, with hieroglyphs). This is not a fake, but an original part for the domestic market.
How to distinguish an original Nissan badge from a fake
Fake Nissan emblems are often found on the aftermarket, especially for popular models like Qashqai or X-Trail. Here are the key features of the original:
- Chrome plating quality: The original badge has an even coating, no bubbles or abrasions. Counterfeits often have a dull sheen or a yellow tint.
- Mount: On the reverse side of the original emblem there are branded latches or threaded holes (depending on the model). On fakes, fastenings may be universal or absent altogether.
- Font: Letters NISSAN on the original they have clear edges and uniform thickness. Counterfeits often show unevenness or blurriness.
- Packing: Original emblems are supplied in branded bags with the Nissan logo and article number. Counterfeits are usually sold without packaging or in generic boxes.
If you are purchasing a replacement emblem, check its part number in the catalogue. For example, for Nissan Qashqai J11 the original badge has a number 79910-4M000, and for Nissan X-Trail T32 — 79910-BM400. This information can be found on the website Nissan Parts Europe.
☑️ Checking the originality of the Nissan emblem
Hidden details of the logo: what is encrypted in the design
Few people know, but the Nissan logo has several hidden meanings:
- Oval as a symbol of globality: The shape of the oval logo symbolizes the globe, emphasizing the international character of the brand. This was especially true in the 1980s, when Nissan was actively expanding into foreign markets.
- Aspect Ratio: The proportions of the oval logo (1.6:1) coincide with the “golden ratio”, which makes it visually harmonious. This is not an accident - the designers specifically selected such parameters.
- Color Psychology: Silver/chrome color is associated with technology and reliability, and black (on sports models) with power and aggression.
- Font: Letter "N" in the logo it is slightly tilted to the right, which creates the effect of movement. This is barely noticeable, but is subconsciously perceived as dynamism.
Another interesting fact: on some concept cars (for example, Nissan IMx or Nissan Ariya Concept) the logo is made in the form of a luminous projection. This is part of the brand's strategy to move towards "digital design", where physical logos can be replaced with light-up or even holographic ones.
If you look closely at the logo on Nissan GT-R, you can see that the oval is slightly “flattened” at the top. This is done for better aerodynamics - the emblem does not create unnecessary drag at high speeds.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan badge (FAQ)
🔍 Why don't some Nissans have an emblem on the grille?
On some modern models (for example, Nissan Ariya or Nissan Leaf) the logo has been moved to the front bumper or hood. This is due to the transition to closed radiator grilles (to improve aerodynamics for electric vehicles). Also on sports versions (eg Nissan GT-R Nismo) the emblem can be replaced with a nameplate with the model name.
🔧 Is it possible to paint the Nissan emblem in a different color?
Technically yes, but it may affect the warranty (if the car is new). To paint, you need to remove the emblem, matte the chrome surface, apply primer and paint. Popular colors for tuning are matte black (for style "stealth") or blue (to match the color Nissan Nismo). However, it will be impossible to restore the original chrome plating after painting.
💡 Why did old Nissans (pre-1980s) have the Datsun inscription?
Until 1983, Nissan vehicles in export markets were sold under the brand Datsun (short for Denki Auto Seizo Tokyo United). In Japan, cars were always called Nissan, but for foreign buyers the Datsun name was used as a more memorable name. In 1983, the company unified the brand under a single name. Nissan for all markets.
🔄 Is it possible to buy an original Nissan emblem separately?
Yes, original emblems are sold at Nissan dealerships or official parts websites (e.g. Nissan Parts Europe). The cost varies from 1,500 to 5,000 rubles depending on the model. You can also find original badges at salvage yards (but check their condition - chrome often fades over time).
🚨 What to do if the emblem falls off or cracks?
If the emblem is damaged, it must be replaced. A temporary solution may be plastic adhesive (for example, 3M Scotch-Weld), but it won't last long. To replace:
- Order an original emblem according to the article number of your model.
- Pry out the old emblem with a plastic spatula (usually it is attached with latches).
- Clean the mounting area from dirt and glue residues.
- Install the new emblem by pressing lightly until it clicks.
On some models (for example, Nissan Patrol Y62) the emblem is attached with bolts - you will need a key here T20 or T25.
The original Nissan emblem not only adorns the car, but also serves as an indicator of the authenticity of the model. Counterfeits often reveal themselves through sloppy fonts and dull chrome.