Nissan is an international auto manufacturer based in Japan and is considered one of the “Big Three” amongst Asian automakers which also include Toyota and Honda. Originally, their vehicles were originally marketed under the Datsun brand before switching in 1983. Nissan also owns and operates the Infiniti luxury brand. As of 2009, Nissan is currently in an alliance with Renault which is credited for turning the company around after experiencing severe financial hardship in the 1990s.