Since opening Country Auto in Blair in 2018, Joseph Russell has worked to build a reputation for trust and integrity in the used car industry. Through exceptional customer service, transparent business practices and strong relationships, Russell and his team have earned a reputation they’re proud of.
Country Auto sells high-quality, pre-owned vehicles, many of which are sourced from private sellers across the country. The inventory includes everything from unique luxury models to budget-friendly trucks, cars and SUVs—as well as campers, boats and motorcycles.
“I’ve got everything from Lamborghinis and Mercedes AMGs to a wide variety of economical trucks and cars on my lot,” Russell says. “And if I don’t have what you’re looking for, we’ll find it for you.”
Russell’s passion for cars began in childhood. He frequently told others he planned to own car dealerships when he grew up. Staying true to that dream, he worked his way up through the automotive industry and opened his own dealership at the age of 30.
Located just off highways 30 and 133 at the entrance to Blair, Country Auto features a welcoming showroom with floor-to-ceiling, east-facing windows that flood the space with natural light. The modern facility is designed to create an inviting experience for anyone who walks through the doors.
And when you’re there, you’re family. Russell can be found on site, greeting clients-turned-friends, checking in with mechanics or brewing a fresh pot of coffee. At Country Auto, the team makes it a priority to ensure every customer feels seen and heard. When you drive off the lot, you can feel confident not only in the vehicle you’ve purchased, but in knowing you’re more than just a transaction—you’re a valued part of the Country Auto family.
The dealership typically maintains an inventory of 150 to 200 vehicles, advertised on its website, www.countryautoblair.com, as well as third-party platforms like Cars.com and CarGurus.
With a staff of 18, Country Auto prides itself on providing a personalized, family-style experience. Customers typically interact directly with Russell and his general manager, Alex Nikiforuk, throughout the buying and selling process. That personal connection is why many customers—whether they’re high-end car collectors or everyday Nebraska families—return time and again.
“We value and respect our customers’ time and hard-earned money,” Nikiforuk says. “We know visiting a dealership isn’t always a favorite task, so our goal is to make the process simple, transparent and easy. For us, it’s about more than selling vehicles—it’s about building lasting relationships founded on trust, respect and integrity.”
Russell and Nikiforuk spend much of their time sourcing vehicles. Sales staff are trained not only to sell cars but to purchase them as well.
To meet customer needs, Country Auto offers a full-service shop capable of handling everything from oil changes to engine rebuilds. The service department is open to the public, not just customers who purchased vehicles from Country Auto, and loaner cars are available when needed.
Every vehicle Country Auto sells undergoes a comprehensive inspection. Local vehicles are evaluated in-house, while those purchased from out of town are inspected at a dealership before shipment and re-inspected upon arrival.
“We want to know exactly what we’re buying and selling to ensure there are no surprises for our customers,” Russell says. “Every car goes through a process—we don’t cut corners.”
For Russell, providing peace of mind is at the heart of the business. That means meeting customers’ vehicle needs, respecting their budgets and delivering the kind of exceptional customer service that sets Country Auto apart.
“I’m passionate about selling quality cars, taking care of my customers and doing what’s right, because I believe reputations are earned,” he said. “If I don’t take care of people and do the right thing, this won’t become the longstanding family business I’ve dreamed of building.”
Learn more at countryautoblair.com.
For us, it’s about more than selling vehicles—it’s about building lasting relationships founded on trust, respect and integrity.