Overview & Reviews

The Nissan Altima has been sold for nearly two decades, starting out as a smallish midsize sedan and maturing into the full-fledged family sedan it is today. There have been five Altima generations thus far, with the third generation marking the key shift to mainstream dimensions and specifications. Nissan likes to emphasize the Altima's fun-to-drive character, a trait we've come to appreciate in road tests over the years. Significant evolutions in features, finesse and frugality have made the Altima a perennial top pick in this popular segment.

Current Nissan Altima
The Altima is available with one of two engines. The standard 2.5-liter, 182-horsepower four-cylinder returns an impressive 31 mpg combined, while the 3.5-liter, 270-hp V6 achieves a respectable 25 mpg combined. Both are equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

There are seven trim levels to choose from, designated as either 2.5 or 3.5 depending on which engine's under the hood. The base 2.5 model gets you steel wheels along with nice perks like keyless ignition/entry and Bluetooth streaming audio, while the 2.5 S adds a power driver seat and an upgraded stereo. The 2.5 SV includes alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control and a touchscreen interface. The fancy 2.5 SL boasts leather upholstery and Bose audio.

Note that the 3.5 S gets many of the 2.5 SV's features plus larger alloy wheels, and the 3.5 SL tacks on xenon headlights. All SV and SL models are eligible for a Technology package that includes a bigger touchscreen, a navigation system, voice controls and a collection of electronic safety features like blind-spot monitoring.

In reviews, we've been very impressed with the Nissan Altima. Most of its competitors are certainly worth a look, but this Nissan has all the makings of a benchmark. It does all the little things right, and goes the extra mile with its rewarding driving dynamics and high-end cabin. Passenger space is also quite good, though some may find backseat headroom a bit lacking.

If you're having a hard time choosing between the four-cylinder and the V6, consider that the four offers a rare combination of excellent fuel economy and relatively swift acceleration. In Edmunds testing, a four-cylinder Altima accelerated to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, which is pretty impressive given its high fuel economy. Of course, we clocked the burly V6 at just 6.2 seconds, so if power's a priority, the 3.5 model range is a nice option to have.

Used Nissan Altima Models
The current, fifth-generation Nissan Altima debuted for the 2013 model year. The latest Altima benefits from overhauled styling inside and out, with a focus on a more upscale look and feel. Fuel economy is markedly better for both four-cylinder and V6 models, while updated suspension and steering systems maintain the Altima's reputation as one of the market's best-handling family sedans. For that debut year only, the previous-generation Altima coupe continued to be sold alongside the redesigned sedan. The coupe was subsequently discontinued.

The previous, fourth-generation Nissan Altima sedan was produced from 2007 through 2012 and marked the arrival of the now-ubiquitous CVT. It is in many ways similar to its successor, so a used one could be a good budget-friendly alternative. A coupe version debuted in 2008 and was produced in modest numbers through 2013. A limited-production Altima Hybrid was also available in some states from 2007 through 2011.

The fourth-generation Altima went without major changes for most of its run, though used car shoppers should note that there were some styling tweaks for 2010, along with the addition of an iPod interface and enhanced audio and navigation systems. Both the sedan and coupe were broken into 2.5 and 3.5 model ranges. The 2.5 models had a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produced 175 hp. The 3.5 SR (originally called SE) models had a 3.5-liter V6 that produced 270 hp. Though these powertrains are similar to those of the fifth-generation Altima, they were considerably less fuel-efficient. A CVT was mandatory on the sedan, while the coupe got a standard six-speed manual transmission with the CVT as an option.

We mostly praised the power and handling of both the four-cylinder and V6 Altima models in our reviews. The 3.5 models were more sporting, of course, thanks to their effortless acceleration and sport-tuned suspensions. But even the most basic 2.5-liter four-cylinder was one of the more rewarding family sedans to drive, while still providing a comfortable ride. The CVT was one of the best examples of its breed, and we would choose it over the coupe's six-speed manual, which was unrefined and difficult to use.

The third-generation Nissan Altima, produced from 2002-'06, set the stage for the Altima we know today. Radically different from the previous car, this enlarged model put Nissan smack dab in the middle of the family-sedan wars. It was about 6 inches longer than the previous generation, and its new suspension design and stronger body made it both better to drive and more useful for families. At the time, it was one of the most powerful family sedans available, offering either a 175-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 240-hp 3.5-liter V6, the latter a shot over the bows of the weaker Camry and Accord V6 models. Both engines offered a choice of manual or automatic transmissions, with four-cylinder Altimas limited to a four-speed automatic versus the V6's available five-speed auto.

The third-generation interior was widely criticized for looking and feeling cheap, but the Altima had a particularly lively feel for a front-wheel-drive family sedan. Our editors concluded that the Altima had gone from wallflower to genuinely desirable sedan overnight. For driving enthusiasts, the 2005-'06 Altima SE-R was the way to go. This specialized model came with a firmer suspension, a bit more power and an exclusive six-speed manual transmission whose slick operation was a cut above Nissan's unimpressive norm.

The first and second generations saw the Altima trying to find its groove. All models of this vintage were powered by a reasonably peppy 150-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Introduced in 1993, the original Altima fell somewhere in between the compact and midsize categories, and American car shoppers weren't overly impressed. We found the second-generation Altima, sold for the 1998-2001 model years, to be a decent handler, but its overall design was simply too bland, and its odd size remained an issue. Mainstream success would have to wait for the blockbuster third-generation model.

User Reviews:

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  Awesome Altima! - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By zbarker - May 27 - 5:20 pm

  I bought my Altima about 3 days ago and absolutely love it! It has a quick engine for a 4 cylinder and is very roomy! Am going down from a minivan to a sedan and love it. The amount of room is great along with the view out all the windows, everything is in good proportion. Am going out today to buy another fob for it, that intelligent system is awesome and the push button start. I feel when I drive it that I got a lot more for my money, I got a good price, good mileage, and am 110% happy with my decision. If youre trying to decide between a 2007 Altima, Accord, or Camry, go with the Altima - you wont regret it. Whats great is the styling inside and out, push button start and peppiness!

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  2013 Altima 2.5 SL - poor build quality - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By sdginz13 - May 26 - 9:10 pm

  I have had the car for all of a week new. Previously mostly a Honda/Acura owner. Liked the design and the promise of great fuel economy wanted to try something new. To date I am seriously doubting my purchase of a new Nissan. The factory in Tennessee as others have mentioned has some serious quality control issues. For starters both front doors rub against the frame or fender when opening or closing. Also it appears that seat heaters were wired incorrectly from the factory. In addition, the CVT has a hesitation at about 1500 rpm and vibrates the car. Guess thats why people buy Hondas.

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  1996 Nissan Altima GXE - 1996 Nissan Altima
  By rjd - May 26 - 10:00 am

  Had problems in first year with steering wheel - would lock Driver side rear Hubcab fell off when vehicle was 5 years old. Have noticed lots of other Altimas with same problem. Power antenna no longer goes all the way up, stops about 3/4 of way- sometimes causes bad radio reception. Gas cover stuck for awhile, had to grease up with WD-40, now its fine. In cold weather, drivers side door lock sticks and I have to try turning key several times before door will unlock. Overall, good car- reliable. Not showing any signs of rust, which is a major accomplishment considering car was purchased in Buffalo, New York!

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  What a Car - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By eddie - May 25 - 11:10 am

  After looking at Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, this was by FAR the best of the lot. Interior size and performance made this car the head of the pack. The exteriors design if anything but boring . The Accord and Camry were to generic. This car has plenty of get up and go and style to turn heads.. very glad to get this car.

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  Dream Car - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Charlene - May 24 - 1:20 pm

  I had previously sold this vehicle and fell in love with the features and reliability. I finally was able to purchase one, drives like a dream with the get up and go of a 2006 Maxima (I know). This vehicle is so smooth to drive and handles good at excessive speeds, even around turns. Definitely worth every penny, and a total head turner, Altima has out-done itself yet again. The only thing I have found that is hard to get used to is the CVT, it sounds weird accelerating.

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  Sit Back and Enjoy the Ride! - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By DPiedra - May 22 - 11:16 pm

  Only had this car for a fewmonths. Got the 3.5 SE with leather package, sunroof, larger tires, Bose Stereo, plus all the other bells and wistles. This car is not only fun to drive, it is fast and very responsive. Love the interior. That is primarily where this car wins big over the boring Accord and Camry.

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  Reliable Car - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By scaito - May 22 - 10:00 am

  This has been a very reliable car. I have had this car for almost three years and only had to change the oil every three thousand miles. Ive never had any problems with it.

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  Spacious and Comfortable Car with Power - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Paula - May 18 - 2:33 am

  Ive owned my 2005 Altima less than a week, though I had a 2005 rental before this, and that is what inspired me to buy one. I call it a poor mans luxury car - it is very roomy and comfortable to ride in. Everything is laid out clearly and well; all the controls are intuitive. The leg room is ample for a driver of any height. The trunk is cavernous and the rear seats fold forward for extra hauling room. The brakes, acceleration, everything is smooth, responsive and quick. My only complaint - it is not available in very exciting colors, except the expensive sport model red. I have the pearlescent coral sand - which looks different in varying light. I am having a spoiler added.

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  REPLACED 1992 MAXIMA - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Franny M - May 15 - 7:50 am

  The new 2005 Altima has both beauty and performance. I hated to part with the 92 Maxima but was sold the minute I test drove the 2005 Altima. For a 4-cylinder vehicle, I expected less and was pleasantly surprised at the pickup and ease of handling. Congratulations to Nissan on this beauty!

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  Replaced my 1992 Maxima - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Franny M - May 15 - 7:50 am

  The new 2005 Altima has both beauty and performance. I hated to part with my 1992 Maxima but was sold the minute I test drove the 2005 Altima. For a 4-cylinder vehicle, I expected less and was pleasantly surprised at the pickup and ease of handling. Congratulations to Nissan on this beauty!