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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  Wind or design flaw? - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By lruthers - May 14 - 11:53 pm

  On February 19, 2013, when I pressed the button to open the trunk from inside the car, the lid came up with enough force to make the corners of the trunk lid shatter the rear window. The dealership maintains that a gust of wind must have caused this, although I and another witness told them that it wasn’t unusually windy. I pressed the release button and *CRASH*. There was no pause or delay. If it was a gust of wind, it would have had to come up just as I pressed that button and in just the exact location to fling that lid open. Thats a heck of a coincidence, and I dont believe in coincidences that illogical.

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  Great Car!!! - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By melb29020 - May 13 - 2:11 pm

  I purchased my Altima in 06 with 130,000 miles on it. It now has 181,000 miles. In May of 2008 my timing chain popped & bent my valves, it wouldve cost more for me to simply replace the belt & valves so I ended up getting a new motor. The timing chain breaking appears to be a common problem after 150,000 miles. If you hear any type of rattling from your motor get it checked!! Besides that, I have not had any problems with my vehicle except normal maintenance (oil changes, brakes, tires). I look forward to having this car for another 50,000 miles!!

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  Transmission number 4 - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Bob white - May 11 - 1:44 am

  We have a 2013 sl 3.5 the original transmission has been replaced twice with only 35,000 miles if you include the one it was made with that makes 3. And the last one is acting up as the first 3 did. Im not sure why Nissan has not addressed this issue extending warranty is great but what happens when it runs out other than transmission it is a great car.

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  Nissan has a winner in 2002 - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By specialK - May 10 - 10:26 am

  What a good re-design Nissan made with the 2002 model, the 4 cyl. drives like a 6 cyl. and the drivers space has the most room out of any other 2002 model I test drove within the $20000 limit. Even a 6 footer can be comfortable in this one!

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  Not a bad car - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Hai - May 10 - 7:46 am

  Im happy with the performance of this car although it cant accelerate as fast as I wanted it but what you expect out of 4 cyl car? I only had to replace tires and battery so far, Im hoping this car will last another 3 years without any problems. Would I buy another Altima? YES but it is going to be Coupe model with 6 cyl.

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  The Altima Has Arrived! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By dcurbelo - May 9 - 10:00 am

  I have owned three previous Altimas, my first bought in 1995. This is by far the best Altima ever made. This car truely can compete with the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and any other mid- size family sedan. I dont say this lightly. I have owned several Accords and a Camry. The car is quick, comfortable, roomy & stylish. It has all the creature comforts at a reasonable price. Gas milage is good in the city and great on the road. I drive in excess of 35000 miles per year. All of my previous Altimas have been very reliable and I expect this one to be as well.

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  Biggest Mistake - EVER!!!!! - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Belle - May 3 - 9:40 am

  I purchased this brand new vehicle in October 2001 to ensure my 3 week old had a safe, reliable vehicle. The style of the vehicle, roominess, and overall design drew me to this purchase. I have since had 5 recalls, two of which are being re-done, the vehicle would not start on three separate occassions as well as the vehicle stalled while driving the vehicle on three separate occassions. Both the dealership and Nissan Corporation have had no empathy for my $23K purchase nor for the safety of my family. Additionally, the OEM tires were the worst ever. Had to replace at 30K and paying more than $500 for new tires. Never another Nissan - EVER!!!!

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  5 years before 1st trip to the shop - 1998 Nissan Altima
  By happymister - May 2 - 10:00 am

  5 years after buying my 98 Altima SE, I finally took it to the shop when the check engine light came on. Looks like i needed a new evap emission control valve for $166 including parts and labor. Since it has been 5 years and this is the first problem with the car.. i thought it was the right time to write a review. The car has been the most reliable car i have ever owned. The only other things i have replaced on this car are the tires around 40k miles. I put 4 Goodyear Acqutread 3 tires and handling continues to be excellent.

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  Just Bought Dream Car - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Big Bear - April 29 - 2:16 am

  I just bought my Altima today and love it. My wife preferred a Camry but she doesnt appreciate the better handling of the Altima like I do. It has a slight vibration at low speeds but the dealership assures me it is the tires having flat spots from sitting in the lot so long. It did seem to get better today as I drove 85 miles. I simply LOVE the car. I am 60 and it is the best all around car I have ever owned - quiet at all speeds, comfortable, very economical (if I can believe the instantaneous mileage readout) and gorgeous. Nissan hit a home run with this one. I got the Jade Green color with Blond interior and love it. The AC is superb and I absolutely LOVE the handling and CVT.

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  Hesitant Transmissiion Problems - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By Ken Mader - April 28 - 1:30 pm

  Have problems with acceleration. The drive is not smooth and there is hesitation when first giving gas of about 3-4 seconds before it gives me power. Nissan says that this is normal and that there is nothing wrong with the car. Nissan is aware of the problem because others have complained of the same problem, but Nissan is not willing to fix the problem or make the consumer happy. Shame on Nissan!