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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  I love this car - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Yuriy - September 1 - 1:20 pm

  I bought my Altima (3.5SL with technology package) in November of 2012. Now have about 20000 miles on it. During first 1.5 years used it mostly on express ways, then mostly on the streets. Current average fuel economy is about 27.3 miles per gallon. Since the day I bought it, did not have any problems (there were some manufacturer recalls, but they were kind of preventive actions). So, I love this car and are happy with it so far...

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  3.5 SE with CVT - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By toomuchcar - September 1 - 8:13 am

  This is my first Nissan and my first CVT (other than a snowmobile). I had planned to get the Accord after trading in my Toyota Corolla since cutting my commuting distance. After researching and driving many different cars, I went for the base 3.5 SE for looks, features and I was impressed with the engine and CVT. After about 1000 miles, I can say the car is great, and I have no regrets. I would buy the same car again.

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  Made the Right Choice! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Mike - September 1 - 12:46 am

  I shopped around for the past 8 months, trying to decide between the Camry SE V6, Accord EX V6, or the Altima 3.5 SE Sedan. I ran the numbers, test drove all three and made it a point to get opinions from owners of each of them. From all of my research, I finally purchased the Altima the other day and can say that I have made the right choice! This car is amazing, CVT is smooth as silk, engine has loads of power, interior quality is top notch and so far I am getting excellent gas mileage.

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  Great Car - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By myaltima - August 31 - 2:00 am

  This is a peppy little car. We have not had a single complaint about it. We bought this car 2 months after purchasing a Maxima to replace my wifes ailing 4 year old Saturn with relatively low miles. I drive it at times and find no problems with get up and go after driving the Maxima. I truly adore this car and am comfortable with my wife and 21 month old daughter in it in and around town. Safe and reliable.

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  The "real" four door sports car - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By J. Scott - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Nissan has finally hit the mark! This is a true sports sedan. Im 66" tall, and I can completely stretch my legs in the driver front seat!. This car is a true joy to drive, and a real sleeper. I had no idea just how quick this car was until I got behind the wheel. It rides very well, and handles better than my 99 Mustang GT. I recommend this car to anyone.

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  Buy This Car - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Vic R. - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Ive only owned this car for 2 months but feel it will be a car I will fall in love with. It has all the features of a expensive vehicle with a attractive cost.(If you negotiate)I paid $20,207 for the S model with the Convenience Plus package. I feel the price was very fair for me. Great sales staff at Waikem Nissan in Canton.

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  Great Car!! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By all4bama - August 31 - 2:00 am

  It came down to 2 cars for me..the 03 Altima and the Volkswagon Passat. Although I liked the Passat more physically, i felt that both cars were very comfortable and drove well. In the end, I bought the Altima because I didnt feel the price difference was worth it. I traded in my 1993 Nissan Altima GXE and bought the 2003....Love it so far.

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  Loved and Lost - 1998 Nissan Altima
  By Lucky7 - August 30 - 11:33 pm

  My 98 Altima GLE was killed in a crash, and I miss it so much. Its been 3 months, and Ive tried to replace it wit the same style (98-2001) and trim, but theyre hard to find. So no luck so far. Ive gone 3 months without a car just because I cant bear to own something else. This really was a tremendous car. Not only did it keep me safe during the rear-end that totaled it (airbags didnt deploy, though), I never had a major problem with this car. The drivers power window went out after a couple years but it wasnt too expensive to fix. It had 130,000 miles on it and I would have gotten another 130,000, I think. Cant go wrong with this car.

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  What To Expect After You Buy - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By paul_ss454 - August 29 - 10:29 pm

  To those considering this car, I suggest you do a search on 2013 Altima CVT problems. You’ll find a wealth of detail on what buyers are experiencing. For me, the widely reported vibration problem surfaced near 1000 miles. The dealer keeps insisting that it is a normal for a car with a CVT and refuses to repair. That stance is deceptive because the problem didn’t develop until the car had miles. None of the documentation for the car discloses that this is expected to occur. The repeated response Nissan Customer Care is “work with your dealer to resolve”. The car offers some compelling features. It’s unfortunate this flaw combined with poor customer support makes it a very bad purchase

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  Pretty Happy after 1 week - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By paltima - August 27 - 10:00 am

  Traded a a 99 Nis Max (with bothersome engine prolems)for this car. Wanted an 05 Pathfinder but too much $$ for it. Altima is roomier than my old Maxima. Love the styling, love the interior. Handling is awesome - better than old Maxima. Engine feels like it is more "spirited" than 99 Maximas 195hp V6 but the Altimas 4 cylinder is more noisy - although the aggressive "growl" the motor makes somewhat fits the sporty character of the car. Convenience plus package adds very useable options. Got about 4K discount/rebate off sticker so Im happy with the price. Bottom line- Camry may be more refined but lacks any emotion. Altima is more fun to drive and has a welcomed personality!