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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  Twenty-three K and broken - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By soon2bxoner - February 1 - 12:06 am

  WOW! Was excellent car. At 8000 miles rear tires wore out. Service tech advised that along with each 6000 mile tire rotation 4 wheel alignment should be preformed. Dealership replaced the 2 worn out rear tires with new ones same brand Bridgestone Turanzas. This car should have premium Michelins on it. Now 01-07-07 engine knocks. Metal on metal grinding in engine. Oil change reveals metal chunks and metal filings in oil. Dealership advised Nissan of problem. Nissan has authorized NEW engine replacement only because remanufactured engine not available. This car was never abused. Any faith or trust that this car brand would be relatively good reliable car is shattered. NEVER AGAIN! NO NISSANs

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  Completely Unreliable - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By New Honda Owner - January 31 - 5:53 pm

  We loved the styling and perks of the 2.5SL, and we loved the car for the first 2500 miles. Its been downhill fast from there- the car has been in the shop about 10 times in the first year of ownership. In addition to many smaller issues, we have had the transmission replaced, the exhaust pipes replaced, and the computer reprogrammed three times for a very rough idle. The car rattles like an old chevy truck, and they cant figure out why. Isnt legally a lemon, so we traded it- for a Honda. Will NEVER own another Nissan.

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  Noisy - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By Alex Povolotski - January 31 - 11:26 am

  Ive test driven almost any mid-size family sedan on the market and thats what I can say about Nissan Altima. Compared with others in its class, Nissan is noisy. Its engines (both 2.5 and 3.5L) produce, on average, 10-15HP more than the competition but at what cost!!! Engine noise beyond 2000RPM is excessive! At par with Suzuki Ive driven the other day (yes, its that bad)!!! On the positive side, the exterior and interior design is fantastic. No nonsense or extra not needed buttons. Everything is ergonomically laid out and easy to use. CVT is the biggest and unique feature about this car though (surprisingly) its not as smooth as it seems. You just touch the gas slightly and it jolts.

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  Really Like My Car So Far - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By joebobjones - January 30 - 8:57 am

  Bought my car July 2013. So far I really like it, but a few issues to note: 1) Gas milage isnt what was advertised, especially since the weather turned cold in Nov. 2) When coasting in traffic at 20 mph, I sometimes get a significant shaking when I step on the accelerator. Sometimes the shaking is strong enough that its embarrassing. It doesnt happen very often though 3) The "premium" sound system sucks. It sounds like something I would expect from a Toyota Corolla. Its very disappointing, espeically since its supposed to be an upgraded system.

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  Best Gas Mileage Ever - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By tmrealestate - January 29 - 10:22 am

  Ok, part of why I bought this car was wanting gas mileage as I have a Dodge 3500 Mega Cab with a diesel (not good mileage). Ive driven this car almost all freeway so far and I drive 78mph set the cruise control and Im getting 42 MPG. Its shocking, this is the first car Ive ever owned that gets better mileage than the sticker. Love the mileage, also love the bluetooth radio, you can play pandora radio off my iphone for free (better than satelite). And I got mine new for under $20k.

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  WORST CAR OF THE YEAR NISSAN ALTIMA 2.5 S 2016 - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By Kashif - January 28 - 2:39 am

  I purchased Nissan Altima 2016 on May 21, 2016. I have only driven 800 miles on it. Air condition stop working, Inside the Trunk underneath the carpet there is a sealant melting causing rubber Mat also melting, All door windows rubber leaving black color on window frame, Trunk rubber Torn day 1 when drove off, Car start running heavy gas mileage has gone up after Air condition is not working. Car seat is sinking at one side. I have been offered Loaner Nissan Santra. It has been 14 business day dealer has not called me back with updates. The last time I called Service department for status was 8 days ago and I was told nothing wrong with AC and we will be involving BODY shop for Trunk and for window we will put OIL in rubber. I am paying almost $400 for New car yet I am not enjoying and driving cheap alternative more than 15 days. Nissan has assigned Case # but not responded as promised. Stay away from Nissan Altima or buy extended warranty over extended warranty. I wish I was not influenced in my decision making. I paid $23,000 for this junk car. I wish I had purchased Toyota Camry. I am taking legal action against Nissan and dealer see how it goes. I will update.

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  steering - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Debbie LaPonsa - January 27 - 10:00 am

  I find the steering in my new Altima to be overly sensitive to the "crown" in the road. It pulls constantly to the left of the road although it is brand new and not out of alignment. I replaced ( under warranty) the two front tires as they were already showing signs of wear on the outside at 1500 miles! The tire co thought it was a radial pull causing the car to drift to the left but the replacement of tires changed nothing. I am at a loss as to what is wrong with this car.

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  steering - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Debbie LaPonsa - January 27 - 10:00 am

  I find the steering in my new Altima to be overly sensitive to the "crown" in the road. It pulls constantly to the left of the road although it is brand new and not out of alignment. I replaced ( under warranty) the two front tires as they were already showing signs of wear on the outside at 1500 miles! The tire co thought it was a radial pull causing the car to drift to the left but the replacement of tires changed nothing. I am at a loss as to what is wrong with this car.

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  awesome - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By kazi zaman - January 27 - 10:00 am

  huge room inside and exellent pick up.

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  Love My 2005 Altima - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Sheila Price - January 27 - 10:00 am

  This is a fun, yet serious vehicle. My 2005 Nissan Altima is a sedan that has the feel of a sports car! In addition, Ive never felt so safe in a car. I feel totally protected by the excellent construction of the vehicle and the state of the art air bag system. My last statement has been proven, sadly, by the fact that, just one month after purchasing my Altima I was broadsided by another vehicle and although the whole left side of my beautiful car was damaged, I walked away with only minor bruises. I was thoroughly protected by the left side air bags and was wearing my seat belt. Just that evening, Sun., Oct. 3, 2004, Dateline had a story on how side airbags are saving peoples lives.