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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  1,200 mile update - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By JohnBuller - January 17 - 1:13 am

  After 1,200 miles this car continues to impress behind the wheel. Its the first car Ive owned in ages that I drive so I can. Look for an excuse to drive it. Came from a 2003 Maxma GLE, and dont miss the Max one bit. Altima doesnt feel as porky and ungainly as the more powerful Max. Fit and finish rival my friends C230, and car is solid. Quiet at 80, even with the roof open. All bells and whistles, and the 175HP 4 is great; both powerwise and economywise. Lots of pep; and 25 mpg city. Quiet, comfortable interior, heated leather seats, Bose Stereo complete package. Climate control excellent. Majestic Blue with Blond/wood interior v/elegant. Get the SL Package; you wont regret it.

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  Passes Crash Test with flying colors - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By AnarKaotik - January 13 - 10:00 am

  I had heard bad things about Altimas in crash tests. Yesterday I hit an SUV, a telephone poll, and landed on my roof. I climbed out myself and aside from being a little banged up, Im fine. Thats what I call passing a crash test. I always enjoyed the car, it was very quick for its class, smooth ride, good handling, very roomy and comfortable. Great buy. I will say I did have to get a few repairs, axels and what not, but probablems didnt start until about 70000 miles.

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  First Nissan - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Joe M. - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Bought Altima with sunroof, antilock brakes, side air bags, fog lights. Nice car. 600 miles on it and already running 28-30 MPG. The 4 cyl is ample power, I had my doubts. Save your money and get the 4 cyl.

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  A great reliable vehicle. - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By saa - January 11 - 7:56 am

  I purchased my 05 Altima in Febraury and must say, I am simply satisftied. When driving the sedan the suspension is great (compared to the Sentra I previously owned) For the price you pay for the Altima, I believe you are getting you moneys worth. Before reaching empty I can travel approx.310 miles. In this day in age with gas prices raising, I think the mileage, and fuel economy is key to purchasing you vehicle. If I had the choice to purchase another car the Altima will be my choice!! (with the navigation system of course)

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  Its the Ultima - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By alainalane - January 11 - 5:52 am

  Just got this car and it is wonderful. Has a lot of get up and go, very spacious, tons of leg room, comfy seats, great interior. I could go on and on. The glove box is very deep, and theres tons of little compartments around the car to store your things. Its a fun car to drive.

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  Love It! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Amanda - January 10 - 9:36 pm

  Ive had my altima coupe for about a year now. LOVE IT. Havent had any problems with it. Drives really well,not good in the snow tho,but its also not built to drive in the snow. good sporty car,good or 2 people-4 is pushin it with space.

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  Altima 3.5 SE MT w/Tech Pack. - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Black Pearl - January 8 - 10:26 am

  Bought two weeks ago. Great ride so far. My dealer found one with Technology Pack w/XM with Manual so I went for it. Glad I did! Nav is great and so is phone system. Black on black is truly mean looking. Getting 24 mpg so far on country roads. Waiting for XM to Sirius converter cause Sirius is so much better than XM. Very happy I got the manual trans. Goes like a rocket! Car is roomy and seems solid and safe for my two kids. Car seats fit well. So far so good!

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  Too many repairs - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By pdupuy - January 6 - 8:50 pm

  I have had to bring this car back to the dealership numerous times. Ive always had to bring it back more than once for the same repair. Now I keep having sensors go out, its out of warranty and Im spending a small fortune in repairs. Want to trade it in, not sure at this point if i ever want another Nissan. I love the design but the reliability is extremely disappointing. No way I should be having this much trouble, this car should last 200,000 miles easily.

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  What a change - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Robert J - January 6 - 1:16 pm

  I went from a large GM sedan that was a drivers dream. I thought it was time for something new, breaking away. Well, my new Nissan is every bit of anything I could hope for. The car is quick, positive steering and in general fun to drive. The manual shift is okay but I would prefer the standard H pattern. The car earns nice comments where ever I go...usually associated with the words "mid-life crisis." Great plaything and the fold down back seats are a nice bonus. Over all this car is a value for the dollar.

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  still miss this car - 1998 Nissan Altima
  By mrwill808 - January 6 - 2:00 am

  I leased this car in April 98 it was a loaded GLE, as a graduation gift. Since then until late Oct. 01, this was 1 of the most reliable cars ever. Everyone I knew loved my car, some even drove it. Small troubles in 99 w/ a bad battery at 22K and later around 29K the cd/cass. unit went bad. Also had 2 accidents in Spring & Winter 00, despite those the car still drove like new. I was on top of maintenance & cleaning like crazy and had compliments that it looked and ran like new. Got rid of it in late 01 since the lease was up.