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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  Great Choice - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Jugdish - September 9 - 4:10 pm

  I almost bought a Maxima, but drove an Altima at the last minute and was sold. This car is a blast to drive with the CVT. The engine is very quiet and interior cabin noise is almost as quiet as my Lexus. The suspension is a bit firmer than Im used to but not overbearing. I immediately traded in the stock tires for Michelin pilot exalto A/Ts and noticed a huge difference in snow performance and a slight increase in ride comfort. I am also removing the crap bose speaker system (paper cones) for Orion. Dont really care for the placement of the front dash speakers, makes for an odd sound stage. Overall, for the money.......this is a great vehicle, way to go Nissan.

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  My recent purchase - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By pjrias - September 9 - 5:53 am

  My 2009 Altima 2.5 SL was purchased in early March of 2010. It was a Clearance purchase, and was purchased new. So far I would have to say it was my best purchase in 30 years of buying new cars. Took it on a 200 mile all Highway drive to Montauk Point on long Island and averaged 36 mpg at a average speed of 65. The ride was comfortable and quite. The Radio was excellent. And the power was more than sufficient. Im in love with this car to say the least!

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  better then my 02 325i - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By werks - September 6 - 2:16 pm

  the altima is a sick car. 3.5se is faster than i thought it would be. gas milage is great 27 on the highway going 85. nice! handles like a dream. by far the best car ive ever owned, so far.

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  Go With Six Cyl - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By 4isnotenuff - September 3 - 2:03 pm

  I got the SL package on my 2.5S and am only mildly content with the performance vs. options compromise I chose. Having only owned previous 8 cyl. cars (Last was a Continental), the change to 4cyl has been an adjustment to say the least. Ride is great, styling and value are better than Accd/Camry/Mazda6. Power is acceptable; but, wish I got the 6cyl. Still think the mileage for either is great.

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  Problems from the begining - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By abdulmoid - September 2 - 5:40 pm

  Bought the car, drove off from the dealership in Toronto and hear the rattling sound from the rear section behind the drivers seat. Took out everything from the car, drove again for about 100 kms & the rattling is there, took it to the dealership, they said its the headliner, tried to fix it broke the headliner, then they order a new headliner & replaced it, called me to pick it up after 3 weeks, I went to pick it up, inspect the car & there are big wet stains inside the sunroof shade, showed it to them left it for one more day, now its been a week they were unable to clean the stains and are replacing the sunshade. Ive been without my car for 4 weeks now. Extremely disappointed I am

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  Be afraid, be very afraid - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Super T - September 1 - 10:00 am

  I loved the design of the 02 Ultima and thought it would be a good switch from my 95 ford thunderbird. The car was O.K. until it died in traffic at 46,000 miles. After being towed to the dealer and a new crank sensor later, my check engine light came on. Problem with the catalytic converter. I then read the recall report on NHTSA website - the Ultima has a major flaw with the converter that can destroy the engine. I should have bought a Ford! I think you will be hearing much more about the problems with this car. Im thinking of selling mine before I had planned.

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  I luv my altima - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Jennifer Partlow - August 29 - 1:40 am

  Simply the best car I have ever owned. I rented one on a trip to Vegas and fell head over heels in love with it.

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  OKAY car - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By m.grisham - August 27 - 3:53 pm

  The exterior design is eye catching. The car also offers plenty of room for passengers and for luggage in the trunk. It is fun to drive. However, if you are looking for a more luxurious and smoothe ride, then you may want to consider other cars. The car is smooth on well-paved roads but on bumpy roads you will feel all bumps. Overall, I expected more out of this car because Nissan has a good reputation. I am a little disappointed with all the rattles the car has while still under factory warranty. Also, tires are a problem. Have replaced and the car still shakes when driving 78 mph or more. When first purchasing the Altima, thought after 1 yr. maybe moving to a Maxima but now wont buy.

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  BAD TO THE BONE! - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By HANKSTER - August 27 - 2:26 pm

  THE NEW UPGRADED INTERIOR IS AWESOME!!!

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  Newbie - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Gary - August 26 - 6:13 pm

  I bought this car last week and still have the new(used)car love affair. I will keep you posted on its performance. Its kind of scary the number of complaints with the fuel pump. After years of having used cars in there teens, I really hope my newer car purchase is a positive one. By the way, first overseas product ever purchased...dont let me down.