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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  Disappointed - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By dj speed - June 13 - 9:53 am

  Having owned 2 older Altimas Im disappointed with my new 09 Altima 2.5S 6 speed manual. The engine sounds horrible when cold. Acceleration is not good when trying to merge onto the highway but its ok around town. The cheap plastic door panels vibrate way too much when playing the music loud (very annoying). There is too much wind noise. The drivers seat is not comfortable. I hate the handling. The cheap tires and soft suspension makes the car floaty and unstable. On the highway the car is all over the place especially on windy days. Ironically it corners fairly well. On the good side, the ride is nice, it has plenty of room, it looks good and it gets great fuel economy.

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  Vibration - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By sum2 - June 12 - 4:37 am

  Whole car vibrates/shakes at 1900RPM. I have replaced alternator & belt in regard to this issue but nothing has happened. Car still vibrates. Nissan technician told me it is normal because of CVT. well you didnot tell me that when I was purchasing the car. This is a major issue and NIssan is not even considering it as a problem. They do not have a solution fir it yet. I strongly advise all the potential customers to stay away from this car until they resolve the issue.

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  Sweet & Sour - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Robert Norton - June 10 - 3:33 pm

  Just bought car used from a new car dealer with approximately 30,000 miles by CARFAX ratings which were misleading. Drove car for 400 miles found it had squeaking, jerky brakes, told by crappy car dealer it was brake dust. Googled this Altima found out it had technical service bulletin for brake issues. Luckily had just enough warranty left to have brakes replaced by Nissan dealer, praying it will last. Dont care for CVT transmission but accelerates nicely otherwise. Interior & stereo is nice, like AC controls, but fogs up too easily during significant rains. Comfortable car, beautiful exterior design. But wondering when next foot will drop with brakes. Probably wont buy another Nissan.

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  Awesome Altima 3.5 - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By D. Jarrell - June 8 - 6:23 am

  I love this car and so has everyone else that has been in it. My boys 17 and 18 are fighting over who is going to get it when we hand it in. Its fun to drive and I get a lot of compliments of it too. The color (that you have discontinued) is always commented on and how much they love the color. Ice blue, I believe it is. Ive had no problems with the car at all. Just trying to keep it below the proper speed limit is the only one Ive had.

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  Long Term Review - 1996 Nissan Altima
  By Ramoman - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car brand-new at the end of 1995 and have managed to put on around 133,000 miles on it since then. I love the interior and high quality of materials that Nissan has used. I also love the engine. It can out-accelerate most other vehicles in its class. What I dont like is the costs for maintaining the vehicle. Twice, Ive had to replace the O2 Sensor. That cost me somewhere around $350 each time. Also, Im now having to replace the clutch because it makes really loud noises. This is going to set me back approximately $800 since the kit replaces the clutch and the AC compressors.

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  2016 Nissan Altima SV - First Month of Ownership - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By dfwscott - June 6 - 9:57 pm

  I will say up front that I went with a Nissan primarily because I have a cousin who works at a local Nissan dealership, but I havent regretted my decision to buy this car. This is the nicest car Ive ever owned. I think the SV model could be the best value in an Altima since you get some wonderful safety features (including rear-cross traffic alert and blind spot alerts) along with some nice upgrade options like dual-zone climate control and the power drivers seat with lumbar. Mine also has the navigation package and the sunroof. While I do hear some road and engine noise in this car, I feel its quiet enough inside because I can have conversations at normal levels. The front seats are amazingly comfortable. As for acceleration, its a bit slow off the line, but theres plenty of power in the 4-cylinder model for my needs. It feels solidly planted on the road and I feel safe in it. All in all, it looks sharp inside and out -- it has a great Cayenne Red paint job -- and Ive enjoyed my time with it. Plus, the gas mileage is terrific. In the past, Ive gone about 6-7 days on a tank of gas, but I can go up to 10 days on a tank of gas with this car.

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  In Love With My New Altima! - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Djohnson21 - June 2 - 8:50 pm

  I owned a 2005 Nissan Altima for years with 200,000+ miles on it when someone hit me and totaled it. My immediate choice was another Altima, and I have not been disappointed! I purchased a 2013 Altima 2.5 SV off lease with 40k and Im in love! Rides great, awesome mpgs (which I need because I commute 500+ miles a week,) and ver comfortable! Very spacious and well laid out interior, and the exterior is definetly an eye catcher! Bluetooth, push to start, remote start, and LED lights under the car that light up when you open the door are new luxuries that Im in love with! The only complaint I really have is the interior gets dirty quick! Im a smoker so black interior probably shouldnt have been my choice, but overall Im very happy with this Altima! I will definitely continue to buy Nissans in the future!

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  Most Reliable Car Ive Owned - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By nolemonsplease - June 1 - 4:36 am

  We bought this car in 2008 with 17K miles on it and have been driving the heck out of it ever since. It now has 112K miles on it and so far all Ive had to replace was the brakes on it. Got aftermarket ceramic brakes with nicer discs. MPGs are great. I currently avg 29.7mpgs driving conservatively but the 4 cyl respond quite nice when you need to pass. The paint on the roof and hood is starting to fade and it sucks since re-painting is not cheap but I also dont keep it in the garage. The Alternator might be iffy. Just replaced a batter and the brake and battery lights on the dash are flickering. Hopefully nothing too bad. Overall it has been the most reliable car Ive ever owned!

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  A Drivers Car With A CVT?? - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Abyss - May 31 - 1:56 am

  After 3 weeks 07 Altima 3.5 SE has been a lot of fun to drive. Looks great inside and out. Great interior layout. Im glad Nissan got rid of their childish scoped orange speedo/tach. However fit and finish still has some significant body gaps (granted its only been in production a few months). CVT isnt all that quick nor fuel efficient (average 20 mpg in mixed driving), what was the point in doing this? This car does not coast along (or even down large hills). Hopefully it will be reliable to makeup for this. Suspension is very stiff, you will feel every bump in the pavement. Also has HUGE blind spots (so does Camry SE) making highway merging difficult.

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Leena - May 30 - 10:00 am

  The new Altima is the car of all cars. The 4 cyl. has more power than the 6 cyl. Montero I had previously. Its very roomy and comfortable inside and if thats not enough, its a major eye catcher! What a beauty! Two thumbs up to Nissan for redesigning this awesome vehicle!