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:

• 

  love my altima - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By tom - June 21 - 9:46 am

  this is the second new nissan ALTIMA that I have purchased. I loved my first one in 1998, still have it with over 300,000 miles on it. I just purchased a new ALTIMA 2006 about a month ago and love it. Nissan has earned my loyalty and they deserve it.

• 

  Attractive car but...... - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By victomofnissan - June 18 - 6:48 pm

  I purchased an Altima 2.5 SL in the begining of August mainly based on its 27/38 mpg adertisement. The car has very comfortable interior, love the seats and overall interior feel. After driving his car for two weeks, I was getting approx. 15-17 MPG. Took it to the dealer who suggested that I drive this car atleast 1000 miles and then car will deliver better mpg. After driving 1,600 miles (70% highway, 30% city) the most I got is 18. I went back to the dealer who told me to contact Nissan North America. I called them a month ago and registered my complaint. They have assigned my case to a regional specialist and I am still waiting to speak to this person.They have the worst customer service

• 

  Why I love Sylvia - my Altima - 2014 Nissan Altima
  By Susan M. Thornburg - June 18 - 1:33 am

  Just double check your ability to get into and out of the car (ingress/egress. Really terrific for a tall person, but quite fine for a shorty like me.

• 

  Its ok but keep looking..... - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By tmw1207 - June 13 - 11:46 pm

  I leased a 2013 Altima after returning a 2010 Camry...the noisy engine is driving me nuts! It doesnt last the entire time but upon acceration it is noisy and shaky like an old car. I didnt notice as much during the test drive but I really hate this car... I hate it. I now wish I bought out my lease with the quiet, reliable Camry. The acceration on the car is good and the value is good- the design is great, its a nice machine to look at. The lighting is poor. The driver seat is comfortable after you manuever every which way to make it so... Passenger seat cant be adjusted as much and is horrible. If you can handle the noise go for it...its not SO BAD but its a deal breaker for me.

• 

  Great Value - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Guy Emmons - June 12 - 5:53 pm

  My overall experience in owning this Altima was very good. The maintenance was at a minimum; only taking care of the essentials in the usual required schedule. The only thing that was ever an issue was the transmission not downshifting when there was sustained driving; it would hang there in 3rd gear. The dealer was able to get Nissan to install a new transmission and extend the warranty for another 12 months or 100,00 miles. The idea of Nissan making it right goes a long way with me and I have told many people about my experience in owning this Altima.

• 

  Altima 6 spd - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By sandy - June 12 - 10:00 am

  This car is FAST, drives extremely well, is high quality. If you want a G35 and cant afford it, this is the car for you. Very easy to use nav system, beautiful comfortable leather. I tried the Camry, Accord, Jetta and A4 and this was my top pick. The 6 spd manual is very easy to use with a light clutch, beautiful exterior design, lots of leg room front and rear, beats the competition hands down, from acceleration to interior design. If you want a fast (0-60 MPH 5.9 sec) and high quality (rivals G35 and Lexus), try this car before you make your decision. You will be impressed, drives like a much more expensive car than it is. Great road trip car, comfortable with little road noise.

• 

  The Best Sedan of 2007-8 - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Siddharth Wartak - June 9 - 1:26 pm

  I was a Honda fan for many years and had Honda Accord. I thought of a change and was about to buy Camry. A friends recommendation led me to consider the all new 07 Altima. I went for a test drive and in the first minute I was thrilled to drive the 2.5 S. The power, the pick up, smoothness and CVT. I had made up my mind before I could get down. Never ever have I a loved a car so much. I dont feel like getting out of my Nissan and I take longer route to reach home late. I drove 600 miles on highway with full tank averaging 34 miles/gallon. After driving the CVT tech, driving my friends conventional cars with freq jerks of gear shift are no more a pleasure even with V6.

• 

  Safety of 2005 altima - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By V.Luce - June 9 - 1:30 am

  Leased vehicle 8/2004 after receiving offer from Nissan on early termination of lease on 2001 Pathfinder. Loved that SUV. Was impressed with Altimas overall design and engine performance. Neglected to check oversall body frame. Late August 2004 while slowly backing out of a parking space hit a low brick planter(too low to see in rear view mirror. Cost replacement molded bumper $542.00.Used a magnet to check the body and found the hood and trunk were molded not metal. Concerned safety driving this car whose body is not 100% metal.

• 

  Hidden Problem - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Jacquelyn Calhoun - June 6 - 1:30 pm

  We purchased this car in July of 2008. It drives great and it has the power that I love in a car. As I read some of the other review it is apparent that the fuel pump is an issue with this car. Driving down the expressway and having the car cut off in morning rush hour traffic is a very scary experience. This may change the way I feel about Nissan and it products. I should have just gotten another Honda they last longer and hold the value better. This was a very costly mistake that I will have to pay for when Nissan should be taking care of the bill.

• 

  Great car - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Mike - June 6 - 11:30 am

  I bought my Altima two years ago and it has always delivered an excellent driving experience. You wouldnt think that a big four-cylinder car would be fun to drive, but the Altimas peppy performance and good handling make it a good time to drive. Its size and trunk space add versatility. Its also a great looking car, very aggressive and sporty looking with the 16 alloy wheels. It is also very reliable, I have never had any major problems with the car. The only downside is that the fuel economy leaves a LOT to be desired (see my comments below).