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 Bang for the Buck - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By hobybm - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I have not had this vehicle long, but I already love it. I know I will love it for years to come. I will post again in a year or so, to show that I still love this car. I cannot find any problems with it. Some say the interior is cheap, but for the amount I paid, its exactly what I expected.

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  Interior cloth seating - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By ronnola - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I PURCHASED THE CAR IN MARCH 2002 AND I HAVE NOT EXPERIENCE ANY PROBLEMS. MY ONLY COMPLAINT WITH THIS CAR TO DATE IS THE MATERIAL OF THE UPHOLSTERY (SEATS). IT ATTRACTS AND HOLDS LINT AND CANNOT BE CLEANED BY MERELY VACUUMING. I HAVE TO USE A LINT BRUSH.

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  2016 Altima - good experience - 2015 Nissan Altima
  By GB - September 10 - 9:53 pm

  I was interested in good gas mileage. the posted 39 on the window seems to be too high, but i am getting a combined 31 or so, which is also posted. I am very happy with that. The interior is roomy and comfortable. I would encourage leather seats. I did not get that option - it was not really offered, but I have been in one since and it seemed to be more comfortable. I am not overly excited about the bluetooth-technology package. I drove a Kia Optima before and I much prefer the Bluetooth there. The Altima drives very well. The steering is tight and reminds me of a german car. The AC is very nice for a Texas driver. The blind-spot indicator works very well. The standard warranty is undervalued. It seems like most manufacturers are getting away from extended warranties. I wanted the Altima because I have owned Nissan in the past and know it is a quality vehicle and not usually a maintenance concern, but the 5/10 warranty offered by Hyundai / Kia is a nice thing. Overall I would say this is a very good buy. I would recommend it if a friend was asking me.

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  Im in Love! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By kerry - September 8 - 6:00 pm

  I bought my coupe a week ago, black with charcoal leather interior. I got the premium package as well. This is the first new car I have ever bought and I think it was a great decision! There is nothing about the car that I dont like. I love everything about it, inside and out. I use the bluetooth phone system a lot. The dual climate control is great. And the Bose... well its BOSE! The ride is sooo smooth! I havent seen anyone out on the road with one yet. I would suggest this car to anyone!

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  Best Sedan on the Road - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By bbarber72701 - September 7 - 7:06 pm

  I really like the 10 Nissan Altima, after owning an 06 Altima. The body style has changed tremendously. Between the older design and new design, most improvements lie in the exterior, and dash. Youd be hard pressed to find changes in interior. Bought this for my wife 10 Altima around the beginning of the year and we both have fun driving it, weve had no problems with the car and it handles great and turns on a dime. Shes 51 and has great visibility in this vehicle. I would buy an altima again, my one complaint would be the hubcaps that come on the standard model. They are really crappy. If you can afford it definitely upgrade to the alloy wheels. Id give it a 9.8 out of 10.

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  fun to drive a 2005 - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By maltima - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive wanted an Altima since the 2002 model debuted. So glad I waited till the 2005 model got here! I bought mine earlier this month. Notice how the former orange lights have changed. The two red lights on the rear show up beautifully against the polished pewter exterior. The seats are very comfortable, especially on a long drive. Love the radio/CD controls on the new Y shaped steering wheel. I like the redesigned hood and grill. I had been planning to make a good deal on an 04 Altima, but the new 05 hooked me.

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  Easy Ownership - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By semaj422000 - September 5 - 11:40 pm

  Bought this car used in 2006 with 13k miles on it. Now has over 65k. Has been wrecked 3 times - once fairly seriously (gotta love ATL drivers). Despite that has absolutely no mechanical problems and has never been to the shop for anything other than routine maintenance. I opted for the manual b/c its more fun for me to drive and improves gas mileage. It also has leather (vinyl?) interior. Gets awesome gas mileage and is quite peppy for a 4cyl thanks to the manual tranny. Excellent leg room. Rear passengers are comfy even with the seat all the way back.

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  Solid Car - 2012 Nissan Altima
  By snowman23 - September 5 - 4:41 pm

  Solid all around pick for the money.I have 7200 miles on and have had no problems. Getting around 31 mpg on mostly highway driving.

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  Love it, But hate it - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Mandddddyyy - September 5 - 10:26 am

  I bought this car after owning quite a few Chevys, and this is my favorite car to date. I love the power and the handling is great, the car looks great. However I live in upstate NY and we get a lot of snow in the winter, with the TCS it makes it very difficult for me to get around. I have to remember to turn off TCS every time I get in the car if there is any snow. The car absolutely will not go uphill in any snow whether TCS is on or off. And there is a considerable amount of road noise, it always seems like Im yelling over it to talk or turning the music up very loud to hear.

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  THE ULTIMATE ALTIMA YET.... - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By CAR KZ - September 5 - 3:53 am

  well let me start by writing I sold my 2008 Toyota Avalon touring pkg for this car. this is one comfertable, fun to drive, well equiped, FUEL EFFCIENT, FAST.....etc and the list goes on and on and on... ive owened this car from march/2009 and until today i still look forward driving it. the CVT trany it is the best invention yet that nissan used in their cars. if you ask me about pros and cons all I can say is PROs... PROs. i was a toyota guy for the past 10 years. I tried hondas and more toyotas but didnt like them. im so glad/happy that i bought a nissan it is well build inside and outside.the only think that I had to get used to "WHICH IS NOT A BAD THINK" is CVT trany.