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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  236 k and still running strong - 2001 Nissan Altima
  By sean - September 2 - 6:06 pm

  i bought the car when it was at 175k for miles and i have use it for work and fun.i live in r.i. and i have taken it to Ohio and to keywest f.l. with 200 plus miles on her and i never felt like she was going to brake down on me. i do play every hard on her with white racing rims and an exhaust system its hard not too. keep up on the oil and the altima will treat you every every good.

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  Honest 2008 Altima coupe 2.5 automatic review. - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Kyle Garrison - September 1 - 8:28 am

  This is the first car I bought. Im not gonna talk much about my story, just stick to what you wanna hear. The pros and the cons. Im going to start out with saying Im very happy with this car and Im happy I bought it. I first bought it fully stock except with a nice spoiler on it which is a great touch to the already nice look the car has. Its a nice quiet car but not anything worth racing with. The interior is very nice looking and I have 0 complaints about it. There isnt any cool tech but thats okay to me. The exterior is very nice and slick. What I like about it the most is I find it unique looking, something not everyone has. It tops out at 111mph wont go any fastester. Here are the cons i have with the car. It tends to over heat easily which had me worried. Also the stock tires are awful. And It does not handle turns well. Those are my only complaints. Besides that its a smooth riding car with a nice exterior/interior and a very smooth shifting transmission. If you want to make the car extra nice, loud, and worth racing with, put a stillen air intake, header, and exhaust system on. Runs great, sounds great, and doesnt over heat anymore. Definitely will be turning heads when you drive by!

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  Best family sedan ever made - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By btrotman85 - September 1 - 3:00 am

  The Altima beats all competitors by far. I am averaging 25 to 27 mpg in mostly city driving. The CVT is smooth, the ride is supple yet sporty, the handling is inspiring, the brakes are great, and even the four-cylinder is quite powerful. All controls are bright at night and everything is laid out nicely. Most any one can find a comfortable driving position as the power seat is highly adjustable

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  Aviod this car - 2011 Nissan Altima
  By bvetmed - August 31 - 8:11 pm

  Since purchasing this car new, I have had nothing but problems. The moon roof hose kinked causing water damage of carpets. Nissan repaired the hose but refuses to clean carpets or covering the cost of cleaning the carpets. The acceleration has become sluggish even on premium gasoline. Navigation system has towns listed as both "town of XXX, state" and XXX, state". For any given address searched, one will work, one will result in a "no information available". Also the navigation does not assume you want a point of interest near you. It will list all even those > 80 miles away. Heated seats take greater than 10 minutes to warm up. AC is very good and cabin climate control is great. H

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  Torture Chamber for Bad Backs - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By ann - August 31 - 7:50 pm

  Minus side: If you have spine, back, or neck problems, this is not the car for you. The seats are unbelievably hard, do not conform to the body and poorly designed headrests do not allow driver to sit straight & lean against the back of the seat. Even with power seat adjustments, this car is very uncomfortable, although it may not be a problem for younger folks without back problems who seem to be the majority favoring this car and its "sporty" drive. The headrests also present a safety issue because they are difficult to see around, increasing strain on the neck. On the plus side, it is a beautiful car with lots of power. It simply depends upon the individual and their priorities.

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  Reliable and fun to drive - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Alex - August 30 - 11:10 pm

  I just bought one with 46k miles on it. I was happy to find that it still has plenty of power. I took it on a 7 hour road trip and enjoyed how easily I could pass other cars on the highway. It also gets pretty decent gas mileage for the size of the engine. The handling could be better, it feels heavy in turns. A little disappointed with the sound system. Overall a comfortable and capable vehicle.

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  Great new car - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By JLeTourneau - August 30 - 10:00 am

  I love the interior of the vehicle. It is roomy and is very comfortable. It is a smooth ride.

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  Glad I bought it - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By shelbydog9 - August 27 - 11:39 am

  I bought my 2009 Nissan Altima new. I was looking for a new car and went to a local car show, where they had many cars of the type I was looking for (sedans). I’m 6’5” tall, my first concern was whether I fit or not. Either not enough head room or not enough leg room eliminated 90% of the cars. Price range, basic features, comfort narrowed it down to this car. I chose the bigger engine for more control and better handling. I have almost 60,000 miles on it now and I still love the car. I did have a problem with the front windshield cracking within the first month; they replaced it without any problem. This car has been well worth my investment.

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  Ill ready to SELL... - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Tommie J - August 27 - 10:00 am

  ...my BRAND NEW Altima w/ the power and BOSE package. It was a mistake saving a few dollars. I should of bought a Toyota Camry, like I wanted originally. The body lines of the Altima is nicer, in my opinion. Thats about it! After about 3 weeks, Im sick of this Altima! NO power seat for the passenger seat. Camry has power seat for the passenger. Dail controls are out of date. The horn sound on the keyless entry system reminds me of Cheap domestic cars! Engine sounds kinda loud when you step on the accelerator. The BOSE audio system on my Altima has the worst sound that Ive ever listen too on a car audio system. The window fogs, if you dont have the AC on.

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  I love my Altima 3.5 - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By clarkd - August 25 - 3:06 pm

  I have put 3,700 miles on my car in 2 months. I enjoy the CVT but I love the power of the 3.5 (270hp). You accelerate so fast you are speeding before you know it. The ride is a little rough but the steering is very precise and I love the sport tuned suspension. From the paint job to the dual tray center console, this car is first class.