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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  No Disappointments - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Brian in Ohio - August 6 - 9:43 am

  Let me first say, I get a new car about every 2 years, because I get bored easily. This car is everything I had hoped it would be. It is loaded with the 3.5SE, 270hp, leather, and navigation. It had 32k miles, but drives like brand new. The comfort is excellent, but could use a little softer seats. The performance is up there with the best. It competes with most BMWs, Mercedes, Jaguars and other high dollar vehicles. Braking is better than others have given credit. Handling on the SE is excellent. Controls/interior design is perfect for me. Overall this car is outstanding. I see keeping it in my driveway for a long time. Now my wife wants one after owning a loaded 06 Passat.

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  2004 Altima with 225,000 miles - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By Bob S - August 5 - 10:00 am

  Cant beat this car. I bought it in 2005 and it had 19,000 miles. Now it has 225,000 miles and still going strong. I have replaced the alternator, crank shaft position sensor (car was stalling a lot), and A/C expansion valve. I live in FL so A/C is a must. A/C repair was the most expensive at $375. Overall it gets 5 stars. I am hoping to get to 400,000 miles before giving it up.

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  Smell of Coolant Already - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By mongo - August 5 - 10:00 am

  Im enjoying my new car, but I recently noticed the smell of coolant after driving it with the a/c on. I did an online search & found other Nissan owners experiencing the same issue. I havent taken my car in for an inspection, but after reading some posts, its unlikely theyll find a problem right away. I stress over the fact that I paid a hefty price to buy a new car so I wouldnt have to worry about mechanical issues for awhile & now this has come up. However, no other issues so far.

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  Sporty Value - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By whitng - August 5 - 6:03 am

  Traded up from a Sentra SE-R. Although much bigger, the Altima Coupe 3.5SE has more power and a luxyury-car like interior with the premium pkg. Im getting almost the same gas mileage as the Sentra, too! Handling is softer but the A/C is a great value for what you get.

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  LOVE IT AT FIRST, BUT THEN.... NOT! - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Altima - August 4 - 7:36 pm

  Pros: love the power, handling good, gas is okay (v6. what do you expected), anti-lock breaks, Cons: bad brakes (worn-out quick), highway noise, steering wheel vibration even right after well balancing. "Heat seal" this is a bad and annoying thing ive been dealing with. Nissan is well known about this negative thing, but has yet to come up with a better solution. Would i buy a nissan again? The answer is noooooooooooooo!!!

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  BEWARE!! .. SV Daytime Running Lights do not work! - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By B. Clark - August 4 - 2:58 pm

  The list of 2016 Altima SV Standard Equipment in Nissan Literature includes "Daytime Running Lights". Even though the lights are installed near the headlights, they DO NOT WORK!! I called the Nissan Consumer "Care" line. Their response.. "use your fog lights instead" .. turns out they know the lights dont work and THEY REALLY DONT "CARE". I am now making an appeal to the BBB Auto Line claiming fraud. I understand my chances are remote.. but Im upset. If you are looking at the 2016 Nissan Altima SV, make sure the sales person demonstrates that the mounted daytime running lights really work.

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  My first car - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Lil J - August 4 - 6:30 am

  Man there is only one thing that i have to say about this car. Awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I got this car after i graduated from high school. I thought that i was gonna get a 2.5S but i got a 3.5Se. The performance in this car is awesome. I can reach 0-60 in like 6.0 Seconds. I remember one day i was on the expressway and i thought i was speeding, i looked down at the speedometer and i was only going 50. This car has great handling and great pick up. I especially love the dual exhaust and the xenons that my car came with. It makes me think that i have a lexus or something. The bose system is great to. The only thing that i want is the navi system but i can deal without it.A great car.

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  6 years and still going strong - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By barc2009 - August 3 - 8:31 pm

  So Ive had my 2.5-SL for 6yrs and 57,000 miles now ... havent had a single issue with it beyond routine maintenance stuff. Its been a great car ... was very happy with this purchase.

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  Good first car to buy for your self - 2000 Nissan Altima
  By Terrin - August 2 - 12:23 pm

  This is the first car that I have bought on my own. You can find really good deals on these cars now. I paid 3200 for mine and have not have a problem with the motor or tranny since i got it. I have put 20,000 miles on it this year alone. Yeah the gas mileage could be better, but hey the good shadows the altimas main downfall.

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  New Car On The Block - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Ryan - July 31 - 12:53 pm

  I just bought my Altima and love it for the most part. The Navigation system is great, even though alot of roads dont exist (according to the NAV). Strange how newer roads are on it and mine that has been here 6 years is not! ABS not being standard is just plain stupid! I found that our the first day I had the car. It was raining and i had and emergency stop and the car slid a long way but I did get stopped. Why is it that my Hyundai I own that cost 15,000 has 6 airbags and the Altima only 2? Guess Nissan doesnt care for our safety too much! Squeaks shouldnt exist at only 1500 miles! My gauges are what is making the noise.. Cheap plastic!