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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  Not worth the price or problems to come! - 2014 Nissan Altima
  By Sha29 - June 5 - 12:34 pm

  This car had everything I wanted and a great paint color when purchased. However, I should have done some more research before spending over $30000 for something Ive had nothing but problems with since. Shortly after we purchased this, I noticed my car would start to shudder when I would go around corners or have to slow down then regain speed. It has also happened while driving down the highway at 65-70 mph. I mentioned this multiple times to my dealership when I would take it in for my oil change but they have told me every time that it is nothing and they cant seem to find a problem. I spoke with someone that use to work there and was discussing the problem Im having and he suggested I call Nissan Consumer Affairs to see if they will do anything. He also warned me that Nissan is very bad about notifying customers when there are recalls. I contacted them and reported my issue, opened a case and awaited a response. I received a call last night from this lady that tells me she has done some research and that there is nothing wrong with my car, that is how the CVT transmission works. I asked her why it didnt do that in the beginning and she couldnt answer that. I also asked her about all the reports I have found on the same issue and her response was that it is based on the VIN and nothing showed for my car. The option she gave was to take it to another Nissan dealer to get a second opinion which means adding another 250 miles on my car and making me closer to my warranty expiring. I would not recommend another Nissan to anyone! I now have an overpriced car with a huge issue that is only worth about half of what I paid only a year ago. BUYERS BEWARE!!!!

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  Almost a grand slam - 2015 Nissan Altima
  By wizjam - June 5 - 4:43 am

  There is a lot to like about this car! I shopped around and after trying several competitors, the 3.5L won me over with its smooth power, quiet ride, and extremely comfortable seats. Before I got this car, my daily 45+ minute commute was an ordeal. But now the daily commute is comfortable, and I arrive without stiffness or back pain. When traffic is heavy, I just sit back, turn up the Bose system, and enjoy the extremely comfortable ride. Overall, the car hit a home run that would have been a grand slam except for a few details with the Nissan Connect app - its buggy.

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  Fast & Basic - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By NJMike - June 4 - 10:36 am

  Ive had the vehicle for a year and a half, it was a demo. Good everyday driver with usable power @ all speeds. A decent handling car. Im 62" & it fits me well w/ good head & leg room. Interior feels like "Rubbermaid" was the designer. I know of other people who have the 3.5SE model and they are happy with them. I am too, but when the sticker price is getting close to 30k, I become real critical. Bose stereo is fine, but over-rated. No direct-in for MP3 player. This is a "bang-for- the-buck" car (I didnt pay anywhere near sticker as a demo) and as such it succeeds. Its just not going to overwelm you with fit / finish, style & sophistication, vault-like solidity

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  Great handling car - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By J Sutterfield - June 2 - 4:33 pm

  Puts the fun back in driving. Beats the heck out of a Sonata. Classy looks, excellent handling and sufficiently powered by the 4 cylinder engine. Interior is sporty with excellent standard music system, gauges, seats. Nice ride!

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  My first brand new car in 21 years - 2014 Nissan Altima
  By jadziasman - May 31 - 10:06 pm

  I decided to buy the 2.5S because it was by far the best value for the money I bought it during the Presidents Day sale $5000 off MSRP Driven for 600 miles in three weeks Found nothing wrong it (so far) A CVT is louder than a traditional geared transaxle - just the way it is The electric pump for the power steering will make noise I can accept each of these issues because I own a 2005 Prius which has a CVT and more than one electric pump The Altima is a great value Very little road noise enters the cabin - except for the engines roar Good initial build quality Nice styling inside and out Solid feel Generally comfortable ride

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  Move on a dime - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Hamzah Abdur-Rahman - May 30 - 2:00 am

  When i test drove this car I feel in love with the way it took off and the handleing on the road, but before that i allso test drove the camry,and the honda accord 4cyl. and the altima beat them hands down. so that was the reason that sold me.oh yeah and the price was real good too. thank you nissan.

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  The altima is a great car - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By maria - May 30 - 2:00 am

  This car is great. Ive had a Maxima before this, and it doesnt even compare. The stario system is especially great. There is also alot more room, too.

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  Very Satisfied owner - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By Very satisfied owner - May 28 - 3:36 pm

  I purchased my Nissan Altima 97 with little over 8000 miles. It currently has 286,437 miles on it. The car has treated me very well even though I didnt take care care of it. It still runs just as good as it did when I bought it. i havent had to do very much work on it thus far. Just minor repairs and regular tune ups. I have driven it literally all over the country due to being in the army.

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  Initial Report - This Car Is Great! - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Brian428 - May 28 - 2:03 pm

  3.5 SE, black, automatic, with every option. Car is absolutely great. Had researched a lot and saw mostly good reviews, with a few bad ones. Not sure what these folks mean when they mention the "unrefined interior" or the "stiff ride". The build quality is excellent, and the ride is very smooth. Performance is awesome. Have already gotten a dozen compliments on the look. Only have 500 miles on it, so Ill post another review in a few months. But so far, this car looks to be just wonderful.

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  great car - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By paul - May 27 - 6:23 pm

  This car is awesome..has great power,looks awesome and is so quiet..love the bose radio and the leather..If i was to get another one it would be the ser but Im more than satisfied with the nissan..still runs and looks new with 71k.