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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  Beware something is up with the Nissan Altima - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By mccd04 - February 9 - 2:37 am

  I parked my new Nissan in my daughters driveway and took a couple of items into her house, I cam back out to get the rest and my car was gone. I look around and see it sitting in the neighbors yard across the street in their bushes. I walk across the street open the car and push the button to start it and move it back in the driveway and this time I set the parking brake. I immediately call the dealership and get told to bring it in for them to look at. After the dealership having my car for a month which is longer than I had it before this happening they tell me they cant find anything wrong and for me just to always set my parking brake but when it happens again to not move the vehicle just call them immediately and they will come get the car. They also told me that most likely the car wasnt all the way in PARK thus it rolled across the street and hit the neighbors bushes and because when a Nissan Altima hits something the transmission automatically puts the car in Neutral that is why I was able to start it without it being in PARK. Initial questions from the dealership were 1. When I got back in the car did I have to shift gears before starting it. NO 2 Did I recall hearing anything when I opened the car door. NO . Problem I have with this logic after getting my car back I ran a series of tests. 1. No matter what gear I have the car in other than park it keeps beeping and flashes a message to put car in park. 2. I have reached out to several friends who are mechanics to find out if its the truth that when in a collision that in the Nissan Altima the transmission really gets put into Neutral(of course I dont want to intentionally hit something to see if it is true or not). To be noted also I have numerous friends and family and this is my third Nissan Altima and this is the first safety issue I have had but to me it is a big one. I will say one of my 2014 Nissan Altimas did have an issue with the entire console constantly going out sometimes for a few minutes sometimes for a day after 18 months and over 12 visits at the shop they replaced it but after a little bit it started doing it all over again which is why I traded it in June for the 2016 because I was tired of constantly having to spend half a day at the car dealership why they tried to repair my car.

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  Its been a great car - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By GB - February 7 - 5:53 am

  I just handed my 1997.5 Altima down to the kids with 158000 miles on it and expect many more good miles from it. The car has been very comfortable and reliable over the years. I did all the scheduled maintenance and the car has been great. I upgraded to the 2007 Altima and the kids are happy to have my old faithful. It should get another 100k miles easy.

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  2000 Nissan Altima - 2000 Nissan Altima
  By jeanetta76 - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I love the handling of the car and its reliability. But i hate the maintenance pricing...its too high.

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  My first and last Nissan - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By unleaded - February 5 - 2:00 am

  My first Nissan and last Nissan. Problems with itermittent flooding, build quality, rattling panels, harsh transmission, mediocre mileage for a 4 cylinder, terrible stock Continentals in the snow, oil consumption and awful dealership support. Dunno, maybe I received a lemon but at least it is beautiful.

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  Lookin Good! - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Marcus - February 3 - 12:00 pm

  Funny story guys. I test drove the car, and as soon as I got out another guy got in to test drive. By the time he got back I had already signed the lease paperwork.. Funny thing is. He liked it so much his salesman started paperwork on the same car. I ended up with the car by minutes...But dont let this story stop you from getting your very own... I hear Nissan is making a whole bunch... Big Smile... Happy Happy Joy Joy....PS stick with the 3.5 Power to spare.. and some!

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  Pure Sports Sedan - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Dob - February 3 - 10:00 am

  A real sporty sedan that isnt meant for driving in the slow vehicle lane. Traded in a 99 Maxima for the 02 Altima. When I compared the MSRP, the Altima was actually $200 more! The only thing to justify that price was the stronger engine - the materials used are substandard when compared to the pricetag. If youre looking for a pure sports car that you can squeeze the family into and not get socked by the insurance cost, then this is the car for you. Youve got to give something to get something.

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  Buy this Car before your Neighbor does - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By loophead - February 3 - 10:00 am

  I puchased this car in November of last year. I have put 12,000 miles on the car so far without any major problems and only two minor ones. A spring broke in the lid for the cupholders and the car was delivered without the steering wheel controls for radio. Both of these were fixed by the dealership with no problems. I do notice some wind noise at high speeds, but not enough that it would deter another purchase.

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  great family passenger car - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By steven - February 1 - 5:25 am

  Comfortable quite ride

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  02 Altima - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By BJ2 - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my altima for almost 2 years now. I have had trouble with the gas tank door opening and have also had a hard time starting it from time to time, I guess it wouldnt be so bad if it had a good warranty which nissan doesnt even though I purchased the extended warranty. Nissan may have worked some of their glitches out in the newer models, at least I hope.

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  My wifes possesive of it - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By sneak a trip - January 31 - 10:00 am

  We just love it. Was searching for an 04 but couldnt find one in silver with features we wanted. Found an 05 with what we wanted and negotiated a price on the spot, straight up. Has been 1 week now and my wife wont give it up, to drive:). Never offered an extended warranty and havent had a follow up from dealer either. Just didnt seem to really care since they got my $, took their name off the back.