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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  Very good value - 2000 Nissan Altima
  By Bridgeman - January 29 - 10:00 am

  I leased this car a little over two years ago and have put 35,000 miles on it so far with absolutely NO problems. The gas mileage is great (up to 39 mph, averaged around 28, never less than 25). The 155 ponies are plenty to haul this car quickly off the line. The cornering is second to none for any car in this class, but replace the stock tires (they suck). The interior is simple, yet comfortable with plenty of room. The ride is very smooth and quiet. Its very fun to drive and has plenty of room. It looks nice, drives nice, and is cheap to opperate. Im definately buying this when my lease is up.

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  Altima hits a "home-run" - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By car-man - January 29 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful improvement over the old Altima for the performance and styling lovers. The 3.5 is sweet and the body styling is unique. A fun car to drive and gets plenty of attention. Can`t wait to see what is coming out of the updated Maxima stable. Good value for the base car, but too costly to get to the sunroof.(no a-la-carte option here)

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  Altima Shakes & Noisy - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Sad - January 29 - 10:00 am

  My new Nissan 2.5S Altima shakes uncontrollably between 60 - 75 mph. I have already had tires re-balanced. Still a major problem. Also, if a back window is open the road noise sounds like a jet taking off. Oh yeah, the sheet metal is missing under drivers feet. What a mess. I am now making another trip to the dealer Bill Cook.

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  After 36,000 miles, watch out! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By David F. - January 27 - 1:33 am

  The first year with this vehicle was great. It ran well, acceleration was effortless, and it was somewhat comfortable. At about 10,000 miles the engine began to accelerate sluggishly. Now at 37,000 miles the car now has an annoying loud metallic rattle under the hood everytime the car is accelerated or shifts gear. The dealer has attempted to repair this 5 times. Also, the right front strut failed, costing over $700 in repairs at 37,000 miles. The engine is beginning to sound like it has valve (ticking sound under hood) problems, and it also now has a service engine soon indicator on with emission system codes. I am not impressed with this vehicle. I will not purchase a Nissan again.

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  GOOD CAR - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By WHITEBOY - January 24 - 3:13 pm

  Got the car 3 months ago with the SL version. Love the nav system and the Bose stereo. Noticed the same problem as Alex B with the bass. Even at 0 level and treble at 3, the back ledge by the rear window does not hold the bass. Probably needs more padding to damper the vibration. Looks like very thin shelving for speakers and subwoofer location. Besides that love driving it. Gets good mileage for both city and highway. Live in N.Y.C. and getting 20/35. Not bad compared to my 96 Murano. Only downfall is none of the cars come with some pkgs. You have to get all, meaning all the pkgs are connected to each other. Adds a lot more to base price. Got windows tinted, looks great.

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  a lot of car for the money - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Johnny B Good - January 24 - 10:00 am

  This car sells well below cars in its class and believe me Ive shopped around.It turns heads everywhere I go.And looks alot more expensive than it is.I love the styling from front to back. And inside there is a ton of room for a big guy like me.All the instruments are laid out nice and the ride is fast and crisp like and urban rocket.Trust me you wont be sorry if you get one.

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  3.5 SL; Nav, Tech, LEDs, Mud Guards; no spoiler - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By sonaz - January 22 - 3:33 pm

  Great MPG highway. On a recent trip from D.C. to NJ I got 34.2 round trip. Short, slow(city), and hilly driving is another story. That kind brings MPG way down. The car does have a kind of groan while accelerating or maintaining low-medium speed but I dont find it bothersome. Otherwise its quiet. The CVT is awesome in Ds mode. Very nice acceleration. I have tehe heated seat issue where you get heat either at bottom cushion or the back but not both at same time. Repair attempt failed. Need to go back with it.

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  THIS CAR SUCKS - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By TQM - January 22 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car the first day available in 2001 (9/01). Since the first day, has been in the dealership a total of 4 months. Odometer and speedometer head problems. A-pillar sqeak. Stips of insullation in vent ducts. Catalytic converter @18K. All 4 rotors @18K. Whole engine rebuild @19K. Front Axl seperation at 18K. Today, the gas door stopped operating. RESALE SUCKS on this car. BUY ANYTHING ELSE. NISSAN has offered NO support.

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  You wont be disappointed! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By username - January 21 - 2:46 am

  Red, premium package, technology package, just fully loaded. I had saved up and was ready to get a new 2008 Infiniti G37. I wanted to drive this car before purchasing it however. Wow great choice! Great Bose system, amazing comfort, awesome power, fantastic handling. This car just blew me away. 2 things differ from the G37 and this car. This car is front wheel drive which in the winter is going to be a big plus. However off the blocks the G does a bit better (glad I am not racing anyone). This car however has much more room inside, and the comfort is what sold me. Every feature you could want is offered on this car. For 28k out the door its a no brainer between this and the G37.

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  SOME WHAT HAPPY - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By carl smith - January 20 - 10:00 am

  OVER ALL PERFORMANCE EXCELLENT, SOME ITEMS MISSING FROM THE CAR,