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:

• 

  2007 Altima 3.5 SE with Tech Package - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By ssd - December 28 - 6:56 pm

  Love it! I went for the fully loaded SE model with tech package. I was deciding between the Lexus IS, Infiniti G35, Acura TL and the Altima blew them away, and for 10k less! The bluetooth is amazing. Using my cell phone through the car has perfect sound quality. No need to yell. The CVT is also impressive, power will never be a problem. The acceleration is so fast that I havent even come close to flooring the gas pedal. One thing to note is that the CVT does "hold" the car when you let off the gas pedal. Similar feeling to when you have cruise control on and are driving down a hill. Only major gripe are the seats. Very stiff and uncomfortable, even with the lumbar support.

• 

  Awkward Altima - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Taylor - December 27 - 8:52 pm

  This is the worse waste of money! This car has a lot of recalls and should be taken off the road! The brakes freeze and you could die! Nissan should be ashamed!

• 

  Great Used Car Value - 1998 Nissan Altima
  By troyx - December 27 - 10:43 am

  I brought this car a little over half a year ago with under 25K mi. to replace a totalled 99 Elantra. The jump in quality blew me away, after the last car, this one feels like a luxury car. The car I got had low mileage and almost no interior or exterior wear to speak of. It feels like a new car, even with it being over 7 years old. Handling it tight and firm, acceleration is smooth and the engine sounds quiet and refined. This car is a used car best buy, IMO. Resale value was lower than Camrys and Accords, but specs and build quality is on the same level. I havent heard of any recalls for this generation Altima.

• 

  Good car - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By ben0123 - December 26 - 9:43 pm

  This is my first new car and I really like it. I was testing 2008 altima coupe 2.5s and Honda accord coupe exl. Even though I like the long term reliability of Honda but I like the style and performance of altima coupe. It is much quite than the Honda accord. I would recommend this car to anyone who likes the sport car. Accord coupe is also a beautiful car but I think it is still like a family car.

• 

  My SL is sure luxery - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By Tom Brown - December 26 - 9:32 am

  After owning 5 Camrys decided to jump ship based upon the appearance as well lack of comparable features of the 2013 model year. This of course carries over to the 2016 as well. We liked our 2013 Altima and now own a 2016 Altima, which we like even better if thats possible. Our concerns about the 2013 have all been addressed with this model years refresh. Way to go Nissan you listened to your customers and made the necessary changes. We really hadnt intended on buying another Altima due to the fact it basically looks like our 2013, but after checking out the competition and being able to get the features that we wanted at a price we could afford, the refreshed Altima made it an easy choice.

• 

  The Perfect Car - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By PETER - December 26 - 1:33 am

  The new 2010 Altima is everything i have ever looked for in a car, sporty styling, fun to drive. and the price was better than The Honda or Toyota. My insurance is lower on the Altima too!!

• 

  This car rocks! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By KurtinPA - December 24 - 11:43 am

  The engine is powerful and the CVT is smooth. I can pass cars with incredible swiftness, and the handling is tight and responsive. Mine is dark slate with black leather interior. Many people have approached me to ask about the car, especially after tinting the windows. Not that I look around too often, but this car is a head-turner! The Bose stereo is great, and I love the XM satellite radio package. It is also nice to have the bluetooth hands-free phone system. I researched a lot of new cars, and for the price, this one is the best!

• 

  Its all that - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Sactown - December 23 - 10:00 am

  Eye-catching, comfortable for 5 (Im 64" and 4 other adults fit nicely), quick when you want it, thrifty if thats your goal, power sound system, and that aint all. Load up with options and youre still priced under an equivalent Toy/Honda/Passat. Oh yes, its got a huge trunk and sips at the Regular tank at the gas station.

• 

  Just What I Was Looking For... - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Lu - December 23 - 10:00 am

  My 2002 Nissan Altima 2.5 S was just the car I was looking for. Its 4 cylinder engine has more horsepower (175)than the V6 (170hp) Chevrolet Malibu that I traded in. This is much more car than I have ever had in the past! The convenience package is a definite PLUS... as is the power sunroof and the rear spoiler. The keyless entry allows me to roll down the front windows with just the touch of the button. This is VERY nice on a simmering hot day when the car has been locked up. To top is off, the body style is S-L-E-E-K!! You wont regret purchasing a 2002 Nissan Altima 2.5 S!!

• 

  Nissan Man - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Ron Nickel - December 21 - 4:50 pm

  Didnt want the 4 door because so many on the road, then the coupe came out and it was just what I was looking for. After owning 4 previous Nissan vehicles I wanted another, but wanted a sporty look with good gas mileage. This coupe does both. Rides quiet and smooth at 31+ mpg city/hwy combined.