2002 Nissan Altima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
394 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The all-new third-generation 2002 Altima represents a total revision and rethinking of Nissan's midsize sedan -- it brings a level of design and performance that currently does not exist in its class. With a choice of a 240-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 or 175-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and an all-new four-wheel independent suspension, the Altima offers spirit with state-of-the-art technology. An aggressive new exterior design with increases in all major dimensions and a driver-oriented interior with myriad convenience and luxury features set the Altima apart in the highly competitive sedan marketplace.

Pros:
  • Sports car power in a midsize sedan body, high level of features, distinct new shape.
Cons:
  • All-new design could mean first-year teething problems and dealer mark-up.

User Reviews:

Showing 261 through 270 of 394.00
  • Great Buy, performance for 5 - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Purchased my Altima less than a month ago, I just hit 1000 miles and am already getting 28 miles/gallon. I have not owned anything but German since my 91 300z but this car brought me back. Nothing like passing the BMWs with three of your friends waving. I was looking at AUDI but you can not beat this car for the price.

  • Will never buy a Nissan again! - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    The transmission went in this car with less then 3,000 miles on it and left me stranded on vacation. I wanted a new transmission they said no it had to be repaired. The car now gets 13 miles to the gallon city and about 20 on a trip compaired to 22 and 30 prior to this happening. I spoke to both the dealer and Nissan and they both pointed the finger at the other and were willing to do nothing about it. Worst customer service I ever dealt with. Save your money!

  • unreliable and annoying - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    First car I ever bought new. Had fun driving for a few years, but had 1 serious engine problem (a screw came loose and fell into the piston chamber, would have destroyed the engine if not caught. Had many many many problems with body interior and exterior. Gas cover bent so badly I couldnt open to fill my tank anymore. Replaced, and a year later it happened again. Gave up replacing and now I just drive without the cover... Looks ridiculous. Inside everything is falling apart: standard shifter cover broke within months, doors and glove comp. Rattle, moldings fall off and break... Body not only looks and feels cheap in/out, it really is cheap. I will never buy Nissan again.

  • Altima is a nightmare!!! - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Dont buy a 2002+ Altima! I bought one and even the Nissan mechanics always tell me how unreliable it is. At just 1 1/2 years old, they replaced the engine! 6 months later my car was overheating and they put in a new radiator. Then it was under warranty, but I still got charged $800 because, when it was stalling and the dealer didnt realize it was the faulty engine (not unusual for these cars) they said I must pay the money to get it "fixed" and it wouldnt stall anymore. I never was refunded the money, even though it was under warranty, it kept stalling even with the $800 worth of "repairs", and the engine was replaced three weeks later.

  • 2002 Altima - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    The new Altima has a beautiful new exterior, powerful engine that pulls to the redline.

  • room with zip - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Planned to buy a Passat until I saw the first one of the new Altimas. Checked it out and was very impressed. The handling is incredible, changes lanes as fast as my race tuned Datsun 2000! And if you are over 6 feet tall, this is the sedan for you. More leg room front and back than my wifes Volvo. The car has some great, well thought out features normally found on more expensive models. The key fob that opens the windows remotely is a great feature I didnt give much thought to but use daily, and the Bose stereo has got to be heard! Be prepared to find onlookers gathered around the car when you come out of the grocery store.

  • Almost as good as my hubbys Infinity - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I just purchased my Altima SL on 3/29/02 but have found it to be a wonderful car to drive and look at. The following day, my husband bought a new Infinity I35. Although his car is a bit more luxurious, my Altima shares many of the features of his car. Although my Altima is a 4 cy., it has a good pick up when I need it. Smooth ride is great. It just took one drive and I was sold on the car. The dealership where we purchased the car was top notch. All car buyers should be so lucky to have the professional, caring salesman we had.

  • XMAX - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Having owned 3 Maxima SEs, I never thought I would consider buying an Altima. I was looking at the Acura TL Type S, Jaguar X type and pre-owned BMW 330 series.On a visit to my dealership, they had a silver/black leather on the floor,and I couldnt believe I was in a Nissan dealer!The Maxima was starting to look very dated,but the Altima grabbed my attention,especially after I spent a day driving it around. Needless to say, I now have a Silver/Black leather parked in my driveway,and feel that I received great value for 30K!

  • Fast & Basic - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    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

  • Initial Report - This Car Is Great! - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    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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