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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  Fun to Drive - Altima SL - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By Daniel F Spies - June 17 - 3:13 am

  I do not like rattles however we found that the sun-roof sliding door will rattle when it is fully closed. The rattle goes away when it is partially or fully open (not the sun-roof itself, only the sliding interior door). I have overcome this problem and found that I really like the car. The get up and go is there when you need it. The CVT transmission provides excellent fuel mileage while maintaining low RPM balanced through the assist of the computer. This car handles very nice through curves on the road. The brake distribution appears to be proportioned perfectly from the front to the rear without unwanted jerky movements.

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  Do not buy - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By yoly22 - June 15 - 3:26 am

  This car has been the biggest headache. It has been in the dealer since the date I purchased it. I have maintained the vehicle and for some reason Nissan has not recalled the crank shift sensor. The car has turned off on me while driving the car.It has happened to me on the expressway which was very scary. A month ago my car was at the dealer for this same exact reason I was informed it should not happen anymore now my car is back in the dealer. Such a big safety issue being overlooked.

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  Can Look but Cant Drive the Altima - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Unhappy Altima Owner - June 14 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my Altima for 2.5 years and have had 2 major breakdowns. First off, the catalytic converter went out. This was under factory warranty. Next the fuel pump went out. These are the types of breakdowns that should happen to MUCH OLDER cars. Overall I am pretty unhappy with this car. The interior is cheap, rattles, it has had a LOT of recalls, and breaks down a lot. Overall it is a good looking but if you cant drive it, what good is it? I think this will be my last Nissan.

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  Nissan tweeks the 2010 Altima - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By Nissan66 - June 9 - 1:10 am

  I bought the SL with everything but the NAV option. Many nit-picks about the 09 Altima have been taken care of. This year VSC and traction control were included on the 2.5 model. Turn signal markers added to the movable rear view mirrors too. A 4.3" back-up camera has been included in the Bose option(cool feature, but takes some getting use too). MPG at this early look was 27 on the first tank (combined driving). I expect 30+ with interstate driving. Nice quiet ride, handles well too.

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  Great car so far - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By Nick A - June 8 - 2:14 am

  Love the styling of the altima for 2016. It has great acceleration even with the four cylinder and handles pretty good. Ive been averaging 31mpg with mostly city driving. Road noise is a little much but i think its these cheap tires it comes w from the factory. Engine makes alot of noise but i like to hear my engine most of the time. The A/C in this car will freeze you to a solid block of ice in no time even on low. Only have 1200 miles so far but will update my review as time goes on. Great car for the money, if you want something thats going to drive like a million bucks then spend a million bucks.

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  I love this car - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By cookingmg - June 5 - 10:00 am

  this is a fun car to drive. great pick up, and great passing speed

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  Fully loaded - Get the Maxima! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Jersey Driver - June 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had a ton of electrical problems with this vehicle. Dont rely on the handling of this car. Maybe with the entire car full and the truck stuffed with weights it might handle well. I was fooled by the looks and hype. The interior is gracious and roomy. The exterior looks are one of a luxury car. With the options that I purchased the price reached one of a well-equipped Maxima. So, to make a long story short this car isnt worth the money. Once again, Nissan has a good marketing strategy when it comes to this one, but thats about it.

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  when you cant get a g... - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By trig - June 4 - 2:10 am

  i have the 2.5 S with sl, tech, and abs pack. wanted an 07 g, but pmt made the budget too tight. this is a very solid compromise. interior materials are better than in past versions. though they kept the body style similar, there are a lot of little changes that make this a great looking vehicle. all my ratings were based on the features of the car...ie its a 4 cylinder, but as far as four bangers go, excellent performance...and so on. i havent broke it in yet, so gas mileage should improve. reliability has been constantly improved every year on this line, and based on the materials used inside, i think it will improve again this year. if not, im only in a 2-year lease, so no harm no foul.

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  Excellent All-Around Vehicle - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Trevor - June 1 - 4:50 am

  I bought this car used 2 years ago, and it has yet to disappoint me. It now has 107k miles and no problems. Very good acceleration and handling, great turn radius, extremely smooth ride and very spacious seating area. I love the eye catching rear light design, it hypnotizes people that drive behind me. Decent gas mileage, and nice features, overall a very satisfying vehicle. Although the "bose" sound system is a bit disappointing, and the microchip key costs over $100 to make a duplicate.

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  reliable, comfortable and good looking - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Sam Dab - May 30 - 7:00 pm

  I bought my 2014 Altima s , and since then no problems what so ever it drives smooth, its comfortable and very reliable , I added an off market 8" navigation system with back up camera , it cost $270 and $99 installation at best buy and bought fog lights also off market for $65 both from EBay, all this made it more luxurious and much more fun. Best car for value, gas mileage and reliability .