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 mpressed - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Bill F - December 20 - 9:00 pm

  I have 1,100 miles on my 2.5 SL. Very powerful and fun to drive, but it does not get the rated mileage. I am 64" and have plenty of room in the front seats. The back seat, however does not have a lot of headroom. The computer is not accurate as far as displaying the miles per gallon, but is a nice touch. I test drove the Camry (did not like it) and the Accord (close second). My only concern is whether it will hold its resale value. There is more engine noise when the car is cold and when accelerating. Cruising is OK.

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  Awesome vehicle - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Budsmom - December 20 - 1:36 am

  I look forward to going to work every morning, knowing how fun my Nissan is to drive. Very quick and handles great, even on the snow!!! I average 25 mpg, city and highway. I can live with that! I am normally a general motors fan..but I could not resist the 2006 Nissan Altimas looks and comfort.

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  Looking Good - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Lee - December 19 - 10:06 pm

  I really enjoy the impressive exterior styling and impressive acceleration that make this car fun to drive and be seen in. Great deals exist on new 2008s that are still in dealer inventory. Mine stickered at 32K, but bought for 26K.

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  How Do You Spell Relief, Its Altima - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Max Walker - December 13 - 4:13 pm

  This is my 2nd Altima. I had an 02 model that I gave to a family member. I didnt really want to give it up, its such a great automobile. My other car was a Lincoln and the Altima rides just as good for a lot less money to purchase and maintain. After the Lincoln I had a Mercury SUV, which was expensive to operate, so I traded it for an 05 Altima. My eldest son has bought three (3) altimas in the last year. The bottom line for all of us is: its so much car for the price, plus the maintenance costs are reasonable.

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  So Smooth! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Grace - December 11 - 11:50 am

  I traded in an 02 Honda for this car and am so glad I did. I cant believe all the features that this car offers for just over $20k. I dislike the way Nissan lumps their options but the S model has everything I wanted without going overboard. Im sure I will get a speeding ticket and this car has some power to only have 4cly. I have to keep the cruise set otherwise I find myself going 80 and dont even realize it. I researched the new Camry, Accord, and Malibu and this won hands down in my book. From safety to features, to the ride. It a family sedan with a sleek look that is so sexy! And you have to admit the push button start is so much fun.

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  "The Altima: Top of the Class" - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By johnnycash - December 9 - 2:03 pm

  Before I purchased the Altima I test drove 5 different vehicles, Hyundai Sonata, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Saturn Aura, and the Ford Fusion. The Altima was the best ride, quite with sufficent power. I purchased the Altima Sedan 2.5S automatic with CVT. The exterior is sporty but not overdone. The interior is spacious even for myself at 6ft. 3in. The car is great on gas, city and highway, 25-34. I did not get any extra packages, since the car is already pretty equipped. Well worth the price. I liked it better all around than the other vehicles I mentioned previously.

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  Stalls out check engine comes on - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By 2.5s - December 8 - 1:53 pm

  When driving the car would cut out, lose power but still be running, tach would jump up and down press on gas no response, had car in Nissan dealer many times they were playing the guessing game, replaced throttle body, computer, complete wiring harness, car is doing same as before started last night, I just put a new fuel pump, plugs 126.000 mi. Have not checked check engine code yet. Thanks

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  Good and Reliable car - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Imncognito - December 6 - 9:50 pm

  I purchased this car new. It had only 8 miles on it when I drove it off the lot. I have been satisfied with the car ever since. It has great power for a 4-banger car considering other 4 cylinders I had researched during 2003 With 175 hp, it still remains amongst the top of 4 cylinder cars in 2005. I am 6 ft. tall and I sit comfortably in the car. Very roomy. I love the exterior styling of the car. I have not had any mechanical problems with the car thus far. I am a satisfied consumer with the price that I paid for this car. It is a fun, everyday ride. I think I would consider buying another Altima in the future if the styling is still appealing but I might go with a V6 the next time around.

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  Hidden/Sleeping Racer - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By Scottyb873 - December 6 - 10:00 am

  I agree with the comment about a sleeping racer. This car is the best I have owned yet. No Problems, Fast. I too am up to about 190hp, and that wa with very very few mods. I can easier hit 70 in 3 gear and only tapping on 3000rpms door. killer car. braight shiny red, you never see it coming till its to late.

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  Bad engine - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Marina - December 6 - 10:00 am

  Many problems with the engine. It will stop in the middle of a highway with no power. Unsafe if problem is not corrected on time. 3 times for repair and only 11 months old.