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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  Just reach 160K Running great - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Juve - May 18 - 12:07 pm

  i had gotten car at 35k in 08, havent given me any issues since then. just a week ago reaching 160 replaced all shock and shruts since mine was worn out. Also had water pump replaced with spark plugs. besides those major stuff, car has been performing great and still gives great mileage. havent had transmission or timing chain issue. i fell this car can go another 100k easily. cant complain on this car, if very spacious inside and a good size trunk. i prefer this over the recent altimas out

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  Good but with its faults - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Ivan - May 17 - 3:50 am

  The interior is cheap and pretty ugly. The turning radius is worse than a Ford Explorer. The cabin pressure is set up so that with the front two windows down theres alot of wind and pressure (compared to my 96 Maxima) but ok with all four windows down. The steering wheel is off to the left a bit and my seat seems to be facing slightly to the left, either way its not straightforward and it makes driving a bit uncomfortable. That last part is my real pet peeve. The circular dashboard is annoying too. Basically the whole interior stinks but Ive had it since 52,000 miles (67 now) and no major repairs needed so far, its pretty fast, handles well (except for u-turns) and ok to look at.

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  Vrooom - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Mogulz - May 15 - 9:00 pm

  Our Altima is the best accommodation of sportiness with practicality. The 3.5SE hugs the corners, and is fun to drive but you do feel every crack in the pavement. The CVT is cool. 270bhp is great and probably more than the car needs. The mileage is very good as long as you do not use the engine. Disciplined cruising at 65 with no silly sprints, this car delivers 30 mph (if you believe the on board computer), but at 75 it is closer to 26. On a recent trip from NJ to MA, we did 515 miles on 20 gallons. The trip computer said we got 27.1mpg, but a calculator says 25.75. The premium package offers bluetooth which we like a lot. The Bose stereo is excellent. The seats are OK.

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  This car is crap - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By melgoodman77 - May 12 - 4:15 pm

  I bought my car used with 34,000 miles on it. I didnt even have it 24 hours and the clutch stuck to the floor while I was doing 75 mph. The dealer said that the hydrolics on the clutch had gone and they also had to replace the master cylinder and the slay cylinder. I have only owned this car a little under 2 months. The gas milage of this car is horrible. I get 18 mpg even when it says I am getting more. The gas light comes on when the gas gauge is only have 1/4 of a tank. Now there is a large clunking sound in the front end of the car and the dearship said they adjusted my subframe. It is still making the clunking noise and needs to go back in. LEMON!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  Best in class in my opinion. - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Dmitry - May 11 - 7:40 am

  Bought it after 3 months of deliberations, initially zeroed in on 3 possibilities: Altima, Camry and Accord. Didnt like Accord styling all that much, and Camrys handling was subpar even for that sedan class. I noticed more and more L32 Altimas in my area, so I figured all these owners couldnt be so wrong. Great car, I was afraid I might get one with poor mileage performance, but right now I average 28 mpg city, confirmed by ScanGauge II. I love CVT, 4-cyl engine has sufficient power to have fun on the road, I used to have 1998 BMW 740iL and Altima seems almost as roomy inside.

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  Dont Buy 02 Altima! - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Kat On Fire - May 10 - 8:10 pm

  After 2 yrs, my car required a new Cat Converter. Now 42K miles later needs another Cat Converter and has engine problems-cost repair 5K - Nissan & Dealer 24mo/24K warranty on replacement-wont cover now. Although beautiful on the outside, this car is a LEMON. CD player skips when car hits bumps, car is noisey, Paint protector so thin scratches easily, quality tire style limited and difficult to find must buy thru dealer. Battery died,shorted out radio, Southlake dealership said replacement cost $2500. Another dealer pulled radio and replaced back fuse for $20. Dont buy this car! Wont last financing term. 1) Bad Motor; powertrain; paint durability; noisey; tires; sound system overall=LEMON!

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  catalitic converter problems - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Dont buy one - May 7 - 7:06 pm

  Nice car when I first bought it. Larger than toyota. But, at 50,000 miles check engine light, had to spend 800 on a new catalytic converter, then at 90,000 crank position sensor, failed several times before the dealer figured it out. Now check engine light again. Who knows what now. Buy a honda, much more reliable.

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  Very good; almost great - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By wisconsinowner - May 7 - 10:20 am

  2.5 SL CVT. 250 miles. Very classy styling and interior. Dealer installed moonroof baffle and fog lights. Linking fogs with Tech package is just dumb, but dealer installed fogs with small rocker switch on lower left instrument panel which was made for it. Should be included in SL! Displayed mileage is 35 at 45 mph. Drops to 31.5 at 70 mph. My 6 cyl. 97 Avalon delivers 32-34 mpg at 70 mph, so not impressive, but per Nissan specs. Suburban/light-city mileage about 28 which is 6 better than Avalon, though. Acceleration with 4cyl/CVT is more than enough. Ride is more sports coupe like-you feel the bumps. Will ask dealer to look at air whistle in closed moon roof - otherwise nothing wrong.

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  Just bought 2008, 3.5 with Tech Package - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Mrdeeds - May 6 - 3:16 pm

  Great looking car! Fun to drive. Accelerates great. Nice interior look. Gauges easy to use and read. Have the navigation system. Very easy to use. Nice readout. Fuel economy is just OK. About 22 mpg combined, with 1000 miles on it. It takes a while to get used to the keyless entry with no key for the ignition. Bluetooth set up is great with cell phone. Voice recognition system is TERRIBLE for both navigating and trying to phone someone. Went to the dealer twice now with no help. It is about 40-50 % accurate, which is not acceptable to me. Navigation and phone features "gray out" once you start to drive. Supposedly a safety feature, but very annoying.

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  Best on the road for the price - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By shainlinecourt - May 5 - 9:40 am

  Weve only had this car for about a week and we have over 500 miles on it already. We got the sl pkg which bumped the car up a bit in price but worth it. I drove the 3.5 and it wasnt worth the extra money in my opinion. The 2.5 is plenty fast for what we do and most others. I did a lot of research and feel this is the best out there at this price point.