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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  One problem after another... - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By amb - February 21 - 2:00 am

  Many problems. Have had to replace center adjusting armrest, door panel (leaking). Also had recall on airbag just after purchase, have replaced windshield once, and it needs to be replaced again. Nissan refuses to pay stating environmental. However, the glass cant seem to withstand any rocks hitting it. Right now, the vehicle is in the shop because it died in traffic yesterday and would not restart. This is the second time this has happened. The first time it was in a heated garage for three days and would not start. The second time it stalled out in -5 degree weather. Nissan reports that it is an "Altima" problem they are trying to figure out.

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  4 door sport sedan - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By prmonse - February 20 - 9:06 pm

  After test driving and going over the specs of 6 cars, I decided for the Altima, I got the SE with the leather sport package and XM radio, and let me tell you its a sweet ride. Its very comfortable, the seats are supportative with multiple adjustments, the leather looks classy, and even tha back seat is roomy with the front seats adjusted for a 6 footer. The styling is modern and it looks fast just standing still, that was one of the main reasons, and the other the engine. Its like a turbine, quiet,and power delivery is right now wihtout any fuzz, you floor it to pass and in a blink your doing 80mph, awesome. The other main reason for choosing it, the fuel economy, has me impressed,26mpg.

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  Nothing But Problems - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By junkcar3 - February 18 - 8:42 am

  I bought this car based on Features it has to offer. After driving 5000 miles problem started. The break lights comes on randomly while driving. took it to dealership 3 time and they said nothing wrong. Car stopped on road with engine sign. They replaced part and after driving another 100 miles it stopped again. Dealer replace another part. Air conditioning stop working. they have to replace compressor. Side mirror came loose and was making rattling sound. They fixed that and after a month side mirror switch stop working. Navigation is also not refreshing while driving so they said they have to replace SD card. Complain to North America Nissan but they are not doing anything to replace this

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  Best car so far - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By ecollazo - February 18 - 12:10 am

  This car rocks! As a student, this cars trunk is roomy!, fits 3 very comfortably in rear seats. The fuel economy is the best! The design could of been better...and needs something to make it stronger for hiway takeoff. Other than that..I love this car and recommend it to anyone. B+ for nissan.

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  Not happy with my 2014 Altima - 2014 Nissan Altima
  By ftbutler50 - February 15 - 9:52 pm

  I bought this car a year ago and my gas mileage continues to drop.I am now averaging a little over 20 miles per gallon. This is way under the estimated miles per gallon advertised by Nissan. On occasion there is a hesitancy when I press on the accelerator. The Nissan dealership told me there was nothing wrong with the car and that it was probably due to winter gasoline. I had a Camry hybrid before this and was very pleased. Gas mileage was well into the 30 miles per gallon even in city driving. This car will cost me thousands of extra dollars that I did not anticipate spending for gas. I can feel all the bumps in the road and the occasional sticky accelerator makes for a joyless driving.

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  Chris Nissan - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Chris Carrino - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I have had the fully loaded V6 SE altima for about 8 months now & not only do I absolutely love it. but i have gotten so many compliments on the car on a regular basis. With the BOSE 8 speaker 6 CD Indash changer & the power & outstanding handling of the car. i have never had a car that is so much fun to drive

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  Effortless Power - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Boscvaranus - February 15 - 10:00 am

  Moved up from a 1999 Nissan Sentra GXE. The V6 Altima has gobs of power. Passing on 2 lane roads is so easy. The only drawback is the considerable torque steer with full throttle acceleration. Braking is smooth and well controlled. The car is quiet at highway speeds with little wind noise, but there is considerable road/tire noise on rough pavements.

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  Held up on West and East - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Rhode I to Nevada - February 15 - 8:50 am

  Has been a reliable care up to 113K miles. First (recently), the computer chip that controls the shifting. Second, the struts are now history. However the brakes lasted for 100K miles. I bought this car new in CT and its not with me in NV. Sslvage life is coming due but I still got a good ROI considering what I paid for it new.

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  2006 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By rvjr1 - February 13 - 9:33 pm

  This vehicle is a dream machine it has not given me one once of trouble and has a lot of pep, it is very good on gas for a 6 cylinder.

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  Good Buy - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Tom - February 13 - 1:10 pm

  What can I say, I have 7,500 miles on my Altima 2.5S. On a recent trip to Montreal I averaged 36 MPG highway at a steady 60 mph. Needless to say I was very happy on my return tip at 65 mph I averaged 32 mpg. Both trips where done on cruse control and the weather conditions favorable. I expect my city mpg to improve. This is a good for dollar vehicle far more stylish than Accord and Camry. Buy an Altima.