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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  Overall Good car minus few annoyances. - 2012 Nissan Altima
  By i30rls - January 20 - 3:00 pm

  2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S Anniversary Edition came with bluetooth, wheel radio controls, homelink for garage openers, push start button and alloy wheels. Overall it is good looking car with comfortable ride. Has a big trunk space for a double stroller and more. If you do put two car seats, there is no room for the third or space for the third person in the middle. Car has extreme features such as push button start and other luxury features, however, Nissan opted to use cheaper plastic on AC controls, outside mirror controls and most importantly horrible audio + speakers. Music quality is horrible on the 2.5 S edition. I guess they really want you to go with their more expensive packages.

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  Another Altima - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Steve Uhl - January 20 - 1:56 pm

  This is 5 th Altima I have used. I drive them for business, 45,000 miles a year. I get a new car at 3 years or 120,000 miles. In that time we put tires and 1 set brakes and normal service. Fuel mileage is better than sticker 31 MPG + on highway. They are so good that my wife takes old Altima and uses it until I have to get another. When she is ready for newer car, it has between 150,000 and 160,000 miles on it and still have had not had any major work.

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  05 Gray Altima - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By EvaB - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I have only had my Altima for 2 weeks, but so far I love it. I drove the 4 Cyl Honda Accord, and the Altima drives alot better. Its quick and fun to drive and handles very well.

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  Great Car! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Karen - January 17 - 5:26 am

  I bought my 03 Nissan new in 10/02 and now have over 130K miles on it, and still running strong. The maintenance has been minimal, and my driving style is not always easy on it. The acceleration is perky and my gas mileage is 27-28 on a daily basis. Ive been driving it for almost 6 years and feel that it will last me a lot longer. The interior is a little on the cheap side, however it cost me $22-23,000 new, so whos complaining. Oh, and its been paid for for 3 years, what a ride!!!

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  Good car, but have concerns - 2001 Nissan Altima
  By Melinda Gibbs - January 15 - 6:43 am

  Ive noticed in the other reviews that only one person complained that during wet weather hard braking causes the rear end to swing out...its quite scary. I had 2 new rear tires put on the back today maybe that will help. It has done it to me about 6 different times in wet weather, almost hit another car a few times...not good. Hub cabs rattle all the time. Dealership cant fix them. Had trouble with power windows...all fixed under warranty. I really like my Altima, but Im very nervous about driving in wet weather.

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  Altima is a sweet ride!!! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By MSP - January 15 - 12:46 am

  I bought the 4cyl Altima w/the Tech Package. I tried the Accord, and Camry, but for the entire package the Altima is hands down a finer car. The CVT is out of this world, the Bose radio has an excellent sound, the smooth ride, plus I got the bluetooth & navigation system, the keyless entry no looking for keys or buttons to push (except to start the car). I got 28mpg on the 1st tank of gas also. The only thing I failed to get was the Xenon headlights that come on the 6cyl only. Plenty of power though at 178hp. I am very pleased at having bought this car. You will too!!

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  I am torn. - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Five6viiate - January 13 - 2:43 pm

  Okay, so I have the 2.5S CVT 4 Door with Convenience Package. Great car, smooth ride, good gas mileage considering my lead foot. The 4cyl blew the doors off my friend 4cyl accord, and picks up and hauls! The tires are GREAT in the rain, but the large sidewall makes the performance during turns and quick maneuvers quite sloppy. The spoiler definitely makes it look classy. I had to have my door repainted fresh off the lot due to poor clearcoat application and discoloration of paint. I was quite upset. Now my window doesnt have auto up. Just down. I have had 2 Nissan prior to this and one Infiniti. I am disappointed that this car has had this many "issues" in less than 2500 miles.

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  Awesome car! - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By STLCARDS - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Although the name on the back says Altima, this car ranks up there with the Acura TL, BMW 325, Infiniti G35 and the Maxima and for thousands less! I should know becuase I drove each of those cars before driving the Altima. I couldnt justify spending thousands more for less car. Unbelievable power from the 3.5 V6 and exterior styling is outstanding. You will definitly pay the price at the gas pump when deploying all that power. When driven aggressivley this car sucks the gas. I bought the 3.5 with navigation for $1,500 under invoice. I couldnt pass it up. Had some concerns initially about this being a "chick" car, but those concerns went away the min

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  Nissan 2004/05 - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Side69 - January 12 - 10:00 am

  The 2005 Altima is a great car. I would recomend it to the people. I and my husband have gotten a lot of compliments on it on how it looks like a Sharp car not only reliable! I enjoy driving it, its a quiet ride!

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  Old Reliable - 2001 Nissan Altima
  By gotaku - January 12 - 8:50 am

  Traded it in on a new 08 Altima last week. My 01 played a large role in my deciding to stay with Nissan. If youre looking for a rock-solid, reliable, and fun to drive used sedan, the Altima SE is one of the best. No major problems, just some small niggles (described below), every car has them. Very comfortable, fuel efficient (30 mpg on the highway, at least), great around town and for long-distance cruising. If you enjoy the act of driving, dont bother with the GXE or GLE... the SE is the way to go. It may not be the quickest in a straight line, but itll surprise you in the twisties. Overall, I was very happy with the car, kinda hated to see it go. Highly recommended.