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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  Well-Built, Dependable Altima - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Steven - January 10 - 2:13 pm

  Replaced a 93 Maxima w/06 Altima, and would do it again. Only problem was replacing a leaking steering oil pump, under warranty, n/c. Otherwise, just standard oil changes after 2+ years of ownership. On one long-range trip, got 27.75mpg w/continuous ac use. This car is well-built, stylish and inexpensive to maintain. Plenty of power w/6 cyl. Only real criticism: ease w/which the rear bumper can show scratches, scuffs -- just be careful! Good visibility all around. This is a great mid-size, mid-priced sedan.

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  I love this car! - 1998 Nissan Altima
  By Z03231999 - January 9 - 2:00 am

  I have bought the Altima used with about 13,000 miles. In the four years I have owned it, it has not failed me once. Short of normal maintenance, I have never had trouble. I drove it cross country from Florida to Washington State and back and not a single glitch. The exterior is kind of boring but I would not change it for anything. I am going to keep it until it falls apart. It probably wont.

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  Great car with just a few bugs - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By dblind1 - January 9 - 2:00 am

  I purchased the car in August and had 2000 miles on it before Sept 1. Im up to 10500 miles and have had no reliability issues. This is the first real new car I have purchased, and Im very pleased with it. PLENTY of power, but torque steer is BAD. There would be a few things that could improve the car but most of them are minor. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a sedan with plenty of passing power (and long drives). Very comfortable interior (although cheap materials). It doesnt handle as well as a Lexus IS 300 but it is $5000-$7000 cheaper.

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  Best mid size car and Better than the competition! - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By Diego Castellano - January 8 - 1:32 pm

  First this car is a very good looking car that know how to be elegant and sporty at the same time. The comfort of this car is amazing starting with the zero gravity seats. I drove a Hyundai Sonata and the ride and seats are like riding over rocks, very stiff and very strong odor of plastics inside and very slow. The Nissan Altima has excellent power and fuel economy 41mpg in the highway and is fast compared to the competition, due to the light weight of the car. I drove 5 cars of the competition and for price and the reliability of Nissan I bought this car. The CVT transmission is a dream, very responsive and quiet, this is not my first Nissan anyways, I had many of them in the past with 0 issues like Nissan Sentra, Bluebird, Sunny, Junior, Bluebird Ateza Awd, Stanza and others.

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  Enjoy the car so far - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By ajl7 - January 6 - 7:35 am

  I looked at a lot of car before choosing the Altima. All the big players (Camry,Accord,Fusion) the newcomers (Kizashi, new Optima). I also considered the new Ford Fiesta, Chevy Cruze, Mazda 3 and the Sentra.Also, I looked at Honda Insight and Prius. I was looking to lease a car for "cheap" (under 250/mo all costs included) and in the end, the Altima won out for a few reasons. Overall, it was the best all around car for the money I wanted to spend. (I write this in March 2011 for a 2010 car. My lease deal was through Nissan but through the local dealer because they had new 2010s to get rid of. Same car as the 11, but I got a "sign and drive" deal.)

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  JJ - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By JJ LEE - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Nice engine condition(2.4 syl) and good acceleration, still comfortable to drive. Good fuel economy. Cornering is not that good. Shock absorber is not that good. Just got an 4 wheel alignment and ballance.

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  altima - 2014 Nissan Altima
  By jbbblock - January 1 - 9:04 am

  During test rides I noticed the leather seats were far more comfortable than the cloth seats. The cloth is very sticky. I bought the Altima S with the sport value package because with the leather seats the cost was too high for me. NASA should stick to rocket ships not car seats. I have not found a Physical therapist that recommends a curved back while driving. Headrest is slanted far too forward! Combine that with little lumbar support my back will ache after 1 hour of driving. Make sure your ok with the headrest angle/seats. Also the heater wont heat the car when its under ten below 0F outside. Otherwise the car is awesome! So fun and easy to drive!

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  Pleasantly surprised! - 2015 Nissan Altima
  By Billy Minder - December 31 - 1:14 pm

  First time ever leasing a car, and my first new car. Got it the end of Sept 2015. I went into the search wanting a base model Camry or Accord, but I did drive the Altima because a friend was a salesman there, but I liked the Camry better. Then I took the wife. She wanted the Altima because she liked the styling and how the dealership treated us, and the manager was going to lease us a top-of-the-line Altima SL for just a little more than the base model. Its a very pretty pearlized white, hard loaded. So we compromised and got the Altima. lol. Happy wife, happy... however the rest of the saying goes. The car has grown on me a lot. The fuel mileage on road trips is incredible, its been getting in the 40s! Has plenty of power, very comfortable seats, road noise isnt as low as the Camry was, but its quiet enough. Feels solid and stable, tight, corners well, interior materials feel good and look nice. I like driving it. The car is very comfortable for me, Im 65" and 250. Plenty of room and comfort. Many cars that have sunroofs dont have enough headroom for me, but this Altima has plenty of head room, leg room, and lots of back seat room, even when I have the seat back. The CVT is... interesting. On the highway its awesome. Set the cruise and go. Because its continuously variable theres never any downshifting. You can watch the tach move up and down on hills, but you dont feel it, its very smooth. You can hear the engine pick up rpms a little bit but its not obtrusive or loud. So I really like it on trips. And did I mention the gas mileage is great?? We just got back from a trip up to Vail, CO and it had plenty of power on the passes and still got 41 mpg!! On another road trip with 4 people and our luggage we got 44 mpg! Love it! Around town it feels a little different. Tip-in throttle off the line doesnt provide much oomph, but once youre over 10 mph or so, its got plenty of zip. Actually quite quick for a 4 cylinder. I never feel like its underpowered. We live at 6200 feet elevation. The V6 version of the Altima must be a rocket with 80 more horses. Also around town the CVT isnt always as smooth and linear as a traditional automatic. Sometimes you notice a slight lag or surge. It doesnt bother the wife at all, I dont think she even notices it, but for me its just a little odd, but not a deal-breaker. I notice that in town if I put it in D-sport mode its more responsive and smooth. If you really want it to be snappy and drive aggressively around town, turn off the Over Drive. It leaves the engine in the higher rpms and feels like a little sports car. Overall, I dont mind the CVT and am happy with it. Heres some niggly things that I think Nissan should take care of for future Altimas: - When you hit the off button (its keyless) it kills the power to everything; the stereo, the windows, its OFF. Most cars leave the power on for a minute or two so you can roll windows up or listen to the radio. On the Altima, once you shut it off, thats it. Seems odd to me. - The sound system has no mute button... any where. You either have to turn the sound down or the system off. Not handy. - There is no scan or seek function on the stereo. Nothing but the tuning knob. Weird. You can toggle through your presets but thats it. - The detents on the tuning knob to change stations is too soft. Its hard to go one click to the next station because you can barely feel the detents. - The voice command system feels kind of outdated. Its kinda clunky to use. - The Navigation system feels like its from 3 generations ago. Our smart phones GPS and navigation systems have become so simple, intuitive and make helpful suggestions, so they are quick and easy to use. Nissans nav system feels old. And even when you have the street address and try to input it, sometimes it still cant seem to find the right address in its address book. But once you get the right place in, it navigates just fine. But sometimes youre sitting there inputting, deleting, inputting, backing out to the previous menu... it could be improved quite a bit. Come on Nissan, just use Google maps or something! - The back up camera resolution is ok, not great. I drove my friends Jeep Cherokee and that back up camera is like High Def compared to the Altimas. Nissan could improve that. Its ok, just on the blurry side and makes it feel dated. - The cupholders are kinda on the small side, so my wifes water bottles that she takes on a run dont fit. - The info screen between the speedo and the tach has some info that is in a really small font. They should be increased for readability. Speaking of that screen between the gauges, I with Nissan gave the option having less screens to have to toggle through. The blue tooth connectivity seems fine. Overall even with the issues I mentioned, I really like the car and glad we got it. Im impressed. My wife is very happy with it. It would be fun to drive a V6 Altima sometime.

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  My worst purchase - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By sandypines1 - December 29 - 10:56 pm

  Purchased my Altima August 2012, thought that I had purchased a great car. I had owned two cars with CVT transmissions and have had a good history on how they work. This car has a serious problems, it shudders and vibrates and according to Nissan, this is a normal function.I think that they know that there is a problem and say this is normal. I would suggest that any future buyers of a Altima forgo the purchase.

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  Altima is number 1 - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Luis - December 29 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this car for almost 2 years now and Im still in love with it! It turns heads every where I go, and handles and drives great. The 2002 Altima 3.5 SE V6 : - Best Horsepower & Torque for its class - Most Room in its class - Nissan Reliability - Best Exterior for its class - Excellent Leather Interior - Super Quality BOSE sound system. Best price at John Elway Nissan (In less than 3 hours I was on my way out the door).