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:

• 

  My Nissan - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Rick - November 29 - 6:43 am

  We have had our Altima for almost 4 years. Since then, we have made several long distance trips...it was great on the highway as well as in town. It even did well on the Autobahn when we moved to Germany. We have owned many vehicles in the past, and have kept the Altima the longest. It has proven to be a reliable, dependable, and fun car to drive. Prior to the Nissan, we had never owned a Japanese car before...we had always owned GM. Never again.

• 

  Great car, even for heavy driving. - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By MK - November 29 - 5:26 am

  I drive 130 miles to work, five days a week. When it was time for a new car, I wanted something roomy inside, fun to drive and good on gas. I purchased the smaller 2.5L engine for fuel economy. (Ive got the CVT.) I added the SL package to beef up the interior as Id be spending a lot of time in my car. The smaller engine puts out a surprising amount of power and makes the drive fun while the SL package interior looks great. Like a much more expensive car. The gas mileage is good considering I drive on a major highway at 72 mph on cruise for 90% of my miles. I get about 27 mpg. 14,000 miles in five months and the car is holding up great. I couldnt be happier with this purchase.

• 

  Love my new Altima! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By ChopinLiszt - November 26 - 11:56 am

  I love the car! I was driving an older Infiniti I30 with a V6 before I purchased my altima and really the 4cyl is almost as peppy! Its a super sporty sedan. I am so glad that I decided to go with the altima rather than the accord. I HIGHLY reccomend this car.

• 

  Great Buy - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By PeekoSanchez - November 21 - 6:03 pm

  I bought my Altima used at 37,000 miles in 2001 and its still going strong at 130,000, though its needed some major repair. Ive had to replace the alternator (at 75k), one CV axle and the other will need replacement soon, the switch for the power windows and locks, and the clutch a year ago. Those are the only $200 plus repairs done in 7 years though, which is a bargain compared to the repair work other models need in that amount of time. The interior doesnt hold up well however; the vents on the dash are popping up, a sun visor fell off while I was driving, and the speedometer sticks sometimes. The fabric is cheap and stains easy.

• 

  Great buy for a big man - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By jaydee - November 21 - 8:03 am

  Sticker on my 2006 Altima was over $30k and I paid $26,100 with $1000 dollar rebate. Never owned a Nissan or a car that had a power sunroof because of my size. I am 65" and weigh 285 lbs. I have more room in this vehicle than I have in my Ford Explorer. Tilt/telescopic is wonderful and center console is situated in such a way that I can spread my legs and drive. Legroom length is wonderful. The things I like are the power, this baby is fast. Faster than the Maxima which I also considered. Test drove a Toyota Avalon and the seat for a man my size was not adequate. I was glad I didnt fall in love with the Toyota because it was my first choice, however no deals from Toyota.

• 

  Great all-around car - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By MattRochesterNY - November 21 - 2:00 am

  I was looking to buy a 2003 Honda Accord/Toyota Camry, when I saw this car at a local dealership, gave it a spin, and ended up buying it. Its in great condition, paint is still beautiful. My gas mileage hasnt been phenominal, I do a lot of highway driving and expected around 33-34 mpg, but rarely break 30-31. Performance is ok. Road/wind noise is good, but not as quiet as the newer Accords/Camrys. Ride is also good, but again not as damped as newer competing vehicles. If the reliability is as good as the Edmunds ratings claim, Ill be very happy with it for the next few years.

• 

  A very very bad choice - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By mans - November 21 - 2:00 am

  It was fine for the first 8-10 months after that at around 10,000 miles I started seeing problems, my Bose stereo died, my turn signal stopped working, my suspension became rock hard and there is excessive body noise. When I bring this to the attention of the dealership they denied there were any problems. Finally after multiple visits they acknoledged the problems. The string of bad experiences after just one year I am totally shaken with both Stevens Creek Nissan as well as the quality of Nissan cars in general. Stay away from Nissan if you can.

• 

  3 Months 3000 Miles A+ So Far - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Paul Z - November 20 - 9:33 am

  This is my second Altima. My first was a 1995 that has almost 300,000 miles on it that I am keeping as a second car as it still runs great. How could I not by another Nissan? I love everything about this car. While I only have slightly less than 3000 miles on it I just got 34.5 mpg on a trip from Cincinnati to Memphis driving 70-80. Combined city/hwy I am averaging just under 30 mpg. To imagine getting this kind of mileage on a car of this size is hard to believe. My engine is hardly broken in! The styling is amazing and the interior is very spacious (Im 62). The CVT is awesome as is the keyless entry and trunk release. Push button start is great. Make this your next car!

• 

  Great Car for Money - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By lohms - November 16 - 10:00 am

  Just recently purchased 2003 2.5 SL. Initial impressions are great value for the money. Lots of extras, great outside styling, nice leather, great bose stereo. The interior is a little on the cheap side, but the leather and stereo make up for it. Overall, great value for the money. I may be nit picking on the interior quality as Im the only one who has noticed out of everyone Ive shown the car to. The 2.5 is a decent engine, not quite like the 2002 Maxima I traded in but I didnt expect it. I went for fuel economy and think I got it. I definately recommend this car.

• 

  love at first drive.. - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Harley - November 15 - 6:16 pm

  I planned on buying a civic si later that day but I was strolling through dealerships with my sister checking out various cars for no reason. I drove past the Altima and she mentioned it and I backed up. I started checking it out and I slowly liked it more and more. The dealership owner let me test drive it. I accidentally peeled out leaving the dealership and was very impressed with the power. The drive sealed the deal for me. I bought it yesterday and Im still smiling every time I walk up to the car. Its fast, comfy, decent on gas for the power it has. The stereo is the best Ive heard so far. It has a nice security system and drives so smooth. Passing people on the highway or getting to highway speed is no problem At all. She only has 70k on her and besides a few cosmetic flaws, its a 10-10 condition. I love this car.. Its a secret sports car thats still a 4 door and it feels almost like a luxury car.