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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  Do not buy any CVT vehicle. - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By Thomas - September 14 - 9:45 pm

  I got this car when it was 49,000 miles and the transmission went bad at 129,000 miles. I found out later that there was a recall on the transmission and could be changed by the dealership when it reaches 120,000 for free. Why are these companies being allowed to sell a vehicle if they are aware that they have transmission problems. I have always liked Nissan for the fact that I placed it along with the likes of Toyota and Honda. I have now changed that and seriously believe Nissan is not even close to these two companies. Please save your money and get something more reliable rather than this lemon and if you have already purchased one I suggest you trade it in. It might look good and be roomy but it is completely not worth it. The Nissan of yesterday is not the same Nissan of today, even the current Ford sedans are above the Nissan sedans.

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  Excellent Car - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Great Value - September 14 - 2:50 am

  Very sporty, fast, comfortable, and extremely fun to drive. Perfect blend of speed, power, and agility. This car will make your heart pump on the highway, and look professional in the office parking lot. The technology package is worth the additional money. The seats are comfortable and provide many different options, its a spacious car, and reasonably quiet. The shifting is smoother than any car Ive been in. Bottom line for the features and reliability you get, there is no other car that can match the price. I am so happy with my Altima.

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  Fell in love at first sight - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Mary - September 13 - 12:26 am

  Have had 2 Nissan Maximas and was ready to turn in my lease for a 4 door Altima 2007. When I saw the 2 dr coupe, I fell in love at first sight. The car is awesome on gas which was exactly what I needed (driving 6 cyl Max for ten years). Not as spacious as the Max, however still comfortable and fun to drive. To date, have only seen 5 on the road... cool! Have been stopped by people on the road wondering what model it is. Truly love the car!

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  Replaces my SAAB - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Peter - September 12 - 2:20 pm

  I got this car with 40,000 miles, 3 years old. It is raplacing my 2004 Saab 93. I am pleasantly surprised by this vehicle. The 4 cyl coupled with the 4 speed automatic perform very well with good fuel economy. The brakes are not bad & arent much worse than Saab which are probable the best of any car produced at any cost! I drove my Altimait 800 miles within 4 days & the front seat comfort is outstanding! This vehicle runs like a new car with very few rattles considering its age & mileage. Only maintenance has been brakes which is to be expected. For some reason, Japanese brakes wear poorly & this car is no exception however they do perform well. Great car Nissan!

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  Blast to own and drive! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Chad G - September 12 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned 6 Nissans now, and this is the most fun yet! Ive had the car for 8 months now, and its been trouble- free. The only issue that Ive had is with the AWFUL Bridgestone tires that Nissan puts on this car-they flat spot, one was out of round and they just plain stink in the snow. Tires aside, I can honestly say I have a blast driving this car EVERY day - Amazing power from this 3.5!

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  Love my Altima!! - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Moobaby - September 12 - 10:00 am

  I am in love with my car!! I look forward to getting off of work so that I can take a drive. It has such a nice look to it - both inside and out. My passengers enjoy it too. The back seats are very roomy. The trunk is HUGE! I never had a moment of buyers remorse. I am very happy with my decision.

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  NISSAN ALTIMA 1997 - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By RUBEN - September 10 - 10:00 am

  PERFORMANCE, PRICE, RELIABILITY, MANUAL

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  BANG FOR THE BUCK - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By DIBIASE - September 10 - 10:00 am

  i LOVE THIS VEHICLE. ONLY GRIPE IS THE INTERIOR, BUT EVERY CAR HAS SOMETHING TO GRIPE ABOUT, TRUST ME. THE ACCELERATION EVEN ON THE 4 CYLINDER IS VERY LIVELY, I LOVE THE RIDE AND THAT GATED SHIFTER THING LOOKS SO MUCH SWEETER AND SPORTIER THAN THAT OLD REGULAR SHIFTER IN THE CAMRY AND ACCORD. THE ALTIMA REALLY SHINES WITH ANY ALLOY WHEELS, SPOILER AND FOG LIGHTS TO GO WITH IT. PUT SOME TINT AND YOUR ALTIMA WILL BE OFFICIAL.

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  Better have a rocket to pass this car! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Tony Smith - September 10 - 10:00 am

  After owning Toyotas Avalon for seven years and also owned the Toyota Corolla, I hate to admit it but the Nissan Altima out did the Toyota easily. This car puts anything out there to shame! It is the smoothest riding car I have ever owned! Driving this car is like driving a rocket! Love the Bose 6 cd changer sound system along with everything else! Drive this car one time and you will be sold! If you get this car you better have a fat wallet so you can pay for all the personal invitation to the policeman ball!

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  Disappointed Nissan Fan - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Disappointing ride - September 10 - 10:00 am

  Delivered w/38 lbs air in tires! Still rides poorly, harsh,noisy over road joints, jiggly, rear suspension seems like its suspended on bungee chords on dips. Numerous rattles. Fasteners missing on plastic inner fender splash shields. Dealer cant find klunk in rear area, is replacing shocks to hopefully fix the problem. We have been a Datsun/Nissan/Infiniti family since 1982, owned Sentras, Maximas, 200SX, G- 20 etc. VERY disappointed with this car in comparison. Tougfh to back up, no part of the car is visable out rear window.