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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  I used to love nissannot anymore - 2012 Nissan Altima
  By jennifer macklin - September 8 - 1:30 pm

  I have a four door 3.5 liter engine Nissan sedan. I was excited when I first got it because it had low mileage and it seem like a very dependable car. I had the car for a little less than 4 months and had to take it into the dealership because the lights were flickering and the Windows would not go up and down. the dealership said they could not find anything wrong with it and left it at that. A few months later again it was a sensor that went bad they had to replace that but the lights were still flickering and again they couldnt find anything wrong with it. we did this for over a year went to the dealership 4 times. I dont know if anybody else has experienced electrical issues with this type of vehicle but I highly recommend that you dont purchase. it is to the point now that Im actually scared to drive it because it says no key on a constant basis after changing the batteries out Im pretty much a regular basis. the doors wont lock even though there automatic lock doors and this makes me nervous with my children in the car and driving. so if anyone has young children and travels more than 15 miles this car is not for you.

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  Buyer beware - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Damian sumner - September 8 - 3:24 am

  Me and my wife bought a 2013 Nissan Altima fully loaded with everything that Nissan come with for $33,000. within the first year a motor mount broke the master cylinder for the brakes started leaking the air conditioning compressor started leaking and that was all within 5000 miles in the first year of on in the car. Now 4 years later we still want to have 26,000 miles on the car now the shifting solenoid went out we cannot shift it from park. The car looks good drives good but its built like a piece of crap

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  Everything the 3.5SE was plus more - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Scott Thatcher - September 6 - 2:53 am

  The 05 SE-R is my third Nissan. Loved my 02 3.5SE Altima and 05 3.5SE Altima. Held value so well I could trade in 1-1.5 years and make cash on the deal. Handling, acceleration and braking are phenomenal. Styling outside is great, HID headlights and Bose standard are great additions to the 3.5SE. BIG rotors & brakes, nice forged wheels. Great interior space. Versatile lay down back seats. I consider American, Toyota, Honda and VW every time but I get the most bang for my buck with the Nissan Altimas. Nissan dealers have always been no hassle no haggle with me.

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  overpriced - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By rayray - September 5 - 6:10 pm

  For the price you don’t get a lot I got the 2.5 SL and over paid a lot. The SL should all come with anti-lock breaks I really hate that it doesn’t and has bad as their safety rating is they should all come loaded with air bags. It is very noisy; you hear everything on the road especially when it is raining. Fortunately I was lucky enough to sell mine. Also wish it had overdrive or 5 speed auto like 3.5 does.

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  Good to go - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By cyangray - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Recently purchased a 2005 Nissan Altima 3.5SE. Test drove both the 2.5 and 3.5. The 2.5 had fairly good pickup but was very noisy during acceleration. The 3.5 has much better pickup, is quieter, and has smoother acceleration over the range of driving conditions. If you’re looking at a 2.5S with convenience packaging you might want to consider the 3.5SE since the price is not that different. The gas mileage is posted at 20 to 30. I am getting around 22 – 23 around the city – better than expected with my lead foot. I recommend that you work with two or more dealerships to get the price down. I managed to pay invoice price after haggling between dealerships.

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  Bad Altima Experience!!!!! - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Keish - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Buyers Beware!!! I purchased a 2003 & was a lemon. (Radiator replaced 4 times in first year but kept leaking anti freeze) Nissan gave me a 2005 (at no extra cost)because they felt bad. My 2005 has less than 5000 miles and my radiator is again leaking antifreeze. (they claim its the radiator cap). Has anyone else experienced this problem?

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  Comfortable, economical rocket ship - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By Marinertoo - September 5 - 8:36 am

  Ive had driving difficulties due to an injury. We tested every car out there, and this had more leg room than all of them (driver, that is). Next was the Ford Edge, followed by the Toyota Camry, and Nissan Murano. We got the V6 with CVT transmission. I have no more physical discomfort. The ocean gray is a head turner with the performance package, and it drive as well as some sports cars Ive owned. The gas mileage has also been great. The new styling (2010) is much more sleek than that of 2009. Its a gorgeous, economical little rocket ship that turns heads.

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  ALTIMA 3.5 SE SEDAN - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By Brandon - September 3 - 2:40 pm

  Car is a blast to drive. The 3.5 mated to the CVT tranny is fantastic. The combination gives immediate throttle response and will push you back in the drivers seat. The handling is great also. Very sure- footed around corners and on the freeway. Steering is tight and responsive. Quality touch and feel to the interior. Well built and stylish. Alternator had a problem (important to note that the car still started and drove fine) and was grounding out on the frame somehow only six weeks after purchase (This is my fourth Nissan and all have been very reliable). Dealer fixed without question and back on the road enjoying car the next day. Drives and feels like a $45K car

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  Put about 50k miles with no problems - 2011 Nissan Altima
  By Emily McDonald - September 3 - 7:49 am

  This is my 2nd Altima, which I purchased after my 2002 Altima starting costing me more money with repairs at ~130,000 miles. I bought it from a dealer with 32k miles on it, and it had previously been a rental car. Ive got about 85,000 miles on it and have owned it for 3 1/2 years. Its required ONLY routine maintenance - changed the oil regularly, new brakes, new tires, etc. I love how roomy it is, the trunk is huge and plenty of space for driver and passengers. It handles well in the snow and rain. I drove it in upstate NY for a couple years with all-season tires and never got stuck. Ive taken it on a few long road trips, and the seats can be a little uncomfortable after awhile (but what car isnt a little uncomfortable after 8+ hours!). Im planning to keep this car for a few more years and then maybe move on to my 3rd Altima.

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  Death Trap - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By Altima_Death_Trap - September 3 - 3:06 am

  Dont buy this or any other Nissan. Nissan is not standing behind its product and charging for repairs on a recall. My car stalls and Nissan knows why but refuses to fix their faulty product. Cam and crank sensor need to be replaced or your car will stall. Nissan refuses to fix this at their cost stating that it reprogramming the ECM fixes this. Well it does not and they know it. I am never buying a Nissan again and I suggest that you dont either....unless... you have a death wish. FYI it stall on turns. No ABS, power brakes, power steering and all that good stuff that you need to control your car.