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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  Listen up its the alternator not trans - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By James - June 16 - 4:51 pm

  I bought this car a year after it came out luckily I bought through Carmax because once I started having the problem and called Nissan they basically gave me the runaround but Carmax is dealing with the problem superbly now for everyone having the shuttering problem like I am having it seems to be the transmission but the CVT transmissions are very sensitive to The electrical current that they receive and the alternators on these are faulty Nevada how many transmissions they throw in it if they dont change your alternator youre going to continue having the problem over and over again so anybody researching this get the alternator fixed before it destroys your transmission I had the alternator and belt tensioner replaced and problem was gone the shuttering that everybody has. I just dont get how so many Nissan dealerships would rather keep throwing in transmissions and not realize its the alternator Im hoping this review helps at least one person out there because I am almost willing to guarantee that a new alternator will help your problem because remember a lot of these peoples cars are shutting off luckily my never did that but a transm shouldnt cause your car to shut off so I hope someone out there reads this review and it helps them

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  Great Car - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By asdasf - June 16 - 10:00 am

  This car is great and reliable. I love to drive my car to work now.

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  Great Value - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By jimmy_jam_2012 - June 15 - 1:23 am

  Leased the SV with Black on black. Nissan has some great owner loyalty incentives going on right now, so I got a great deal that blew away all the usual suspects for new sedans. The car is a fantastic value and has so many positive attributes.

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  Excellent Value. - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By Walter Smith - June 14 - 8:53 pm

  Since I drive 3,000 miles per month, I get to know a car quicker than the average driver. I also drive in all conditions, and find the Altima to be a very satisfactory car. It does most everything very well, if not outstanding. The power is adequate, but not exhilarating. Although, its gas mileage is an excellent 34 hwy, with a combined average of 31. Trunk space is excellent, and although the interior is a bit spartan, it is well thought out and comfortable.

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  So far loving my car... - 2011 Nissan Altima
  By lilmiss34 - June 14 - 6:53 pm

  I have had this car for just over a month and have over 1300 miles on it and thus far have had no issues. I drive highway about 60% of the time and between highway and city I am averaging about 26-30MPG. Came from a V-6 Honda Accord Coupe which took some getting used to with the change in HP, but this Altima has got some good power to it for a 4-cyl. If you can do it, get the Bose sound system, difference between that and the standard radio is very noticeable. The rear camera is very helpful too. Only tire noise I have noticed is on older highways, not an issue with the radio on low. Also, check your ins company for GAP coverage, it is hugely cheaper than the one the dealership offers!

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  outstanding car - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By andy - June 14 - 6:00 pm

  I traded my 350z convertible for the Altima SL in november 07 because i needed more space.Never regretted the trade. I love the altima. Getting the L package was worth the money. None of my friends can believe the price. From the gas milage, 28 in the city to 35 on the freeway, to the comfort and space, this car is a bargain. The style is sporty,yet elegant. the trunk is spacious and so is the backseat. My son is 62" and has no problem in the backseat. Power is more than sufficient and the CVT works great. i took it on a 1500 mile roundtrip to San Antonio and never was uncomfortable. And i am 63". All things considered, my next car will be an Altima again when the time comes.

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  Satisfied with my purchase! - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By monique - June 12 - 10:00 am

  as soon as i test drove the car, i fell in love, it runs so smooth, i could hardly notice the car was on.The drive is so smooth and easy.

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  Great, GREAT automobile. - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By Joev - June 11 - 8:43 am

  Have this vehicle 8 years, have never been back to dealer for anything. Oil changes, tire replacement, fan belt and brakes have been replaced. Thats it. Fuel economy 25+ on the road and about 20 in town. Thinking of selling but afraid what I get to replace it wont be as dependable. Overall in my opinion the Altima is the best value dollar for dollar among any car on the market today or ever.

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  Decent car, minor annoyances - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By ragged1234 - June 9 - 12:01 pm

  Bought my 2.5SL about a month ago and its my first Nissan after owning Toyotas and Hondas for the past 10 years. I feel the car is attractive (inside and out), smooth to drive, and has nice features such as blind-spot monitor, reads text out loud, back-up camera, Bose speakers, and very comfortable leather seats. Heavy traffic commuting=24 mpg. Two issues have annoyed me: 1) the high-pitched morse-code whine at low speeds resonating from the power-steering pump (that lots of other people also notice), and 2) a buzz from the engine @1500 rpm under light acceleration (also noticed by lots of other owners). Without these problems Id give the car 5/5 stars, but now feel it only gets 3/5 stars.

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  Excellent Sports Sedan - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By ___WORM - June 9 - 2:00 am

  This is a 2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE in a manual. The car is is jet black on the outside and charcoal inside. This is the best car both sedan or sports car that I have ever owned. It handles like a dream and is extremely fast. The 5 speed manual shifter is very smooth and is very fun to drive. Interior space is very spacious with lots of nice storage compartments including two huge copholders in the front as well as in the back and with a huge trunk. Drove a new Camry and Accord and discovered that if you really love cars and want a sharp looking car that really stands out and is fun to drive than get the Altima otherwise get something else.