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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  Glad we Leased - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By brownhoback - June 2 - 8:56 pm

  We got this vehicle a year ago on a lease. Loved the car. The heater display will not come on sometimes when you first turn it on, after about three miles down the road it turns on. We had to take it in and the dealership did the recall repair on the airbag, since then we have had to take the car in four more times because the no airbag light was coming on when there was someone in the passenger seat. Of course it didnt do either thing when we took it in (record it). A clip fell off the undercarriage. Now recently our keyless/remote system is not working properly. Weve had to use the key to get in and then button start it (the screen said no key), turn off and turn on again to drive it.

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  Need Help! A/C & Battery - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By Operational Problems - June 2 - 7:40 pm

  Getting foul smell from A/C. Have to open window its so bad. We leave air circulation on to dry out, but this does not help. Dealer suggested scented spray for $82 every 6 mos. Possibly mold & not good for health. Need help! Also, battery too weak for operational demands. Accidentally left push button on, battery dies within 30 minutes. Dealer will not provide more powerful battery for this high end model. Also, vents on dashboard reflect in windshield restricting your view.

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  Altima-Good Choice - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Ken - May 31 - 6:26 pm

  I use Edmnuds reviews all the time so I figured Id add a review on the car I own. I did the usual research on reliable, safe cars with good fuel mileage and although the Accord and Camry are good cars I just felt the Altima was as good and a lot better looking. The Mazda 6 was the only car I thought that had a look that could compete with the Altima but the 6 seemed more like a sport coupe and less like a sedan (which I understand many people like). Mechanically Ive had no problems with the car. Overall I am very pleased with my purchase, and judging by the number of Altimas I see on the road Im assuming others are too.

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  lacking quality that it should not be - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By amcunn - May 31 - 3:16 am

  I bought this car brand new in 2002. I have had issues with the quality of exterior since day one. I had excessive wind noise on the dirver side come to find window stripping done incorrectly and now the door creaks when opening & closing. Door to gas tank, the hinge bent and the door has never worked properly and the dealer could have cared less. Brakes began squealing around 20,000 and have not stopped despite changing brake pads. Very disappointed with the quality of my first Nissan and I will go back to Honda for my next car.

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  Fast, Fun Car - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By glotzbpa - May 30 - 1:06 pm

  I bought this car instead of a 350Z. Wanted something fun to drive that was practical. The engine is every bit as strong, and the suspension is nicely tuned.

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  Great value and performance - 2011 Nissan Altima
  By Ben - May 29 - 6:30 pm

  I purchased my 2011 Altima 2.5S Special Edition three and a half years ago with 12K miles on it. The vehicle now has just over 60K miles, and has been a great value. The only repairs to the vehicle are the issues with the exhaust welds and heat shield (common issues on 07-12 Altimas), but that was covered under warranty ($900ish otherwise). The car handles very well and is downright fun to drive! Great acceleration even for a 4 cylinder thanks to the CVT transmission. Average between 27-28 MPG mixed driving. The front seats arent terribly uncomfortable, but arent anything fantastic either. The sound system is quite good for a stock system. I replaced the stock head unit with a touchscreen Pioneer with Bluetooth and its a fantastic combo. Just had the 60K service completed, heres to another 60K miles!

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  Trouble Free - 1996 Nissan Altima
  By Sonny2003 - May 29 - 10:00 am

  Only oil, tires, brakes, fluids, etc in 85000 miles. Very solid second car. Not exciting, but very dependable

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  Happy New Owner - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Deacon Fan - May 28 - 8:23 pm

  As a former sports car owner who now has a wife and a family, I love driving this car (05 SE V-6 5 sp) Unbeatable engine performance for the money, combined with lots of interior space. Ive looked at Altimas ever since the 2002 redesign, and have test driven 2002 and 2003 models before. The 2005 model is an improvement in refinement and interior materials quality. 5 Speed manual shifter much smoother than in previous models. Having driven competitor vehicles, I prefer the Altima over: a) the Mazda 6 due to interior space and road noise b) Toyota Camry and Honda Accord due to the Altima having "more soul." Excellent choice if you want a good mix of performance, value, and family space.

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  3rd Altima and the Best - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By flightnurse - May 27 - 6:12 pm

  As the title says, this is our 3rd Altima and by far the best. We have 3400 miles on the car and have taken a trip in the car and are still amazed on the overall design, and comfort this car has. The MPG has been stealer, combined we are averaging 33, and on our trip to California we got 38 on the highway. No trips to the dealer and no mechanical problems.

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  Reliability at its best - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By SDC - May 27 - 12:36 pm

  This has been a great car at currently 130,000 miles. It has excellent power for a 4 cylinder. My only problem was the alternator needed replaced twice. No big issue and overall inexpensive to maintain. From what I have been hearing about newer cars and $$$ repairs, I cannot complain. Handles great on the highway. I made several 1,000 mile trips with no problems. For anyone that needs an inexpensive used car to get around in this economy, I would highly recommend this one. Because of the reliability, I am not even tempted to buy a new car yet.