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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  Amazing vehicle - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By TDFull - May 2 - 3:20 am

  Flies down the road like a dream. Looks far better than Camry or Accord. The engine is powerful, and the interior space is fantastic.

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  Went from Sonata to Altima - 2014 Nissan Altima
  By topcontender - April 30 - 4:23 pm

  Admittedly, Im kind of a "car nut". I traded my 2011 Sonata Limited after 4 years, its a good car with lots of features but the ride was a little hard on bumpy roads. So I bought the 2014 Altima SL (4 cyc). Very Nice looking car with a well thought out interior, spacious and super comfortable. The ride is smooth and quiet and takes bumpy surfaces really well (as well as my wifes Lexus 350). The car handles well and does get impressive gas milage. The 4 cyc is peppy and provides all the power a driver really needs. This is a beautiful car.

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  What a fine car - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By new2Nissan - April 30 - 10:00 am

  Tested the Accord V6, Camry XLE, and Altima. Although the Camry got the nod in the fit, finish and overall comfort, it was no contest in the performance test. (Accord was close, and it does have XFM.) Having driven the Altima for about three weeks now only confirms the choice. It is a blast to drive. Solid on the interstate, in the city, and winding roads (CO 93 from Boulder to Golden). My wife absolutely loves it; she cant believe the performance and handling. It has instant power all throughout the range. The seats are really comfortable and I just cant believe the amount of interior space. The front passenger area is especially cavernous. What a fine car!

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  Great so far - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By Patrick Dolan - April 29 - 9:27 pm

  This is my 4th Altima. I drive them for 8-9 years and then buy a new one. Ive only had my 2016 for a month but so far it is the best by far. My only complaint is the USB port wont work with my iPhone. Nissan says it will be corrected and is due to an upgrade to the IOS by Apple. Not sure why that would happen if they had good programmers but as long as it is corrected soon its not a big issue to me.

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  great car, too bad has been redisigned - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By florian - April 28 - 8:26 am

  I got my 99 GXE altima in 2002 with 32000 on it. Changed tires and brakes right after that. aside from regular oil changes there are no cost of use. Great car overall. it now has 70,000 miles and I havent changed a thing. Just put some snow tires on it for these MA winters. It drives great during summer and handels the winter(especially now) like a 4wd car. recommanded to anyone

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  Good to Go! - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By stinglover - April 27 - 12:06 pm

  Love it. Ride is smooth and quiet. Very roomy interior. Has a very high priced car look, is great to drive. I always had a Honda-went for a change. Much nicer to drive, though the side mirors are too small and driver seat could be more comfortable.

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  Amazing value in a mid-level sedan - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Louis P. - April 25 - 7:54 pm

  I purchased a used 2013 from a Nissan dealer with 14K miles on it in October 2014 and now have 28k miles on it. I rarely buy new cars and research extensively before buying a used one. To explain my reasons for purchase, heres a little background. Im 59 and retired with a spouse, no kids and no mortgage. Ive been accused of being a tightwad, which is not altogether true, I am generous when I give my money away, but not when I spend it. I own a 10 year old Toyota Tundra (probably the best vehicle Ive ever owned). I also had a 1988 Alfa Romero Quadrifoglio for around town driving that I spent more time under than in it. When the Tundra turned 100k miles, I decided I had to let the Alfa go and get something more reliable for road trips and save some miles on the truck (and gas $). I set my limit at $20k for a late model used car with low miles and started looking. And since this was going to be my road-trip car, I wanted great MPG. I quickly found out the premium models (Lexus, Acura, etc.) didnt meet my criteria. I test drove Sonatas, Accords & Civics (2 & 4 door), an Optima, Mazda 3 & 6, Ford Fusion, Volkswagen CC, and several Altimas. After our last buying experience at my local Honda dealer, I swore I would never buy another Honda or go back in there. But after driving a 2014 Accord coupe at another dealer, I was kicking myself- it was definitely my favorite but a little out of my set price range ($4k). The money really wasnt the issue, its just that its not worth the extra money I would end up spending, which would end up being a difference of $7k. The same was true of the Altima coupes but not as great a difference in price, but still more than the sedan- and the selection wasnt as good. The Optima was nice, but after a weekend test drive, the MPG was not what I expected. As luck would have it, I sold my Alfa the day I listed it and found a great deal on an internet ad in Charleston for a 2013 Altima the same day. I drove up the next day, test drove it, paid for it, and they delivered it (125 miles) the next day. The review: I was apprehensive before my purchase. Consumer Reports had the 2013 Altima on their used car Do Not Purchase list and a lot of reviews had me leery of the CVT. While reviews are helpful, negative feedback tends to surface faster and more frequently, and I understand why- there is not a manufacturer that hasnt produced lemons. I look for constructive consumer reviewers that are not pi$$ed when they write them. The professional reviews are not much better, they tend to favor instant gratification like performance and excitement over longevity or real-life, day-to-day ownership, thats their job. But I doubt they ever had to stick out their thumb and bum a ride when that Jaguar broke down on the test track! I hate to inform them, but the ho-hum cars they knock around define the bell curve of all purchases. But even Edmunds rates this car a C, what was I thinking? Fast forward about 18 months and I cant say enough good things about this car. I have the SL package and it has more options than cars costing $5k more. The MPG is excellent, although the computer variation can be up to 2 mpg off my calculations when I fill up. Regardless, I average 33-35 mpg around town (where I average about 25-35 mph). I have exceeded 40 mpg on the highway but over 70 mph its around 38 mpg. The car is quiet, the ride very smooth, and I dont have a problem with the CVT or the way it doesnt shift! It may bog down and whine for others, but apparently this baby was built for my snail-like reflexes and acceleration. Which may explain my mpg this last 14k miles. The entertainment system works flawlessly, normally the first thing I do is yank out the factory radio and replace it along with the speakers. It lacks a bit on the bass but sounds good enough where I didnt feel the need to replace it. And it sounds even better using a thumb-drive plugged into the USB port. The Bluetooth links quickly, works great on calls and streaming, and I love the text access via voice command. I only have one complaint here, it would be nice if you could send a voice-to-text message instead of just the pre-programmed text messages. The info screen between the gauges is handy but can distracting. At least Nissan got it right by putting the actual psi for each tire on the display, and its accurate. I wish Honda would take note of this. The headlights are spectacular, much brighter than the Silverstar Ultras in my truck. The interior is comfortable, plenty of back-seat space. The drivers seat is comfortable enough around town but fatigues you on long drives. My only real gripe is the piano-gloss finish on dash/console. It scratches easily and shows smudges. The trunk is huge but I needed to add a LED panel in place of the bulb. And the plastic bag hangers that flip out are useless, too low. Apparently space is limited here so Ill end with- overall, Im highly satisfied and havent had one problem.

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  Cant beat it for the money! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Fountainofknowledge - April 25 - 10:00 am

  As I read the reviews you cant help to see people complaining! If you want a perfect car go spend $60k. Youll still have problems. For the money you cannot beat this car. Great power. I had a 6cyl Xterra that had the same 170 hp that this 4cyl Altima has. I have 38,000 miles on this car and I have not had one problem. I have put gas and oil in, that is all. There are some improvements to be made but hey, it didnt require a second mortgage to buy either. Cant have your cake and eat it too. Gas mileage could improve a bit however it really is a good size vehicle. Usually the bigger they are the more gas they eat.

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  Great Choice - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Jetfan 16 - April 25 - 10:00 am

  Thank god I didnt get the 2.5S that I left a $1000 deposit. I slept on it and realized that I really wanted the 3.5SE. Well, that was a very important decision. Got the 2005 3.5 SE with Sports Pkg Plus (everything except leather & navigation). Car is amazing. The triponic tranny is cool and smooth. Got the super black color and it will look even sharper with tinted windows.

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  Great midsize - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By RSimeone - April 25 - 10:00 am

  Just bought the 3.5sl and couldnt be happier. Interior quality and comfort.Exterior beautiful. Unbeleivable V6 power and handling.Bose radio a blast. Overall a great car with more than enough room inside. Seems so much bigger that a midsize. Dont usually like 4 dr.but this is a beauty.