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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  Absolutely worry free - 1999 Nissan Altima
  By titan - April 11 - 10:00 am

  I have not had a single problem with this car and it now has 95,000 miles. No rattles, shakes, overheating, etc. Interior has held up better than any car I have had. For the type of car it is it couldnt be better.

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  On To My Next One... - 2015 Nissan Altima
  By caliguy1 - April 6 - 8:23 am

  I had a 2013 Altima 3.5 SL and it was a great car!! I never experienced a problem with it....perfect for over 24k miles. My lease was up and I turned it in for a 2015, black with beige and practically identical to my 2013. No other car in the Altimas category can compete with the Altimas driving experience. I drove an Accord (plastic feeling dash board), Passat (engine noise), Malibu and a Camry (both ho-hum). The Altima is at the top of the fun factor guage! Ive gotten so used to the CVT that driving a standard transmission bugs me. And, no other car company can compete with Nissans incentives, they make buying a Altima easy-breezy!

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  Solid Car - 1997 Nissan Altima
  By Cabanna - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Altima used in 2001 with 51,000 miles and I havent had any major problems with it since besides normal upkeep and wear and tear. Im satisfied with this car for the most part. My complaint is that the Altima does shift a little hard. I took it to the mechanic and he told me that the transmission was okay though and that this version of the Altima tends to do that. The other thing I noticed is the brakes squeel when the car hasnt ran for a while, but as soon as the car warms up the squeeling stops. I did have this problem looked at as well and I was told this was okay for now.

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  Very Solid, Reliable Automobile - 2000 Nissan Altima
  By M.P. Adams - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Probably one of the best automobiles I have ever owned. It may be a bit bland for some, but if you value reliability and comfort then this is the right car for you. So far, I have had minor problems with the electrical components(passenger power window not working, keyless entry system not working) all covered under warranty, but other than that I have been overly satisfied with my Altima, they really given it a V6 option though.

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  Awsome Car !!!! 2004 the BEST!! - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By FSERRANO - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I just got this car yesterday and so far I love it. I got the 4 Cyl. w/leather equipped. Its really nice and slick. The seating is much more comfortable than the 2003 model and it seems a little wider for some reason. I got it for $23,000 flat price with all the good options, well for the most part, I think its a great buy for the money!

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  Lemon - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By davidp - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Two months into the second year of ownership, the car started to burn oil. Nissan replaced the engine block. Next, the clutch would not disengage. The car went to the shop and Nissan adjusted the clutch. This helped for about one month. Next, the car stranded my wife on the side of the interstate. Dealership towed the vehicle to their shop. They then replaced the Clutch master cylinder and seals. Now you can feel the bearings grinding through the clutch pedal. Today, the dealership will get the car back for more work. This car has been driven more by Nissan than by me or my wife. I intend on asking Nissan to replace the whole car.

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  Wheres the oil going? - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By haschal vaughan - April 5 - 12:00 am

  Was alerted shortly after purchase that the car had a heavy oil consumption by Nissan. I personally think they knew all along. Was told to keep receipts for reimbursement. (on oil) Wish i had known would have purchased a Honda ! They say they will come up possibly in 60 days with a fix. I dont have the slightest idea where the oil is going i checked underneath and tail pipes. I am a very dissatisfied customer! i have just 500 miles on it and already the oil level has dropped a little.

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  Do not Buy !! - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Big T - April 4 - 7:23 pm

  Got mine used and already replaced the cataytic converter for $500. Plus the car burns oil. Just a poor job by nissan. Wouldnt advise anyone to buy one.

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  4 vs 6 - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By James - April 3 - 9:30 pm

  When I test drove the 2.5L/4 I found the vehicle nimble and quick at low speeds but requiring some time to wind-up at faster speeds in order to pass/merge. The 3.5L/6 on the other hand was like a rocket that I had to keep tied down. It was almost annoying driving in the city because the bloody car just wanted to blast off! It absolutely hated stop and go traffic and red lights! The 3.5L was a noticably heavier vehicle and had a lot of brake lurch. Again, the 3.5L hated stop and go traffic but on the highway it was a dream. Too bad the car drank so much gas! I opted for the 2.5L because of this plus the $6000 less in price. No seat issues.

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  Buy the 3.5 engine 2.5 problem - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Mike - April 3 - 4:40 am

  Buy the 3.5 engine. The 2.5 has a screw that falls into the engine block and they will have to replace your engine. This is a problem Nissan knows about. Thats why they have increased the warranty on that engine. Buy Nissan but get the 3.5 engine. The fuel cost difference is little. Great car but if I knew then what I know now I would have bought the 3.5 engine. The catalytic converter recall is because of that screw. No other problems with the car except the engine and oil the engine eats. I have 60,000 miles on mine and only replaced the tires and brakes. Check the oil often because it eats oil. Make sure they add 4.5qts of oil and not just 4qts. Check oil every 1500 miles.