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 have now had 2 Altimas, Great Car, Great Value! - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By JD - December 18 - 7:20 am

  I guess that I take what others say with a huge grain of salt. Having owned 2 Altimas (and my parents have owned 3) I can say that they are great cars and weve never truly had any issues. In fact, my mother swears by them as she has been rear-ended 2 times in her vehicles and walked away with no issues. I have owned Toyotas and can never get truly comfortable in their cars--but Nissan/Infiniti, I can always find a comfortable driving position. My wife owned an Accord, and after purchasing her Nissan Rogue and riding in my Altima, she will never go back to Honda again. I am truly impressed by the midyear refreshes on this 2016b Altima SL. I am glad they finally upgraded the headlights, and the navigation is MUCH better than my last model. The voice interactive software actually works better with the iPhone as well and you can access Siri through the voice controls. Even the SiriusXM interface is upgraded. AND...finally the Altima has phone control remote...the NISSAN CONNECT is ACTUALLY USEFUL this time around.

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  2003 2.5 4 cylinder Altima - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By bclark_1 - December 18 - 3:36 am

  This is the worst vehicle I have ever owned. I feel I got scammed. The engine used oil from the day I bought it, with only 33,000 miles. The massive oil consumption only got worse. I took it to the garage and was told the catylatic converter had fell apart and went into the engine causing it to destroy the engine. I was informed this is a common problem with this vehicle, due to the recall on the sensor that causes this to happen. Obviously this is a factory defect. I contacted Nissan to make them aware of my problem and received no reply. Be aware of this problem.

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  2015 Nissan Altima 2.5 S - 2015 Nissan Altima
  By Nigil Ramotar - December 17 - 11:16 am

  I have owned my Altima for just under 2 years. Bought new. It is a great car, and good value IF you are someone who holds on to cars for a long time (6+ years). The car has 25,000 miles now and I havent had any mechanical or electrical problems with the car. Only 1 recall so far (hood latch). My Nissan dealer gave me 3 years free maintenance when purchased, so I have spent very little on maintenance costs so far. The car drives well, it is a more sporty drive than an Accord or Camry, but doesnt feel as "refined" as the Accord. The best thing about the interior are the front seats, they are very comfortable. Great gas mileage, I do about 90% city 10% and average 31 mpg in summer, 29 mpg in winter. A month after I purchased the car, we took it on a 3,000 mile road trip (Chicago>Orlando>New Orleans>Chicago), for the entire trip we averaged 66 mph, including stopping, in-town driving, etc. and averaged 39.2 mpg (650+ miles/tank of gas), also got the car up to 100 mph and I must say it was fairly easy for this 2.5 engine. The CVT transmission takes some getting used to if you have not drvien a car with CVT before, but you will realize that the car is simply doing what its supposed to do. CVT is the future of the automatic transmission, and the CVT on this generation Altima is much better than the previous gen (my last car was a 2012 Altima). The only negative I have about this car is the resale value is very poor, especially when compared with the Accord and Camry. I wouldnt buy this car new, but look for one that is 2-3 years old. Still highly recommended.

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  Altima CVT Transmission Problems - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Oblique - December 16 - 2:16 pm

  Ironically what attracted me to the Altima besides its styling was the CVT (Continuously Varible Transmission) which is a new style automatic with a belt inside instead of gears. It is smooth but not reliable or durable. After just 55,000 miles the transmission began to act up on warmer days especially in stop and go traffic. The dealer just said, "oh that cant happen. They reset the check engine light and charged me to replace the fluid (60K service) and the very next week it got worse, check engine light on all the time. They spent 5 hours telling me a new transmission would be covered under the extended warranty. I am trading this troubled CVT Altima in on a HONDA Accord! CYA, CVT!

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  Nissans Brilliance Evident in 07 Altima - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Nick - December 16 - 11:56 am

  I purchased my 3.5 Altima SE in mid November 2006. So far, I have to say that it has exceeded my expectations in nearly every aspect. The ride is incredibly smooth yet sporty. Also, theres a reason this 3.5 liter has been on the "10 Best" list for years now. I test drove the G6, Camry, and Accord before making my decision. All are fine cars, but the Altima is the total package!

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  Nissan Altima 2.5SL - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By mrt - December 15 - 10:00 am

  Great car overall. Great value. One warranty repair 1st year.

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  Good in concept, mediocre in execution - 2012 Nissan Altima
  By ssbrookhaven65 - December 15 - 9:27 am

  The Altima 2.5S is, in my opinion and experience, not worth the price. You can purchase much more for your money by purchasing an Accord, Fusion, or a Mazda 6. I had purchased the Altima brand new for 24,500. For a few grand more, I couldve had a fully loaded Accord Coupe with blue tooth, navigation, and a rear back-up camera. My Altima has no premium options that are available on cars even a few years older than it (such as my former 2007 Honda Accord EX-L). The 2.5S produces adequate torque for normal acceleration. I have timed my Altima from 0-60 in the 7.2-8.1 range on various occasions. My gas mileage figures do not come close to the quoted EPA estimates. I only average 21 MGP overall.

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  09 Altima 2.5 with Navigation - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By Dan - December 13 - 9:56 pm

  You get your moneys worth! The 2.5 with navigation has many high end features of luxury brands without the price. I traded in an 07 Audi A4 which had more torque and better cornering but the Altima has a lot more to offer for the price and looks just as sporty. The navigation system with integrated Bluetooth and Bose stereo is great. The fog lights and rear spoiler make the car more sporty. The CVT is great but the engine can be loud when you accelerate quickly. Push button start is a cool and convenient feature. Im happy with my purchase and got a fantastic lease payment!

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  Very Disappointed - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By jcald - December 10 - 4:23 am

  At around 30,000 miles, the transmission went out. No warning at all. I tried to start it, it jumped forward and died. Nissan had to bring a wrecker. They replaced the transmission, but now I think it is going bad again. I have around 45,000 miles on it and 2 days ago, it started getting really loud, almost like an ATV. When I let off the gas, it still roars loudly. The engine has always been very loud and it has gotten worse with time. It has always jerked when taking off and it smells flooded when you start it. Last winter it would only start if I pumped the gas. Id crash the stupid thing if I didnt think Id get hurt! My opinion of Nissan is not good anymore.

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  Ultimate Altima - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By casexxman - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car for my wife but I have fell in love with it myself. What a gutsy, responsive vehicle that is very pleasing to the eye! I really enjoy driving this car. The V6 is so powerful that you better hold on when you dump the gas.