2002 Nissan Altima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
394 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The all-new third-generation 2002 Altima represents a total revision and rethinking of Nissan's midsize sedan -- it brings a level of design and performance that currently does not exist in its class. With a choice of a 240-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 or 175-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and an all-new four-wheel independent suspension, the Altima offers spirit with state-of-the-art technology. An aggressive new exterior design with increases in all major dimensions and a driver-oriented interior with myriad convenience and luxury features set the Altima apart in the highly competitive sedan marketplace.

Pros:
  • Sports car power in a midsize sedan body, high level of features, distinct new shape.
Cons:
  • All-new design could mean first-year teething problems and dealer mark-up.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 394.00
  • Great Car - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Had my Silver 3.5SE for a week now. I am in love! It is fast, yet smooth and seats four very comfortably even with the front seats all the way back. Many people have complained about the cheap, plastic interior. I on the other hand think it looks fine. If you look at other vehicles in the price range there isnt much out there that is any better. The V6 even gets pretty good gas milage for the power you get out of it!

  • So far, So good - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    My 2002 Nissan Altima is the first new car that I have purchased since 1985. It is the first car I have purchased at all since 1990 (have had an SUV until now). It is fun to drive and has decent interior roomm though interior has too much plastic (cheap feel). The amber backlight of the controls can disappear if the sunlight is in the right spot.

  • would i buy another nissan? - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Love the looks and performance from the 4 cyl. Car is a little larger than i like.It feels lite on its feet. The interior is nice but could use a little sprucing up. Alot of car for the money and gas mileage is pretty decent. It handles well for its size. When i bought it I compared it to the accord and camry. It had both beat in looks and performance. It just looked like a much more expensive car.

  • Loaded 2002 Altima 2.5SL - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    With the 2.5SL Altima loaded, I felt I made the best purchase of my life. No Regrets at all. Compared to Honda and Toyota, its was a quick decision. And specially, compared to the Euro-cars, its a no brainer. This is not what we call "you get what youve paid for", but more of "you get a lot more that what youve paid for" situation. More power and better looking styling than most car in its class. I had the sporty-looking sheer silver color with all black interior dash and black leather seats....and just imagine.......what a classy sport sedan. I feel this car can stand right beside the best of them, BMW 3series, Audi and VW, when it comes to overall VALUE.

  • Just bought my new Altima... - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Ive driven Toyotas exclusively since the age of 16, but instead of another Camry, I bought the Altima this time, and FOR LESS MONEY. I have to say, originally, I wanted it because of the way this car looks. It is super- super. You know? But as far as the nuts and bolts, I find the 4 cyl to be PLENTY zippy, especially over 3500 RPMs when it really kicks in. Im not wild about the placement of the air vents in the severely slanted dash - too far from my face. But other than that, the interior and exterior of this car are wonderful. That BOSE stereo also makes my rearview mirror vibrate some, but who can really complain about that?

  • great value - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I have 3000 miles on my Altima SE now and have found it to be as much fun to drive today as it was when I first test drove it. I had money down on a Passat GLX V6, but decided to test drive the SE and never looked back. I should also add that I replaced a 2000 Accord EX for the new Altima and am very happy with the new car.

  • Already having problems - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I loved my 2002 Altima when I first bought it in June. It was fun to drive and a lot faster than my old car even though it is just a 4-cylander. But now, only 4 months later, I am having transmission problems, the center console is really difficult (the compartments are very hard to open and the arm rest doesn’t stick into place). Besides that, I find the Altima roomy and comfortable. The back doors open wider than the average car and are very easy to get out of.

  • With proper maintenance, a good car - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I bought my 02 Altima from the original owner with 112k and it now has about 164k. Overall, it has been a good car with reliability that is comparable to Honda cars Ive had. Apparently, there was a problem with the catalytic converter for the first couple of years of this version of the Altima but the first owners mechanic had the foresight to swap it out and there has been no problems at all. The performance is great and so is the fuel mileage- I get close to 30 mpg on the freeway.For me, it has just been regular oil changes so I am pretty happy.

  • My 3rd Altima and I love it!!! - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I cant believe what I have read, in that the Altima isnt a reliable car?!! I started out with a 1996 (which had over 150,000 miles on it when I traded it), then a 2000 (which I still have) and now my 200404! I travel 23 miles one way to work, to the store, etc etc. I just put Blizzaks on it.I love it!! I wouldnt buy any other car.

  • Cute and Reliable - 2002 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I bought this car new because I loved the sporty look and the horsepower on the 4 cyl. I still have it and it still runs awesome. At first I took it back the dealer because of a couple of recalls but since then have only had to do routine maintenance. Its the perfect car for a single mom with lots of room, options like auto head lights, temp and trip computer and is really comfortable. Car seats fits snug and securely in the back with plenty of room for a passenger. The trunk is huge and fits two strollers plus over night bags.

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