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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  Holy Smokes - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Eric v - September 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive put 5k on this car in about 2 months and love it more everyday. Great balance of power and economy. I drive about 45 miles to work each way with about 25 of it highway and the car constantly gets 27mpg or more. Not bad for 240 hp. Interior is not nearly as bad a people say. It is different but most importantly it is tight, no rattles nothing so far. Cupholders could hold a small child, or at least a 32 gatorade bottle, brakes are great as Ive already missed a deer thanks to them. Other note, states it needs premium fuel, runs on (89) no difference in milage or pickup and it does not ping. I HIGHLY recommend this car.

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  The 07 Altima is Amazing - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By GS Browning - September 7 - 3:10 am

  This is my third Nissan Altima, and once again, I am another satisfied customer! The new 07s continuous transmission is truly a different experience...no waiting to shift. The 4 cylinders gas mileage is unbelievable, out performing the prior models, and this car also has less road noise. The car handles and drives with class and style.

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  Mileage - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By wayne - September 6 - 7:43 pm

  Just returned from a vacation. Got 29.5 mpg at 65 mph interstate driving w/cruise on, level terrain. Very satisfied with fuel economy. Exceptional performance w/93 octane. Runs fine on 87. For 20 cents per gallon more, Ill stick to the higher as recommended by Nissan.

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  My 4th Nissan - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By M I - September 5 - 1:06 am

  Having owned a 1984 Stanza, 1992 Stanza and 1997 Infiniti, this new Altima has not disappointed. Ride comfort and handling are excellent and the 4 cyl accelerates like a 6 cyl. Looking forward to the reliability and the cheap insurance price.

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  I Love This Car! - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By papillion - September 4 - 10:00 am

  I went to the dealership looking for a new car. I thought I would get one that was a year or two old, maybe a Sentra. I thought what the heck, lets go ahead the test drive the new Altima, and I really liked it. There is a ton of room, it looks cool, and it is fun to drive. I would recommend the Altima to anyone looking to buy a new car!

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  Nissan Altima 2.5SL w/Nav - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By Dave22 - September 4 - 4:03 am

  I looked at Accords, Acura TSX, Mazda 6, and even a used Lexus ES 350. Hands down for the money I feel like I couldnt find a better car. I ended up leasing a brand new 09 Altima 2.5 SL w/nav. Has all the features of high end vehicles w/o the price tag. If your looking for a smooth looking car with great features this is a hard one to beat!

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  Test Drive at Nite A Must! - 2012 Nissan Altima
  By Sarah - September 4 - 1:20 am

  In all the cars Ive owned, never would I have thought to test-drive at nite to check the visibility in a car for the headlights. Wish I wouldve. As much as I like my 2013 Altima, the headlights suck! Like one of the reviews, you really cant see past 100-150 feet ahead of you and going faster than 60mph....is tough when youre not familiar with the roads unless you are following someone! Im looking into purchasing road lamps. That should help, but its ridiculous! Dont buy this car or any until you test-drive at nite. And the car was steering and pulling like when youre on the frwy in those grooves....even when youre not. Talk about increasing the play of the traction/steering when youre in the rain on the freeway! No time to relax and drive.....had to take the car into Mossy for them to repair and they couldnt figure it out and Temecula Nissan was able to correct the issue. Dont ask what it was as I forget sadly but Im sure the mister remembers. Each car is like a kid, even tho they come from the same parents just like twins, they are all different so be sure to test drive the car you want to buy before buying and test drive at nite too on a road/frwy you arent familiar with and read the reviews. Youd swear the poor visibility of my headlights was due to the plastic cover being 10 years old and needs polishing but thats NOT the case. Good luck and hopefully Nissan will read these reports and no that there is a valid and legitamate issue with these headlights! Otherwise, yes I like my car!

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  Best decision ever!! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By kc1987 - September 3 - 11:33 pm

  I love the new 08 Altima, I shopped around between an accord, camry, malibu, and even a 3 series and still loved the altima more! This car wont let you down. When you need the power to pass in a short passing zone, all it takes is a little bit more pressure on the gas pedal and your gone. The CVT is way more favorable than I expected, although the engine is a bit more noticeable. Comfy cloth seats with microfiber trim, but everything does stick to the microfiber.

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  Its a little zippy - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By johnski - September 2 - 5:10 am

  Overall Im very pleased with my 2007 Altima purchase. I went with a fully loaded 3.5 SE with navigation and everything. About the only gripe I have at this point with the car is how they disable some of the navigation / radio features when the car is moving and how there is not yet an iPod adapter available. The bose system is less than impressive but what do you expect. -=(

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  Poor fuel mileage - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By bill - September 1 - 8:33 am

  The window sticker says 23-33 mpg, the mpg gauge on the dash says 32 mpg highway and 23 mpg city, but in actuality it only gets 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. These tests were done under very controlled fill up and driving conditions (I was an engineering technician with GM Research Labs). Our 4cyl Camry did much better than this. We bought the Altima because it was a little smaller than the Camry and thought it would get better mileage. Consumer reports gives the 4cyl Altima 18 mpg city. Feel like we were scammed.