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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  Quest - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Jeff Parris - November 5 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. I am 69" tall and weigh 260lbs. and I fit super comfortably in it. The car drives excellent, handles great, and is very peppy for a 4 cyl. I was extremely surprised by its ability to accelerate from a complete stop, as well as when I am doing 60 m.p.h. on the freeway, the ability to accelerate to 75-80m.p.h. I have recommended this car to several of my friends, and so far 2 have bought one, and they agree with my feeling about this wonderful economic big- little car. I am completely satisfied with my purchase, ABC Nissan, and Jim Meadows, who my sales person, and was wonderful to work with.

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  200k and going strong - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By MishaBella - November 4 - 7:52 am

  I bought this car used and have had it for the last 6 years. I havent been the best with maintenance on the car, and I think thats important to note. I regularly went 7-10k miles before an oil change. The car has over 200k miles and has had very few issues. Engine mounts have been replaced, ignition coil, rotors and wheel bearings... The only irritation Ive had is with the headlights. They have been replaced more than I would have expected and they get very cloudy. Otherwise this car is Ah maze ing! Amazing... My son and I took a road trip from Cali to Arizona and back (where it turned over 200k) and the car was completely reliable. We were comfortable and had fun driving fast and without caution to the age and mileage. The head unit and rear speakers were upgraded for current technology. My son is excited to have this car as a sophomore in college when I get a new one. We also own an Xterra... Oh should note the interior space is better than most midsize suv. Our family is much more comfy in the Altima then some suvs weve rented, way more space then the Xterra.

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  Accord to Altima - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By Pattiee - November 3 - 10:30 pm

  Overall a nice car. A bit disappointed in the gas mileage, as Im only averaging 27. The hardest part is the lack of initial pickup, compared to my Accord, its pretty bad and my Accord was a 4 cyl too. The other biggest complaint is the seat belt. It is too low on the frame and impedes across the shoulder too much.

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  Perfect Ride - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By John - November 3 - 9:43 pm

  Fun, fast and red hot. Perfect fit for the family and a very good performer for me when driving alone.

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  yt - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By ghkj - November 2 - 2:00 am

  Excellent car. Highly recommended.

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  Engineering at its best - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By Chris Savarino - November 1 - 9:02 pm

  The performance vs MPG is unsurpassed especially given the fact that it is only a 4 cylinder. Typically exceed the 39 MPG for highway driving all on regular unleaded. This car moves. No issues whatsoever when merging onto highway or passing. The CVT always makes sure there is plenty of torque either from a dead stop or highway speeds. The new styling makes it look like a mini Maxima. Love this vehicle. One of the better navigation systems I have owned. Simple to use and usually right on the mark. Bose sound system is amazing and pounds when you turn up the dial without distortion. Heated seats and steering wheel are features found on more expensive vehicles.

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  Performance and Luxury all in one - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By John Newmark - October 30 - 1:56 am

  The new Altima is completely redesigned and looks better than ever. Although a little shorter in length the horsepower is 270 and faster than most midsize sedans with its CVT transmission. The navigation system is touch screen and the intelligent key and push start are just a few of the luxury features.

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  Good car - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By RICH - October 29 - 1:46 pm

  Had no issues with mine except like alot of other people, had to change the front rotors. Other than that and new tires, no problems

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  I overall like my car - 2012 Nissan Altima
  By Shaquille - October 29 - 1:10 am

  I think the car kind of depends on where you get your car from. If you get it from a crappy dealer who has like 3 or 4 owners then i wouldnt get it. I got my car at 62k (it was a rental, Igot it from Hertz car sales.) I am not at 85k and all I chaaged was wheel barons and oil changes on the regular. I drive about 300-380 miles a week thats just a guess. I drive alot and i love this car, I have no complaints. I love acceleration, push start and keyless entry. Great features for a a weaker model i fill up my tank on sunday and i dont fill up again until friday....... So the gas mileage is good to me, its roomy and i have great trunk space. This is a great car for young adults..

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  Altima - 2000 Nissan Altima
  By J - October 24 - 7:06 pm

  I purchased my Altima in 2001. . . It is a very reliable car and does not require very much to maintain the car other than oil changes and fluids. The Altima has more horsepower than the 2000 honda civic, 2000 toyota coralla or 2000 hyundai elantra. The other brands command a premium price with options standard on the Altima and for less with the exception of the newer models of the hyundai elantra being the better cost and warranty.