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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  Its not a G35! - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Farhad - August 16 - 9:20 am

  This is my 8th Nissan. I have had Sentras, Maximas, 350z and my last car, Nissan Murano which I traded with this car and I regret it. I have had this car for over a year and most disappointing is the interior. Very poor quality and cheap materials. Have you seen the interior of Hyundais? Much better quality. I had the car in at the dealership several times to fix squeaking sound caused by moonroof. The dashboard squeaks on rough roads, the back part of headliner is coming apart and passenger seat belt rattles occasionally, tires are lousy on snow and so is the fat wiper blades. The exterior and performance and all the gadgets are great. I have the fully loaded version.

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  Very Dependable - 1996 Nissan Altima
  By Rioo - August 15 - 2:00 am

  I leased this car for 3 years. I tested both auto and stick. Let me tell you they are very different. The 5 speed is much quiter and pull quicker. To be honest, it was a leased car so I didnt bother to change the oil or get it tuned up on schedule. I might have 4 oil and 1 set of sparkplugs changed in those 3 years... and it just runs and runs without even a single problem!

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  Awesome Altima 2.5 SL - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By Isend2C - August 14 - 6:43 pm

  The first day I got my car we took it to Montreal for a weekend and did it all on on tank of gas from Central NH, there and back. Its comfortable and peppy. 175 hp is plenty, even if you can get another 75 in this car. it rides very smoothly. Mine has a Bose system, leather, moon roof and everything except the navigation system. The stereo is wonderful and everybody is jealous of it. I have just registered my car so it is still new to me, so for reliability I cannot testify. I got my car for $15K and it came with a tully rack that was very loud and ugly, which I took off quickly. My car was in a crash before I got it but it was repaired perfectly, which may be why I got it at a good price

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  4 cylinder with spunk - 2016 Nissan Altima
  By Venice Smith - August 14 - 12:38 pm

  I love this car. It is the perfect size, even the back seat is adequate, certainly for shorter rides. It has a much smoother ride than I expected, particularly since I came from a Lincoln Town car. Great mileage, and a nice big gas tank mean a great range before having to stop. Only real criticism as to do with the cheap plastic in the interior that I know will degrade, wear or crack with time and use, specifically the door storage slots. These were not made to be durable.

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  Love Love Love this car! - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By Nikki - August 14 - 10:50 am

  What more can I say. I love this car! Its a lot of fun to drive and I just love to look at it lol. Its so sporty looking with the size and features of a family sedan. The ride is amazing. Thought with the CVT would be hard to get used to but it wasnt. What a smooth ride! The bluetooth feature is a little to get used to but at the same time it is a huge convenience. Not needing a key to open the doors has made my life so much easier! If my husband is driving and hes taking too long to open the door I dont have to wait anymore because my key is always in my purse so I let myself in! Technology is amazing! And so is this car! Luxury without the expense! You cant beat it!

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  Impeccable - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By kim_nickwel - August 14 - 10:00 am

  Best car to date.The value of this car needs to be increase.

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  MPG hoax? - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By dml817 - August 12 - 8:36 am

  As I drive all highways to and from work, I thought the MPG rating made this Altima the perfect choice. Rated at 38mpg highway, I figured worse case Id get mid 30s. Ive had the car since October and have yet to break 30, in fact I average 27 mpg. Highway. Dealer told me "you need to drive it 12,000 miles before getting that high". Really? A full year of driving? I dont think so. They also could not hear the interior rattling sound that I heard driving in, and driving out. Rattling coming from the inside of the panel between the drivers door and back door. All in all, I do love driving the car. Comfortable with good acceleration (4 cylinder). Fix the mpg and it would be perfect.

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  GREAT car!! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By Stacie P - August 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my car for nearly a year now, and I adore it! Its very sturdy and reliable. I havent had any problems with it AT ALL. Its a great car at a great price.

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  Living Large and Moving Down the Road - 2015 Nissan Altima
  By Walter L Russell - August 10 - 12:40 am

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  Fantastic Travel Car - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By Don Douglas - August 9 - 4:33 am

  We wanted a vehicle which offered comfort first and economy second for our retirement travels. Our 2009 Altima has exceeded expectations. It is as comfortable on the open road as our 2003 Tahoe and gets 32 mpg at and 5 mph above speed limits with AC on. Also pleasantly surprised with 29 mph around town. Has sufficient power to climb I70 from Denver into the Rockies with ease. Bought the Altima after extensive comparisons to the Camry, Accord and Hyundai Sonata. Altima won for riding comfort and power in the 4- cylinder group. Cannot be more pleased with our selection and would recommend this car to anyone.