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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  My obsession - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By MIchelle - June 17 - 10:00 am

  I am a college student and I firsat laid eyes on this car in 2002 when my friend convinced his mother to buy it as her new car. Ever since, I have been in love!!!! Juat watching him make a U turn in that car made me say DAMN!! Now this year I got my license and the first thing I did was rent the car for a week. That week turned into a month!!! The only reason I gave it back is because like I said I am a college student and plus I was mainly driving it to keep up my driving since I had to drive in Miami for vacation. Anyway the car is ridiculously sexy for one. It is definetely a head turner and just plain sexy.

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  After considerable research - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By davidsonhh - June 17 - 1:46 am

  After driving a Lexus GS 300 for 268k miles with very few problems, it was difficult not to be loyal to Toyota. However, the new 2013 Altima is special. The dealership gave me the 2.5 to drive for a day and a half. Unfortunately it had neither the quickness or engine smoothness I had been living with ijn the Lexus V6 for so long. At stop lights it rumbles, and at highway speed is noisy. The CVT is smooth, but felt like it was working hard. The 3.5 is very different. The power engine 270HP, is refined, and operates seamlessly with the CVT. Watch out Camry, Accord, Passat, Outback, Fusion, and Lexus ES350. This Altima has game.

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  wouldnt buy another - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By patr1 - June 16 - 8:47 pm

  Leased a 2008 that will be returned in Sept, 2001. Car has 28K miles. Engine sounds like my lawnmower. Brakes sound like metal on metal. The dealer says thats normal?? Would never have another. Pushbutton start stinks, but my wife likes it. Parked the car one day turned it off, I thought. Then came out 3 hours later to find the car still running. Note: be VERY careful if you buy a car with pushbutton start and have an attched garage. People have died from carbon Monoxide poisioning because they thought the car was turned off before retiring to sleep.

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  Best in Class - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By BSM - June 16 - 2:06 pm

  I am 39 years old and when driving this car I enjoy the same feeling I had as a teenager driving my first car. Although we bought it as a family car (traded in a 2009 Toyota Sienna), it looks, feels, and drives like a fun, sporty car. Handles great, quiet ride, Acceleration is impressive, better than any of the other 4- cylinders we tested, & we are happy with it. The interior design and quality is by far the best in its class. We tested Sonata, Camry, & Accord; we liked the Altima the best because of the quality of the interior products & the standard features were more generous than the Camry or Accord. Paid $18,995 for a base 2.5 S , & Ive never felt so gratified after a new car purchase

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  No Mechanical Problems - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By 08LasVenturas - June 16 - 7:06 am

  Weve owned our Altima since March of 2008 and havent had one mechanical problem. It rides smoothly and quietly, especially with the CVT transmission. The exterior is sporty looking but the paint chips easily. The Key has been nothing but problems. One of the buttons is already missing while the paint chipped on another one. Not to mention it always sets off the car alarm unintentionally. The interior is nice looking and the dash is well laid-out. It also looks nice lit up at night. There are plenty of cup holders, but the plastics are cheap especially on the doors, where they are all scratched and damaged after only a year.

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  Inspect thoroughly - 2012 Nissan Altima
  By jacksol - June 12 - 12:07 pm

  I was looking for a car good on gas , low miles, nice sporty looking, found it at dealership for $12,999, thought I had hit the jackpot. Purchased in May and in July noticed a rattling noise , it was pulling when driving, was hard to tell when it changed gears. In Sept, the a/c started blowing hot air and on a 6 hr trip, the car started losing power, rpm was high, was making whining noise, was struggling to change gears. The car was still under warranty so took to the shop, had to replace A/C condenser unit , had to pay deductible, then had to get wrecker to pick up and take to another place because the transmission was stuck in 2nd gear .They had to put in another transmission and welded the pipe which was causing the rattling. Had to pay another deductible. A week later, car will not change gears and fluid is leaking like crazy, had to get another wrecker to take back to dealership found out there was a problem with seal . 2 weeks later, check engine light came on, problem with sensor, last week check engine light came back on, problem with computer. At this point I am beyond frustrated, I tried trading it in on something else, but right now am so upside down that I cant afford anything so am just stuck with it and looking for a way out.

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  2005 Altima 3.5 SE - 2004 Nissan Altima
  By nissanman - June 12 - 10:06 am

  I have been a Nissan owner for several years. My first Nissan product was an Infiniti G20. Since then I have owned another G20, two Maximas, and my Altima. I loved my 02 Maxima SE (which I sold to buy my wife her car). I love this Altima. Prior to buying my 02 Maxima, I drove an 02 Altima. I immediately disliked the Altimas interior (cheap). The 05 Altima is a huge improvement. The 3.5 V6 gets outstanding gas mileage, especially given its intoxicating power, and is very smooth. The ride is comfortable, and the car is quiet. I paid $2K less for my 05 Altima than I did for my 02 Maxima (great value). My next car is going to be another Nissan product, probably an Infiniti G35.

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  Fantastic car for the money - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By TON10ESR - June 11 - 7:46 am

  I leased my 2008 Nissan Altima 3 years ago and it still runs like a champ! I never had any major or minor problems with it besides a minor recall that the dealer took care of for me. It is a great car with push button start, CVT Automatic transmission that shifts great, and has a great ride. I just wish Nissans options werent so expensive, but otherwise its a very well made car and I would recommend it to anyone:).

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  What a great car! - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By fredg6 - June 9 - 11:35 am

  I have been driving my 2013 2.5 SL Altima for a couple of months now. I have absolutely no regrets. The car is flawless in both build and performance. Dont believe any bad hype about the CVT you may read on the Internet. Its smooth and responsive. I actually prefer it now to a traditional automatic. The 2.5L in-line 4 cyl engine is powerful enough for 90% of drivers including me. On a recent trip I got 40.9 mpg which is more than Nissan claims! Around town I get the advertised 28 mpg. I love the blind spot warning system, too. Its so good I think ALL cars should have it! Why cant GM build a car like this???????? (The Altima is built in Tennessee.)

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  Never Again - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By Never buy a Nissan - June 9 - 4:30 am

  I am having the same difficulties starting my 2002 Nissan Altimas engine this winter as last which was supposedly fixed by two recalls and numerous trips to the dealership. My dealer blames this problem on too much fuel in the cylinder if the car is not fully warmed up in cold weather before turning off engine. I have never experienced this problem with the American made, Honda, or Toyota vehicles that I have owned. I had to take my car in for five recalls, everything from the headlight assembly to the tail pipe hanger. This car is terrible in the snow or on wet roads. It pulls to the right when accelerating on a wet surface. Its power window regulator malfunctioned. The quality of workmanship in this vehicle and dealer worst I have ever experienced. I am unloading this dog before the warranty runs out.