2003 Nissan Altima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.40/5 Average
432 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

After last year's debut to critical acclaim, Nissan's midsize sedan receives minor changes for 2003. Two new exterior colors, Sonoma Sunset and Crystal Blue add pizzazz to the wardrobe. There's a new charcoal seat fabric, padded cloth front center armrest cover (genuine leather on leather-equipped vehicles) and bright titanium interior accent colors for all models to spruce up the interior. The 2.5 SL receives a standard automatic transmission, heated front seats, heated outside mirrors and simulated wood trim. For the 3.5 SE, there is a Sport Package, which includes a sunroof and spoiler, and a Sport Package Plus, which includes sunroof, spoiler, Bose audio system and HID headlights. The 3.5 SE Leather Package now includes a Bose audio system, sunroof and heated seats, while the Leather Sport Package adds a spoiler and xenon headlights. Finally, a new 3.5 SE Premium Leather Package sports all of the above plus throws in fake wood to boot. How can you go wrong?

Pros:
  • Sports car power in a midsize sedan body, high level of features, explosive V6 engine, distinct styling.
Cons:
  • Shabby interior materials, overboosted steering, no stability control.

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 432.00
  • Altima 2.5 S 2003 - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Bought it used with 17000 miles, the S model, like the power the four cylinder has, no problems pulling out into traffic or passing at any speed, the power is there. Only complaint I have with it is the road noise. Youngest daughter wants it for college.

  • My First New Car - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    You could imagine my anxiety, I had never before purchased a car. Much less a Brand New Car. Originally, I was in love with the Camry. I new I wanted a reliable sedan that, if I chose I could drive for the next 10 years without a problem. The car my wife and I shared, a 95 Nissan Pathfinder was still in excellent condition, and never had any mechanical problems. Thats when I test drove the 2003 Altima, and that was all it took. Other than the front panel, which I think looks cheap and can use some work, I was in love with the car. I would recommend it to anyone, and have.

  • Do Your Homework Before Shopping !! - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Buying a new car still requires mastering the "art of negotiation." The 2003 Altima clearly is several levels better than the 2001 it redesigned and replaced. Before buying a comparably price Honda or Toyota -- check out the Altima at your local Nissan dealer. The contemporary, up-to-datestyling and, above average comfort level are merit your consideration. Furthermore, youll appreciate the refined 175 horsepower 4 cyl. engine. The Altima is not underpowered compared to many other cars in its class. For under 20K the Altima is a worthy competitor in its class. Check it out !!

  • nissan 3,5 altima all purpose - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    ive had my car for seven years now and no problems at all ,people that dont like the interior must be really spoiled mine has leather and bose sterio and it is just great I had acura TL and it wasnt as nice as my altima , the power is great especially when your already going thirty to Sixty MHP it gets up and goes .

  • Altimas Look "fine" - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I bought this used at 61,000 miles and I love the look of my loaded Altima. Its an SE so its great on corners and holding the road. The car looks great! However, It has draw backs with ride and mechanicals. I had a clunking under the hood and I tried to find anything that would make the same noise when I went down the road. I found so much plastic that rattled. Thought for sure Id cure it. But no. It ended up being the strut. Now, 10,000 miles later the left strut is clunking. I also had the brake pedal stick during the winter and the brake lights stayed on and I was stranded with a dead battery. The car is all show. Not a car for a non-mechanical person.

  • Better than a Ford Explorer... - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I have a 2003 model. Ive had this car since Sept. 2003 and love it. Handles extemely well, plenty of power. The styling is sharp.

  • loved this car intill..................... - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    bought this car used in 2005 with 21000 miles on it was evrything i wanted loved my car praised it was black on black with leather 6 years later still turnning heads flawless inside and out took the best care of the car nothing but synthetic oil changes every 3000 miles nothing but premiume 91 76 gas and last week discovered no oil in my engine with only 82000 miles had read up on it about a year ago and called nissan and they said it has to do with how you maintence your car so i thought would not happen to mine but i was wrong no one took better care of a car then i did nissan needs to do something will never buy another nissan and will tell anyone who will listen getting rid of my baby

  • love my car - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Best thing Nissan has done since the 300zx. Fast responsive and good hadling, although the cornering is a bit soft. Interior is set up well, trim could be of a less chincy type. All and all, the car is a great buy for the performance of the 240 hp 3.5

  • Two years and still happy - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Just passed my two year point with my 03 Altima and Im still happy. Slightly bored with it, but overall it has been very reliable (except for a "flowing water" sound in the dash when I first got it - which was fixed by the dealer replacing the radiator), its pretty fun to drive I guess (except for its hesitancy to downshift and absence of power at low RPMs). Would stay with Nissan when the lease is up if the reviews on the Maxima werent so upsetting!

  • Dream Come True - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Ive been waiting to buy one for 18 months, and its as good as I expected. I love this car!

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