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 71 through 80 of 432.00
  • 2003 NISSAN ALTIMA - ROCKS! - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    After researching competing models, (Toyota Camry, Honda Accord)the Nissan won hands down!The Toyota Camry was completely overpriced for the options they offered and the Accord was spartan in appearance and performance compared to the Altima. The interior is sleek without being barren and offers the driver convenient features like in steering wheel radio and cruise control along with the trademark dashboard features that Nissan is now famous for. Acceleration is a BLAST! The 4 cylinder V-Tech engine with 170 horsepower offers fuel economy WITH powerful response that is difficult to find in most ordinary 4 cylinder autos.

  • RATED A- - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    THE ONLY THING I DONT CARE FOR, IS THE TEXTURE AND QUALITY OF THE INTERIOR MATERIAL USED ON THE DASH BOARD........LOOKS INFERIOR TO THE REST OF THE CAR

  • great car for money saved life - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    i bouth the car almost a year ago and was involved in an accident where no one can beleve that im alive and was able to walk away from it. i am definately going to buy another nissan and now two more family members are buying one

  • Very Pleased !!! - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Great car !!! If the 02 interior was cheap (as I have read) then they have really improved it. While there is some plastic, it does not come across "cheap " at all. It is layed out very well, is very easy to use and the fit is very good...the car is really quiet also (surprisingly). Very impressive, not a lot of wind or road noise....also it is very roomy and comfy. I am tall and have a ton of space in the cabin. Overall, I am very impressed and would recommend an Altima to anyone.

  • In the end, reliable - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    The car proved to be fairly reliable, especially since I paid little attention to its upkeep. At the time and at this price point, the Altima stood alone in performance and appearance. The AC went kaput in year four, engine mounts in year six. Downside is the poor material used in for the interior (Ive seen GM cars with better plastic), and the body is only slightly more dent resistant than a can of Spam. However, the most frustrating was its awful turning radius. It was inexcusably poor.

  • The Happy Monkey - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    The car is a great experience.. It look alot better than the Honda Accord... It has a bigger engine than the Accord and the Camry..I dont understand why anyone would even consider buying the accord or the camry...Lets make it fair and combine both the accord and the camry together..Damn what an ugly car.. We will call it the Japanese Mollejuax 2.49 1/2 stutter..

  • Ricks review. - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    My car has been great. Ive had it 3 months now , and the only service need was replacing the light bulb in the ignition bezel. Other than that , not one other problem. The performance is outstanding for a 4 cylinder automatic , and its fun to drive. Theres plenty of space front or back , and has a huge trunk. The quality of the paint and fit and finish is excellent. This beats my girlfriends Honda Accord hands down.

  • I own one, I love it! - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    i bought this car 30 days ago and It is very nice. I owned a Lexus 300 and this car is not far off its ride and comfort. I would definately buy one again. The mileage is not too spiffy maybe it will get better after break in. I think it is one of the best looking cars in its price range available. Nissan also makes buying one first class.

  • best out there - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I BOUGHT MY NISSAN ALTIMA USED WITH 24800 MILES ON IT. IT WAS IN GOOD CONDITION AND I HAVE ALREADY MADE 300 MILES ON IT. THE HANDELING AND ACCELERATION ARE BETTER THAN ANY OTHER CAR I HAVE HAD (03 COROLLA, 03 GALANT) BOTH 4 CYL CARS. NISSAN HAS GREATLY IMPROVED ON THE STYLE, BUT NEEDS TO WORK ON THE ENGING NOISE THAT YOU HEAR WHEN YOU FLOOR IT. OTHER WISE GREAT CAR AND VERY RELIABLE.

  • MyNewAltima - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    One word to describe the Altima, value!! You get tons of room and a wide assort of features for a good price. I purchased the 2.5S (auto) with the side air bags and ABS, microfilter, floor mats, and splash guards for $19,383. As far as the interior quality, if youre worried about that, spend more money and get the leather. As far as performance, Im not going to win too many drag races with the 2.5S, but the car cruises really well at 80 mph on the highway. There is some road noise, but keep in mind you paid less than 20K and you are driving a Nissan, not an Infiniti.

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