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 81 through 90 of 432.00
  • Holy Pricey Repairs, Batman! - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I love my Nissan, but will not be purchasing another. Mechanically it has been sound, but there have been body issues and minor things that are expensive to repair. (Ex. $103 to change a headlamp BULB). If you live in the snow belt, you will notice that snow packs into the wheel well, making steering in bad weather difficult. Also tends to get stuck in snow, due to riding so low to the ground.

  • Wooooo Hooooo! - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I bought my 03 3.5SE brand new. I knew I was going to buy it as soon as I turned the key and heard that "vroom!" I have put 83,000 miles on it in 3 years and have not had a single mechanical problem. My check engine light came on one time but just because I left the fuel-cap door open, it was very expensive to have the computer re-set. The plastic latch on the center console broke three times, minor nuisance. At idle it sounds like a Jetta but when you get it over 4,500 RPM the sound is knee weakening. Over-all an extremely reliable car. I would recommend this to anyone. I just saw the re-designed 2007 model and am planning on trading this one in soon.

  • 20,000 mile check in - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Its been a year, and I still love my Altima. My complaint (and this is a BIG one since I live in upstate NY) is that snow gathers and packs under the wheel wells and makes it dangerous/ a pain in the neck in the winter. Also, the passenger door is heavy/ sticks and the gas mileage is not as good as they claim. But... she is reliable, stylish, fast and smooth to drive. 22,000 miles in one year with no problems. Fits 5 adults comfortably- my coworkers love the cupholders in the back seat! Love the racing shift and the new design- sporty but classy!

  • Stollen love - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I did own a 2002 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE... But now with the crime of my town, I dont! I absalutlly loved my Altima, it had the class of a Lexus and the performance of a Mustang GT. I just loved its ability to get up and go, exspecially when challenged by punks in a Camaro Z28... who I left crying in the dust when they found out that it was a stock engine. Coming from a Honda Accord I was not dissapointed one bit by my Nissan. The Bose sound system was unbeatable and the space was extrodinary! I loved that Altima and Im sure who ever stole it is having a blast. They just better hope I dont find them!

  • Very good Car! - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I Know that I very pleased with mine. I love my car. I havent really had anything go really wrong with it as of yet.

  • Smooth-Riding, Head-Turner - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I test drove the 2002 Accords and Camrys before buying the Altima. The interiors of both competitors looked like more money went into their construction but the Altima rode smoother over the bumps and accelerated quicker than the others. The eye-catching exterior styling still turns heads, the acceleration still impresses and my only regret is that I couldnt afford the V6 at the time of purchase.

  • the nissan superhorse - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    This car has a very fast acceleration, and great grip to the road. Handles turns great and has very good traction. Like a magnet to a fridge...

  • Love this car - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    The Altima for me has been a sheer joy so far. I was looking for something both reliable and eye catching for the buck, I believe I have found that car! Thoughit is too soon to tell how the reliability rating will play out, I have read other consumer postings, most were good.

  • Performance Review - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I am a person that loves to drive and have owned cars considered "higher end". Hower,beyond a doubt this is the most exciting vehicle I have ever driven. It is smooth, it corners, it hugs the road and does not wave with the winds. The cabin is a delight down to the deep cup holders so I dont worry about spillage. The beauty of the jeweled headlights and taillights and overall design of the car makes it one of the most beautiful on the highway. I cannot imagine what can be changed to make it better. I get comments from people all the time. I named it Snazzy, because it is. Happy driving. BV

  • Love It - 2003 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I absolutely love this car. I love everything about it. It looks fantastic and drives like a dream. The 4 cylinder has tons of power. I have owned many Toyotas over the past many years, but chose Nissan Altima because of the appearance and now love it for all the right reasons. Its wonderful. I got it in the Pewter color and get compliments everyday.

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