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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  I Know My Car! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By willtiger01 - November 28 - 10:00 am

  This is the exact kind of vehicle I was looking for except I didnt know that until the initial test drive. The only problem that Ive had is the transmission being very jerky in a sense, probably in relation to its newness. Other than that this is a vehicle that can fit any personality and any lifestyle. Will Lewis USAF 20 years old

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  I love my Altima! - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By TN Driver - November 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Altima used with 17k miles on it to replace a smaller car that had been wrecked. I wasnt sure about a 4 door family sedan (always had been a "coupe" lady), but I needed something I could haul grandchildren in. It is fun to drive and I love the slightly aggressive lines. My teenage son said "Mom, this is the coolest car!" It has the 2.5l 4-cyl engine, & while the pep from the 6-cyl would be cool at times, I dont want to give up the fuel economy the 4-cyl has.

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  Great value and a lot of fun - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By Tony - November 26 - 10:00 am

  Wanted V6, Leather, Bluetooth in a mid sized or slighty larger sedan. Did not include luxury sedans (Audi A4/BMW 3 series/Lexus ES/Infiniti G37/Acura). Test drove all the usual suspects (Camry, Avalon, Accord, Focus, Taurus, Mazda 6, passat, Milan, Malibu, Impala, lacrosse, and maxima). Chose the altima 3.5sr. Handles great, powerful engine, smooth transmission, loaded with options for the money. I got the premium and sport package option. Msrp was 30,195 and got it for 26,200 before ttl at end of year close out on 2010 models. I should note I have been driving Toyota Camry xle v6s for 17 years. To be honest the altima build quality is better than Toyota Camry right now in my opinion.

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  Which problem would you like to hear first? - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By jesteruno - November 25 - 10:45 pm

  2013 Altima Lemon. When the right blinker returns to the neutral position the left blinker turns on for about 5 flashes, confusing the car behind you. Leaves got into the AC evaporator box causing a foul odor and Nissan says this is a maintenance issue, and I should avoid parking under trees. Now let’s talk about the passenger air bag light. Apparently it’s on a sensor and depending on what the sensor reads determines whether you get to have an airbag or not. According to the Nissan Specialist, “it’s a supplemental system”. so IT determines whether you smash you face against the glass. All of these issues are "normal operation" according to them. I should have bought a Honda.

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  SE-R not for hot-blooded - 2005 Nissan Altima
  By tico - November 24 - 10:10 am

  This car is not for the meek, you can pass cars without even trying. From standing start car will pull to either side on you if you dont hold steering wheel firmly, but thats the sweet feeling one wants in a 260 hp car. The cars ride is a bit rough at the initial start but once your on the road five to ten minutes its smooth. Passing a big rig or slow cars on a incline is easy. You will get stares & challenges from other drivers guaranteed. One thing I notice is that I dont even care about backups now cause Im riding in one comfortable car. You will be worried about parking between two cars so be prepared to walk farther to the store from the lone parking spot. People move out of the way-sweet!

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  Buyer BEWARE ! - 2007 Nissan Altima
  By Don - November 23 - 11:50 pm

  Have you ever had to push your "new" car out of the garage so it could be towed to the dealer? 23,000 miles and we have done it twice. Key fobs and push button start are junk. Recalled with less than 900 miles to "remove" noisy heat shield. CVT has never felt just right to me. Road noise is horrific. I would not suggest the purchase of this vehicle. The fuel mileage is extremely over rated, city and highway.

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  Great Car! I Love It! - 2003 Nissan Altima
  By RDG - November 23 - 5:50 pm

  This interior of this car has lots of room. This car is fast. Dependable. Exterior design is great. Factory system is great.

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  Excellent car - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By earlk - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Best new car I have ever owned in fifty years.

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  Impressive - 2010 Nissan Altima
  By Trevor - November 21 - 10:00 am

  Turned in my 07 Murano after my Lease was about to end and decided to go for a Sedan. Thought I would suffer from Sedan shock and on leaving the Dealership I was in total comfort driving the Altima. this is the SL with the Technology package. Excellent Nav system and for a Four, its peppy. Easy, smooth and fun to drive.

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  BEST CAR FOR THE MONEY - 2002 Nissan Altima
  By LOUIE L.. - November 20 - 10:00 am

  BEST CAR FOR THE MONEY EITHER FOREIGN OR DOMESTIC.GREAT HIGHWAY CAR WITH 25 MPG RESULTS.GOOD LOOKING WITH A VERY COMFORTABLE INTERIOR.I HAVE 2 NEGATIVES.FROM DAY ONE I HAVE A VALVE TAP AND THE AUTOMATIC TRANS IDLES QUIETLY OUT OF GEAR AND VERY ROUGH IN GEAR.AT MY 1500 MILE FIRST OIL CHANGE THE DEALER TOLD ME HE HEARS AND FEELS NOTHING.ILL SEE WAHT HE SAYS AT 4500 MILES.