Top Reasons to Choose the Nissan Altima – Specs, Pricing & Review

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The Nissan Altima has been a staple in the midsize sedan market for decades, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and value. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a family driver, or someone looking for a cheap yet reliable sedan, the Altima has something to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Nissan Altima, from its history to the latest 2025 Nissan Altima review, including specs, pricing, fuel economy, safety features, and how it stacks up against competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

A Brief History of the Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima first hit the market in 1993 as a compact sedan, positioned between the smaller Sentra and the upscale Maxima. Over the years, it evolved into a full-fledged midsize sedan, gaining popularity for its affordability, reliability, and stylish design. By the early 2000s, the Altima increased in size and became a direct competitor to heavyweights like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

The sixth generation, introduced in 2019, brought a sleek, modern design, advanced safety features, and the opportunity for all-wheel drive (AWD), a first for Nissan sedans. While it may not dominate sales like it did in its peak years (over 300,000 units annually in the mid-2000s), the Altima remains a solid option for buyers seeking value and comfort.

Overview of the 2025 Nissan Altima

The 2025 Nissan Altima continues to deliver a practical, no-frills midsize sedan experience. It’s designed for buyers who want a cozy ride, good fuel economy, and a competitive price without sacrificing modern tech or safety. While it faces stiff competition from redesigned rivals, the Altima holds its own with its signature “Zero Gravity” seats, optional AWD, and a straightforward driving experience.

For 2025, Nissan streamlined the Altima lineup by discontinuing the turbocharged 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine, leaving the 2.5-liter four-cylinder as the sole engine option. A new Special Edition package for the SV trim adds sporty styling and tech upgrades, and a Maintenance Care package offers three complimentary oil changes for two years or 24,000 miles.

Design and Exterior Styling

The 2025 Nissan Altima boasts a sleek, modern look that’s both sporty and sophisticated. Its “V-Motion” grille, sharp LED headlights, and “floating roof” design give it a distinctive presence. The sporty SR trim adds blacked-out accents and a rear diffuser for a bolder aesthetic.

Key Exterior Features:

Standard LED headlights with integrated turn signals
16-inch wheels on the base S trim; 17- or 19-inch wheels on higher trims
Sport-tuned suspension on SR models for a sharper look and feel
Optional all-wheel drive for enhanced traction
New color options like Garnet Pearl Metallic and Gray Sky Pearl

While the 2016 nissan altima design is attractive, some critics note it’s less dynamic than the redesigned Toyota Camry or the stylish Kia K5. Still, its clean lines and aerodynamic shape (0.26 drag coefficient) make it a head-turner.

Interior Features and Comfort

Step inside the Nissan Altima interior, and you’ll find a cabin that prioritizes comfort and functionality. Nissan’s “Zero Gravity” front seats are a standout, designed with NASA-inspired technology to reduce fatigue on long drives. The cabin is spacious for front passengers, but rear legroom (35.2 inches) lags behind the Honda Accord (40.8 inches) and Toyota Camry (38 inches).

Interior Highlights:

Standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Optional 12.3-inch touchscreen on SV, SR, and SL trims
Ample storage with deep door pockets and a center console tray
15.4 cubic feet of trunk space, competitive but smaller than the Accord’s 16.7 cubic feet
Premium materials on higher trims, though some plastics feel less upscale than rivals

The dashboard layout is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a straightforward design. Higher trims like the SL add leather upholstery, a Bose nine-speaker audio system, and a moonroof for a touch of luxury. However, some reviewers note that the interior quality doesn’t match the premium feel of the Honda Accord or Kia K5.

Engine Options and Performance

For 2025, the Nissan Altima engine options are simplified to a single choice: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers adequate power for daily driving but lacks the excitement of competitors’ turbo or hybrid options.

Engine Specs:

2.5-liter 4-cylinder:
- Horsepower: 188 hp (182 hp with AWD)
- Torque: 180 lb-ft (178 lb-ft with AWD)
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard; AWD optional ($1,500 extra on SV, SR, SL trims)
0-60 mph: 7.6 seconds (AWD); 8.4 seconds (FWD, per Edmunds testing)
Top Speed: Approximately 130 mph

The CVT is smooth and efficient but can feel sluggish during hard acceleration. The Altima’s steering is precise, and braking is responsive, but it’s not as engaging to drive as the Honda Accord. The SR trim’s sport-tuned suspension adds a bit of sharpness, but “sporty” is a stretch compared to rivals like the Kia K5 GT.

Fuel Economy

The Nissan Altima fuel economy is a strong selling point, especially for budget-conscious buyers. Without a hybrid option, it still delivers competitive numbers for a non-hybrid midsize sedan.

EPA Fuel Economy Estimates:

Trim	Drivetrain	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG
S, SV	FWD	27	39	32
SR, SL	FWD	27	37	31
SV, SR, SL	AWD	25	34	28

Real-world tests show the Altima can achieve up to 41 mpg on the highway (AWD, per Car and Driver), surpassing the non-hybrid Honda Accord (39 mpg) but falling short of the hybrid Toyota Camry (up to 51 mpg combined). For city commuters, the lack of a hybrid option puts the 2017 nissan altima at a disadvantage in stop-and-go traffic.

Safety Ratings and Features

The Nissan Altima safety features are a highlight, with the Safety Shield 360 suite standard across all trims. The 2024 model earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the 2025 model is still awaiting ratings. However, the IIHS gave it a Poor rating for side-impact protection and a Marginal score for rear-seat passenger safety in frontal crashes.

Standard Safety Features:

Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
Lane departure warning
Rear automatic braking
High-beam assist
Driver drowsiness monitoring

Optional Safety Features:

ProPILOT Assist (standard on SL, optional on SV): Semi-autonomous driving with lane-centering and adaptive cruise control
360-degree camera system (standard on SL)
Traffic sign recognition

Compared to the Toyota Camry (IIHS Top Safety Pick) and Honda Accord, the Altima’s safety ratings are solid but not class-leading. Buyers prioritizing top-tier crash test scores may lean toward competitors.

Nissan Altima price &Trim Levels

The 2023 nissan altima is available in four trims: S, SV, SR, and SL. Pricing starts at $28,140, making it competitive but slightly higher than the Kia K5 or Hyundai Sonata. Kelley Blue Book suggests paying $2,043–$2,310 below MSRP, depending on trim and equipment.

Trim Comparison Table:

Trim	Starting Price	Key Features
S	$28,140	16-inch wheels, 8-inch touchscreen, Safety Shield 360, cloth seats
SV	$29,940	17-inch wheels, 12.3-inch touchscreen (optional), ProPILOT Assist (optional), Special Edition package
Nissan Altima SR	$31,440	Sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, paddle shifters, blacked-out trim
SL	$35,440	Leather seats, Bose audio, moonroof, 12.3-inch touchscreen, ProPILOT Assist

The SV trim offers the best value, balancing tech and comfort features. The SL is the most luxurious but approaches the price of a base Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, which offer more refinement.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2019 nissan altima keeps pace with modern tech expectations, though it doesn’t lead the pack. The standard 8-inch touchscreen is adequate but smaller than the Kia K5’s standard 12.3-inch display. Higher trims get a 12.3-inch touchscreen with sharper graphics and wireless connectivity.

Tech Highlights:

Standard: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, NissanConnect
Optional: 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, nine-speaker Bose audio, navigation
Digital Cluster: 7-inch driver display (standard on SV and up); 12.3-inch on SL
NissanConnect Services: Remote start, lock/unlock, and Google-based apps (higher trims)

While functional, the infotainment system lacks the polish of the Honda Accord’s or the customization options of the Toyota Camry’s. The low-resolution backup camera on base models is a noted drawback.

Driving Experience and Handling

The 2018 nissan altima is designed for comfort over thrills. Its smooth ride and quiet cabin make it a great choice for long commutes or family road trips. The CVT can feel sluggish, and the 2.5-liter engine lacks the pep of the Honda Accord’s turbo options or the Toyota Camry’s hybrid powertrain.

Driving Impressions:

Ride Quality: Soft and comfortable, though the SR’s sport suspension feels stiffer
Handling: Precise steering but less engaging than the Accord or Kia K5
Noise Levels: Well-insulated cabin, quieter than many rivals
AWD Option: Adds confidence in wet or snowy conditions, a rarity in this class

For buyers seeking a practical daily driver, the Altima delivers. However, driving enthusiasts may prefer the sharper handling of the Honda Accord or the sporty Kia K5 GT.

Common Pros and Cons

Pros:

Comfortable “Zero Gravity” seats
Competitive Nissan Altima price starting at $28,140
Strong fuel economy (up to 39 mpg highway)
Standard Safety Shield 360 suite
Optional AWD for all-weather traction

Cons:

No hybrid powertrain option
Rear legroom lags behind competitors
Interior materials feel less premium
Sluggish acceleration with CVT
Lower resale value compared to Toyota Camry or Honda Accord

Nissan Altima vs Competitors

The Nissan Altima Used vs competitors battle is fierce, with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Kia K5, and Hyundai Sonata offering strong alternatives. Here’s how the Altima stacks up:

1. Nissan Altima vs Toyota Camry

Powertrain: Camry’s hybrid-only lineup (225 hp, up to 51 mpg combined) outshines the Altima’s non-hybrid 188 hp.
Interior: Camry’s redesigned cabin feels more upscale.
Safety: Camry’s IIHS Top Safety Pick award edges out the Altima.
Price: Altima starts lower ($28,140 vs $29,310), but Camry offers better resale value.

2. Nissan Altima vs Honda Accord

Performance: Accord’s turbo engines (192–252 hp) are more responsive.
Interior: Accord’s 40.8 inches of rear legroom and premium materials surpass the Altima.
Fuel Economy: Accord’s hybrid gets up to 48 mpg combined, beating the Altima’s 32 mpg.
AWD: Altima’s optional AWD is an advantage; Accord lacks it.

3. Nissan Altima vs Kia K5/Hyundai Sonata

Styling: K5 and Sonata have bolder, more modern designs.
Features: Both offer standard 12.3-inch displays and optional turbo engines (up to 290 hp).
Price: K5 and Sonata start slightly lower, offering better value.
Reliability: Altima’s reliability is solid but trails the Sonata’s longer warranty.

The 2020 nissan altima strengths lie in its AWD option, comfortable seats, and lower starting price, but it’s outclassed in refinement, performance, and efficiency by these rivals.

Maintenance, Reliability, and Resale Value

The 2024 nissan altima is known for reasonable maintenance costs and decent reliability. According to RepairPal, the Altima has a 4.0/5.0 reliability rating, ranking 11th out of 24 midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $483, lower than the class average of $526.

Maintenance Highlights:

Complimentary Maintenance: Three oil changes for two years/24,000 miles (new for 2025)
Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles (limited); 5 years/60,000 miles (powertrain)
Common Issues: CVT-related complaints and occasional brake feedback issues

Resale Value:

The Altima’s resale value lags behind the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, which retain value better due to their strong reputations for reliability. Buyers planning to keep the car long-term will find the Altima’s lower purchase price appealing, but those trading in after a few years may face steeper depreciation.

Customer Reviews and Owner Satisfaction

Owners praise the nissan altima 2024 for its comfort, fuel efficiency, and value. In J.D. Power’s 2022 APEAL Study, the Altima ranked third among midsize cars, ahead of the Camry and Accord. Common feedback includes:

Positive: “The seats are incredibly comfortable for long drives, and I’m getting 34 mpg combined!” – 2020 Altima SR owner
Negative: “The CVT feels slow, and the infotainment screen is hard to see in sunlight.” – 2020 Altima owner

Consumer Reports notes high owner satisfaction for comfort and fuel economy but lower scores for driving dynamics and interior quality.

Final Verdict: Is the Nissan Altima Right for You?

The 2025 Nissan Altima is a solid choice for buyers seeking an affordable, comfortable, and fuel-efficient midsize sedan. Its “Zero Gravity” seats, optional AWD, and competitive pricing make it appealing for families and commuters. However, it falls short of the Toyota Camry’s hybrid efficiency, the Honda Accord’s refined driving experience, and the Kia K5’s bold styling and tech.

Who Should Buy the Nissan Altima?

Budget-conscious buyers looking for a starting price under $30,000
Drivers in snowy regions needing AWD
Those prioritizing comfort over sporty performance

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

Performance enthusiasts seeking a dynamic drive
Buyers wanting a hybrid for better city fuel economy
Those prioritizing premium interiors and top safety ratings

For more details, visit the official Nissan USA website.

FAQs

1. What is the price of the 2025 Nissan Altima?

The 2025 Nissan Altima starts at $28,140 for the S trim and goes up to $35,440 for the SL trim. Discounts of $2,000–$2,300 below MSRP are possible.

2. How fuel-efficient is the Nissan Altima?

The Altima gets up to 27 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 32 mpg combined (FWD). AWD models drop to 25/34/28 mpg.

3. Does the Nissan Altima have a hybrid option?

No, the 2025 Altima does not offer a hybrid powertrain, unlike the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord.

4. How does the Nissan Altima compare to the Toyota Camry?

The Altima is more affordable and offers AWD, but the Camry’s hybrid powertrain, better resale value, and upscale interior make it a stronger overall package.

5. Is the Nissan Altima reliable?

The Altima has a 4.0/5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal, with average annual repair costs of $483, making it reliable but not class-leading.

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