Pros:
- Hits all the mid-size-sedan high spots
- Powerful and efficient four-cylinder engine
- Brilliant continuously variable automatic transmission
Cons:
- Important safety features like antilock brakes and electronic stability control are optional or not available on lower-end models
Mid-size sedan buyers -- all of 'em
Who should not buy the Nissan Altima:
Toyota employees
Continued below…
Details and specs:
- Body style: 4-door sedan
- Seating capacity: 5
- Trim levels: 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SE, 3.5 SL
- Price range (including options): $18,575 - $32,865
- Test car price: $23,535
- Base engine: 2.5 liter inline four-cylinder, 175 hp @ 5600 RPM, 180 lb-ft @ 3900 RPM
- Optional engine: 2.5 liter PZEV inline four-cylinder, 170 hp @ 5600 RPM, 175 lb-ft @ 3900 RPM; 3.5 liter V6, 270 hp @ 6000 RPM, 258 lb-ft @ 4400 RPM
- Premium fuel required? Yes (V6 only)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual, continuously-variable automatic (CVT)
- Driveline: Front engine, front-wheel-drive
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 24 MPG city/31 MPG highway (2.5 manual), 23/29 (2.5 CVT), 21/27 (V6 manual), 20/29 (V6 CVT)
- Where built: United States
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front seat mounted torso airbags, two-row side curtain airbags
- Optional safety equipment: Antilock brakes (standard with V6), traction control/electronic stability control (SL/V6 only)
- Major standard features: Power windows, locks and mirrors, dual zone climate control, keyless ignition
- Major options: Leather seats, premium stereo, satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation system
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain, 5 years/unlimited mileage outer body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 3 years/36,000 miles roadside assistance
