Here's a question: what matters most to the buyers of midsize sedans? Sporty driving found in the Mazda6? A history of mechanical integrity found in Honda's Accord? Or an abundance of luxury features sprinkled throughout the Hyundai Sonata? Nissan bets that everything matters, as they have made this Altima a contender in each aspect - creating one of the class leaders in the midsize sedan segment.
Exterior Design (7/10)
The 2015 design of the Altima is Nissan's attempt to make this sedan look upmarket and possibly luxurious. The front of this vehicle does no favors: a bulbous outlook coupled with edgy headlights and a do not fit well together. However, the rest of the Altima falls together quite nicely. The lengthened wheelbase adds refinement while the the rear bumper and headlights combine for a svelte look. Therefore, while this exterior will not turn heads, it is hard to fault it given the conservative buyers Nissan is pursuing here.
Interior Design (9/10)
While no buyer will purchase the Altima based on its exterior, a majority of buyers should be impressed with this upscale interior. Premium materials, soft leather (for SL trims), and excellent fit and finish make this interior one that would befit a car at twice the cost. Dials and screens are crystal clear, and the switchgear feels solid. A place of serenity and ample space, the interior of the Altima is an excellent place to be.
Technology (7/10)
Three years ago, the technology of the Altima would have turned heads: available bluetooth, keyless go, power seats, iPod connectivity, a rearview camera, and even blind spot monitors are all present here (depending on the trim level). However, there is a notable lack of active safety features and higher level luxury features. With competitors offering active cruise control, automatic high beam assist, electronic parking brakes, and ventilated seats, it is time Nissan has updated the Altima to reflect the changes demanded in the midsize market today.
Performance and Efficiency (7/10)
The performance of the Altima (obviously) comes down to one decision: which engine is purchased. However, there is more to that. The 2.5L, 4 cylinder base engine provides the power necessary for the vast majority of buyers. Low-down grunt and sufficient torque provide adequate acceleration off the line, 0-60mph being dealt with in under 8 seconds. However in terms of overtaking and acceleration north of 40mph, the CVT coupled with the 2.5L proves to be a droning disappointment. However, with our average mpg being 33.6mpg (27/38 EPA Rated), most buyers should be able to ignore the issues with the 4 cylinder engine. Nissan has quite graciously given the Altima a Ds mode - which provides a sporty feel to the CVT. Our advice: buy the 2.5L, 4 cylinder base engine, pocket the change, and use Ds mode for everyday driving.
For those who opt to spend the $4,000 - and more for the 22/32 EPA rating - for the 3.5L engine, the Altima changes into a completely different animal. With a 0-60mph done in 6 seconds and the overtaking issue of the 2.5L dealt with, the Altima becomes into a true joy to drive. However, with a base MSRP of $32,350 for the 3.5L, the combination of power and efficiency found in the 2.5L will be the best bet for most buyers.
Ride and Handling (9/10)
The Altima strikes the perfect balance between ride and handling. The ride is incredibly serene, providing a magic carpet ride over the vast majority of surface. Only the largest potholes and bumps will make themselves noticeable to those in the cabin. In terms of handling, the Altima holds its own on twisty backroads and spirited driving. While there is a fair bit of body roll, never does this vehicle seem unsettled by what the driver throws at it. Nissan has realized that a superb ride is far more important in this segment - and it has engineered the Altima to reflect that. If handling is of importance, buyers should look toward the Maxima (and be ready to pay the premium both in dollars and reduced ride quality).
Price, Competitors, and Verdict:
With a starting price of $22,300, with incredible rebates and financing options throughout the year, the Altima proves to be an exceptional option with a high level of equipment. While the Mazda6 and Honda Accord are sportier alternatives, the Altima has them both beat in terms of its ride quality and interior design. The Camry is a worthy adversary but cannot compete with the Nissan in terms of pricing and standard kit. Therefore, with its premium interior, refined ride, and composed handling, the Nissan Altima is the perfect vehicle for buyers looking to get the most from their midsize sedan.
Overall Score: 8/10
Exterior Design (7/10)
The 2015 design of the Altima is Nissan's attempt to make this sedan look upmarket and possibly luxurious. The front of this vehicle does no favors: a bulbous outlook coupled with edgy headlights and a do not fit well together. However, the rest of the Altima falls together quite nicely. The lengthened wheelbase adds refinement while the the rear bumper and headlights combine for a svelte look. Therefore, while this exterior will not turn heads, it is hard to fault it given the conservative buyers Nissan is pursuing here.
Interior Design (9/10)
While no buyer will purchase the Altima based on its exterior, a majority of buyers should be impressed with this upscale interior. Premium materials, soft leather (for SL trims), and excellent fit and finish make this interior one that would befit a car at twice the cost. Dials and screens are crystal clear, and the switchgear feels solid. A place of serenity and ample space, the interior of the Altima is an excellent place to be.
Technology (7/10)
Three years ago, the technology of the Altima would have turned heads: available bluetooth, keyless go, power seats, iPod connectivity, a rearview camera, and even blind spot monitors are all present here (depending on the trim level). However, there is a notable lack of active safety features and higher level luxury features. With competitors offering active cruise control, automatic high beam assist, electronic parking brakes, and ventilated seats, it is time Nissan has updated the Altima to reflect the changes demanded in the midsize market today.
Performance and Efficiency (7/10)
The performance of the Altima (obviously) comes down to one decision: which engine is purchased. However, there is more to that. The 2.5L, 4 cylinder base engine provides the power necessary for the vast majority of buyers. Low-down grunt and sufficient torque provide adequate acceleration off the line, 0-60mph being dealt with in under 8 seconds. However in terms of overtaking and acceleration north of 40mph, the CVT coupled with the 2.5L proves to be a droning disappointment. However, with our average mpg being 33.6mpg (27/38 EPA Rated), most buyers should be able to ignore the issues with the 4 cylinder engine. Nissan has quite graciously given the Altima a Ds mode - which provides a sporty feel to the CVT. Our advice: buy the 2.5L, 4 cylinder base engine, pocket the change, and use Ds mode for everyday driving.
For those who opt to spend the $4,000 - and more for the 22/32 EPA rating - for the 3.5L engine, the Altima changes into a completely different animal. With a 0-60mph done in 6 seconds and the overtaking issue of the 2.5L dealt with, the Altima becomes into a true joy to drive. However, with a base MSRP of $32,350 for the 3.5L, the combination of power and efficiency found in the 2.5L will be the best bet for most buyers.
Ride and Handling (9/10)
The Altima strikes the perfect balance between ride and handling. The ride is incredibly serene, providing a magic carpet ride over the vast majority of surface. Only the largest potholes and bumps will make themselves noticeable to those in the cabin. In terms of handling, the Altima holds its own on twisty backroads and spirited driving. While there is a fair bit of body roll, never does this vehicle seem unsettled by what the driver throws at it. Nissan has realized that a superb ride is far more important in this segment - and it has engineered the Altima to reflect that. If handling is of importance, buyers should look toward the Maxima (and be ready to pay the premium both in dollars and reduced ride quality).
Price, Competitors, and Verdict:
With a starting price of $22,300, with incredible rebates and financing options throughout the year, the Altima proves to be an exceptional option with a high level of equipment. While the Mazda6 and Honda Accord are sportier alternatives, the Altima has them both beat in terms of its ride quality and interior design. The Camry is a worthy adversary but cannot compete with the Nissan in terms of pricing and standard kit. Therefore, with its premium interior, refined ride, and composed handling, the Nissan Altima is the perfect vehicle for buyers looking to get the most from their midsize sedan.
Overall Score: 8/10