1998-2001 Nissan Altima: Road Test

Updated: 11/23/08

1998 Nissan Altima GLE
2001 Nissan Altima
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1998-2001 Nissan Altima 

  • Price Range:  $2,200 - $4,700
CG Rating

49

out of 100

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Our road test for the 1998-2001 Nissan Altima includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1998-2001 Nissan Altima and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1998-2001 Nissan Altima is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Acceleration is little-changed from the prior generation--in short, nothing to shout about. Our test GLE ran 0-60 mph in a so-so 10 seconds with automatic transmission. The 2000 models should be a bit swifter. There's also little change in the transmission's reluctance to downshift promptly, or in its abruptness when it does. Our test GXE returned a somewhat disappointing 20.3 mpg, while our GLE averaged 23.4 mpg, despite hard city driving and performance testing. Expect a smooth, absorbent ride except on washboard surfaces, where minor wheel pattering disturbs the calm. Alas, the ride exacts a tradeoff in mediocre body control over big humps and dips, plus more body lean in tight turns than we prefer. Even so, Altima handling is competently agile, aided by quick steering with good feedback. Braking with ABS proved to be safe and undramatic, if unexceptional by today's standards. Unlike previous Altimas, the current generation allows 6-footers to sit comfortably in tandem. The cabin still is not wide enough for three adults in back, but leg, knee, and foot space are all good, as is overall head room even with a power moonroof installed. Front bucket seats in the 2000 models are more supportive and better bolstered. The dashboard is nicely laid out, with clean gauges and convenient, guess-free controls that complement a comfortable driver's post. Commuters should welcome the new console-mounted dual cupholders--much more useful than the rickety pull-out contraption of old. Visibility is good except over-the-shoulder, due to high tail styling and wide rear roof posts. Trunk space is good, but not great. A wide rear-bumper shelf makes for some back-straining reaches, and the lid hinges intrude into the cargo area. The cabin has plenty of places for bric-a-brac, though not accessible to rear seaters.
Value for the Money
Acceptably solid and well-finished, Altima remains a must-see for value-minded buyers, due largely to its low noise levels and soft ride. Trunklids have felt tinny, however. Though unexceptional, Altima ranks as a nice family compact--less bland after the 2000 revamp.
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Expert Ratings Summary

Category Nissan Altima XE/GXE Rating
Performance 5
Fuel Economy 6
Ride Quality 5
Steering/Handling/Braking 5
Quietness 5
Controls/Materials 5
Interior Room 5
Room/Comfort (rear) 4
Cargo Capacity 3
Value within Class 6
Total Score: 49

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

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