2001 Nissan Altima: Road Test
Archived Review
2001 Nissan Altima ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $15,140 -$20,390
- Invoice: $14,547 -$18,525
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Nissan Altima
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2001 Nissan Altima includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Nissan Altima from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Nissan Altima, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Nissan Altima help you decide if a 2001 Nissan Altima is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.7 |
Zero-60 mph in about 9 sec. with automatic transmission. The automatic performed admirably in one test SE, but in other test Altimas it was hesitant to downshift at midrange speeds and sometimes slurred upshifts.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.8 |
Acceptable for a 4-cyl compact, but nothing to cheer. A manual GXE we tested averaged 20.4 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.7 |
Firm but comfortable. Even the sport-tuned SE soaks up rough stuff without thumpiness or drumming while providing reasonable absorbency.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 4.2 |
Last year's revamp improved handling. Altima is poised, with moderate body lean, good cornering grip, especially with the SE and GLE's 16-inch tires. But steering is a bit numb on-center, requires too much correcting in straight-line highway cruising.
QUIETNESS
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.6 |
Not as mechanically hushed as Honda Civic, but wind noise more than acceptably low. Little tire thump or body drumming on bumps.
CONTROLS
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Convenient, apart from low-mounted audio controls. Visibility suffers from high-tail styling and wide roof posts.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.3 |
Ample for 6-footers, and more comfortable than most compact cars. Driving position enhanced by nicely bolstered bucket. All but XE have standard front cushion tilt, though dual handwheel adjusters are awkwardly placed, not easy to operate.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.1 |
Good leg room, but seat itself is too short, soft, and ill-shaped for comfort. Narrow door openings hamper entry/exit, as in most compact sedans.
CARGO ROOM
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Trunk volume good for the exterior size. But broad sill can make for back-straining reaches and the lid hinges intrude into the load space.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4.6 |
Could use more charisma, but a solid all-rounder with no serious flaws. Keenly priced, and with enough model and equipment variations to satisfy most any budget.
Total Score
| SE, auto. | GXE, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 51 | 50 | 42.8 |
Total Score: 51
Scores for all Compact Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
