2002-2006 Nissan Altima: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Redesigned for 2002, Nissan's second-rung front-drive sedan turned out to be slightly larger than the "flagship" Maxima, swelling from compact to midsize dimensions. Wheelbase grew by 7 inches, and the new Altima measured 5.7 inches longer overall. For the first time, a V6 engine was available. Exclusive to the top-of-the-line 3.5 SE, the new 3.5-liter V6 produced 240 horsepower. Base, 2.5 S and 2.5 SL sedans used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generated 175 horsepower (20 more than the prior model's four-cylinder). All models were offered with either a manual or automatic transmission. When equipped with automatic, the 3.5 SE qualified for optional traction control. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard. All except the base model could have optional antilock braking, which came bundled with front torso side-impact airbags and curtain-style airbags. Sixteen-Inch wheels were standard, but the 3.5 SE rode on 17-inch rubber. Leather upholstery was standard in the 2.5 SL sedan and optional for the 3.5 SE. All models had a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, split-folding rear seat, power windows, and power door locks. The 2.5 S added air conditioning, cruise control, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, and a CD player. Moving up to the 2.5 SL brought an eight-way power driver's seat, steering-wheel radio controls, a Bose stereo with in-dash six-CD changer, and alloy wheels. An upgraded suspension and foglamps were included on the 3.5 SE. Xenon high intensity-discharge headlights were optional on the 3.5 SE sedan. Altima rivals included the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat.