2006 Nissan Altima: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Nissan's best-selling vehicle shares a basic design with the company's midsize Maxima sedan, but costs less and offers 4-cyl as well as V6 power. Altima comes in 2.5 and 2.5 S models with a 175-hp 4-cyl engine. The 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL models have a 250-hp V6, the sporty SE-R a 260-hp V6. Manual transmission is standard for all except 3.5SL; it's a 6-speed for SE-R, a 5-speed otherwise. The automatic transmission is a 4-speed for 4-cyl models, a 5-speed for V6s. ABS is standard on 3.5 SL, SE-R, and on automatic-transmission 3.5 SEs. ABS is otherwise optional, except for the base 2.5. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags are available except on the base 2.5. Traction control is optional for automatic-transmission V6 models and the manual-transmission SE-R. SE-R includes firmer suspension, larger front brakes, and specific exterior trim.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.

Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.

New or significantly redesigned models include Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Volkswagen Passat.