2007 Nissan Altima: Road Test
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2007 Nissan Altima ▼
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- MSRP: $17,950 -$28,400
- Invoice: $17,538 -$26,265
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Our road test for the 2007 Nissan Altima includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Nissan Altima from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Nissan Altima, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Nissan Altima help you decide if a 2007 Nissan Altima is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.9 |
Conventional 4-cyl models with CVT sprightly from a stop, show good highway passing response. V6 versions stronger still in all situations. Test 3.5 SE with CVT did 6.3 sec 0-60 mph. CVT well matched to either engine, and its manual shift gate allows for near-instantaneous gear changes. No Hybrid or manual-transmission Altimas made available for test.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Test 3.5 SE models with CVT automatic averaged 23.3-23.8 mpg. No opportunity to measure with 4-cyl. Altima 2.5s use regular-grade fuel. Nissan recommends premium for the V6. Altima has a 20-gal fuel tank, among the largest in the midsize-car class.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
One of the more controlled and comfortable midsize sedans. The 2.5 models are best composed overall. Sport suspension in 3.5 SE models induces unwanted thump, body jiggle over sharp bumps. No opportunity yet to test 3.5 SL, which has softer suspension tuning.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Nicely damped body motions and precise, direct steering impart a sporty feel. Torque steer a non-issue even on 3.5 versions. Models tested equipped with ABS had generally good stopping control, though one test model suffered touchy pedal action. Nissan should make ABS standard on all Altimas.
QUIETNESS
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Neither the 4-cyl nor V6 sounds especially refined, but they're not overly intrusive either. Tire, road, and wind noise are well controlled, though one test model suffered from dashboard rattles.
CONTROLS
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.7 |
Large, legible gauges. Simple climate and audio controls in models without navigation system. Navigation absorbs audio functions and isn't intuitive to program, a demerit. Textured, soft-touch materials put to good overall use, though some hard plastic persists in center console area.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Good overall head and leg room, though six-footers may want more seat travel. Seats have very good thigh, lumbar support, though some testers complain that seats lack supportive contour. Steering wheel tilts/telescopes to aid in driver positioning. Visibility fine in all directions.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Rear bench is reasonably comfortable for those under six feet. Tall riders will find head room cramped and leg space lacking unless front seats are well forward.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
Trunk is generously sized, shaped. Lid hinges intrude deeply into cargo area. Low liftover eases loading of bulky items, though split rear seatbacks don't fold completely flat. Average interior storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.3 |
This Recommended pick is a sportier alternative to the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, and it doesn't give up much in terms of everyday usability. Rear-seat comfort and overall refinement still trail the class leaders, but Altima is more engaging to drive.
Total Score
| 2.5 S, CVT | 3.5 SE, CVT | 3.5 SE w/nav. sys., CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63 | 63 | 61 | 59.2 |
Total Score: 62
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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