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

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		47
Average Score		59
High Score		69