2007-2008 Nissan Altima: Road Test

Four-cylinder models with the CVT are sprightly from a stop and show good highway passing response. V6 versions are stronger still in all situations. A test 3.5 SE sedan with CVT accelerated to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. The CVT is well matched to either engine, and its manual shift gate allows for nearly-instantaneous "virtual" gear changes. Altimas with manual shift feel quicker still, but the shifter has long "throws," which somewhat blunts any sporty nature. Fuel economy is about on par for the class, and the Hybrid sedan promises frugal operation in city driving. A test 3.5 SE sedan with CVT averaged 23.8 mpg in mostly highway driving and 19.1 mpg with more city duty, including gas-eating performance runs. Also in the city, manual-shift 3.5 SE models averaged 22.4 to 24.8 mpg. Altima 2.5 models use regular-grade fuel. Nissan recommends premium for the V6. Altimas have a 20-gallon fuel tank-among the largest in the midsize-car class. Ride comfort varies. In regular form, Altima is one of the more poised and comfortable midsize sedans. Overall, the 2.5 models are best composed. The sport suspension on 3.5 SE models induces unwanted thump and body jiggle over sharp bumps. SE coupes with the V6 have even firmer suspension tuning and are very stiff over even small bumps. Sedans demonstrate nicely damped body motions. Precise, direct steering imparts a sporty feel. In one 3.5 SE coupe, however, steering was light and devoid of road feel. That coupe also suffered more body lean than expected for a sport two-door. Torque steer is not evident even on 3.5 versions. Models equipped with ABS have showed generally good stopping control, though one test sedan suffered touchy pedal action. Neither the four-cylinder nor theV6 sounds especially refined, but they're not overly intrusive, either. Tire, road, and wind noise are well controlled in sedans, less so in coupes. One test model suffered from dashboard rattles. Large gauges are easily legible. Models without a navigation system have simple climate and audio controls. The navigation system absorbs audio functions and isn't intuitive to program. Textured, soft-touch materials are put to good overall use, though some hard plastic panels are found in the center console area. Regardless, Altimas are pleasant inside. Front headroom and legroom are good overall, though six-footers may want more seat travel. Seats have very good thigh and lumbar support, though some test-drivers complained that seats lack supportive contour. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes to aid driver positioning. Visibility in sedans is fine in all directions. Thick rear roof pillars create large blind spots in coupes. The sedan's rear bench is reasonably comfortable for people under six feet. Tall riders will find headroom cramped and leg space lacking, unless front seats are well forward. Coupes are cramped for both heads and feet. The front seat tilts forward, but its release is on the inside of the passenger seat, thus less accessible. Altima sedan trunks are generously sized and shaped, but lid hinges intrude deeply into the cargo area. Low liftover eases loading of bulky items, though split rear seatbacks don't fold completely flat. Interior storage qualifies only as average. Coupes have non-intrusive strut-style hinges, but the trunk is small-narrow and shallow.

Value for the Money
This Recommended pick is a sportier alternative to the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Sedans don't give up much in terms of everyday usability. Coupes attempt to be even sportier, but ride stiffly and have little trunk space. Both body styles have subpar rear-seat room and comfort. Overall refinement still trails the class leaders, but Altima is more engaging to drive.