2008 Nissan Altima: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Nissan Altima gets standard ABS across all time levels. Nissan's midsize cars come in sedan and coupe form. Compared to the coupes, sedans ride on a longer wheelbase and are slightly longer overall. Four-cylinder and V6 engines are shared between body styles.

2.5 models have a 175-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. 3.5 models use a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the 3.5 SL. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard on the 3.5 SL and optional on all but the base 2.5. Altima Hybrids are sedans and are sold only in California and certain northeastern states. They pair the 4-cylinder engine and CVT with a battery-powered electric motor for 198 hp. The Hybrid can run on one or both of its power sources depending on driving conditions, and does not require plug-in charging. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system (V6 and Hybrid models only), front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. ABS was optional on 4-cylinder models for 2007, but it's now standard. A navigation system is available and includes a rearview camera. Also available are leather upholstery and a wireless cell phone link.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.