Nissan Altima

Characteristics

Typical features across Altima model years include seating for five, front-wheel drive as standard, a choice of four-cylinder engines and higher-output V6 options in many generations, and continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) in recent models. Body styles have primarily been four-door sedans, though a two-door coupe variant was offered for a period. Safety, interior refinement and infotainment have been progressively upgraded with each redesign.

• Common configurations: four-door sedan (current), two-door coupe (previously)
• Powertrains: economy-focused four-cylinders and available V6 engines; hybrid variants introduced in the 2000s
• Drivetrain: predominantly front-wheel drive; modern models emphasize CVT efficiency

Over its production life the Altima has gone through several distinct generations, each introducing changes to styling, chassis, and technology. The model earned industry recognition, including the North American Car of the Year award in the early 2000s, and achieved high crash-safety ratings in later years. A hybrid version was added to the range in the 2000s, reflecting Nissan's moves toward improved fuel efficiency.

In the marketplace the Altima has appealed to buyers seeking a practical daily driver with a balance of comfort and economy. It has been used widely by families and fleets and has been a consistent seller for Nissan in North America. Manufactures have updated the Altima to include modern driver-assist systems, improved cabin materials and contemporary infotainment as consumer expectations evolved.

Notable distinctions for the Altima include its long production run, multiple redesigns that tracked broader industry trends toward efficiency and safety, and a period when a sportier coupe broadened its appeal. The model continues to be refreshed periodically to remain competitive in the mid-size segment, with recent generations emphasizing advanced safety technology and better fuel consumption.