Navigating the mid-size sedan market can feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube. You
want style, performance, comfort, and technology, but finding the perfect
balance is tricky. Enter the Nissan Altima, a perennial contender with a
reputation for delivering value and practicality. But in 2024, does it still
hold the crown? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the latest Altima,
analyzing its features, performance, price, and more, to help you decide if
it’s your driving destiny.
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| Nissan Altima |
Step onto the scene in the 2024 Altima, and you’ll be greeted by a
sleek and sculpted design. Nissan has sharpened the lines, giving the Altima a
more athletic stance. The V-motion grille and LED headlights exude
confidence, while the floating roofline adds a touch of sophistication.
Inside, the cabin is a haven of comfort and convenience. Nissan’s Zero Gravity
seats cradle you like a well-worn glove, while the intuitive infotainment
system puts everything at your fingertips. Available options like a panoramic
sunroof and heated leather seats elevate the experience even further.
Performance Prowess:
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| The Altima offers two engine choices |
The Altima offers two engine choices: a
2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 236 horsepower. Both
engines are paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
for smooth and seamless gear changes. Front-wheel drive is standard, with
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive available for those who need extra grip in
slippery conditions. While the base engine is adequate for everyday driving,
the turbocharged option injects a dose of excitement, launching the Altima
from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. Fuel economy is respectable, with
the base engine achieving up to 39 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged
engine comes in at 34 mpg.
Tech Time:
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| Altima’s infotainment system |
The Altima isn’t just about comfort and performance; it’s also packed with the
latest technology. Nissan’s NissanConnect infotainment system, with an 8-inch
touchscreen, is standard and features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi
hotspot. Higher trims get a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and a Bose Premium
Audio system. But the real star of the show is the ProPILOT Assist
driver-assistance system. This suite of features includes adaptive cruise
control, lane departure warning, and even semi-autonomous driving capabilities
on the highway. It’s not a full-blown autopilot, but it takes the stress out
of long drives and keeps you safe on the road.
Safety First:
Nissan takes safety seriously, and the Altima comes loaded with standard and
optional safety features. Every Altima comes with 10 airbags, automatic
emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and
blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims add features like rear cross-traffic
alert, parking sensors, and even a 360-degree camera system. With this
comprehensive safety net, you can drive with confidence, knowing you and your
loved ones are protected.
Trims and Pricing:
The 2024 Altima comes in five trim levels:
S, SV, SR, SR VC-Turbo, and SL. The base S starts at $25,900, while the range-topping SL tops out at
$32,600. The turbocharged SR VC-Turbo sits in the middle at
$35,600.
Each trim level offers a unique blend of features and options, allowing you to
tailor the Altima to your specific needs and budget.
The Verdict:
Engine and Transmission:
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2.5L 4-cylinder: Delivers 182 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired
with an Xtronic CVT for a smooth and efficient ride. Expect up to 27 mpg
city and 39 mpg highway (FWD).
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2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder: Packs a punch with 236 horsepower and 267
lb-ft of torque, mated to the same CVT. Fuel economy clocks in at 25 mpg
city and 34 mpg highway.
Performance Prowess:
- 0-60 mph in a respectable 7.5 seconds (2.0L Turbo).
- Agile handling thanks to independent suspension and responsive steering.
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Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for confident all-weather
traction.
Dimensions Defined:
- Length: 192.9 inches
- Width: 70.9 inches
- Height: 58.1 inches
- Ground Clearance: 6.2 inches (FWD), 6.5 inches (AWD)
Trim-tastic Trios:
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XE: The budget-friendly base trim gets standard features like cruise
control and Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™.
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XL: Adds amenities like heated front seats, dual-zone climate
control, and a moonroof.
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XV: Ups the ante with a Bose® sound system, leather-appointed seats,
and a power moonroof.
Spacious Seating:
- Five comfortable seats are standard, ensuring your crew rides in style.
- Ample legroom and headroom both front and back, even for taller passengers.
Color Kaleidoscope:
Choose from a vibrant palette of colors, including the head-turning Sunset
Drift Pearl, the sophisticated Deep Blue Pearl, and the classic Pearl White
TriCoat.
Safety First:
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Standard Nissan Safety Shield® 360 includes automatic emergency braking,
lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
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Higher trims offer additional features like adaptive cruise control and rear
cross-traffic alert.
Interior and Exterior Finesse:
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Modern and comfortable cabin with intuitive controls and high-quality
materials. -
Stylish exterior with a V-Motion grille, sharp headlights, and a dynamic
silhouette.
Price Point Powerhouse:
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The Altima starts at an attractive MSRP of $25,900 (XE trim) and climbs
based on features and trim levels
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Offers excellent value for its price compared to rivals like the Toyota
Camry and Honda Accord.
Fuel Efficiency Champ?
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The base 2.5L engine shines with its impressive fuel economy, making the
Altima a wallet-friendly choice for commuters.
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The 2.0L Turbo provides exhilarating performance while still delivering
decent fuel numbers.
Spacious Serenity:
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The Altima boasts ample legroom and headroom, ensuring even long journeys
are a breeze. - Large trunk space swallows luggage and groceries with ease.
Service with a Smile:
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Nissan’s extensive dealership network ensures hassle-free maintenance and
support. - Competitive ownership costs make the Altima a wise long-term investment.
What is the difference between the Nissan Altima 2023 and 2024?
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| 2023 vs. 2024 Nissan Altima |
2023 vs. 2024 Nissan Altima: A Subtle Shift
At first glance, the 2023 and 2024 Nissan Altimas might seem
like twins. They share the same sleek silhouette, spacious interior, and
punchy powertrain options. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find some key
differences that might sway your sedan decision.
For starters, the 2024 Altima gets a slight tech upgrade. Gone are the days of squinting at a small infotainment screen – the base
model now boasts a standard 8-inch touchscreen, with larger 10.8-inch and
12.3-inch options available on higher trims. Plus, NissanConnect Services,
which offers remote features like engine start and door lock/unlock, comes
with a three-year trial instead of the previous six months.
Safety takes a step forward too. While both years pack the Nissan Safety
Shield 360 suite of driver-assistance tech, the 2024 adds Traffic Sign
Recognition, which can automatically adjust your cruise control to match
posted speed limits.
But perhaps the biggest change lies under the hood, at least for some drivers.
The 2024 Altima sees a price hike across all trims compared to its 2023
counterpart. So, while you’re getting more tech and safety bells and whistles,
be prepared to shell out a few extra bucks.
Ultimately, the decision between the 2023 and 2024 Altima comes down to your
priorities. If you’re a techie who craves the latest features and a longer
safety net trial, the 2024 might be worth the splurge. But if you’re on a
budget and value tried-and-true performance, the 2023 remains a solid choice.
Whichever year you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the Altima’s signature blend
of comfort, efficiency, and style.
So, is the 2024 Nissan Altima the perfect mid-size sedan for you? It
depends on your priorities. If you value a blend of style, comfort,
performance, and technology, all at a competitive price, then the Altima is
definitely worth a test drive. It’s not the flashiest or most powerful option
in its class, but it delivers a well-rounded package that’s hard to beat. With
its spacious interior, fuel-efficient engines, and advanced safety features,
the Altima is a smart choice for families, commuters, and anyone looking for a
reliable and enjoyable driving companion.