As Nissan rolls out radically redesigned models, its best-selling vehicle in North America – the Altima – also adopts a fresh new look.
A few years ago, Nissan paraded out a series of futuristic auto show concept vehicles that many people believed would never see production. However, after the releases of the new Murano and Maxima, it’s easy to see the influence of those show cars.
Now, the Nissan design team has adopted the key aspects of their new design philosophies to the Altima.
The Nissan Altima competes in a very crowded market segment. Other popular mid-size sedans include the Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion and Honda Accord.
Since the Altima received this mid-cycle refresh just last year, the 2017 model sees few changes.
Design
The trickledown effect of Nissan’s range-wide redesign reaches the Altima. It’s one of the most extensive makeovers in Nissan history and shows many styling cues that debuted on the Murano and Maxima.
The overall look, however, is a little more subdued on the Altima. While the new grille, sculpted front fascia, and aggressive lights certainly give it a bolder look, it’s not a radical departure from its previous one.
Reshaped bodylines, a new hood, and new front and rear bumpers also show some evolution. The tail light housings now extend horizontally into the trunk door, and all models feature dual chrome exhaust tips for an extra sporty flair.
The 2017 Altima offers room for five with good legroom in the back. The more angular design to the dash is the biggest change for this edition, and the materials also feel nicer to the touch.
Overall, the Altima’s new style is handsome, but still conservative when compared to some of its rivals. While it may not turn as many heads, the look should hold up well for many years.
Available in six trim levels, the 2017 Altima ranges from the base 2.5 up to the 3.5 SL. The sporty 2.5 SR model that was introduced last year is still available and is distinguished by a subtle rear spoiler.
Performance
Unlike many of its rivals, Nissan kept the engine options simple with the Altima. Instead of hybrid, diesel or various turbocharged gasoline powerplants, the Altima is only available with two traditional, naturally aspirated engines.
Standard on most models is a 2.5-litre inline-four. It produces 182 horsepower and 180 foot-pounds of torque, which is adequate for most buyers.
Thanks to a revised compression ratio and reduced internal friction, the already efficient four-cylinder is now even more so. Active grille shutters and improved aerodynamics also help in this regard.
Available only on the top-of-the-range model is a 3.5-litre V-6. It puts out 270 h.p. and 257 foot-pounds of torque. This makes the Altima surprisingly spry for a family sedan.
The only transmission for both engines is Nissan’s CVT. It’s an excellent boost to fuel economy, but it takes some getting used to as it forgoes the predictable shift points of a traditional automatic. However, it has been reprogrammed in the Altima to feel more like a regular automatic, and it is noticeable and appreciated.
For most models, the Altima focuses on providing a quiet, comfortable ride.
The steering feel is a big part of the driving experience; not only does the new Altima have a re-engineered steering system, but it also features an Active Understeer Control system. This uses sophisticated sensors and can lightly brake the inside front wheel during cornering to help with turn-in and is undetectable when it activates. The steering still feels a bit numb but in general, its feeling has improved a lot over the years.
If you desire something a little more nimble and athletic, consider the Altima SR. With stiffer suspension and larger 18-inch wheels, it should satisfy those cravings. It doesn’t gain any extra horsepower over the base model, but it does include paddle shifters on the steering wheel that allow the driver to mimic gear changes.
Safety also takes a step forward in this latest Altima edition. Predictive Forward Collision Warning can sense two vehicles ahead, and if that car stops suddenly, this feature alerts the driver so an accident can be avoided.
Also included in Nissan’s “Safety Shield Technologies” is Forward Emergency Braking, Intelligent Cruise Control, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Environment
Riding in the new Altima is also an enjoyable experience. All models come with Nissan’s zero gravity seats that it claims were inspired by NASA. These seats, whether they are in standard cloth or optional leather, comfortably accommodate all body shapes.
In terms of versatility, the front cup holders can now hold cups with handles – a small detail, but one that is appreciated nonetheless. Also, with 15.4 cubic feet of cargo room, the Altima’s trunk is spacious, and the rear seats fold with a 60:40 split.
As mentioned, the most notable difference in the new Altima is the tidier centre console area. In all but the base model, this area houses a five-inch colour information screen.
Equipped with NissanConnect with Mobile Apps, the Altima allows owners to stay digitally connected even while in the vehicle. Currently, apps include Online Search powered by Google, Facebook, and others, and more will be introduced as time goes on.
Further improving ownership, NissanConnect Mobile Apps is not limited to one individual. Other drivers and passengers can set up their own app suite to customize their experience while they are in the Altima. All app profiles are unique to each user’s phone.
If that wasn’t enough technology, every Altima offers an Advanced Drive-Assist Display. Located in the centre of the instrument cluster, it features a four-inch colour display that is customizable, easy-to-use, and shows key information directly in front of the driver.
Features
Starting prices for the Altima range from $23,998 for the base 2.5, up to $35,498 for the 3.5 SL.
Standard equipment includes an automatic transmission (an option on some rivals), power doors, power windows, air conditioning, keyless entry, push-button start, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Additional features, available as options or on higher trims, include a power driver’s seat, leather surfaces, heated front seats and steering wheel, a rearview camera, cruise control, auto headlights, LED headlights, power moonroof, and a navigation system with an upgraded seven-inch touchscreen.
Fuel efficiency numbers (litres/100 kilometres) for the 2.5-litre four-cylinder are 8.7 city and 6.0 highway, while the 3.5-litre V-6 returns 10.3 city and 7.4 highway.
Thumbs up
The Altima has a fresh look and advanced technology. The car is also refined and quiet.
Thumbs down
If you desire all-wheel drive, a manual transmission, or a vehicle powered by something other than a traditional gas engine, you will need to look at competitors.
The bottom line
The 2017 Nissan Altima is a roomy, comfortable family sedan with great fuel economy, nice road manners, and handsome looks – it should be on any shortlist.
Competitors
Toyota Camry: The Camry has deservedly earned a reputation for excellent build quality and strong resale value. The newest generation comes with a whole lot more character in its styling.
Ranging in price from $24,970 to $36,520, the Camry is available in six different models.
Ford Fusion: The Fusion is a great-looking car with an affordable starting price. To help you find the perfect car to suit your needs, Ford offers several models and a wide range of features to choose from.
The Fusion starts at $23,688 and ranges up to $45,088.
Honda Accord: Even in the base model, the Accord’s cabin feels more upmarket than many expect. What you can expect is superb reliability and worry-free ownership.
Available in eight trim levels, the Accord ranges in price from $24,590 to $36,390.
