Nissan's Altima Hybrid to arrive in Canada early 2007

Good news: Nissan has just confirmed that its all-new 2007 Altima Hybrid will be sold in Canada, in all likelihood starting in the first months of next year.

Photo: Nissan Canada

Initially, the Japanese automaker planned to offer this eco-friendly model only in targeted markets. For instance, in North America, the states that meet the strict Californian emission regulations (California, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island and New Jersey) were reportedly considered.

Nissan's first entry into the hybrid gasoline/electric vehicle segment will therefore arrive in dealerships North of the border with a base price under $35,000 (final details to be released in January).

The new Altima Hybrid offers all the style, convenience, comfort, quality feel and performance technology features and highlights of the

Photo: Nissan Canada

next-generation Altima, while delivering the added benefits of enhanced fuel economy and reduced emissions. In fact, it is classified as an Advanced Technology-Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV).

Its 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT) are coupled with an electric motor and generator to produce 198 horsepower. Fuel economy is estimated by Nissan at 5.6L/100km in the city and 5.9L/100km on the highway.

Compared to its two main rivals, the Altima Hybrid is more powerful than the Toyota Camry Hybrid and more fuel-efficient than the Honda Accord Hybrid.