The Nissan Altima’s sales figures aren’t living up to expectations. That’s why in 2010 Nissan decided to rethink a few elements, especially interior ones, to attract more buyers to this relatively pleasing family sedan.
But the automaker forgot one small detail, one that should never be overlooked: entirely thrill-free, the Nissan Altima drives itself. It’s far from a bad car, but I would’ve liked to feel a tad more oomph during my weeklong road test.
Quiet style
The Nissan Altima is definitely not a head-turner. Contrary to its dynamically shaped coupe brother, the sedan features the same sensible grille and rather sober lines that have characterized it since the beginning. When it was launched in 2002, the selfsame grille and lines were a model of audacity.
Today, though, the Altima melts right into the crowd.
Fortunately, the well-devised cabin is better than ever. The quality of the materials has improved immeasurably, and the presence of redundant controls on the steering wheel ensure easy and efficient operation of the various systems.
Finally, the comfort level has been taken up quite a notch, and the seats are designed for long-haul comfort rather than sporty support. A logical choice for a sedan this size that targets family buyers.
That also translates into an admirable list of equipment, heated seats that keep your tushy nice and toasty, and a user-friendly stereo that includes Bluetooth connectivity.
On the flip side, the materials used are slightly staid and borderline boring. Black is the name of the game, and despite a few chrome accents here and there, the overall impression is modern yet monotonous. You get used to it quickly, though, and all the controls are within hand’s reach.
Impeccable engine
It’s what’s under the hood that truly sets the Altima apart. Nissan’s multi award-winning, 2.5-litre mill is smooth, relatively fuel efficient and at the driver’s beck and call. It responds easily, and without much fuss, as soon as you push it a little – or a lot.
 |
| The Nissan Altima has earned its stripes and taken its place among the sedans worthy of our consideration. (Photo: Nissan) |
But the automaker forgot one small detail, one that should never be overlooked: entirely thrill-free, the Nissan Altima drives itself. It’s far from a bad car, but I would’ve liked to feel a tad more oomph during my weeklong road test.
Quiet style
The Nissan Altima is definitely not a head-turner. Contrary to its dynamically shaped coupe brother, the sedan features the same sensible grille and rather sober lines that have characterized it since the beginning. When it was launched in 2002, the selfsame grille and lines were a model of audacity.
Today, though, the Altima melts right into the crowd.
Fortunately, the well-devised cabin is better than ever. The quality of the materials has improved immeasurably, and the presence of redundant controls on the steering wheel ensure easy and efficient operation of the various systems.
Finally, the comfort level has been taken up quite a notch, and the seats are designed for long-haul comfort rather than sporty support. A logical choice for a sedan this size that targets family buyers.
That also translates into an admirable list of equipment, heated seats that keep your tushy nice and toasty, and a user-friendly stereo that includes Bluetooth connectivity.
On the flip side, the materials used are slightly staid and borderline boring. Black is the name of the game, and despite a few chrome accents here and there, the overall impression is modern yet monotonous. You get used to it quickly, though, and all the controls are within hand’s reach.
Impeccable engine
It’s what’s under the hood that truly sets the Altima apart. Nissan’s multi award-winning, 2.5-litre mill is smooth, relatively fuel efficient and at the driver’s beck and call. It responds easily, and without much fuss, as soon as you push it a little – or a lot.
 |
| Nissan’s multi award-winning, 2.5-litre mill is smooth, relatively fuel efficient and at the driver’s beck and call. (Photo: Nissan) |