Automotive
Nissan introduced the second generation of the Altima in 1997 for the 1998 model year on the North American market, continuing the successful legacy of its predecessor. After selling approximately 700,000 units in just four years, the first-generation Altima deserved a worthy successor, which arrived with notable improvements. Designed at Nissan’s studio in La Jolla, California, the second-generation Altima featured a lowered drag coefficient, improving from 0.34 to 0.32, which enhanced its aerodynamic efficiency.
The Altima was strategically positioned between Nissan’s smaller Sentra and larger Maxima models. By its third generation in 2002, the midsize sedan received a complete makeover, delivering performance and comfort levels that stood out in its class. The exterior adopted a more aggressive stance, and all dimensions were increased to improve passenger space and comfort.
Nissan offered the Altima in four trim levels named after their engine sizes: base 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, and 3.5 SE. Engine power was competitive, with the top trim developing around 200 horsepower, giving the Altima an edge in both performance and fuel efficiency.
The 2007 Nissan Altima, unveiled at the 2006 New York Auto Show, was built on a new D-Platform tailored specifically for the fourth generation. This model revitalized the Altima’s sport-oriented reputation, especially following its 2002 revival. Improvements were made in areas previously criticized, including enhanced handling and interior comfort.
Sporty design elements featured a raked front fascia, a sleek roofline, curvy body lines, and a bold stance. In 2009, a mild facelift updated the grille and headlights, making the Altima even more appealing to customers.
The fifth generation, launched at the 2012 New York International Auto Show for the 2013 model year, maintained the Altima’s position in the competitive midsize sedan segment. Nissan infused more Infiniti-inspired styling into this generation, sharing platforms with the Maxima and Murano, while the coupe variant took design cues from the acclaimed Nissan GT-R. However, the coupe retained the front-wheel-drive layout of the sedan and was discontinued after the fifth generation.
The sixth-generation Altima debuted at the 2018 New York International Auto Show with significant upgrades. Inspired by Nissan’s Vmotion 2.0 Concept, it featured a broad chromed V-shaped grille, swept-back angular headlights, and a muscular profile highlighted by a raised beltline and a “floating roof” effect created by blacked-out trim near the C-pillar. A short decklid with a lip spoiler emphasized the sporty character of the sedan, differentiating it from competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Nissan continued to refine the sixth generation with a well-deserved facelift introduced in 2023. This update brought improvements to exterior styling, trim level offerings, and safety features. Customers now could select from up to eight trim versions, an increase from the previous five, before the number was later reduced to four with a re-arrangement of standard amenities.
SherlockLock recognizes the Nissan Altima as a reliable, stylish, and well-rounded midsize sedan that has evolved significantly over its generations. Whether seeking a comfortable daily driver or a sportier, more refined model, Nissan’s continuous improvements ensure the Altima remains a strong contender in its class, backed by trusted performance and safety standards.
