2017 Nissan Altima
Mainstream appeal
The midsize sedan segment is very competitive, so it takes a truly remarkable model to stand out. That model is the Nissan Altima, and it continues to please mainstream shoppers with its excellent mix of stylish design, comfortable interior, and more cutting-edge features than ever before. The 2017 Nissan Altima truly offers something for everyone.
Performance
The 2017 Nissan Altima is available with two powertrain options. Whether you want thriftiness or fleetness, Nissan has you covered. The standard offering is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, with 182 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. There’s also a 3.5-liter V6 with 270 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque.
All Altima models are front-wheel drive and use Nissan’s Xtronic CVT® automatic transmission. Last year, Nissan updated the continuously variable transmission with the D-Step Shift logic already deployed in the Maxima and Murano, resulting in more responsive acceleration from both a standing start and in passing situations. Since this is still a CVT, though, it also ensures the Altima returns impressive fuel economy.
Official EPA fuel economy for 2.5-liter models is 31 mpg combined (27 city/39 highway),* while 3.5-liter V6 models return an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined (22 city/32 highway).*
Features
The 2017 Nissan Altima is available only as a four-door, five-seat midsize sedan. There are five available trim levels, priced starting from $22,500.**
Even the base Altima comes well-equipped, with standard features like power windows and exterior mirrors, Halogen headlights, “zero gravity” front bucket seats, 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, and other items. Upgrading to the Altima S includes all of the base model’s features, plus auto on/off headlights, a 5.0-inch display audio system, USB port, rearview camera, NissanConnectSM with Mobile Apps, hands-free text messaging, and Siri® Eyes Free voice recognition (compatible iPhone® required).
The Altima SR has a sportier attitude with its aforementioned performance and cosmetic upgrades, along with some convenience features like power seats and daytime running lights.
The Altima SV adds a bit more luxury in the form of dual-zone automatic climate control, SiriusXM® satellite radio, remote engine start, and other features.
Finally, the Altima SL sits at the top of the lineup with standard equipment like leather seats, mirror-mounted LED turn signals, a nine-speaker Bose® premium audio system, compass, rear HVAC vents, and upgraded interior trim.
In addition to the standard equipment, optional features include LED lighting, a power moonroof, a Cold Weather package (heated front seats, exterior mirrors, and steering wheel), and NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps infotainment system, with a 7.0-inch display screen and voice recognition.
Design
The 2017 Nissan Altima features a bold exterior that helps it turn heads but that also helps improve fuel efficiency. The front fascia is inspired by the look of the Maxima and Murano, with Nissan’s new V-shaped grille and “boomerang” headlights. There are matching “boomerang” taillights at the back, too.
The Altima is without a doubt very pleasing to the eye, especially if you opt for the SR model, with its smoked headlights, 18-inch wheels, and rear spoiler. But there are also significant elements that you can’t see, including an underbody cover and active grille shutters. Along with the performance-focused front and rear fascia, the various styling elements help lower the Altima’s coefficient of drag.
On the inside, the Altima boasts a center stack, center console, and other bits that adopt Nissan’s current “gliding wing” design, again shared with the Maxima and Murano. It also features the nifty “Zero Gravity” front seats that use a NASA-inspired material and were one of the previous-generation Altima’s biggest selling points. All models also get a reconfigurable 4.0-inch display within the analog instrument cluster.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Nissan Altima includes anti-lock brakes, Vehicle Dynamic Control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. Optional features include a rearview camera, Forward Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Blind-Spot Warning.
Bottom Line
The 2017 Nissan Altima is a more adventurous take on the typical midsize sedan. It offers all the benefits the segment is known for plus a few things it's not, including a plush interior, cutting-edge tech, and strong performance and fuel economy.
To experience the 2017 Nissan Altima for yourself, don't hesitate to contact or visit Hall Nissan Virginia Beach at 3757 Bonney Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 for a test drive.
*Fuel economy based on targeted 2017 EPA fuel economy estimates for 2017 Altima.
**All prices are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, tax, title, license and options.
Image: Nissan