The Nissan Altima, a prominent name in the midsize sedan segment, has a rich history of engineering excellence and market adaptability. Originally designed and manufactured exclusively in the United States, the initial four generations of Nissan Altima were primarily targeted at North American and South American markets, extending their reach to regions such as Australia and parts of the Middle East. Over the years, the model has evolved significantly, offering advanced features, refined designs, and competitive pricing to meet the demands of modern consumers. In this comprehensive review, we explore the origins, development, key features, specifications, and pricing strategies associated with the Nissan Altima, providing valuable insights for potential buyers and automotive enthusiasts alike.

Understanding the historical context of the Nissan Altima helps appreciate its evolution within Nissan’s lineup. The model shares a historical lineage with other Nissan vehicles such as the Nissan Teana and Nissan Maxima. The Teana, positioned between the Altima and Maxima in terms of size, was primarily sold in markets outside the Americas, Australia, and the Middle East. By 2013, the Nissan Teana was essentially a rebadged version of the fifth-generation Nissan Altima, consolidating the lineup and branding strategies across different regions. The origin of the Altima name dates back to 1986 when it was first used as a top trim level for the Nissan Leopard in Japan. It later transitioned to the Nissan Laurel, which was marketed in Central American countries before 1992, expanding its influence within Nissan’s global portfolio.

The U.S. manufacturing of the Nissan Altima commenced in 1992, marking a pivotal shift after the discontinuation of the Nissan Stanza. This move positioned the Altima as a key player in Nissan’s portfolio of midsize sedans, specifically crafted to rival competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Since then, the Altima has undergone multiple redesigns, each enhancing its performance, comfort, safety, and technology offerings. Today, the Altima stands out for its blend of affordability, efficiency, and reliability, making it highly attractive to a broad range of customers looking for a dependable daily driver with modern features.

Storage and cargo capacity are also practical with a spacious trunk offering 15.4 cubic feet of space—enough for multiple shopping bags or several large suitcases. For beverage enthusiasts, the vehicle’s multiple cup holders add to convenience during daily commutes or long trips. Powering the 2017 Altima are two engine options: a 179-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that strikes a good balance between performance and efficiency, and a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 270 horsepower, ideal for highway acceleration and overtaking maneuvers. Fuel efficiency varies based on the engine choice, with the four-cylinder models achieving approximately 27 miles per gallon in city driving and up to 39 mpg on highways. The V6 variants are slightly less economical, averaging 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, but deliver greater power for drivers seeking robust performance.

According to recent rankings, the 2017 Nissan Altima holds the 12th position among 19 midsize cars, reflecting its balanced qualities in the segment. It is particularly praised for its commendable fuel economy, high comfort levels, and supportive seating. However, the model’s lack of redesign since the 2013 version puts it slightly behind in terms of technological advancements and driving dynamics. Despite this, the Altima maintains a strong reputation for safety and reliability. In 2010, it received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s highest frontal impact crash safety rating and was recognized as a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in 2017, emphasizing its robust safety features and dependable build quality. Overall, the Nissan Altima remains a top contender in its class, combining affordability, safety, and comfort in a well-rounded package.