2024 | automotive opinions | nissan | nissan altima | sedans
Sporty won’t be the primary phrase that pops into your head once you consider the Nissan Altima, however the 2.0 SR mannequin surpassed our expectations. The highest-of-the-heap for Nissan’s mid-size sedan has a zippy turbocharged engine, a performance-tuned suspension, and sport wheels. It’s no supercar, however we got here away entertained after every week behind the wheel.
Bathed in a glittery Deep Blue Pearl paint and accented with black trim, the Altima 2.0 SR is de facto interesting. It rolls on 19″ aluminum alloy rims in a darkish end with a particular snowflake spoke sample. It additionally has a black rear diffuser, twin exhaust pipes with finishers, black mirror caps, body-color door handles, and a small rear spoiler. As a front-wheel drive mannequin, it rides about 0.5″ decrease to the bottom than all-wheel drive Altimas.
Distinctive to the Altima SR 2.0 is Nissan’s variable-compression turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine makes 236 hp and 267 lb-ft. of torque, sending that energy completely to the entrance wheels by way of a CVT. That combo launches the sedan from a standstill to 60 mph in lower than 6 seconds. We discovered acceleration to be plentiful for on a regular basis driving and freeway passing. The CVT is easy and unobtrusive at decrease speeds, although we’re not followers of the rubberband noises it makes because the revs climb in direction of the highest of the torque curve. On the plus aspect, gasoline economic system is superb – attaining 25 MPG within the metropolis, 34 MPG on the freeway, and a mixed 29 MPG.
It is best to determine the SR trim from the entrance. It is received a particular darkish chrome model of Nissan’s V-Movement grille, together with lively grille shutters, which assist with cooling and aerodynamics. That is flanked by LED projector headlights. Its sport-tuned suspension is stiffer than the usual Altima setup. Mixed with the bigger wheels, these present higher highway suggestions with out feeling harsh or uneven. The steering really feel is a bit on the sunshine aspect for a sports activities package deal, however there isn’t any noticeable torque steer. Engine noise is effectively managed within the cabin.
Our automotive got here outfitted with light-up kickplates and floor lighting with Nissan logos. In contrast to different puddle lights which might be all in regards to the brand, these are exceptionally vibrant and provides the Altima an added presence when approaching it at evening. They’re nearly like these aftermarket neon lights however not as cheesy.
Inside, you will discover comfortable leather-trimmed “zero-gravity” sport seats with 8-way energy adjustment for the motive force and 4-way energy for the entrance seat passenger. Nissan makes a number of the most snug front-row seats. These aren’t any exception. They’re supportive, well-padded, and cozy. These seats are additionally heated for cold days. Leather-based will also be discovered on the D-shaped sport steering wheel, the middle console, and the gear shift boot. A shiny plastic ending piece runs throughout the dashboard and does a convincing job of trying like carbon fiber. Visibility within the cabin is sweet, and know-how like blind spot indicators, automated excessive beams, and automated emergency braking additional contribute to its security options. Nissan ProPILOT Help helps keep freeway speeds and facilities the automotive within the lane. The clever cruise management works effectively, although we discovered the lane centering tends to bounce between the lane markers greater than some competitor’s automobiles.
The Altima’s middle console is not too fancy, but it surely’s received some issues to love. First, we recognize the normal gearshift lever. Too many automobiles are getting fancy with knobs and buttons, that are by no means as intuitive as this basic setup. In entrance of that, you will discover a pushbutton begin/cease swap, a wi-fi cellphone charging pad, and USB-C and USB-A charging ports. The well-sized 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen presents customary help for Wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 9-speaker Bose sound system produces crisp and enveloping audio.
We have been pleased to seek out better-than-average legroom for backseat passengers. There’s loads of house for folks with longer legs, even with tall folks within the entrance seats. Nonetheless, headroom is proscribed due to the added ceiling house wanted for the sunroof mechanism. Twin HVAC vents and USB-A and USB-C ports are additionally customary for the second row. These seats could be folded down in a 60/40 cut up for cargo-carrying versatility. The trunk is an efficient measurement, too, at 15.4 cubic ft.
With costs beginning at $35,430, the Nissan Altima 2.0 SR VC-TURBO is the most costly Altima within the line-up. It is also the quickest, finest dealing with, and has the sportiest aesthetics. We loved our time driving it, and it is a worthy challenger to the Honda Accord Sport and Toyota Camry XSE. Positively add it to your check drive checklist for those who’re contemplating both of these vehicles.