2022 Nissan Altima

Despite the growing popularity of crossovers and SUVs, many automakers continue to produce sedans, owing to their pragmatic designs and nearly a century's worth of refinement. The Nissan Altima is an example of a sedan that has just gotten better over time - offering balanced performance, a wellspring of comforts and technology, and consummate safety and reliability standards, all for an affordable price. It's a spacious midsize sedan that comes with everything a professional or small family could need. Unfortunately, that's about all the Nissan Altima really presents. Its many competitors, including the Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, and Honda Accord, offer more in terms of performance and value. The Altima's standard 2.5-liter motor, with 182 horsepower supports the sedan's straightforward commuter character, but the 2.0-liter turbo with its 248 hp, disappoints as a truly sporty alternative thanks to being restricted to a front-wheel-drive setup and having an uninspired CVT. The Altima is a competent car, but it's difficult not to feel that Nissan has held it back from achieving its full potential.

The Nissan Altima's sleek and angular exterior styling hints at a sportier and more engaging drive than it actually delivers. LED projector headlights with LED daytime running lights are standard on all but the base model, which features halogen projector headlights. The top-spec SL and Platinum models come fitted with LED fog lights. A dark chrome V-Motion grille delineates the SR from the rest of the line. The S is fitted with 16-inch steel wheels with covers, the SV and SL with 17-inch stylized alloy wheels, and the SR and Platinum with even fancier 19-inch alloy wheels. The SR with the VC-Turbo and the Platinum both come outfitted with a single-pane glass moonroof. Finally, adding the Midnight Edition package adds a black painted sport grille, a gloss black painted spoiler and exterior mirrors, model-specific badging, and gloss black 19-inch wheels.

With its overall length of 192.9 inches, wheelbase length of 111.2 inches, height of between 56.7 and 57.4 inches, and width of 72.9 inches, the Nissan Altima sedan's dimensions place it precisely within the midsize classification.

The entry-spec S is the lightest model in the line with its curb weight of 3,244 pounds while the top-spec Platinum in AWD is the heaviest with its curb weight of 3,492 lbs. The SR VC-Turbo comes in at 3,460 lbs.

A total of nine colors constitute the Nissan Altima's color palette, though the base-level S is limited to only five: Glacier White, Super Black, Gun Metallic, Brilliant Silver Metallic, and Deep Blue Pearl. For an additional $395, the SV and SL models can be painted in Pearl White Tricoat, Storm Blue Metallic, and Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, in lieu of Glacier White and Deep Blue Pearl. As the performance model, the SR is given the most striking color option, Sunset Drift Chromaflair, which is offered at $395. The Scarlet Ember Tintcoat or the Brilliant Solver Metallic are superb options for any of the regular models, while the Sunset Drift Chromaflair is the go-to for the SR. Midnight Edition models are only available in Super Black, Gun Metallic, and Pearl White.

Nissan offers the Altima with two engines, one transmission, and two drivetrain options. The starting motor is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit that's been dialed to produce up to 188 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque when ceding to the car's front-wheel drivetrain. Power drops to 182 hp and 178 lb-ft when the all-wheel drivetrain is optioned in. The 2.5L is a solid engine and has proven to be pleasantly competent and reliable through all its years of use by Nissan.

Exclusive to the Altima SR is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot that musters up to 248 hp and 273 lb-ft on 93 octane fuel. Unfortunately, the 2.0L is also paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission, which really detracts from the driving experience. Being limited to FWD doesn't help its potential, either. The standard 2.5L can accelerate the Altima from 0 to 60 mph in around seven and a half seconds while the 2.0L turbo-four will get it done in under six seconds and take it up to a top speed of 130 mph. It's really odd and unfortunate that Nissan relegated the 2.0L SR to the CVT and FWD and that the top-spec Platinum doesn't get access to it.

In any of the FWD-equipped Nissan Altima models, the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine produces up to 188 hp and 180 lb-ft. But in the AWD-equipped models, it manages only 182 hp and 178 lb-ft. Whatever the case, acceleration responses are solid and dependable throughout the engine's rev range and the continuously variable automatic transmission, while not speedy or engaging, does shift gears smoothly. The SR's 2.0-liter turbo unit, with 248 hp and 273 lb-ft, delivers peppier acceleration responses but it's thwarted by the fact that's confined to working with the CVT and FWD. Even if the Altima SR could make use of all the turbo-four's power, the FWD system would make driving at the limits terrifying considering how much torque steer there would be. Fortunately, or not, the CVT proves to be far too slow to allow for that. Competitors such as Honda and Hyundai choose to pair their performance-focused engines with specially tuned dual-clutch automatic transmissions, making them faster and a lot more enjoyable.

Despite the mediocre performance delivered by the powertrains and their nonsensical combinations, the Altima still impresses in its dynamism and comfort. Its steering is light but still fairly precise and its chassis actually exhibits some playfulness going around corners. The Honda, Mazda, and Hyundai competitors are a lot more proficient and engaging, but this latest version of the Altima has come a long way from where the nameplate started. The Altima is also not the type of car one would really drive for entertainment, but it's good that it can handle itself around a corner if you're in a hurry.

Nissan presents the Altima line with a sport-focused SR model, but it's not very proficient or competitive in this venture due to the FWD system and CVT it's restricted to. The upgraded sport suspension assists the sedan through corners fairly well, helping it feel more planted, but it comes at the cost of the sedan's ride comfort, which is one of its core qualities.

According to the EPA, the Nissan Altima fairs relatively well when it comes to fuel efficiency. With the standard 2.5-liter engine, the most frugal model is the FWD entry-spec S which returns impressive gas mileage figures of 28/39/32 mpg on city/highway/combined driving cycles. The combined figure drops to 31 mpg on the SR, SV, and SL models. The heavier AWD-equipped SV and SL models return estimates of 26/36/30 mpg on those same cycles while the SR and Platinum get 26/36/29 mpg. With the 2.0-liter turbo-four, the FWD SR returns 25/34/29 mpg. For comparison, the Honda Accord achieves 30/38/33 mpg and the Mazda 6 26/35/29 mpg in their most frugal forms.

FWD models are equipped with a 16.2-gallon gas tank while AWD models get a 16-gallon one. If driven prudently, drivers should be able to travel for around 518 miles in the entry-spec S with a full tank.

Nissan's cabin design for the Altima is pleasing with its modern impression and ergonomic layout. The driver is presented with a five-inch information display and three-spoke multi-function steering wheel in the S, while all the other models are upgraded with a seven-inch digital information display and leather-clad steering wheel, which is further upgraded with heating in the SL and Platinum. The "floating" infotainment touchscreen (seven-inch in the S and eight-inch in the rest) adds to the contemporary look and feel, and though there are some second-rate materials used here and there, they are well hidden. With its five-inch driver display, vinyl steering wheel, seven-inch infotainment screen, and fabric seating upholstery, the entry-spec S is a bit basic but it works for a fleet vehicle or any commercial driver.

The driver is provided ample visibility and plenty of room and seat configurations to make finding an optimal driving position easy. Ingress and egress are effortless all-round and Nissan's Zero Gravity Seats are superbly comfortable and supportive. There's plenty of headroom up front with 39.1 inches provided, dropping to 38 inches with the moonroof, though taller passengers may not appreciate the sloping roofline in the rear. Otherwise, there's more than enough legroom up front and in the rear and three adults will fit comfortably in the back shoulder-to-shoulder. Legroom measures in at 43.8 inches in the front and 35.2 inches in the rear.

A basic vinyl steering wheel and shifter delineate the entry-spec S as the fleet model, though basic cloth seating upholstery is carried through to the SV and SR. Hues vary from charcoal in the S, and gray in the SV to charcoal sport with contrast stitching in the SR. All but the S are outfitted with a leather-clad steering wheel and shifter and the SL and Platinum feature leather-upholstered seats in gray. For a sportier aesthetic, the SR gets faux carbon-fiber trim strewn throughout the cabin while the SL and Platinum are adorned with piano black and wood-tone trim for a classier look and feel.

Pop the Altima's trunk and you're presented with 15.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which is middling for the classification. The Honda Accord leads the segment with 16.7 cu.-ft. of space offered within its trunk, followed closely by the Kia K5 with its 16 cu.-ft. At least the Nissan supplies more than the Toyota Camry and the Subaru Legacy. The rear seats can be folded down in a 60/40 split, but the resulting cargo space figure isn't provided.

In terms of in-cabin storage, both front doors have large pockets, there's a small-items storage tray provided within the center console, flanked by two cupholders and a spacious storage bin beneath the center armrest. There's an overhead sunglasses holder and a spacious passenger-side glove box, and there are another two cupholders located within the rear center backrest.

Comfort, convenience, and safety features are all kept fairly basic in the S model, but they're still more than adequate. Remote engine start, push-button start, power windows, manual air condition, and a six-way manually adjustable driver's seat are all standard, along with a rather decent selection of driver assists, including forward collision warning with automatic braking, cruise control, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. Moving further up the line sees additions such as a leather-clad steering wheel, heated power-adjustable front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Exclusive to the SL and Platinum models is adaptive cruise control and a single panel moonroof (Midnight Edition models get the moonroof as standard). The Platinum is also installed with a surround-view monitor.

The standard infotainment setup is good throughout the Altima lineup but significantly better beyond the entry-spec model. This model comes outfitted with a seven-inch infotainment system that's been linked up to a standard six-speaker audio layout. It offers AM/FM radio functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, and a single USB port. Every other model is fitted with a larger eight-inch infotainment touchscreen programmed with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also comes with SiriusXM radio connectivity, two USB ports, and two USB-C ports. Infotainment is further upgraded with navigation and a premium nine-speaker Bose audio system for the SL and Platinum.

According to J.D. Power, owners of the all-new Nissan Altima are reporting fairly impressive overall experiences. Within the mid-size sedan classification, the Altima proves to be one of the most pleasing vehicles with its overall score of 82/100 placing it behind only the Honda Accord, which scores 83/100. Contributing to the Altima's score is a quality and reliability rating of 85/100. There have been no recalls commissioned for the 2022 Nissan Altima as of yet but the 2021 model was subject to one so expectations can remain high. The recall pertained to a tie rod ball joint fastener that was not properly tightened during construction.

Nissan covers the Altima with a typical five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty.

The NHTSA's review of the 2022 Altima resulted in a five-star overall rating, and full marks for side crash and rollover reviews. Only frontal crash tests earned four out of five. The IIHS's ratings of the 2022 Nissan Altima include six top scores that resulted in a Top Safety Pick+ designation. The accolade applies to every model in the lineup as it requires no specific additions.

Standard driver assists and safety features are good throughout the Altima line, with the S coming inclusive of driver alert, forward collision warning with automatic braking, high beam assist, hill-start assist, cruise control, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. Standard equipment across the board includes stability control, ABS/EBD braking, and ten standard airbags. Nissan's Safety Shield 360 driver-assist suite comes standard as of the SV and comprises rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. Both the SL and the Platinum are further outfitted with intelligent cruise control and lane intervention, and traffic sign recognition. A surround-view camera is standard in only the Platinum.

Though some may be fond of the Altima's design and simplicity, there are some areas where Nissan could have done better. While the 2.5-liter engine and CVT are fine for regular driving - the duo delivering dependable responses and frugal mileage returns - the optional 2.0-liter turbo-four doesn't add enough to warrant its existence. It packs more power than the 2.5L but is still paired to the same CVT that prioritizes efficient and smooth performance over delivering quick and engaging shift responses. The paddle-shifters add little to nothing to the Altima's driving experience, either, and the sportier suspension setup of the SR features only proves to disadvantage the sedan's ride comfort.

Nissan designed an impressive cabin for the Altima that looks and feels modern. It's spacious and ergonomic, too, and while there are some second-rate materials, Nissan has done a good job of keeping them out of sight. All but the entry-spec S come with a decent selection of comforts and conveniences, and Nissan has ensured that every model comes standard with its Safety Shield 360 suite of driver assists that earns the Altima line high ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.

Unfortunately, most of the Altima's competition is advancing at a far more rapid pace, boasting more modern and eye-catching designs, better overall performance, and a lot more in terms of features and technology. All this while remaining within the competitive price range. Nissan needs to up the ante by offering a genuine performance trim that can compete with those from Toyota, Honda, and Mazda, or by compounding on value.

The entry-spec Altima 2.5 S model starts the 2022 Altima line off with a base price of $24,750. It's followed by the 2.5 SV which with its an MSRP of $25,750, and then the 2.5L SR with its MSRP of $26,750. The 2.5 SL bears a sticker price of $30,190. It'll cost an additional $1,400 to equip any of these models with the optional AWD. The 2.5 SR Midnight Edition is priced at $29,900. The 2.0L SR comes in at $31,100. Finally, the top-spec AWD Platinum comes in at $34,450. The price of the Nissan Altima does not include any tax, registration, or licensing fees and excludes Nissan's destination and delivery charge of $1,025 in the US.

There are seven trims to peruse in the 2022 Nissan Altima line: the 2.5 S, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SR, 2.5 SL, and 2.5 Platinum, as well as the 2.5 SR Midnight Edition and the 2.0 SR. A 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine powers all of the 2.5-monikered trims as standard and comes paired with a CVT. An FWD setup is standard in all but the Platinum trim, which comes with an AWD setup. AWD is, however, optional for all but the S trim. The 2.0 SR is naturally presented with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that can only be had with the FWD.

Discerning the entry-spec trim from the rest of the line are its halogen projector headlights and 16-inch steel wheels with covers. Features-wise, it comes standard with remote engine start, manually adjustable front seats, and cloth seating upholstery. Infotainment is covered by a seven-inch touchscreen and six-speaker audio system. Driver assists are plentiful, with Intelligent driver alert, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera coming inclusive.

For the SV, exterior upgrades include LED headlights with daytime running lights as well as 17-inch alloy wheels. The driver's seat is upgraded with eight-way power adjustability and the infotainment setup is improved with an eight-inch touchscreen and the installation of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality. Rear parking sensors and rear automatic braking are also added.

As the performance-focused model in the line, the SR sports various dark chrome exterior accents, larger 19-inch alloy wheels, and dual exhaust tips. On the inside, it bears steering wheel paddle shifters and sports seats dressed in fabric upholstery with contrast stitching. The SR can be equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that will work better with its sport-tuned suspension, and in Midnight Edition guise, which adds blacked-out exterior accessories, larger wheels, a sunroof, and more adjustment to the driver's seat.

Enhancements for the SL include front LED fog lights, navigation, traffic sign recognition, front-seat heating, a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a premium Bose nine-speaker audio system.

At the top of the spectrum, the Platinum comes with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a memory system for the driver's seat, interior LED accent lighting, and a surround-view monitor.

There's quite a bit buyers can choose to throw in optionally with just about any of the Altima models. For the S, there's a Driver Assist Package that for $475 adds an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seats, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear automatic braking. There's a $1,800 SV Premium Package offered for the SV that contains a leather steering wheel and shifter, ProPilot Assist, two-way power driver's seat lumbar support, front seat heating, a single pane moonroof, and for 2022, heated exterior mirrors with LED turn signals, too.

While we'd typically recommend going for the more powerful engine in the line, the 2.0-liter turbo-four really doesn't do much to improve the Altima's performance, hamstrung as it is by the FWD and CVT. The firmer suspension setup and large 19-inch alloy wheels on the SR hinder the overall ride quality, too. When it comes to getting a good selection of comforts and conveniences, the SV is the model we recommend. It is outfitted with the larger driver display, the eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and the upgraded infotainment system with its eight-inch touchscreen and added smartphone connectivity. It also comes with a few more useful driver assists including rear parking sensors and rear automatic braking.

The Toyota Camry is the best-selling sedan in the USA and for good reason. Every model in the Camry lineup comes standard with a 203-horsepower 2.5-liter four-pot engine that, along with the Toyota's eight-speed automatic transmission and dynamically tuned chassis, makes the Camry feel a lot more proficient and engaging to drive than the Altima. Toyota offers an even more powerful 301-hp V6, too, so the Altima really doesn't have anything on it when it comes to performance. With mileage estimates of 28/39/32 mpg, the most frugal form of the Camry is also just as thrifty as the Altima. The winner in terms of passenger room is less clear-cut, as the Altima is more spacious upfront while the Camry affords a little more room to those in the back. Nissan delivers the larger trunk, though. The Camry comes with a significant number of additional comforts and conveniences, however, as well as a comprehensive suite of driver assists. You'll spend a little more on the Toyota, but for what you get in terms of performance and value, it's certainly the sedan to go for.

The Sentra is Nissan's compact alternative to the Altima and is, subsequently, the more affordable of the two. In terms of performance, the Altima is the zestier car with its more powerful 2.5-liter engine and optional 2.0-liter turbo-four both offering significantly more power. Many of the Altima models are offered with AWD, too, while the Sentra is sold in FWD only. The Altima is noticeably bigger, too, and supplies a lot more room for both passengers and cargo. When it comes to comforts, conveniences, and tech, the Sentra earns itself a point, matching the Altima in most regards at a significantly lower price. It comes with a better infotainment system at the base level, and higher-spec models get all the premium features Nissan has to offer in its mainstream vehicles. Ultimately, the Altima is the more pleasant car to drive, especially on a regular basis, while the Sentra is the Nissan that packages the most value for your money.