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Nissan Altima Vs Altima: A Tale Of Two Trims – Which One Is Ideal For Your Budget And Lifestyle?

Key points

  • The third-generation Altima was a complete redesign that featured a more stylish exterior and a more spacious interior.
  • Standard features on the current-generation Altima include a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features.
  • If you’re looking for a more spacious sedan with more features, the third-, fourth-, or fifth-generation Altima is a good choice.

The Nissan Altima is a popular midsize sedan that has been around for over 25 years. It’s known for its affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. But what if you’re looking for a used Altima? Is there a difference between the different generations of the Altima?

In this blog post, we’ll compare the Nissan Altima vs Altima to help you decide which one is right for you. We’ll look at the key differences between the different generations of the Altima, including their features, performance, and safety ratings.

Generations of the Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima has been through six generations since its introduction in 1992. Each generation has brought its own unique set of features and improvements.

  • First Generation (1992-1997): The first-generation Altima was a compact sedan that was available in both sedan and coupe body styles. It was powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 150 horsepower.
  • Second Generation (1998-2001): The second-generation Altima was larger than its predecessor and offered more features. It was powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V6 engine.
  • Third Generation (2002-2006): The third-generation Altima was a complete redesign that featured a more stylish exterior and a more spacious interior. It was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V6 engine.
  • Fourth Generation (2007-2012): The fourth-generation Altima was even larger than its predecessor and offered even more features. It was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V6 engine.
  • Fifth Generation (2013-2018): The fifth-generation Altima was a major redesign that featured a more aggressive exterior and a more upscale interior. It was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V6 engine.
  • Sixth Generation (2019-Present): The sixth-generation Altima is the current model. It features a more refined exterior and a more technologically advanced interior. It is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Key Differences Between the Generations of the Nissan Altima

The different generations of the Nissan Altima have a number of key differences, including:

  • Size: The Altima has grown in size over the years. The first-generation Altima was a compact sedan, but the current-generation Altima is a midsize sedan.
  • Features: The Altima has also gained more features over the years. Standard features on the current-generation Altima include a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features.
  • Performance: The Altima’s performance has also improved over the years. The current-generation Altima is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 248 horsepower.
  • Safety: The Altima’s safety ratings have also improved over the years. The current-generation Altima has received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Which Generation of the Nissan Altima is Right for You?

The best generation of the Nissan Altima for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a compact sedan with good fuel efficiency, the first- or second-generation Altima is a good choice. If you’re looking for a more spacious sedan with more features, the third-, fourth-, or fifth-generation Altima is a good choice. And if you’re looking for the most advanced Altima with the best performance and safety features, the sixth-generation Altima is the way to go.

Nissan Altima vs Altima: Which One Should You Buy?

If you’re looking for a used Nissan Altima, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, decide which generation of the Altima you want. Then, do your research to find a car that’s in good condition and has a clean history. Finally, be prepared to negotiate the price.

With a little research, you can find a used Nissan Altima that’s right for you and your budget.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Nissan Altima

When buying a used Nissan Altima, there are a few things you should look for:

  • Check the Car’s History: Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, title problems, and other issues.
  • Inspect the Car’s Exterior: Look for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or rust.
  • Inspect the Car’s Interior: Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as stains, rips, or cracks.
  • Test Drive the Car: Take the car for a test drive to make sure it runs and drives properly.
  • Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a mechanic inspect the car before you buy it to identify any potential problems.

Final Thoughts: Nissan Altima vs Altima – Which One is Right for You?

The Nissan Altima is a popular midsize sedan that offers a good combination of affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. If you’re looking for a used Altima, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, decide which generation of the Altima you want. Then, do your research to find a car that’s in good condition and has a clean history. Finally, be prepared to negotiate the price. With a little research, you can find a used Nissan Altima that’s right for you and your budget.

What You Need to Know

  • What is the difference between the Nissan Altima and the Altima SR?

The Altima SR is a sportier version of the Altima. It features a more aggressive exterior, a stiffer suspension, and a more powerful engine.

  • What is the most fuel-efficient Nissan Altima?

The most fuel-efficient Nissan Altima is the 2023 Altima S FWD, which gets an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.

  • What is the most powerful Nissan Altima?

The most powerful Nissan Altima is the 2023 Altima SR VC-Turbo, which produces 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque.

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BJ
About the Author
My name is Bob Jenkins and I'm thrilled to share my automotive adventures with you here on mphdiary.com. Cars have always been a passion of mine, especially sporty yet practical Japanese models. For the past 10 years, I've been driving various Nissan vehicles and am constantly enjoying learning more about...