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^ I don't think it's made for you or anyone else who can think for themselves and know their way around a vehicle by the slightest bit.
Hence why I said it'd "be pointless for me."
Originally Posted by Hapa DC5
Think more like the clueless FOB mom, or helpless college kid or just 95% of the drivers on the road.
That clueless FOB mom probably wouldn't even know how to operate the air hose, let alone know where to put it. They'd probably end up going to a tire shop, gas station, Pepboys, Sears auto, etc. and have (pay?) someone to do it.
Or, just pull into a nearby Discount Tire (if you have one) for a free air check.
The 2013 Nissan Altima is offered in seven well-equipped models to meet a range of customer needs and budgets. MSRP for the 2013 Nissan Altima sedan include (All MSRPs plus $780 shipping charge):
That clueless FOB mom probably wouldn't even know how to operate the air hose, let alone know where to put it. They'd probably end up going to a tire shop, gas station, Pepboys, Sears auto, etc. and have (pay?) someone to do it.
Or, just pull into a nearby Discount Tire (if you have one) for a free air check.
Well I don't know who the fuck its for then lol. Still neat though.
27/38 fuel economy with performance/0.84g handling on 18inch.
who will buy ILX when mainstream midsize is at same price.
http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...sl_first_test/
Believe it or not, as-tested four-cylinder acceleration is a full second quicker from 0-60 mph: 7.4 for 2013 versus 8.4 seconds for the earlier comparison car.
Greater attention to detail also means the side mirror turn indicators are tilted on the housing so vehicles sitting in the blind spots will be able to see the blinking, while foglight-less models get specific cutout fillers so it's not as obvious you didn't spring for the foglights
To say the Altima is ready for another comparison would be an understatement.
2,500 rpm in a family sedan generally isn't a whole lot to get excited about. In fact, it's traditionally closer to idle speed than anything offering the possibility of real entertainment. But each and every 1 of those 2,500 revolutions in this 2013 Nissan Altima offers a frisson of excitement when whirling away in concert. Why? Because they add up to 100 mph. In a 4 cylinder.
Process that for a minute: 2,500 revs = 100 mph in a 2.5-liter normally aspirated 4-door kinshlepper. This, friends, is impressive. We first verified the figure for ourselves during a prototype drive at Nissan's Arizona proving grounds back in March. More real-world numbers include 2,000 rpm at 80 mph and just 1,450 rpm at 60 mph. Credit the Altima's Continuously Variable Transmission, which has been extensively reworked for this new model. 70% of the transmission's parts are new, and internal friction has been reduced by up to 40% through a battery of small tricks including redesigned internals swimming in lower viscosity oil. The transmission has a super-wide 7.0 gear ratio spread and reprogrammed control logic to help the keep all 4 pots on boil as necessary.
Of course, it's still a CVT, which is to driving enthusiasts what Mark Zuckerberg is to the Amish. But Nissan's Xtronic unit at least makes a good go of it, thanks to a sport mode that introduces shift points to create a physical and auditory experience similar to that of a traditional torque converter automatic. To be fair, the revs don't plunge quite as far as they would in a slushbox, but it keeps the engine in the meat of its powerband and still delivers a pretty convincing performance, even when subjected to aggressive throttle openings. Either way, those awkward "stretched rubberband" CVT moments are kept to the bare minimum, only rearing their head when the accelerator is buried in the carpet, and just for a moment. Under most circumstances, we imagine most Altima drivers probably won't even notice they own a CVT.
Speaking of engines, Nissan once again offers a pair of them: the QR25DE 2.5-liter 4 seen here, good for 182 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 180 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm, and the VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 with 270 horses at 6,000 rpm and 258 lb-ft at 4,400 rpm. Either way, you'll get the CVT – Nissan axed the base manual transmission back in 2010.
Early rumors suggested that this 5th-generation model might go with a 4-cylinder-only lineup like Hyundai, Kia and Chevrolet, but Nissan has elected to stick with updates of its current powerplants. That's not the black mark you might think it is: We have a longstanding love affair with Nissan's VQ series and the 4 cylinder has been a solid performer as well.
Thanks to other weight-saving measures throughout the car, Nissan says the Altima has lost weight and is now the lightest car in its segment, weighing as little as 3,108 pounds. Even the top-spec SL V6 tips the scales at just 3,355 pounds, which company officials gleefully point out is lighter than all rivals – even those packing 2 fewer cylinders. Thus, even though Nissan has taken a pass on forced induction and direct injection, it still claims best-in-class performance and fuel economy.
We had a 2nd chance earlier this week to drive production-intent cars on the winding roads around Nissan North America's Nashville, Tennessee, headquarters, and chose to focus on the 2.5 liter, because consumers tend to as well – V6 models only make up about 10% of Altima sales. For 2013, the QR25 receives a modest 7-horsepower bump, thanks in part to variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust cams, a reworked ECU and a new intake manifold. We found the 4 to be a likeable drive partner, with good power and smoothness and little in the way of 4-cylinder thrash, even hovering near its 6,200 rpm redline. Nissan says the 4-cylinder will run to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, which would put it at the head of its segment.
The headline number for this Altima isn't its 0-60 time or horsepower count, it's all about fuel economy. Nissan isn't being shy about touting its 38 miles per gallon highway estimate for the 4-cylinder. In fact, it's so proud that announcements trumpeted the figure all along our bucolic drive route: giant "38 mpg" banners on hay bales, direction signs – Nissan even painted it on the side of a barn. It's a figure worth bragging about, of course, besting the upcoming 2013 Ford Fusion and 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, not to mention the usual suspects from Toyota, Honda, Volkswagen and Korea Inc. Combined with an 18-gallon tank, that gives the Altima a bladder-perforating range of 680+ miles, tops in the segment. The more powerful V6 chips in with a respectable 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
Like just about every other new family car these days, the drive for efficiency led Altima engineers to electric power steering for improved efficiency. Such setups reduce power draw on the engine but typically do so at the expense of steering feel. To combat this, Nissan's system employs a hydraulic rack powered by an electrically driven pump. The hybrid setup is a bit more complex, but a back-to-back flog with its Camry, Accord and Sonata nemeses on an Arizona handling course revealed that the hybrid setup is as mutually beneficial a relationship as Miranda Kerr and her Victoria's Secret hardware: the union results in good weighting, excellent directional accuracy and appreciably better feedback. At the end of the day, the Altima is still a front-wheel-drive family sedan riding on all-seasons rubber, but the difference is palpable.
Of course, the best steering setup in the world doesn't matter a lick if it's bolted to a chassis with more flip-flopping than an election year. Through a bit of magic (okay, strategically placed high-strength steel and a new front tower brace and rear parcel shelf reinforcement), the 2013 Altima's body weight is down while both overall size and stiffness is up. The sedan rides atop the same 109.3-inch wheelbase as last year, but its track is wider front and rear, the overall footprint is larger by about an inch in each direction, and the whole works sits about an inch lower. Suspension is still a front strut and rear multi-link array, but Nissan has spent development time and dollars where it counts: the multi-link includes novel connected bushings for better camber supervision in hard cornering and all Altimas come standard with pricy Sachs dampers as well as front and rear and anti-roll bars.
As before, the Altima quickly outs itself as one of the best-handling cars in the segment, with well-controlled primary and secondary impacts and nicely snubbed body control. The 2012 Altima was no slouch in the handling department, but could feel stiff-legged at times (particularly the V6). This new generation feels both better connected and more composed, with minimal body roll and a pleasingly firm comportment. We didn't hammer on them too much, but brakes (discs all 'round – 11.7-inch up front, 11.5-inch rear) also get the job done with progressive pedal feel and appropriate weighting.
Nissan's new Active Understeer Control system won't have you hanging the tail out, a plume of low-rolling resistance rubber in your wake, but by dragging the inside front brake during hard cornering to increase yaw moment, the sedan will dig into corners with a bit more tenacity. The system cannot be independently shut off, but is extinguished when the stability control system is defeated. No matter, it's so subtle that you won't notice it at work.
Styling is best described as evolutionary, with a look that builds on the outgoing model's design while borrowing elements from Nissan's own Maxima and Infiniti M. The overall look strikes us as more mature than dynamic, somewhere between the opinion-splitting "look at me" raciness of the Sonata and the Teutonic sobriety of VW's Passat. Projector headlamps come standard, as do LED taillamps. Overall, we like the look, particularly the way the sunlight plays on some of the sheetmetal's deep-draw contours, but there's arguably an overreliance on chrome to communicate the car's premium aspirations, particularly in the front grille.
If there were a single area where the exiting Altima needed a dramatic rethink, it was inside. While the outgoing car's ergonomics were solid, unkind plastics, middling switchgear, a tight back seat and a general lack of warmth dominated the cabin. For 2013, well-grained soft-touch plastics frame legible instruments and a well-organized center stack, and the so-called "Zero Gravity" NASA-inspired seats proved all-day comfortable and supportive in the bends. There's also a new 4-inch color multi-function display sandwiched between the speedometer and tachometer that keeps tabs on everything from the trip meter to navigation and Pandora, and it's artfully canted forward for improved perspective and ease-of-focus. Rear seat space has improved, but still comes across as a bit tight for class standards, especially compared to the Passat's NBA-spec accommodations. Like the exterior, the cabin's overall aesthetic hedges toward the conservative, but given the segment, that's appropriate. As it is, the Altima's new digs are at or near the top of the class.
Our top-spec SL tester included everything from heated power leather seats and a moonroof to a heated steering wheel and Bose stereo, and the optional $1,090 Tech Package (navigation + blind spot, lane departure and moving obstacle detection systems) and few peripheral add-ons (rear spoiler, mud guards and floor mats) brought the as-tested price to $30,590, including $780 in delivery fees. That's a thick stack of bills, but even the base $21,500 2.5 is equipped with Bluetooth telephony and streaming audio and remote keyless entry. Nissan expects the $24,100 SV to be the volume model, and it comes with remote start, dual-zone climate control, XM, rearview camera and hands-free text messaging. 3.5 V6 models start at $25,360 and add 18-inch alloys and paddleshifters.
1 other trick bit of tech is Nissan's aforementioned blind spot, lane departure and moving obstacle detection systems, all of which rely on a single wide-angle rearview camera with integrated washer and dryer. The novel setup works as advertised and is a simpler and more elegant solution than the radar-based systems that are more costly and blemish one's rear bumper with circular sensors.
As well equipped as the Altima is, looking across the aisle at its competition, there are still some missing options beginning to creep into the segment, including seat cooling, rear seat heaters, panoramic moonroof and telematics (OnStar, Blue Link), and you'll have to pop for a loaded V6 in order to get Xenon headlamps. Make no mistake, though, there's still a boatload of equipment here.
In fact, there's enough luxury character now overall that we couldn't help but wonder aloud if the newly matured Altima won't eat away at pricier Maxima sales. (Of course, we've wondered about this before, too). Nissan officials assure us that despite their mechanical and now visual similarities, Maxima buyers are very different than Altima customers, with average transaction prices around $30,000, versus around $24k for Altima. In fact, the company notes it shifted just under 60,000 Maximas last year, best in segment and handily topping rivals including the Buick LaCrosse, Toyota Avalon and Volkswagen CC, not to mention near-luxury players like the Acura TL. That's all well and good, of course, but until the next-generation Max arrives, this new V6 Altima offers a comparable (better?) interior with similar performance for a bunch less cash, so let's hope dealers don't park the 2 cars too close together. Speaking of related models, the Altima Coupe will soldier on into 2013 as-is, but its future remains uncertain.
Despite its status as an aging product, Nissan's old Altima quietly became America's 2nd best-selling car behind Toyota's almighty Camry just last year. Unlike Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam, officials we spoke with are downplaying going after the sales crown, but with class-leading fuel economy, performance and massively improved accommodations, this Tennessee-built sedan clearly packs the ammunition to give Team Akio a serious run for its money. Who knows, the 2013 Altima might even snag more than its fair share of the family-minded enthusiast's dollar... CVT and all.
The V6 model is as fast as the Camry V6.....14.3@99mph...not bad.
r u referring to Edmunds test?. The car is faster and handles better than every other FWD in that price range.
It is fully loaded with tech like heated steering wheel, multi view rear camera, backup sensors, paddle shifters.
high quality interior with that raised buttons for mirrors.
Nissan used the redesign of its Altima for 2013 to move beyond some limits and foibles, but not in one area where Japanese automakers are particularly blind: One-touch, automatic power window switches.
Nissan got a lot of things right in the Altima update, and you can get the whole story in the Test Drive column.
But window switches -- a blown opportunity.
Neither Nissan nor Altima is unique in that, but it was disappointing to see the automaker fail to use the remake as an opportunity to modernize the window operation.
Most automakers' one-touch auto windows will halt in place when you push the power window button either way. It doesn't have to be opposite the direction the window is moving.
Not so the major Japanese.
They require you to move the switch opposite the direction the window is traveling. And if you do it too enthusiastically, the window doesn't simply stop, it reverses direction.
Oops. Too much. Window reverses and goes back up. You push down on the window switch to stop the window. Oops. Too much. The window starts back down.
Some people have the touch to push or pull the switch just so. And some think that it makes sense to require you to move the switch opposite the way the window's moving.
Drive On is not among them.
Everything from a high-end BMW to a low-end Ford work truck lets you stop the automatic power window in its tracks, without reversing, by a simple movement of the power window switch in either direction, up or down.
What's most troubling about the switch design flaw is that when Drive On brings it up, engineers, marketers and the like respond with blank stares. They don't know what you're talking about.
In other words, they don't drive enough competitive products. And that's dangerously insular.
There is alot of space. and leather is not like Honda.
historical perspective. $62K 2005 BMW 545 (Double price) is not that much faster and handles worse than this Altima. Not easy to impart good handling in long wheel base car.
I've driven a lot of Altimas. In fact, I had 2 provided as company cars. The CVTs are amazing on the highway. It took only a day for me to forget I was driving a CVT equipped car. Going up the Grapevine on I5 w/ a CVT is unlike any other automatic. Its actually enjoyable seeing a car pull and accelerate the way it does at less than 2K rpms.
U.S. EPA Officially Certifies Altima Fuel Economy as Highest in the Mid-Size Sedan Segment; Altima Production Began Yesterday in Mississippi -
All-New, 38 MPG 2013 Nissan Altima Heads to Showrooms. (PRNewsFoto/Nissan North America)
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Nissan Badge (PRNewsFoto/Nissan North America)
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FRANKLIN, Tenn., June 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The all-new 2013 Nissan Altima, the first of five all-new models Nissan will introduce in the next 15 months, is on the way to dealers as of yesterday, the same day Nissan began production at its second U.S. assembly plant in Canton, Miss. By the end of this year, both plants will operate three shifts each to maximize production of the country's second best-selling car.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also just certified the 2013 Nissan Altima as the most fuel-efficient gasoline mid-size car in America, with ratings of 27 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined. The 4-cylinder Altima, with a standard 18-gallon fuel tank, is capable of going up to 684 miles on a single tank of fuel – one of the best of any gasoline-only automobiles in America.
"This is a huge day for the Nissan brand as we ramp up production and begin shipping the new, fuel-efficient Altimas to our dealers," said Bill Krueger, vice chairman, Nissan Americas. "The new Altima is a game-changer for the mid-size market and our dealers can't wait to share it with our customers."
The release of the new Altima comes in advance of the vehicle's official on-sale date of late June, allowing Nissan dealers the opportunity to conduct test drives with potential customers. Nissan has experienced unprecedented interest in the new model with 1.5 million individuals visiting a pre-order website created to deliver information about the new car and gauge interest in early orders. More than 30,000 customers have expressed an interest in the car through the pre-order website, which also offers those placing an order a complimentary three-year scheduled maintenance program valued at $700 (see details on nissanusa.com).
The offer remains available on the site, www.nissanusa.com/all-new-altima through June. Prices for the 2013 Nissan Altima start at $21,500 USD.
When the all-new Altima sedans equipped with a 2.5-liter four cylinder engine and new Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission leave the assembly plants, they will carry a window sticker declaring the best-in-segment EPA fuel economy rating of 38 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway. The EPA fuel economy certification is as follows:
In addition to its unprecedented fuel economy performance, Altima offers numerous segment exclusive attributes and Nissan signature innovations, including:
Ride comfort, control and fun-to-drive demeanor, including better 0 – 60 mph acceleration than other top-selling mid-size sedans as demonstrated in independent third party testing
Available Next-generation Safety Shield Technologies, including Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Moving Object Detection (MOD) systems using an innovative single rear camera
Easy-Fill Tire Alert, which sounds the car horn to notify a person filling a tire with air when the tire reaches recommended tire pressure – no gauge needed
Headlights that automatically switch on when the windshield wipers are in use
Windshield wipers that park themselves off the windshield when the vehicle is turned off with the wipers on and in mid-cycle
Premium exterior styling with a powerful presence and improved aerodynamics
Upscale interior rivaling premium luxury sedans, including NASA-inspired "zero-gravity" seats, an Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display and BOSE® Premium Audio System
Standard Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone system and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®
Available NissanConnect(SM) and NissanConnect(SM) Navigation with a suite of Bluetooth® phone connectivity features, including hands-free text message integration, Pandora® playback, real-time Google® POI search and more
Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display with 4-inch color screen standard on every model, which is customizable, easy-to-use and integrates key information right in front of the driver
World-first multi-link rear suspension with connect bushings and Sachs damper to deliver outstanding handling
Active Understeer Control, which uses advanced electronic stability control algorithms to improve cornering and provide a more confident driving experience
Following a banner 2013 model year that saw the introduction of all-new generations of the Nissan Altima, Nissan Sentra and Nissan Pathfinder, the parade of innovative all-new designs continues for 2014. Leading the way is the right-sized Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo commercial van (on sale now), the stylish entry-level Nissan Versa Note hatchback (on sale now) and the next-generation Nissan Rogue compact SUV (coming late 2013).
Also, the previously announced Pathfinder Hybrid model joins the Pathfinder lineup in the fall. In addition, significant enhancements are offered in 2014 for Altima, Frontier, GT-R (including the limited production Track Edition and upcoming Special Edition Package), Versa Sedan, Xterra and 370Z NISMO.
The 2014 lineup also introduces the all-new NissanConnect℠ Apps smartphone integration platform on several models, including Altima and Sentra, with plans to expand throughout the entire portfolio.
Here is a top-line overview of the changes, followed by more complete "Fast Facts" product information. As always, stay tuned to NissanNews.com for the latest updates on Nissan products, pricing and other activities in the United States and around the world.
2014 NISSAN CARS
Nissan Altima
An all-new fifth-generation design – the most innovative Altima ever – was introduced for the 2013 model year. For 2014, the major enhancements include:
- Technology Package replaces previous Navigation Package on 2.5 SV and 3.5 SV grades (late availability) – includes NissanConnect℠ with Navigation, NissanConnect℠ Apps smartphone integration and SiriusXM Travel Link®, plus Blind Spot Warning, Moving Object Detection and Lane Departure Warning
- New Sport Value Package with 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, remote engine start, trunk lid spoiler (2.5 S models)
- New Display Audio Package available on 2.5 S and 3.5 S (late availability) – includes 5.0-inch color display, RearView Monitor, USB port, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (standard on 3.5 S, SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), NissanConnect℠ Apps smartphone integration for iPhone® and Android™, diversity antenna
- New accessory 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels
- Gun Metallic exterior color replaces previous Metallic Slate; eight available colors total
- Chrome exhaust finishers added to 2.5 grade
- Improved navigation system capabilities – NissanConnect Apps smartphone integration for iPhone® and Android, SiriusXM Travel Link® (fuel prices, movie times, stock updates, sports scores), SiriusXM Weather, revised button labels
- Standard driver and front passenger visor illumination and extensions on 2.5 S, 2.5 SV and 3.5 S grades (previously part of Convenience Package)
- Rear passenger air conditioning vents added to Convenience Package (from previous standard on SV grade)
- Offered in seven models: Altima 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL with 182-horsepower (179 hp CAL) 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine and 3.5 S, 3.5 SV and 3.5 SL with 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6
- Next-generation Xtronic CVT® standard on all models
- Available early August 2013
New 2016 Nissan Altima Shakes Up Mid-size Sedan Segment with Revised Styling, Enhanced Performance, Best-in-Class Standard Highway Fuel Economy and New Safety Features
• Nissan follows five consecutive years of Altima sales growth (an expected sixth, counting 2015) – the only mid-size sedan to do so – with an extensive redesign for the 2016 model year
• Major facelift embraces the new Nissan "Energetic Flow" design language launched with all-new Murano SUV and Maxima "4-Door Sports Car"
• New Altima SR grade offers affordable sports model with enhanced handling, unique exterior and interior accents
• Expanded Altima "Safety Shield Technologies" includes segment-exclusive* Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), along with Forward Emergency Braking (FEB), Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
In one of the most extensive mid-cycle makeovers in Nissan history, the 2016 Nissan Altima stands ready to build on its segment-leading growth over the past five years with a new design, new driving feel, improved fuel economy, a new sport Altima SR grade and a wide array of enhanced technology, connectivity and safety features.
"Despite the remarkable success of the current model Altima in the marketplace, which has seen a more than 60 percent increase in sales since 2009, no area was left untouched in redesigning our cornerstone Altima sedan for the 2016 model year," said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. "While so much attention in the marketplace currently is focused on compact SUVs like our redesigned Nissan Rogue, the mid-size sedan segment remains strong and has become extremely competitive. We're determined to keep our sales growth alive with this vibrant new Altima for 2016."
The Altima transformation for the new model year includes a new look for the exterior, a refined personal space interior, enhanced connectivity, more available safety and security features and an expanded model lineup – all designed to make Altima a better value and better choice for mid-size sedan buyers than ever before.
"The enhancements were made with input from our customers – a quieter ride, so we added extensive noise isolation features such as an acoustic-glass windshield," added Loing. "They wanted more standard features, a more responsive driving feel and more personal style – check, check and check. This new Altima is the most dynamic, comfortable and best-equipped mid-size sedan we've ever built."
A New Altima, a New Look
Though totally redesigned just three years ago, Nissan has since developed a bold new design language. Known by designers as "energetic flow," the new look was introduced on the 2015 Murano and 2016 Maxima.
In order to bring the new Altima into the new look, the front and rear sections feature totally new designs and sheet metal. In front, that means adding a new lowered muscular front fascia with distinctive "V-motion" grille and new bumper. Also new are the Altima hood and fenders, with new tailored character lines. The headlights are also redesigned – with available signature LED boomerang headlights, fog lights and Daytime Running Lights creating a more contemporary "face."
The major design changes continue in the rear, where a new fascia and bumper add a more dramatic character. The new look is highlighted by the lower and wider four-piece taillights featuring a boomerang shape. The trunk lid is also new, with an integrated spoiler added for the Altima SR grade.
Along with the revised appearance, the new Altima also offers a 10 percent improvement in coefficient of drag – to 0.26 Cd from the previous 0.29 Cd.** The changes come from the addition of an active grille shutter (three percent gain), underfloor aero cover additions (three percent) and the new front and rear fascia and windshield designs (four percent).
Along with the new body panels, the structure underneath was enhanced, reducing weight and adding additional areas of high-strength steel, including the A- and B-pillars. Special efforts were also made to enhance DQR (Durability, Quality and Reliability) and NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness).
For example, adoption of an acoustic (laminated glass) windshield helps create a quieter cabin, aiding use of the Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone and Voice Recognition systems.
Efforts were also made to isolate noise created by hard acceleration, utilizing additional insulation and sound barriers, especially in the firewall area. In addition, new engine mounts have been adopted and the center muffler has been increased in size to further reduce sound transmission into the Altima interior.
"Along with the desire for a more distinctive look to the exterior, Altima customers asked us for a more premium feel in everyday driving," said Loing. "You feel the new level of quietness and tightness the moment you drive the new vehicle, no matter which grade level. Simply put, this is the quietest Altima ever."
Quality assurance measures included use of 95 prototype test vehicles, the equivalent of 4,500 test days (more than 12 years) and 350,000 real and simulated miles and the equivalent of 15 years of service for doors, hood and trunk use – such as 200,000 open/close cycles for the new tighter sealing door structures.
The 2016 Altima is available in nine colors: a new Deep Blue Pearl, along with Java Metallic, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Super Black, Cayenne Red, Pearl White, Glacier White and Storm Blue.
A New, Information-Centric Interior
Inside the new 2016 Altima's refined, personal space interior, the most noticeable change is in the center of the vehicle, where a new C-stack and center console offer easier use. The new interior appearance shares the "gliding wing" design language established with the new Murano and Maxima.
Altima 2.5 S, 2.5 SR, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL and 3.5 SR grades feature a standard 5.0-inch color audio display, which is used for a number of tasks including viewing images from the RearView Monitor and accessing the standard NissanConnect with Mobile Apps system (except Altima 2.5 base).
The NissanConnect with Mobile Apps system allows Altima owners to stay connected to their digital lives, even when in the vehicle. Apps include Online Search powered by Google™ (navigation equipped vehicles only), Facebook and others, along with the flexibility to introduce new apps throughout the ownership experience.
The NissanConnect Mobile Apps experience isn't limited to a single individual within the vehicle. Other drivers and passengers can set up their own app suite to tailor their experience when they are in the vehicle. All app profiles and settings are personalized and unique to each user's phone.
Along with the 5.0-inch color audio display, the system includes a USB port with iPod® connectivity. Also standard on all models (except 2.5) is Siri™ Eyes Free, which allows a hands-free voice connection to Siri™ commands.
Standard on Altima 3.5 SL and optional on 2.5 SV and 2.5SL is NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Apps. The system is packed with a rich range of features and is easy to use with its 7.0-inch touch-screen, 3D-effect map views, Nissan Voice Recognition, and turn-by-turn navigation. Other navigation features include speed limit display, eco driving maps, curve warning and split-screen display. It also includes SiriusXM® Traffic and SiriusXM® Travel Link™ (fuel prices, movie times, stock updates, weather) (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately).
Optionally available on Altima 2.5 SL and 3.5 SL is the new NissanConnect Services Powered by SiriusXM®, with automatic collision notification, remote start via smartphone, emergency call, stolen vehicle locator and dealer service scheduling and maintenance alerts (subscription required, sold separately).
Every 2016 Altima also offers an Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display. Located in the center of the instrument display between the tachometer and speedometer, it features a 4.0-inch color display and is customizable, easy-to-use and integrates key information right in front of the driver.
Of course, there is much more to the 2016 Altima interior than just advanced connectivity. The interior defies mid-size sedan convention, rivaling upscale luxury sedans in ambience and sophistication. Like the exterior, there is a premium look and feel – from the driver's side cockpit to the front passenger and rear seating areas – with extensive use of revised soft touch materials and craftsman-like attention to detail. The new center console includes full-size cupholders and new trim finishers.
The advanced Zero Gravity front seats, which are standard on all trim levels, utilize an articulated seat shape with continuous support from the pelvis to the chest and distribution of localized deformation characteristics.
Altima offers standard woven fabric seating with a 6-way adjustable driver's seat and a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat, 60/40 split folding rear bench seat with armrest, and black interior trim with chrome finish accents.
Also available, depending on model, are leather-appointed seats and trim, 6-way or 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support and a 4-way power front passenger seat. Heated front seats are also available, along with Carbon Wave tone (Charcoal interior) or Brushed Silver Wave tone (Beige interior) interior trim finishers.
The new Altima SR grade includes sport interior accents, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, paddle shifters and leather-wrapped gear shifter.
Available audio systems include an AM/FM/CD design with RDS, MP3, aux-in and six speakers, along with an available Bose® Premium Audio System with nine speakers (including woofers), designed in conjunction with Bose® engineers during vehicle development to deliver rich sound and acoustics.
With the available Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant (part of NissanConnect with Mobile Apps), drivers can manage incoming text messages via voice control without taking their hands from the wheel or eyes off the road. Drivers are alerted to an incoming text and, after initiating the system, can hear the text read out loud and respond via voice recognition, or via the steering wheel switches using pre-set answers such as "driving, can't text," "on my way," "running late," "okay" or a custom message.
Standard on SV and SL grades is a factory-installed Remote Engine Start System that allows the owner to heat or cool the vehicle from the comfort of the home***. The Altima must be locked for the remote start to operate (up to 10 minutes). The Remote Engine Start System includes Intelligent Climate Control, which automatically sets HVAC temperatures to ideal heating/defrost or cooling settings (depending on ambient temperatures). When the driver enters the vehicle, the HVAC reverts to the previous customer settings. In addition, remote start access via smartphone is available as part of the 2.5 SL and 3.5 SL Tech Packages' NissanConnect Services Powered by SiriusXM.
Best-in-Class*** Standard Fuel Economy
Once again in 2016, Altima is offered with a choice of two refined powerplants – a 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder and a 3.5-liter DOHC V6.
The 2.5-liter engine features an expected 1-mpg increase for highway fuel economy rating, bringing it to 39 mpg and giving Altima the best-in-class*** standard highway fuel economy of any vehicle in the mid-size segment (not including optional engine packages). The increase is due to a combination of a 10 percent improvement in vehicles aerodynamics – such as the addition of an active grille shutter, a revised engine compression ratio (10.3:1 from 10.0:1), reduced internal engine friction and an optimized oil pump.
Matched with the standard, smooth and efficient Xtronic transmission, estimated fuel economy for 2.5-liter models is rated at 27 mpg city, 39 mpg highway (37 mpg 2.5 SR) and 31 mpg combined.
The Xtronic transmission adds third-generation D-step Shift logic, which is shared with the Nissan Murano and Maxima – creating a more responsive acceleration feel both from a standing start and during reacceleration in situations such as passing slower vehicles.
The 2.5-liter QR25 engine includes variable valve timing on both exhaust and intake camshafts, helping keep the torque curve flat. Featuring cutting-edge technology such as a thermoplastic resin intake manifold, the engine produces 182 horsepower (179 CAL*****), with torque rated at 180 lb-ft (177 CAL*****).
"The Nissan Altima has experienced a remarkable 35 percent increase in combined fuel economy since the 2002 model year. Today's city mpg is the same as highway mpg was in 2002, while driving enjoyment has also increased exponentially," said Loing. "Altima is also the mid-size sedan with the greatest improvement in fuel economy over the last decade, going from 29 mpg highway to 39 mpg."
Altima 3.5 SR and 3.5 SL models are powered by an advanced, award-winning VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 rated at 270 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. The V6 features low internal friction (including DLC piston rings and sodium-filled valves), optimized air intake resistance and exhaust variable camshaft timing (VTC). Fuel economy for the 3.5-liter V6 is rated at 22 mpg city, 32 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined.
For 2016, the 4-wheel independent Altima suspension has been redesigned to deliver more dynamic handling, with new shock absorbers, rear springs and bushings – along with new tire designs across all models. Overall braking and steering feel have also been enhanced.
The Altima front suspension uses an independent front strut design, while the multi-link rear suspension has been benchmarked to leading European sports sedans. The design features high lateral suspension stiffness, ZF SACHS shock absorbers to deliver stellar body control and response while simultaneously delivering a plush, comfortable ride, and large stabilizer bars front and rear. Altima SR models feature unique suspension tuning, including greatly increased stabilizer bar diameters – 24.2 mm versus 22.2 mm front and 26.5 mm versus 20.0 mm rear. Front and rear damping force has also been changed for SR compared to non-SR models. Body roll has also been reduced by more than 20 percent on SR (versus non-SR).
Altima also features an Active Understeer Control system, which utilizes intelligent control logic and high-response brake actuators to lightly brake the inside front wheels during cornering (as required) to increase yaw-moment. Using the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)/Traction Control System (TCS) as its base, Active Understeer Control is almost undetectable when it operates.
Responsive steering is provided by an Electronic Hydraulic Power-Assisted Steering (EHPS) system that preserves the feel of hydraulic steering rack while offering the efficiencies of an electric power steering set-up. The hydraulic power steering valve has been re-mapped for 2016, providing enhanced steering feedback and feel.
"Steering feel is a big part of the driving experience and the re-engineering Altima steering system provides a more precise, on-center feel and quicker response than the previous tuning," said Loing.
The 4-wheel power-assisted disc brake system provides a premium blend of immediate response and confident braking. The system has been recalibrated for 2016 to help provide enhanced performance, especially in wet stopping conditions. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) are standard.
A selection of new wheels and tires are offered on the 2016 Altima, including new machine-finished 17-inch and 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheel designs. Altima 2.5-liter models offer 16-inch steel wheels with full covers and 215/60R16 all-season tires, while 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 215/55R17 V-rated all-season tires are standard on SV and SL grades. Standard on the 2.5 SR and 3.5-liter V6-equipped models are 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/45R18 V-rated all-season tires.
The 2016 Altima again features Nissan's Easy Fill Tire Alert function for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which is standard on all grades. When filling the tires with air, the hazard lamps flash to let the operator know the system is working. When the correct pressure is reached, a beep of the horn provides notification. Unlike many competitive vehicles, Altima includes an individual tire pressure monitoring and readout system (except 2.5) that provides the tire pressure at each individual location and automatically adjusts positions when the tires are rotated during service. The information is integrated into the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display.
The New Altima SR
In another example of responding to input from the legions of current Altima owners, a new Altima SR grade has been added for 2016. It is available with both 2.5-liter and 3.5-liter engine-equipped models.
"The idea with the new Altima SR is to offer a sporty, yet affordable, mid-size sedan for buyers looking for a little more performance and personal style," said Loing. "The Altima SR slots just above the Altima S grade, rather than being an over-the-top equipment package. We've given it plenty of punch, but with a careful consideration to making it accessible to a wide range of buyers, especially younger buyers just moving into the mid-size sedan segment."
While affordable, the Altima SR is a true performance package with unique suspension components and wheels and tires. This is the first time that 18-inch wheels and tires are offered on a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Altima. The suspension includes revised damper tuning and an increase in front and rear stabilizer bar stiffness (up to 258 percent in the rear bar), providing good neutral handling and enhanced cornering feel through greater body motion control. Also included, as part of the sports performance, is a "manumatic" mode for the Xtronic transmission and standard paddle shifters.
Altima SR is visually differentiated from other Altima models through the use of smoked headlight housings, Daytime Running Lights, fog lights, a rear decklid spoiler and the aggressive machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels. The 3.5 SR model also includes LED headlights (late availability).
The SR interior features black 8-way power driver's seat with 2-way power lumbar support and contrasting blue stitching on the seats, steering wheel and shift knob.
The 2016 Altima also offers an expanded suite of available safety and security features, including Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), radar-based Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Forward Emergency Braking (FEB), Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
The available class-exclusive* Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) system can warn the driver of risks that lie beyond the driver's forward field of view. It not only can sense the relative velocity and distance of a vehicle directly ahead, but also of a vehicle traveling in front of the preceding one and can help alert the driver to a potential forward collision. Although that vehicle may be obscured from view, PFCW's sensors can detect if it suddenly and unexpectedly slows, giving the driver additional time to react.
For 2016, radar-based Blind Spot Warning (BSW) is standard on SV and SL grades. In addition, the SV and SL grades add Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which helps warn of approaching vehicles from either the right or left side of the rear of the Altima when it is in reverse.
Also available as part of the optional SL Tech Package is Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Forward Emergency Braking (FEB). ICC uses radar to maintain a set distance between the Altima and the vehicle ahead, even braking to maintain that distance. FEB provides audio and visual display warnings to help alert the driver of a potential collision and help reduce speed if necessary. If a collision is unavoidable, the feature will engage the brakes to help reduce both the speed of the impact and the severity of the collision.
"The new Altima brings a number of safety and security features that are usually reserved for more expensive luxury segment vehicles," said Loing. "It's one more area where Altima adds value to owners' everyday driving experience."
The new Altima also offers a long list of standard safety features, including Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain supplemental side-impact air bags for front-and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.
Seven Well-Equipped Models
The 2016 Nissan Altima is offered in five 2.5-liter engine equipped models, 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SR, 2.5 SV and 2.5 SL, along with two 3.5-liter V6 equipped models – 3.5 SR and 3.5 SL.
The Altima 2.5 S model includes NissanConnect with Mobile Apps, 5.0-inch audio display, RearView Monitor, steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise control, Nissan Intelligent Key®, auto on/off headlights, in-cabin microfilter, Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual tire pressure readouts, and much more.
Altima 2.5 SR, mentioned above, includes the sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and sport exterior and interior features.
Altima 2.5 SV models include standard Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control, Remote Engine Start System**** with Intelligent Climate Control, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately).
Altima 2.5 SL models include leather-appointed seating, Bose® Premium Audio System with nine speakers (including woofers), heated front seats and steering wheel, heated outside mirrors, LED outside mirror turn signals, auto dimming rearview mirror, trunk cargo net and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver.
Along with the equipment offered on the Altima 2.5 SR, the 3.5 SR adds LED headlights (late availability) with signature Daytime Running Lights.
Altima 3.5 SL features 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and 18-inch tires, NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Apps, 7.0-inch color audio display, Nissan Voice Recognition for navigation and audio, SiriusXM® Traffic, SiriusXM® Travel LinkTM (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately), one-shot destination entry with Voice Recognition, Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), leather-appointed seats, 8-way power driver's seat with 2-way lumbar support, 4-way power passenger seat, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, heated outside mirrors with integrated outside turn signals, power sliding moonroof with tilt, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, rear air conditioning vents, premium interior trim, remote engine start, front and rear sonar sensors and trunk cargo net.
Nine options packages are available: Power Driver's Seat Package (2.5 S), LED Appearance Package (2.5 SR), Convenience Package (2.5 SV), Navigation Package (2.5 SV), Cold Weather Package (2.5 SV), Moonroof Package (2.5 SL), Tech Package (2.5 SL), Tech with LED (2.5 SL) and Tech Package (3.5 SL).
The 2016 Altima is assembled in Smyrna, Tenn. and Canton, Miss., with engines assembled in Decherd, Tenn.
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New 2016 Nissan Altima Adopts the Latest Design Language for a Fresh New Look
When Nissan rolled out a series of futuristic auto show concept vehicles a few years ago, few people believed that the boldly styled designs would ever see the light of a Nissan showroom. Yet against the odds they started coming.
First, there was the Nissan Resonance Concept, a wild mid-size crossover concept that evolved into the 2015 Murano. Then Nissan Sport Sedan Concept strongly influenced the radical new 2016 Nissan Maxima. And, the new Nissan design language is making its way into more and more vehicles – including Nissan's best-selling vehicle in the United States, the Nissan Altima.
For the new 2016 Altima the design team adopted key aspects of both the exterior and interior styling themes to give the popular mid-size sedan a fresh new appearance, including the "Energetic Flow" exterior styling theme and "Gliding Wing" interior layout.
The front end of the 2016 Altima offers the most dramatic change, since all panels and pieces forward of the A-pillars are new – fascia, bumper, fenders, hood and lights. Two key elements are the redesigned V-Motion grille and boomerang-shape headlights, similar to those found on the Murano and Maxima. The look is dramatically different from the 2015 Altima design, with a wide, deeply sculpted lower bumper, integrated fog lights (SR, SV and SL models) and prominent chrome-trimmed grille.
The reshaped headlight units incorporate halogen high beam and projector low beam lights. LED projector low beam lights and LED signature Daytime Running Lights that sweep into the wide raised hood are standard on Altima 3.5 SR and 3.5 SL grades (late availability) and available on 2.5 SR and 2.5 SL. Altima SR adds smoked headlight bezels.
The rear of the new Altima is marked by a new sculpted bumper with a dark lower accent, a new trunk lid – with integrated rear spoiler on Altima SR models – and lower, wider boomerang-shaped combination lights that help provide a more expressive, higher quality appearance when approaching the vehicle from behind. The four-piece combination lights incorporate the tail- and stop lights, turn lamps and backup lights.
Along with the revised appearance, the new Altima also offers a 10 percent improvement in coefficient of drag – to 0.26 Cd from the previous 0.29 Cd*. The changes come from the addition of an active grille shutter (three percent gain), underfloor aero cover additions (three percent) and the new front and rear fascia and windshield designs (four percent).
The already extensive Altima color palette adds a new Deep Blue Pearl color for 2016, along with Java Metallic, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Super Black, Cayenne Red, Pearl White, Glacier White and Storm Blue.
Finishing off the new exterior appearance are dramatic new 17-inch and 18-inch machine-finish aluminum-alloy wheel designs.
The 2016 Altima's refined interior design follows the new "Gliding Wing" design language, shared with Murano and also the new Rogue. Central to the new look is the revised C-stack with available 5.0-inch and 7.0-inch displays for the NissanConnectSM with Mobile Apps and available NissanConnect Navigation with Mobile Apps.
In addition, the standard Zero Gravity front seats have been reshaped and the woven cloth seating and door panel materials feature a more open weave pattern, providing a premium look and feel throughout the Altima interior. The steering wheel has also been refined for 2016. The twin cupholders on the center console now accommodate mug handles in response to customer input.
The new Altima SR grade includes blue sport interior accents on the steering wheel, door panels and seats – to contrast the Charcoal interior color. The SR also features a leather-wrapped steering wheel, paddle shifters, and leather-wrapped gear shifter.
"As the best-selling vehicle in the Nissan lineup, it's important that Altima exemplifies 'Nissan-ness' inside and out," said Executive Design Director Mamoru Aoki. "With its fresh new look, aggressive SR model and strong connection to our all-new Murano and Maxima, the new Altima continues to stand out in a very competitive marketplace."
2016 Nissan Altima SR Adds Performance and Style
With the addition of the new SR model to the 2016 Altima line-up, Nissan is taking dead aim at one of the fastest growing areas of the mid-size sedan segment – sport variants. Among some competitors, the so-called "sport" grades account for nearly 40 percent of total sales. Altima already is one of the sportiest designs in the segment, however the company is taking a more Nissan-like approach, adding a level of true enhanced performance to go with the requisite larger wheels and spoiler.
Better yet, in order to keep the new Altima SR affordable for younger buyers who might be moving into the mid-size sedan segment for the first time, the new SR grade is based on the Altima S, rather than the higher grade Altima SV or Altima SL.
"Anyone can dress up a sedan with custom wheels and a body kit, but that's not in keeping with Nissan's longstanding performance heritage," said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. "Altima SR features a 12.5 percent increase in cornering performance, and we're making SR available with our refined 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine and our higher-powered 3.5-liter V6. It's like having your espresso shot in a choice of Grande or Venti®."
"As the specs show, the Altima SR is a real performance vehicle for the masses – with features such as a 258-percent stiffer rear stabilizer bar for better rotation – it's not just a marketing package," added Loing. "We think it is a great addition to the already stellar Altima model lineup."
Also like that it only got a mild version of the Maxima/Murano exterior treatment.
I haven't been a big fan of many Nissan cars recently, but this one doesn't look bad.
Not bad, better than Accord refresh. The Altima is a nice looking vehicle, both pre/post refresh. I wouldn't buy one but looks like a good package. I think it is the best thing in their lineup and has been for a few model years.
Rogue looks great too. The "better" Murano/Maxima are actually worse IMO, too stupid looking.
In contrast, new Camry looks like shit, especially the ones without LED DRL.... the amber lower light reminds me of 4G TL!
It is brutal, and they are selling like crazy around me, seeing tons. They should have just not bothered to paint it like they did parts of the RAV 4. People want their Toyota.
NASHVILLE -- Nissan is planning a bit more elegance with the next-generation Altima, judging from spy photos snapped of the car in its final development.
The Altima is due for a redesign for 2018 and Nissan is hoping to capitalize on the midsize sedan's successful 2012-17 run.Discernible through the camouflage are less rounded surfaces than the current Altima, and a more pronounced back side. Body sculpting appears to have traces of the Vmotion 2.0 concept car that Nissan showed at this year's Detroit auto show. Also recalling the Vmotion concept -- an aggressively enlarged front grille that takes the brand's signature front V-motion to a new level.
Nissan's Vmotion 2.0 concept car, introduced at the 2017 Detroit auto show, hints at the 2018 Altima.
Notable inside are a stand-out display screen with enlarged graphics, and a beefy D-shaped steering wheel.The current Altima has elevated Nissan's position in the midsize sedan market. In recent years, the model has rivaled sales of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord in some months -- a result that was unlikely prior to 2012.
05-16-2012, 12:52 AM
AutoBlog
Notable inside are a stand-out display screen with enlarged graphics, and a beefy D-shaped steering wheel.The current Altima has elevated Nissan's position in the midsize sedan market. In recent years, the model has rivaled sales of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord in some months -- a result that was unlikely prior to 2012.
PHOTO GALLERY >>
