The Nissan Altima has seen its fair share of changes having been around since 1992. Originally introduced to continue the Bluebird line, over the decades, the Altima became something special on its own. Together we’ll break down some key features to consider when buying a used Nissan Altima.
Key takeaways
- If you’re wanting something that you can fully customize to be an unassuming track monster, then look for an earlier SE trim. They come lighter than most other trims for a variety of reasons.
- The newer Altimas only come in sedans for the more recent generations.
- If you’re wanting something that has better tech, then you can look for a newer generation, but that will come at a slightly higher price.
First generation (1993-1997)
The first iteration of the Altima came out in 1993. At its release, the Altima was a larger compact car which could easily seat up to 4 people. This generation also came with 4 trims at release. The trims you could find are the XE, GXE, SE, and GLE. The SE was a sportier trim, while the GLE was the line topping luxury trim.
The XE trim is probably the rarest of this generation being that it came pretty bare bones. If you manage to find one, you’ll be a lucky owner. Being that the SE is a sportier trim, it comes with a stiffer suspension, fog lights, a stock spoiler, and sport seats. If you opt for a 1994 or 95 model, then you can look for a stock sunroof.
If you find a 1993 or 94 GLE, you may find that it comes with a heads-up display. Other features that you can find on the GLE include an adjustable lumbar support on the front seats, automatic digital climate control, and a keyless entry with alarm.
Second generation (1998-2001)
This generation had the same volume for the interior, but thanks to a better distribution, it feels roomier. Despite the interior having more room, many felt like it had a cheapened interior which really took away from the progress it made.
The main changes for the Altima came in 2000. This saw an increase in power from 150 to 160 horsepower. While also improving the 0–60 mph time from 8.7 to 8.4 seconds. If you’re driving an SE, that means you can enjoy the sporty feel even more.
Third generation (2002-2006)
This generation was the first mass-produced Altima for the North American market that didn’t have a Japanese counterpart. This generation saw the size increase even more, giving more room to the interior.
In 2003, the Altima saw some changes. The first change is the two-tone dash color. The SE trim sees even more love, helping it stand out from the rest of the lineup. The engine that the SE comes with sees a bump in power, now sitting at 245 horsepower, up from 240.
2005 saw a facelift to the Altima as well. Coming with a new front grille, all-red tail lights, and a redesigned interior. This year also saw the SE-R trim join the lineup. This is another sporty trim, but comes with some more power. This trim came with a V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower. This engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Other features that came with were upgraded brakes, 18-inch wheels, and a suspension even stiffer than that of the 3.5 SE's.
Fourth generation (2007-2012)
This generation was slightly shorter than the one before it, but the interior room remained the same. Across the board, the Altima saw a new suspension giving a better ride. This generation came standard with Smart Key, and while it’s not standard, you may be able to find used models with Bluetooth capability, and a parking camera.
This generation also saw the introduction of the hybrid. This was only available in this generation. The hybrid can get you up to 42 mpg in the city, and 40 mpg on the highway.
In 2009, the Nissan Altima saw a new design that came with a new front fascia, hood, and headlights, as well as new wheels and interior materials. The electronic stability control is now standard on all Altima trims.
Fifth Generation (2013-2018)
Despite this generation being larger, it happens to be lighter than the previous. This is thanks to its use of high-strength steel and aluminum in areas such as the trunk, hood, and roof.
This generation also saw the discontinuation of the coupe, leaving only the sedan in place. If you’re someone who likes sedans, then that’s not a big deal, but if you’re wanting a coupe, then you may want to find an older generation. While in 2016, the Altima saw the return of the SR trim. This brought back performance to the family by granting drivers “ with a stiffer suspension and larger, 18-inch wheels” according to Kelly Blue Book
Sixth Generation (2019-Present)
This is the most up to date generation, making it the Altima with the most tech. For features that the driver can enjoy, you can look for the pro-pilot assist, Nissan intelligent around view monitor, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection system and intelligent lane intervention.
The Altima has changed a lot over the years, and we’re dedicated to helping you get the right one. Whether you’re looking for something sportier, or luxurious, the Altima has it all. Come see us here at Jarrett and we’ll help you out!